London partygoers are being encouraged to shake off the sad set menu, say no to dry turkey and do things differently this Christmas, at Covent Garden’s hottest izakaya and festive celebration spot, Flesh & Buns.
Founded in 2013, Flesh & Buns has remained an institution on the London dining scene for over a decade, and as a sister restaurant to much-loved rock-and-roll Ramen brand, Bone Daddies, it’s no surprise that they’re bringing something new to the dining table this Christmas. Inspired by the izakaya bars of Japan, Flesh & Buns is taking a non-traditional stance this festive season, fusing casual, sharing style dining, a punchy drinks menu and laid-back, party vibes, to create the destination for seasonal celebrations this year.
Nestled underneath Seven Dials in Covent Garden, Flesh & Buns offers glamorous Japanese inspired open plan dining, with cosy booths for smaller groups, semi-private dining options and capacity for 140 guests for exclusive venue hire for bigger parties. In addition, their long, communal dining tables and festive sharing style tasting are true to the izakaya style, designed for actual conversation and a proper night out vibe. Throw in a brand new, expertly crafted cocktail menu and Asahi on tap, and you’ve got a recipe for a damn good celebration!
Flesh & Buns’ festive menu, much like their day-to-day menu, gives diners a chance to try a bit of everything with an Asian inspired tasting menu, and firmly encourages sharing. Priced at £60 per person, which includes a welcome cocktail, diners can enjoy signature starter dishes including Spicy Tuna Maki, Flesh & Buns’ famous Beef Fat Potato Chips with Cheese Dipping Sauce and some festive twists, such as Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Orange, Pomegranate and Ponzu.
The main event is a selection of Flesh & Buns’ namesake – handmade Bao Buns served to be loaded with Braised Toban Djan Lamb, Salmon Teriyaki and Confit Shredded Duck Leg, all rounded off with Taiyaka – Matcha Ice Cream – for dessert. Full vegan and vegetarian festive menus are also available, featuring the likes of Tempura Vegetables, Avocado Miso Maki and Bao Buns fully loaded with Japanese Fried Oyster Mushrooms and Miso Grilled Aubergine.
Speaking about the new festive menu, Operations Director Fran Astbury said:
“At Flesh & Buns we roll with the ultimate izakaya vibes, music, good times, sharing food and flowing drinks, so party season is made for us! Whether you’re getting friends together ahead of the busy Christmas period, catching up with family or looking for a bigger party, we’ve got you covered.
“Our new festive menu focuses on some of our fan favourites mixed in with some new dishes, so all our guests need to do is bring their crew, grab some drinks and fill their buns.”
Flesh & Buns can cater for smaller groups right up to exclusive venue hire for up to 140 guests, as well as offering semi-private dining options. Christmas party bookings made before Saturday 31st October will also be eligible for a free glass of bubbles on the house.