The project follows a series of international pop-ups, including an appearance at the Monaco F1 and a residency at How Matcha in Marylebone, and represents three years of research and brand development.
The 30-cover site will operate as a compact, counter-led restaurant, with handrolls prepared individually in front of guests and served immediately.
The menu will balance classic combinations with signature creations, alongside a concise selection of nigiri and small plates. Handrolls sit at the centre of the offering, complemented by hot and cold dishes and crispy rice options.
Signature rolls include spicy tuna with jalapeño miso; eel with foie gras; torched scallop; baked crab handroll; and toro with torched bone marrow, alongside vegetarian options.
The kitchen is led by head chef John Randy De Guzman, who oversees the sushi programme and menu development.
His previous experience includes serving as head chef at Tobi Masa, the concept by chef Masa Takayama of Masa in New York, where he developed a foundation in traditional omakase techniques.
He also spent nearly a decade at Nobu and held senior roles at Katsuya.
De Guzman is joined by senior sushi chef Alvin Contawe, who brings more than 15 years’ experience in Japanese cuisine, having trained primarily at Dinings SW3 and also worked at Roka.
The restaurant interior has been designed by CAKE Architecture and centres around a long, handcrafted timber and stone counter, designed as a stage for the chefs’ work.
“Kumori is obsessive about fundamentals — especially the seconds between preparation and the first bite,” says founder Marc Flekei.
“Handroll bars have always been my favourite way to eat sushi, and I felt London was missing that.
“Kumori is our answer — a place where precision, pace and atmosphere come together around the counter.
“Soho was chosen for its energy rather than prestige.
“It is one of the few places in London where food, fashion, music and nightlife intersect naturally, allowing Kumori to exist as both a daily ritual and a destination.
“The Denman Street location places Kumori directly within that rhythm, and I can’t wait for the journey to begin.”
Music also plays a central role in the concept, with custom-built speakers by Big Ears and curated playlists spanning house and rap, designed to evolve with the rhythm of service.