At Budō we’ve been asked one question more frequently than any other lately: “Why doesn’t the menu change?” While we love that our guests are eager for more, we think this question comes from not knowing Budō well enough—because the answer is right there on our chalkboard every day.
The Beauty of Consistency
When we opened Budō, we knew one thing for sure: consistency doesn’t mean stagnation. Our main menu is thoughtfully curated to feature timeless classics that perfectly encapsulate the spirit of a true Japanese izakaya. From expertly kaiju-fired skewers to delicately prepared kimchi pancakes, our core offerings are designed to be exceptional every time you visit.
But just because our main menu doesn’t change doesn’t mean we aren’t constantly evolving. Our specials board is where Budō really comes to life, showcasing Chef Dave’s latest inspirations, seasonal ingredients, and culinary creativity that pushes boundaries. We believe in letting our specials do the talking—and trust us, they have plenty to say.
Today’s Specials: A Glimpse of Our Passion
Take a look at today’s specials board, a perfect snapshot of why we don’t need to constantly change the main menu. Each day, Chef Dave brings something unique to the table, like today’s highlights:
Chicken Oyster (£6): A tender, flavourful bite that’s often overlooked but never underappreciated in our kitchen.
Hatsumoto (£5.5): A delicate preparation that highlights the subtlety and depth of flavour in traditional Japanese cuisine.
Soy-Glazed Ribs (£6.5): A perfect balance of sweet, savoury, and sticky that’s just begging to be picked up with your fingers.
Monkfish Drumstick (£12.5): A rare and special treat that brings a touch of luxury to your evening.
Grilled Mackerel (£9.5): Smoky, flaky, and perfectly seasoned—comfort food with a Japanese twist.
Shime Saba (£9): Our marinated mackerel dish, rich in umami and perfect with a glass of sake.
Daikon & Shiso Salad (£6) and Jellyfish Salad (£6): Fresh, light, and full of contrasting textures that cleanse the palate and awaken the senses.
Special Cocktails: Drinks as Unique as Our Dishes
We don’t stop at the food. Our special cocktails are crafted to complement our dishes and elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s the Hokori, a bold mix of Don Q, Miyazaki Honlen, and yuzu, or the invigorating Blood, Sweat & Tears, featuring Gordon’s gin with a chili berry kick, our drinks are as much a part of the ever-changing landscape at Budō as the food.
Why Change When You Can Innovate Daily?
We understand the desire for novelty, but at Budō, we believe that innovation doesn’t have to come from overhauling the menu—it can be found in the details of our daily offerings. Every day, we’re crafting new experiences through our specials, exploring fresh ingredients, and testing out bold new flavours that you won’t find on our main menu.
These specials are our playground. They are where Chef Dave and the teams skill and passion meet creativity, giving our loyal patrons something fresh to look forward to every visit. So, the next time you’re in, take a moment to appreciate what makes Budō truly special: it’s not just about what’s on the main menu, but what’s being dreamed up in the kitchen each day.
Come in, grab a seat, and check the board—you never know what new favourites you’ll discover at Budō today.