Hinaga London: Must Try Japanese Kakigori and Matcha Café in Fitzrovia
Just when you think you’ve explored every café, bakery, and dessert bar, a new spot opens its doors with something different and unique. Recently, I came across Hinaga, a Japanese café tucked away in Charlotte Place, and it instantly caught my attention online. While most Japanese-inspired cafés in London lean heavily on matcha, Hinaga has taken things a step further by specialising in kakigori, a traditional Japanese shaved ice dessert that’s fluffy, light, and flavoured with unique syrups and toppings.
Background about Hinaga
Hinaga is located at 14 Charlotte Place in Fitzrovia, a street that already has a reputation for being charming, lined with small cafés and eateries. It’s not a large venue by any means, but that’s part of the appeal. The space is thoughtfully designed, with both indoor and outdoor seating available, though spots are limited. The interior is calm and has a zen vibe, with a soft, minimal aesthetic that mirrors the Japanese appreciation for simplicity. It feels like a quiet corner of Tokyo transplanted into central London.
Their opening hours make it easy to plan a visit, weekdays from 10am to 8pm, and slightly later starts on weekends from 12pm. It’s a versatile kind of café, whether you want a sweet mid-afternoon break, an after-lunch treat, or a pre-dinner stop, it fits the bill.
What is the Experience like at Hinaga?
I stopped by on a Friday afternoon at around 3pm, and to my relief, I managed to grab a table without any waiting. The atmosphere was calm, with just a handful of other customers quietly enjoying their kakigori. The vibe is very much “come as you are”, whether you’re popping in solo, meeting a friend, or taking a quick pause from your day.
One detail that stood out was being able to watch the kakigori being prepared right at the counter. It’s not just about the end product here, the process itself is part of the experience. The staff shave the ice into delicate, cloud-like layers before carefully adding toppings and flavourings. The friendly team added to the charm, making the experience feel both welcoming and memorable.
What is the Food like at Hinaga?
While Hinaga’s menu has plenty to tempt matcha lovers, I decided to go with their special of the day: the double fig and rose Earl Grey kakigori. It arrived in a small but tall mound of fluffy shaved ice, crowned with a scattering of sliced almonds. Priced at £10.20, it’s indulgent yet accessible.
The first spoonful was a pleasant surprise. The shaved ice had the lightest, most refreshing texture, almost dissolving as soon as it touched my tongue. The rose Earl Grey gave it a floral, aromatic edge that was cooling and sophisticated, while the fig offered a jammy sweetness that tied everything together. Every so often, the crunch of almond slices broke up the soft ice, adding contrast. Interestingly, the top layer carried a subtle tang, almost yoghurt-like, which I didn’t expect but really enjoyed. It added balance and prevented the dessert from tipping into overly sweet territory.
This was one of those desserts that felt indulgent but never heavy. Perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or even as a light finish after a meal. I left feeling refreshed rather than full, which is exactly what you want from kakigori.
What is the Price like at Hinaga?
Hinaga’s prices sit comfortably in the £10–£20 range, which makes sense for a specialty Japanese café in central London. My kakigori at £10.20 felt like fair value, especially considering the quality, portion size, and the overall experience. While it may not be an everyday indulgence, it’s perfect for when you want something unique and memorable.
Final Thoughts
Hinaga’s calm setting, the thoughtful service, and the delicate flavours make it a place worth seeking out. I went in curious, and I left impressed. Next time, I’ll be sure to try their matcha, but for now, the double fig and rose earl grey kakigori has secured Hinaga a spot on my “must-revisit” list.
If you’re a dessert lover, a matcha enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a new café to explore, Hinaga should be on your radar. It’s refreshing, both literally and figuratively and it offers a little slice of Japanese café culture right here in London.
Highlights
- New Japanese café in Fitzrovia specialising in matcha and kakigori (flavoured shaved ice)
- Calm, minimalist setting with both indoor and outdoor seating (limited spots)
- Friendly staff and an open counter where you can watch kakigori being made
- They offer seasonal flavours alongside the classic matcha flavour
- Tried the double fig and rose earl grey kakigori (£10.20): refreshing, jammy, floral, with almond crunch, unique yoghurt-like top note kept it balanced and not overly sweet
- Accessible price point in central London (£10–£20 range)
- A relaxing, memorable café experience perfect for afternoons or weekends
Tips for Visiting Hinaga
- Go off-peak if you can: Seating is limited, so mid-afternoons on weekdays are usually quieter.
- Ordering system: Order and pay at the counter first.
- Try sharing: If you’re with a friend, order different flavours to experience more of the menu.
- Don’t skip the matcha: Even though I went for kakigori, Hinaga is also known for their matcha drinks, which are worth pairing with your dessert.
- Watch the preparation: Grab a seat near the counter if you enjoy watching your dessert come to life.
Hinaga Details
- Location: 14 Charlotte Pl, London W1T 1SW
- Opening Hours: Mon – Fri (10am – 8pm); Sat – Sun (12pm – 8pm)
- Specialties: Matcha drinks and kakigori (Japanese flavoured shaved ice)
- Average Price: £10–£20
- Walk in only
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