Incognico

Incognico is a restaurant at 117 Shaftesbury Avenue in London, currently closed, with a lively robatayaki counter and Modern Japanese cooking with Korean influences. Incognico opens like a seaside market stall moved into Soho: the name appears first on a neon-green sign, and behind the windows chefs work over an open robata grill. Located in central London, Incognico delivers Modern Japanese cuisine with notable Korean influences, inviting diners to watch skewers char and nigiri assembled within arm’s reach. The first hundred steps into the room present heat, salt, smoke and quick, skillful movement, elements that shape the meal.

Modern Japanese techniques and brisk, shareable plates define the menu from lunch through late dinner. The restaurant’s heritage traces to a concept developed by Rainer Becker and the Azumi group, first launched in Soho in 2018 and built to bring the energy of robatayaki grilling to a wider dining audience. Incognico emphasizes the collective skill at the central grill and consistent dishes across service. The design by Studio Mai uses reclaimed timber, stone and steel to create varied table heights and a wraparound counter, intentionally keeping the focus on the robata grill.

The venue benefits from Becker’s pedigree in Japanese dining through accessible pricing, strong execution and lively service. Guest feedback and trade listings highlight reliable robata fare, approachable sushi and a weekend brunch format that many Londoners and visitors cite as a dependable booking. The menu moves between robata-grilled skewers, rice and raw fish, and bold fusion plates. Start with skewers glazed at high heat: a station will char morsels to create smoky, savory crusts that balance sweet soy glaze and citrusy finishing salts.

The Miso Black Cod offers a tender fillet marinated in miso then briefly grilled for caramelized edges and soft, buttery interior. Korean-Spiced Lamb Rump arrives seasoned with red pepper flakes and savory aromatics, seared over charcoal for a peppery crust and served sliced for sharing. The Japanese Fried Chicken with peanuts and chilli garlic yoghurt mixes crisp panko coating with creamy, spicy sauce, offering hot-cold contrasts that appeal across the menu. Sushi and sashimi selections use seasonal fish with properly seasoned sushi rice and restrained garnishes to keep textures bright.

For weekend visitors, the £35 brunch package pairs a starter, main and dessert and often includes a free-flowing wine option. Seasonal items appear regularly, especially in the robata section, where vegetables and shellfish take advantage of peak freshness and shorter cook times. Service at Incognico favors upbeat professionalism: staff explain grill items and recommended sharing strategies while the kitchen keeps a steady rhythm. The interior is industrial-chic and intentionally informal; Studio Mai’s layout uses panoramic windows to draw light and sets a large circular counter around the grill so up to 100 guests can watch preparation.

Tables vary in height so groups can gather or split into intimate seats at the grill edge. The sound level is lively but conversational, matching Soho’s nighttime energy. For diners with accessibility needs, the venue lists wheelchair access. The team accommodates private bookings and events for up to 100 guests.

Weekend brunch and Friday or Saturday dinner slots tend to fill quickly. Arrive in smart-casual attire; the scene is relaxed but polished. Secure counter seats if you want the full robata experience. Consider weekday lunches for quieter service and easier booking, or early evening on Sundays when the kitchen winds down at 20:00.

Incognico offers a direct, flavorful encounter with Modern Japanese robatayaki and Korean-influenced plates in London’s West End. Reserve a counter seat to watch each skewer, or book a table for groups wanting shared plates. Whether you come for the £35 weekend brunch or a late-night grill dinner, Incognico promises a hands-on dining moment that emphasizes robust flavors, visible technique and approachable value. The robata grill sits at the centre of Soho dining.