Inside Hikari – the neighbourhood sushi bar bringing a slice of Japan to Leeds

If you're looking for somewhere a little different for your next dinner date or catch-up with friends, let us introduce you to Hikari in Moortown. This neighbourhood Japanese restaurant has quietly built a loyal following, and after one visit, it's easy to see why.

The space itself is just as impressive as the food. Think warm wood tones, soft lighting and beautifully considered interiors that feel relaxed rather than formal. It's the kind of place you instantly want to settle into for the evening.

Our top tip? Grab a seat at the sushi bar. Watching the chefs prepare every dish right in front of you is all part of the experience, making dinner feel interactive and giving you a front-row seat to the skill that goes into every plate. Better still, each dish is handed straight across the counter as soon as it's ready, so everything arrives as fresh as possible.

We opted for a selection of sushi and sashimi to get a real taste of the menu, and there was plenty of variety to choose from. From fresh sashimi to spicy tuna rolls, chicken katsu and a tuna and avocado roll topped with torched wagyu beef, every dish was beautifully presented and ideal for sharing. It's the kind of menu that encourages you to order a few different plates and try a bit of everything.

What really makes Hikari stand out, though, is the people. The team couldn't have been more welcoming, and we were looked after by Kong, who freshly prepared dish after dish for us throughout the evening. Watching everything come together in front of us while chatting with the chefs made the whole experience feel personal and relaxed.

For us, Hikari is all about the experience. Between the stylish interiors, the theatre of the sushi bar and the genuinely friendly service, it's a lovely spot for a relaxed evening out. If you're looking for fresh sushi in a welcoming neighbourhood setting, it's well worth adding to your Leeds restaurant list.