If you live in London and enjoy proper Japanese food, you've probably spent a Friday evening wandering Old Compton Street wondering where to grab decent sushi in Soho. The area's got no shortage of places, but finding something that's both fresh and doesn't cost a fortune takes a bit of know-how. That's where this local guide comes in. We're focusing on sushi Soho regulars actually rate, with a proper sit-down spot that's been quietly doing the business since 2013.

Forget the tourist traps near Leicester Square. The best sushi Soho serves up is found a few doors down from the chaos, at Dozo Sushi on Old Compton Street. It's the kind of place you pop into after a show or when you need a quick solo lunch at the counter. The sushi restaurant Soho London locals trust for consistent quality. And if you're after Japanese food Old Compton Street is famous for, Dozo's your best bet for honest, unfussy nigiri and maki.

Why Soho's Sushi Scene Stands Out

Soho's dining scene is famously eclectic. You've got Chinatown on one side, theatreland on the other, and a late-night crowd that keeps kitchens open well past 10pm. That makes it perfect for a sushi fix after a show or a relaxed Friday dinner. But the quality can be hit or miss. The real gems are the ones that have been here long enough to build a regular following. Dozo fits that bill: it opened in 2013 and has never looked back, surviving Soho's rent hikes and fickle trends by serving consistently good fish.

What sets Soho apart from other neighbourhoods is the sheer variety of Japanese options. You'll find ramen joints, robata grills, and high-end omakase counters. But for no-fuss sushi that doesn't break the bank, a place like Dozo is ideal. It's small, cosy, and the staff know their sake list inside out. The area's energy means you can grab a seat at the counter even on a busy night – just don't expect a long, lingering meal. This is about efficient, satisfying sushi that respects your time and your wallet.

Another thing: Soho's sushi places often cater to the post-theatre crowd, so many offer early-bird or late-night specials. Dozo's lunch set (Monday to Friday, 12–3pm) is a steal, and their dinner menu stays open until 10.30pm most nights. That kind of flexibility is rare in central London, and it's why locals keep coming back.

Dozo Soho: A Reliable Japanese Spot on Old Compton Street

Let's talk about the Soho branch specifically. It's on Old Compton Street, just a minute from the Palace Theatre and a short stroll from Chinatown. The room is modern but warm, with blonde wood, a long counter where you can watch the chefs work, and a few tables for groups. It's proper walk-in friendly – you can usually get a seat at the counter if you're on your own, but booking is wise for evenings.

When I first discovered Dozo, I was after a quick sushi Soho lunch that didn't involve a queue. The weekday lunch set (Mon–Fri 12–3pm) is a brilliant option: it includes miso soup, salad, and a choice of maki or sashimi. You can find the full menu at their Soho lunch page. For dinner, the full sushi, sashimi and maki menu opens up. I'm partial to the spider maki – soft shell crab rolled with avocado and cucumber, always fresh. And their sashimi cuts are generous, especially the salmon and hamachi.

If you're new to sushi, the counter seating is great because you can watch the chefs and ask questions. They're happy to guide you through the nigiri options. And don't skip the green tea ice cream to finish – it's the proper stuff, not too sweet. The ambience is relaxed; you won't feel rushed, even at peak times. Service is efficient without being cold – a rarity in busy Soho.

One more tip: the sake list is small but thoughtfully chosen. Ask for a recommendation to match your sushi – they'll steer you right. The drinks menu also includes Japanese whisky and cocktails if you prefer something stronger.

What to Order at Dozo (and What to Skip)

Over the years I've worked my way through quite a bit of Dozo's menu. Here's what stands out:

• Nigiri selection – the tuna, salmon, and eel are spot on. Very fresh, not fishy at all. The rice is seasoned just right – not too vinegary, not too sweet.
• Spider maki – as mentioned, a firm favourite. The batter is light, the crab isn't greasy. The combination of soft shell crab, avocado and cucumber works perfectly.
• Beef nabe – a hot pot that's surprisingly good for a sushi-focused place. Perfect for a cold evening, with tender beef and vegetables in a savoury broth.
• Sashimi moriawase – the chef's selection of raw fish. Great for sharing, and the pieces are cut thick – none of that paper-thin nonsense.
• Chicken karaage – juicy, crispy, and served with a tangy mayo. A solid side if you want something cooked.
• Miso aubergine – a vegetarian option that's packed with flavour. Soft, sweet, and slightly charred.

What to skip? The desserts beyond the ice cream are nothing special, and the tempura is decent but not a reason to visit. Stick to the raw stuff – that's where Dozo excels. Also, the edamame is standard – fine if you need a starter, but not memorable.

For first-timers, I'd recommend the Dozo set lunch if you're there midday – it's a brilliant introduction. For dinner, start with the sashimi moriawase, then pick two or three maki rolls (spider and tuna are top choices), and finish with green tea ice cream. That's a meal that covers all bases without overdoing it.

A Tale of Two Dozos: Soho vs South Kensington

Dozo has a second branch in South Kensington, on Old Brompton Road, that opened earlier in 2011. If you're out museum-hopping around the Natural History Museum or V&A, it's a brilliant pit stop for a relaxed lunch. The vibe there is more sedate, with a bigger dining room and a loyal weekday crowd of workers and shoppers. The menu is the same, but the lunch sets are slightly different: check their South Kensington lunch page for the Mon–Fri deals. The full menu is identical, so you can get your spider maki fix there too.

Which branch is better? It depends. Soho wins for atmosphere and late hours – it's open until 10.30pm most nights, perfect after a show. South Ken is better for a quiet, unhurried lunch. Both share the same commitment to quality, so you can't go wrong. Dozo's story, as told on their about page, explains how they started in South Ken and expanded to Soho – a proper local success.

If you're planning a visit to South Kensington, consider the lunch set – it's slightly cheaper than Soho's and comes with a few extras. The counter there is also great for solo diners, though the room feels less intimate. Both branches do takeaway, so you can grab a box of sushi and head to a nearby park if the weather's fine.

Sushi Etiquette and Practical Tips for Soho

Ordering sushi in a proper restaurant can be intimidating, but it doesn't need to be. Here are a few tips to get the most out of your meal:

• Use your hands – nigiri is traditionally eaten with your fingers, not chopsticks. It's easier to control the fish-to-rice ratio.
• Dip fish-side first – when you use soy sauce, dip the fish, not the rice. Rice absorbs too much soy and can fall apart.
• Eat in one bite – sushi is designed to be eaten whole. Biting a piece in half is messy and disrespects the chef's work.
• Ginger as a palate cleanser – the pickled ginger is meant to be eaten between different types of fish, not on top of the sushi.

At Dozo, the staff are used to all levels of experience, so don't hesitate to ask. They're happy to explain the different cuts or suggest a progression from light to rich flavours. And if you're unsure about raw fish, the cooked options (like the beef nabe or karaage) are excellent.

Booking is recommended for dinner, especially on weekends. You can reserve via their website or by phone. For lunch, walk-ins are usually fine except during peak hours (1–2pm). The Soho branch is small – about 30 seats – so if you're in a group larger than four, book ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sushi in Soho

Is Dozo good for sushi beginners?
Absolutely. The menu is clear, the staff are helpful, and you can start with something simple like salmon maki or a lunch set. The counter seating lets you see exactly what you're getting.

What's the best time to visit?
Weekday lunch is quiet and the lunch set is great value. Friday and Saturday evenings can get busy, so book ahead if you can. Late dinners after 8.30pm tend to be calmer.

Does Dozo deliver?
They do takeaway, but not delivery. You can pop in and order to go – it's wrapped properly and ready in ten minutes.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes – the miso aubergine, vegetable maki, and avocado rolls are all good. The menu clearly marks what's suitable.

How does Dozo compare to other Soho sushi spots?
It's more casual than high-end omakase places, but the quality is consistent. It's cheaper than the tourist traps and friendlier than the conveyor-belt joints. A solid middle ground.

Want to see the full range? Check out the Soho menu or South Kensington menu. For opening times and directions, head to the contact page. And if you fancy some visual inspiration, the gallery has photos of the dishes and the interiors.

If you're a Soho regular or just visiting for a show, Dozo is a proper, no-nonsense choice for good sushi in the neighbourhood. Give it a go.