Swapping Sandwiches for Sushi in the Heart of Oxford
Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition, but KIBOU Japanese Kitchen & Bar in Oxford has given it a delightful Japanese makeover. Swapping finger sandwiches for sushi and scones for mochi, KIBOU’s Japanese-inspired afternoon tea is a fusion of flavours and cultures, something refreshingly different to the Oxford food scene..
After being lucky enough to get an invite to the opening of KIBOU last summer, we were delighted we were invited for an exclusive tasting of this newly launched afternoon tea menu, and here’s why we think it’s a must-try for sushi lovers and adventurous foodies alike.
A Feast for the Senses at KIBOU Oxford
The first thing to say is this restaurant is beautiful , you are greeted by cherry Blossom over the door and the interior is decorated in a stunning Japanese-inspired design with hand-painted murals, gorgeous fabrics, and oriental style furniture. You really feel like you’ve taken a step into a premises in Japan.
Afternoon tea is served on a three-tiered stand, beautifully arranged with savoury sushi, delicate desserts, and a curated selection of Japanese teas.
Available: Sunday to Friday, 2pm – 4pm (Pre-booking required – 48 hours in advance)
Price: Classic £23pp | Vegetarian £19pp
📍 Location: 11-12 Little Clarendon Street, Oxford, OX1 2HP
📞 01865 597659
📧 oxford@kibou.co.uk
🌐 www.kibou.co.uk
What’s on the Afternoon Tea Menu?
Unlike a traditional British afternoon tea of sandwiches, scones, and cakes, KIBOU’s version is an artful selection of their most popular Japanese dishes, presented on a classic three-tiered stand. Guests can choose from two menus: Classic or Vegetarian.
Savoury Selection:
- Prawn hosomaki
- Prawn tempura California roll with wasabi mayo
- Salmon tataki with mango salsa
- Sea bream nigiri
Our standout favourite? The salmon tataki, perfectly seared, melt-in-your-mouth, and complemented by the subtle sweetness of mango salsa.
Sweet Treats:
- Mochi ice cream (including a delicious coconut flavour)
- Cinnamon & apple gyoza
- Shichimi chocolate tart
- Custard dorayaki with strawberry compote
The coconut mochi ice cream and chocolate tart were both decadent and indulgent, balancing rich flavours with delicate textures.
Accompanying the food is a selection of Japanese teas. We chose Genmaicha, a green tea blended with toasted brown rice, which can only be described as liquid popcorn.
Our Experience: Is It Worth Trying?
Even if we were not invited to try this feast, I can honestly say it was awesome and we will go again.
The Standout Dishes
- The salmon tataki was the star of the show; lightly seared, tender, and beautifully paired with mango salsa.
- The prawn tempura California roll had a delicate crunch and a subtle heat from the wasabi mayo.
- Mochi ice cream; a refreshing end to the meal, with the coconut flavour being a standout favourite.
Presentation & Atmosphere
- The three-tiered stand was visually stunning, with sushi artfully arranged alongside delicate sweets.
- The restaurant’s elegant setting adds to the experience, making it perfect for special occasions.
Value for Money
- £23 for classic / £19 for vegetarian is reasonable for the quality of sushi and variety offered.
- The option to upgrade with matcha, cocktails, champagne, or sake makes it ideal for celebrations.
Final Verdict: Should You Book It?
Yes, anyone who loves sushi and Japanese cuisine needs to jump on this, KIBOU’s afternoon tea is a must-try.
✅ Perfect for:
✔️ Sushi lovers and fans of Japanese cuisine
✔️ Afternoon tea enthusiasts looking for something different
✔️ Small gatherings, birthdays, or special occasions
❌ May not be for:
✖️ Those expecting a traditional British afternoon tea with scones and finger sandwiches
✖️ Anyone with severe food allergies (as cross-contamination cannot be guaranteed)
Would we go again? Absolutely, we are already booked in for my birthday. This is a unique experience that brings together the elegance of afternoon tea with the artistry of Japanese cuisine.
The Full Menu on Website as of today (Subject to Change)
Classic Japanese Afternoon Tea (£23pp)
A selection of signature sushi and sweet Japanese treats, served with a choice of Japanese teas or infusions.
Savoury Selection:
- Prawn hosomaki
- Prawn tempura California roll with wasabi mayo
- Salmon tataki (GF) with mango salsa
- Sea bream nigiri (GF)
Sweet Treats:
- Selection of mochi ice cream (V)
- Cinnamon & apple gyoza (V)
- Shichimi chocolate tart (V)
- Custard dorayaki (V) with strawberry compote
Vegetarian Japanese Afternoon Tea (£19pp)
A plant-based alternative featuring vegetable-based sushi and classic Japanese desserts.
Savoury Selection:
- Cucumber & avocado hosomaki (VG, GF)
- Mixed vegetable California roll (VG, GF option)
- Avocado nigiri (VG, GF)
- Vegetable temaki
Sweet Treats:
- Selection of mochi ice cream (V)
- Shichimi chocolate tart (V)
- Cinnamon & apple gyoza (V)
- Custard dorayaki (V) with strawberry compote
Japanese Tea & Drinks Packages
Your afternoon tea comes with a selection of Japanese teas or infusions, or you can upgrade with a special drinks package.
Japanese Teas & Infusions (Included)
- Sencha – Purifying & restorative green tea
- Hojicha – Smoky & calming roasted green tea
- Genmaicha – Sweet & nutty green tea with toasted brown rice
- Imperial Jasmine – Delicately fragrant jasmine tea
- Earl Grey – Bright & fragrant black tea
- English Breakfast – Rich & full-bodied black tea
Extra Drinks Packages
| Package | Price (Classic) | Price (Vegetarian) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matcha Afternoon Tea | £29pp | £25pp | Hand-whisked matcha tea |
| Cocktail Afternoon Tea | £34pp | £30pp | KIBOU’s signature cocktail |
| Champagne Afternoon Tea | £36pp | £32pp | Glass of Taittinger Brut Réserve Champagne |
| Sake Afternoon Tea | £38pp | £34pp | Cup of Junmai Tokubetsu sake |
