Few restaurants combine spectacular views with exceptional cuisine quite like CLAP London. Occupying an enviable rooftop position above Knightsbridge overlooking Hyde Park, this contemporary Japanese restaurant has quickly become one of the capital’s most sought-after dining destinations. Blending world-class Japanese cuisine, striking interiors and impeccable hospitality, CLAP London delivers a sophisticated experience that feels every bit as memorable as its panoramic setting.
At the heart of the restaurant is the vision of Chef Partner Reif Othman, whose seasonal menus celebrate premium ingredients, refined Japanese techniques and bold, contemporary flavours. During our visit to CLAP Knightsbridge, we experienced the Summer Menu, a carefully curated selection that showcased the restaurant’s creativity while allowing exceptional produce to take centre stage.
The experience began with three beautifully balanced starters. The Lightly Seared Wagyu celebrated the outstanding quality of the beef, gently kissed by the flame to enhance its natural richness while preserving its delicate texture. The Octopus Carpaccio provided a wonderfully fresh contrast, its clean flavours allowing the quality of the seafood to shine. Completing the opening selection, the Crispy Beef Salad combined crisp textures with vibrant herbs and bold seasoning, creating a dish that was both refreshing and deeply satisfying.
Among the signature dishes, the Shrimp Katsu Sando is a delight, as is the Wagyu Katsu Sando proved an undeniable highlight. Served between pillowy-soft milk bread and coated in perfectly crisp panko breadcrumbs, the richly marbled Wagyu melted effortlessly with every bite. It’s easy to understand why this has become one of the most talked-about dishes at CLAP London.
Equally memorable were the Wagyu Short Ribs, slow-cooked until exceptionally tender before being finished with a beautifully caramelised glaze. Rich, deeply savoury and packed with remarkable depth of flavour, they perfectly demonstrated Chef Reif Othman’s ability to elevate familiar comfort food into refined Japanese fine dining.
Dessert was equally accomplished. The Mango Anko delivered a refreshing combination of tropical sweetness and subtle Japanese flavours, offering a lighter conclusion before the CLAP Chocolate Bar provided a luxurious finale. Beautifully presented and perfectly balanced, it rounded off the meal with elegance.
Service matched the quality of the food throughout the evening. Syed and Chintal guided every course with warmth, professionalism and genuine enthusiasm, striking the perfect balance between attentiveness and discretion while enhancing the relaxed yet refined atmosphere that defines CLAP Knightsbridge.
For those searching for one of the best Japanese restaurants in London, CLAP London offers far more than spectacular rooftop views. Combining exceptional Japanese cuisine, premium Wagyu, expertly crafted seasonal menus by Chef Partner Reif Othman and impeccable service, CLAP Knightsbridge has firmly established itself as one of London’s leading destinations for contemporary Japanese fine dining, and one of the city’s finest restaurants overlooking Hyde Park.
@claplondon | claprestaurant.com
12-14 Basil St, London SW3 1AJ
