RAI Fitzrovia

We visited RAI for a 13-course omakase lunch to celebrate my wife’s birthday, and it was a memorable experience. The staff were extremely accommodating from start to finish, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The food was very good, and watching the chef prepare each piece of nigiri right behind the counter was a real highlight — a wonderful blend of craftsmanship and presentation. The ambience of the restaurant is refined and intimate, adding to the overall enjoyment. However, the bar seating area felt a bit crowded, and having staff reach between diners to clear plates at times was slightly awkward. A little more spacing between seats would definitely improve the comfort. Additionally, while the Wagyu beef was delicious, it was pricey for the portion size. £45 for 3 pieces of Wagyu, poor value. I would avoid the À la carte bolt ons and just stick with the omakase set. Overall, RAI offers a delightful omakase experience with excellent service, quality dishes, and a beautiful atmosphere — just with a few seating layout improvements that could make it even more enjoyable.