KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar Oxford — Restaurant in Oxford

Do not go on a Tuesday night if you want a special meal. Went here for my partner's birthday. When we arrived we were told that they were on a reduced menu, as their delivery would be coming in the next day. This was disappointing but understandable. However, not all staff were on the same page as to what could and couldn't be ordered, and so we had our order changed 3 times.

Maybe it's just because they hadn't had their delivery, but the food is simply not that good. It wasn't fresh. The scallops starter we ordered was supposed to be paired with a chilli sauce. One waiter, when putting the scallops down, muttered something about the sauce, paused as if to take it back, and then muttered something about it being there. I highly suspect the chilli sauce had been forgotten, as I couldn't see it nor taste it and our scallops seemed to be paired with the stench of something fishy instead. Unpleasant. Our tofu starter was much tastier, thankfully. It is not, however, nicer than it's equivalent at Ramen Kulture just down the road, and I had booked here hoping it would be equal to or even better. Our sushi was fine, but I would say it looks better than it tastes. As much of our favourites were not available on the menu, we had to get creative with our choices. This was a mistake. The sushi itself was a little dry, (again) seemed distinctly unfresh, and the flavours did not particularly balance. Perhaps this was just the result of being forced into choices we did not want to make. I will say our cocktails were decent and were interesting flavours, but I found them a touch too sweet. This works at Turtle Bay where sweet=fun, but I was hoping for something a little classier. Not a big gripe.

This experience, unfortunately or fortunately, was cut a little short, as a server started taking our plates away before we were completely finished. Odd. Finally, I don't know if the staff are overworked or were having an off day, but when we went to pay the server slammed the bill on the table. This would have worked well in a scene of the anime 'One Punch Man'. It did not work well for a special occasion, in which myself and my partner had tried our best to be optimistic about the experience. Although I would have loved to have complained at any point during the evening, I refrained. One, I don't like complaining; two, I was trying to salvage any good vibes from the dredges of this experience. Being the angel she is, my partner was nothing but positive about the experience up to the slam as well. But this was too much for both of us, and we paid and left as quickly as we possibly could. It is a bit of a tradition for us to go to restaurants serving Japanese food, but in the 10 years of knowing each other, this is by far the worst experience either of us have had.

Perhaps we were unlucky with the day, event and my own expectations all misaligned, but this was too disappointing to be worthy of another chance, and I would not recommend this to anyone looking to book something special. However, If your average experience with sushi is Itsu or the like, this place might work for you on a better...

KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar – A Taste of Japan in the Heart of Oxford

For those seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience in Oxford, KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar delivers on every front. Located in the city centre, this stylish venue combines modern Japanese aesthetics with a menu that offers both classic and innovative dishes. Atmosphere:

Upon entering KIBOU, you're immediately struck by the chic, yet relaxed atmosphere. The interior design cleverly blends traditional Japanese elements with contemporary flair, featuring minimalist décor, soft lighting, and a comfortable, inviting feel. Whether you’re dining with friends or on a date, the ambience offers a great balance of sophistication and warmth. The bar area is perfect for those wishing to enjoy a cocktail or a glass of Japanese whisky in a more casual setting. The Food:

KIBOU’s menu showcases the best of Japanese cuisine, with something to satisfy every palate.

Sushi & Sashimi: The sushi is fresh, beautifully presented, and a standout at the restaurant. The salmon avocado roll and the delicate sashimi platter are particularly noteworthy, with the fish always of the highest quality.

Ramen & Udon: If you’re in the mood for noodles, the tonkotsu ramen is a creamy and rich choice, packed with tender pork belly and soft noodles. For something lighter, the chicken teriyaki udon offers a satisfying alternative with succulent chicken and perfectly cooked udon noodles.

Small Plates & Robata Grill: For those who love to sample a variety of dishes, KIBOU's small plates and robata grill are excellent. The grilled yakitori skewers are smoky and tender, while the edamame beans make the perfect snack.

Vegetarian Options: Vegetarians will find plenty to enjoy here too, with dishes like vegetable tempura and tofu teriyaki that offer just as much flavour and satisfaction as their meat-based counterparts.

Drinks:

The drink selection at KIBOU is equally impressive, with Japanese beers, sake, and expertly crafted cocktails. The KIBOU highball is a refreshing whisky cocktail that perfectly complements the food, while the extensive sake list offers something for every taste. Service:

Service is warm and attentive, with the staff offering thoughtful recommendations and ensuring a relaxed, enjoyable dining experience. The pace is ideal, allowing you to enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. Conclusion:

KIBOU Japanese Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit in Oxford for anyone craving authentic Japanese cuisine. With a vibrant atmosphere, high-quality food, and a stellar drinks menu, it’s the perfect spot for everything from a casual dinner to a special occasion. Whether you’re a sushi lover or looking to try something new, KIBOU delivers a memorable dining...

Kibou Japanese Restaurant - A Flawless Dining Experience

My recent visit to Kibou Japanese Restaurant in Oxford was nothing short of exceptional from start to finish. As soon as I walked through the doors, I was welcomed by a warm and inviting atmosphere that immediately set the tone for the evening. The interior struck me as a perfect blend of modern and traditional Japanese design elements, creating a space that felt both elegant and comfortable.

Service - Attentive and Welcoming

The service at Kibou really stood out to me. The staff were attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. They made sure that every detail of our dining experience was just right. Whether it was recommending dishes or keeping our glasses filled, their seamless service added to the overall enjoyment of the meal.

The Food - A Culinary Masterpiece

The food at Kibou completely blew me away. Every dish I tried was prepared with such care and attention to detail. The sushi was incredibly fresh, with each piece showcasing a perfect balance of flavors and textures. I also loved the sashimi; the cuts of fish were melt-in-your-mouth tender and beautifully presented.

I also had the tempura, which was light, crispy, and not at all greasy. The vegetables and seafood were fresh, and the batter was perfectly seasoned, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.

Ambiance - A Perfect Setting

The ambiance at Kibou was just right for both a casual dinner or a special occasion. The lighting was soft and warm, creating a cozy atmosphere that made me want to linger over my meal. The subtle background music added to the relaxed vibe without being overpowering.

Overall Experience - A Must-Visit

In short, Kibou Japanese Restaurant is a must-visit if you love Japanese cuisine and find yourself in Oxford. Every aspect of my dining experience, from the service to the food to the ambiance, was executed flawlessly. It’s clear that the team at Kibou takes great pride in what they do, and it shows in every detail. I’m already looking forward to...