Beyond Tea and Ale: Britain’s Curious Journey into Sake

When we think of sake, the UK might not be the first place that comes to mind. Yet today, in the land of afternoon tea and pubs, Japanese sake is quietly making a name for itself. From high-end restaurants in London to locally brewed sake in urban craft breweries, the UK's relationship with sake is deepening in exciting ways.

The Sake Boom Begins in London

The UK's growing interest in sake began gaining momentum over the last decade, particularly in London. As Japanese fine dining and sushi bars became more popular, so too did the appreciation for sake as a sophisticated and versatile beverage. In Michelin-starred restaurants, sommeliers are now pairing sake with multi-course meals, and the phrase "sake pairing" is becoming more widely recognized.

Interestingly, sake also appeals to the UK’s growing population of health-conscious and vegan consumers. Made primarily from rice and water, sake is naturally gluten-free and often seen as a "cleaner" alternative to other alcohols.

What Kind of Sake Is Popular in the UK?

Much of the sake consumed in the UK is imported from Japan. Premium junmai, ginjo, and daiginjo styles from regions like Hyogo, Niigata, and Yamagata are available in specialty stores, online retailers, and even in upscale supermarkets like Waitrose and Selfridges.

But it doesn't stop there. The UK is also home to its own sake breweries.

Kanpai London: British-Born Sake

One standout example is Kanpai London Craft Sake Brewery, located in the capital. Founded by a pair of passionate sake lovers, it was the first sake brewery in the UK and has helped introduce many locals to freshly brewed, small-batch sake made with traditional Japanese methods and ingredients. Their line-up includes crisp, dry sakes suited for both British and Japanese palates, often enjoyed at food festivals, local markets, and even in pubs.

The British Perspective on Sake

For many in the UK, sake is still seen as a "special occasion drink" — something to enjoy at a fancy dinner or as part of an immersive Japanese experience. But that perception is slowly changing, thanks to increased exposure through tasting events, sake festivals, and education programs such as the Sake Sommelier Association, which offers courses and certifications.

What’s helping drive this change is the UK’s younger generation — curious, globally minded, and eager to try new things. Their interest in Japanese culture, food, and drink is playing a major role in sake’s growing popularity.