I agree with you about Jin Kichi, a solid option but certainly not spectacular. As Helen points out its speciality is yakitori. A better Japanese option in NW3 is down the hill between Belsize Park + Chalk Farm, it’s called Ikura, I’ve posted about the place on Chowhound a couple of times before. Other worthwhile Hampstead Village options for future trips include Goldfish (modern Chinese, comparable to Haozhan) on the High Street, the Wells gastropub which seems to have upped its game in recent times (their hamburger is particularly good) and Osteria Emilia, a new Italian down by the Royal Free hospital opened by the people who own Giacobazzis, an excellent Italian deli opposite the restaurant. Also Gails on the High Street has an impressive selection of breads and pastries, they also have branches in Notting Hill and St John’s Wood.

Hope that you’ve had lots of good eating over the summer and start of the fall.

Helen: Yes, I was surprised I got a spot on a Saturday afternoon. I arrived a few minutes before 2 though, just as they were taking last orders. I think that helped.

Can I convince you both to write about your perfect day in London?

Krista

Jin Kichi is great and generally a bit of a secret. Can be a mare trying to get a table midweek though.