In the heart of central London, just a short walk from the vibrant buzz of Oxford Circus, there lies a restaurant that blends the energy of the city with the bold flavors of Japanese-inspired cuisine. Flesh and Buns Oxford Circus is not your typical eatery. It’s a space where indulgent dining meets casual atmosphere, offering a menu filled with daring flavors, unique textures, and an approach to food that encourages sharing, experimentation, and pure enjoyment. With its signature steamed buns, sizzling meats, and dramatic décor, this restaurant has carved out a reputation for those looking for something a little different in London’s competitive dining scene.
Location and Atmosphere
Flesh and Buns Oxford Circus is located on Berners Street, a short stroll away from London’s iconic shopping destination. The location is ideal for both casual dinners after a day of retail therapy and stylish evenings out with friends or colleagues. Upon entering, visitors are greeted with a moody, dimly lit interior filled with rich wooden accents, communal tables, and a lively open kitchen. The vibe is modern but warm, striking a balance between sophistication and approachability. Whether you’re in a group or dining as a couple, the setting is inviting and energetic, reflecting the bold spirit of the menu itself.
The Concept Behind Flesh and Buns
At its core, Flesh and Buns takes inspiration from Japanese izakayas casual drinking and dining spots popular in Japan. However, this isn’t a traditional Japanese restaurant. Instead, it infuses Japanese flavors with a Western twist, creating a fusion-style menu centered around their signature dish: the flesh (meat) and the buns (soft, fluffy bao).
Sharing Plates with Big Flavors
One of the key elements of dining at Flesh and Buns Oxford Circus is sharing. The menu is designed to be enjoyed communally, with a wide selection of small plates, large mains, sides, and indulgent desserts. The idea is to build a meal through multiple courses and combinations, turning dinner into a culinary journey rather than a simple one-plate affair.
Menu Highlights
From raw dishes and snacks to dramatic meats served with warm buns, the menu at Flesh and Buns is both playful and serious about flavor. Below are some of the must-try items that reflect the restaurant’s character.
Small Plates and Starters
- Chips & Dips: Taro chips served with avocado shiso dip, a great way to open the meal.
- Korean Fried Wings: Sweet, sticky, and spicy chicken wings that have become one of their most popular items.
- Salmon Tataki: Lightly seared salmon with yuzu ponzu dressing fresh and zesty.
Flesh and Buns Mains
- Crispy Duck Leg: Slow-cooked until tender and served with sour plum sauce and cucumber perfect for stuffing into buns.
- Chili Miso Brisket: Rich, melt-in-the-mouth beef brisket served with a bold miso glaze and pickles for balance.
- Pulled Pork Shoulder: Cooked for hours to achieve a deep smoky flavor and a fall-apart texture, paired with mustard miso sauce.
The Buns
No visit to Flesh and Buns is complete without the buns themselves. These soft, pillowy steamed buns act as the perfect vessel for meats, sauces, and crunchy veg. You’ll usually receive two per dish, with the option to order extras. Building your own bun is part of the fun layering meat, sauce, and garnishes exactly to your taste.
Sides and Accompaniments
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and well-seasoned, a great complement to any meat dish.
- Grilled Corn: Topped with chili and lime, adding a smoky twist to a classic favorite.
- Pickled Daikon & Carrot: Bright and refreshing, these are essential for cutting through rich flavors.
Desserts to Remember
The restaurant is also known for its playful desserts. One standout is the s’mores, where diners toast their own marshmallows over a small flame and assemble their treat with graham crackers and green tea chocolate. It’s nostalgic, interactive, and just a little messy in the best way possible.
Drinks and Cocktails
Flesh and Buns Oxford Circus has a drinks menu that complements the bold food. Cocktails are creative and often infused with Japanese ingredients like yuzu, sake, shiso, or matcha. Sake lovers will find an impressive selection ranging from dry to fruity, and there’s also a well-curated list of wines, beers, and spirits.
Notable Cocktails:
- Smoked Old Fashioned: A twist on the classic, served under a dome of smoke for dramatic flair.
- Yuzu Margarita: Bright, citrusy, and a great palate cleanser between bites.
- Tokyo Mule: A blend of vodka, ginger beer, and Japanese flavors for a refreshing kick.
Who Should Visit Flesh and Buns Oxford Circus?
This isn’t your typical formal dining spot it’s loud, lively, and made for people who love food with personality. It’s an ideal choice for:
- Groups of friends looking for a fun dinner out
- Couples wanting a casual but impressive date night
- Foodies interested in Japanese fusion cuisine
- Visitors who want a memorable London dining experience near Oxford Circus
While the atmosphere is energetic, the staff are attentive and knowledgeable, offering guidance on the menu and helpful recommendations for pairing food and drinks.
Tips for Visiting
- Book ahead: The restaurant can get busy, especially on weekends, so reservations are recommended.
- Come hungry: With so many exciting dishes to try, it’s best to arrive with an appetite.
- Share everything: Embrace the izakaya-style dining and order a variety of dishes to share with your table.
- Don’t skip dessert: Even if you’re full, the s’mores are worth saving room for.
Flesh and Buns Oxford Circus is more than just a restaurant it’s an experience. With its creative approach to Japanese-inspired dining, its buzzing atmosphere, and its show-stopping menu items, it stands out as a must-visit spot for anyone exploring central London’s food scene. Whether you’re drawn in by the promise of perfectly steamed bao, crispy fried duck, or smoky cocktails, one thing is certain: Flesh and Buns delivers bold flavors and memorable meals every time.