Omakase – literally translating to ‘leave it to me’, is a unique Japanese dining ritual that waves goodbye to the painful art of indecision and leaves it up to the chef to pick your plates. In London, the Omakase food scene is booming (waitlists are often months long), offering an exclusive and intimate dining opportunity to enjoy multi-course tasting menus, created right before your eyes.

No traipsing into London here though. Hurley House, tucked away in the picturesque riverside village of Hurley, opened their Omakase Bar in August 2023, hosting just two evening sittings on Fri and Sat nights (6.30pm or 8.30pm), or private sittings on Thu or Sun. Psst, it’s also said to be the only of its kind outside the big smoke. Talk about exclusive.

Sitting around a swanky, wood cladded bar, up to five guests at a time can enjoy either a 12-course Lotus tasting menu or 16-course Dragon option. It’s luxury dining at its finest. With the very experienced head sushi chef doing the dicing, slicing, and searing in front of you, all you have is the tough job of devouring it. Pre-warning: it’s often too good to eat. However, it’s worth noting the Omakase Experience is not suitable for vegetarians or people with food allergies.

To accompany the expertly contrived menu (something you won’t know until it’s on a plate in front of you), there’s a special drinks menu with a curated selection of Japanese sakes and whiskies. All your usual wines, beers, ciders, and softies are also available too.

As for the hotel itself – it’s chic, boutique, and has all the luxury feels you’d want. Sleepover? Sure thing. There’s 10 gorgeous en-suite bedrooms to sleep off your food coma, so no scrapping over designated driver duties. There’s also a separate swish restaurant, stylish bar, outdoor terraces, and ample parking too.