Tucked behind Nottingham’s bustling city centre, Kushi-ya has carved out a loyal following with its intimate setting and refined take on Japanese-inspired dining. Located just steps from the main retail streets, this unassuming spot offers a sharp contrast to the surrounding energy: pared-back interiors, warm wood tones, and a close view of the open kitchen establish an immediate sense of calm and focus. Here, the culinary experience is compact but carefully composed, with every dish speaking to a balance of technique, flavour and intention.Recognised with a Bib Gourmand distinction by the Michelin Guide, Kushi-ya demonstrates that excellence doesn’t have to come with grand gestures or soaring prices. The concise menu, which shifts regularly, is built around a selection of skewers, small plates and snacks — each influenced by Japanese izakaya traditions but interpreted with a distinctly local sensibility. Dishes arrive swiftly, often to be shared, and encourage an informal rhythm of eating that suits both a quick lunch and a lingering evening meal.Kushi-ya’s approach to cooking is rooted in simplicity and control. Skewers of meat, fish and vegetables are cooked over a Japanese robata grill, imparting a delicate smokiness that enhances rather than overpowers. Expect items such as miso-glazed aubergine, rare beef skewers with wasabi, or grilled chicken thighs with shichimi — each dish delivering direct, well-calibrated flavours.Alongside the hot offerings, the menu typically includes raw preparations and cold dishes that lean on bold seasoning and bright acidity. Pickled vegetables, sashimi, or house-made sauces featuring yuzu, soy, and sesame contribute contrast and structure, creating a dynamic interplay across courses. Kushi-ya doesn’t attempt to recreate a traditional Japanese izakaya in its entirety, but rather channels the spirit of that style into something quietly individual.Desserts maintain the same spirit of clarity and restraint. Often centred on a single ingredient — such as matcha, sesame, or citrus — they offer a final note of freshness without overwhelming. The drinks list mirrors the menu’s focus, favouring a short but interesting selection of natural wines, Japanese beers, and sake options that pair well with grilled dishes and umami-forward preparations.By resisting the urge to embellish and keeping the focus on core ingredients, Kushi-ya achieves something rare: a dining experience that feels both polished and personal, precise but accessible. For those in search of measured creativity and warm flavours in Nottingham, it’s an address well worth knowing.
