Shokudo (Tamworth), Japanese kitchen and Sushi bar. — Restaurant in Tamworth

From the moment we arrived at Shokudo we knew we were in for a spectacular meal.

We were warmly greeted and once I confirmed our booking, we were given the “private room” which made us feel well looked after from the start, and a lovely way to enjoy our favourite food. Just as a note for others, the parking is located near to the restaurant and the allocated spaces are numbered “one”.

Once we sat down the private area was beautifully decorated with very authentic flowers, pictures, ornaments, and even a running fountain. The only aspect of the room which I could suggest to be improved was the lighting, which could match the rest of the restaurant, as it was quite bright and I do feel the softer and more colourful lighting would make it even nicer.

The wait to order drinks was quick and whilst trying to decide what to order we were given really helpful advice and I felt everything on the menu (including the desserts at the end of the mains by a different waitress) were very well explained and exactly what we were wanting. Almost as soon as we had both put our menus down the waitress came over and took our order. This was then effortlessly brought out to us as and when each dish was ready piping hot (or cold!) and each tasting more delicious than the last.

The service throughout was very relaxed and I never felt like I was trying to get anyone’s attention, or gasping for a drink. We were literally in and out within an hour but it felt as though we had been there for much longer, and never once did it feel rushed, shortened or not fully experienced. I also want to add another note, when the bill came we wanted to give them a 12% tip for such a delightful meal and exemplary service, however unfortunately we learnt that tips are CASH ONLY! The nearest cashpoint is a drive away so please, when visiting Shokudo, ensure you have something on you as we were gutted we couldn't show our appreciation for such a pleasant experience in that way. However, I know for sure that we will be back in no time, tip in hand, thirsty for more!

Arigatou,...

5 stars

I wasn’t dining in, nor was I a customer seated at a table — I was simply waiting to pick up an order. But in that moment, something truly unexpected happened. I witnessed the creation of a dish so striking, so beautiful, that I was left in awe. I felt compelled to share my impressions, because what I saw wasn’t just food preparation — it was pure art.

The chef behind the counter worked with such precision, grace, and dedication that it felt like he was pouring his soul into every detail. The atmosphere was serene, almost ceremonial — quiet, focused, and full of intention.

The platter was arranged on two levels: the lower level featured a stunning variety of sushi and rolls, each with vibrant colors and textures, while the upper tier showcased perfectly sliced sashimi — a crown of fresh fish laid over green leaves and delicately accented with parsley. The colors — bright orange from the salmon, deep red from the tuna, soft pink from the shrimp, golden yellow, and vibrant greens — came together in perfect harmony, like a living painting.

The entire arrangement was framed by decorative branches with blossoms, evoking the feeling of a Japanese garden. A bamboo blind, gently lifted, added an intimate, almost theatrical touch — as if a stage was being revealed to present something sacred.

It wasn’t just a visual pleasure — it stirred something deep inside me. You could see this wasn’t made by routine or habit, but by someone with a deep sensitivity to beauty, to balance, and to meaning. This wasn’t just food — it was a form of reverence, of inspiration, of artistic expression through taste, form, and ritual.

If you love detail, authenticity, and heartfelt creativity — just witnessing the making of such a dish is enough to make you feel respect. For me, it was a moment of...

Ordered the following for collection. Was ready 15 minutes after placing my order.

Pork Gyoza Chicken Katsu Curry Gyudon Pork Yaki Soba

The gyoza were really fresh and crispy but soft. Very flavoursome, excellent quality and good value.

The katsu curry came with the sauce separate which you poor on to your liking, I used the entire pot. Rice was soft and fluffy, chicken was crispy, soft and moist, curry sauce was full of flavour but not spicy at all, this is just how I like it.

The gyudon was really fresh, flavoursome, beef was incredibly tender. Also a hard boiled egg as a bonus on top.

The pork yaki soba was very similar to the Wagamama version, but I would say a little fresher and more moist. Very flavoursome and tasty. Another hard boiled egg on top as a surprise.

All the food was excellently presented despite being a takeaway order, the chefs clearly care no matter where you are planning to eat either in the restaurant or at home.

I would thoroughly recommend Shokudo to all, and will definitely be eating...