Hotaru — Restaurant in London

Context: I visited this place 3 years ago following a nice day out but unfortunately we had an RTA. I had with me my wife, teenage son, young son and baby. I was trying to make the day out a little better. The food was of average quality and pricey, we had a selection of sushi. I had to order more as the portions were not sufficient. We did not enjoy the Tuna. The reason for the 1 star:  I went to pay and requested the service charge removed (at the time it was optional). The bill was over £100 for 3-4 mains and some sides. This is where things got heated. The owner was angry as I explained it was optional. She told me everyone pays it. Another customer waided into the conversation shouting I was being rude not paying the optional service charge. She clearly knew the owner. As I turned to her to say my piece the lady owner pushed/assaulted me! I was shocked. A man appeared from the back at this point it was a commotion. He didn't seem bothered with what had just happened. I just wanted to pay my bill and leave even though they just told me to leave. I wish I had stayed and called the police but I had my family with me and the bad day just got much worse. RTA and then an assault by an uneducated Restaurant Owner. I just came for sushi! I didn't write this until now as I did not want to even think about this horrible experience. But I have moved from the area and I owe this review to the owner who assaulted me. I'm sure the response will be amusing.

Response to owner: I never left you a review before, likely to be someone else who had a bad experience. Interestingly you remember me and my experience 3 years later so you have inadvertently confirmed my review. Thank you. The point of my review is to provide the public with my horrible experience.

Note: See Raheela...

I had the pleasure of dining last night at Hotaru, and I can confidently say it’s a true gem. From the moment you walk in, the warm and inviting ambiance sets the tone for a memorable dining experience. The decor is elegant yet cozy, creating the perfect atmosphere for both casual dinners and special occasions.

What really sets this place apart, however, is the outstanding service. Julie, our server, was an absolute delight. Her energy, warmth, and attentiveness made us feel like we were the only guests in the restaurant. She went above and beyond to ensure our meal was perfect, and making sure we were always well taken care of.

Now, onto the food – it was nothing short of spectacular. The spring rolls were the best I’ve ever had—crispy on the outside, with a delicate, flavorful filling that was simply divine. The volcano rolls were an explosion of flavor, perfectly balanced with fresh ingredients. And if you love dessert, you absolutely cannot miss the passion fruit cheesecake. It was a sublime mix of tart and sweet, with a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Every dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, clearly made with the freshest ingredients and great attention to detail. Whether you’re a sushi lover or new to Japanese cuisine, this restaurant has something to offer everyone.

Overall, this place exceeded all expectations. If you’re looking for an incredible dining experience with phenomenal food, excellent service—especially from Julie—and a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere, this is the spot. Highly recommended! My friends loved it too and we are definitely coming back. Thank...

Visited Hotaru and whilst eating unfortunately I could someone’s hair in my meal. I alerted my server who then took my food away. She came back and asked if I wanted it to be replaced of which I could fathom the idea of eating again from here. Moments later she offered two scoops of ice cream on the house. I asked for the bill and when it arrived I noticed that it was full price for my items, when queried the server brought out the manger. The manager advised that because more than half the meal was eaten then she will not discount or remove from my bill but to my surprise she was willing to removed the servers 12.5% charge. I denied as it wasn’t the severs fault and paid and left.

Overall:

Cleanliness : 7/10 there was a random dirty spoon in the radiator next to my table, plus the hair in my food

Food : Mid 6/10

Servers : 10/10 friendly and helpful

Manager: -10 because the time in which you spoke to me was horrible and then blamed it on a ‘language barrier’

I will never again...