The story
Omboo is a Pan-Asian restaurant in St Albans, based at Sopwell House on Cottonmill Lane, Sopwell, AL1 2HQ. It holds two AA Rosettes for 2026, and its kitchen serves Asian flavours as small plates meant for the table.
Head chef Kasun Jayasooriya leads menu development and kitchen operations. He first came to Japanese cooking at 17, after his sister introduced him to it in Sri Lanka, and later trained in Tokyo. His stated aim is authentic Japanese technique with modern Pan-Asian influences, which he sums up as refined, bold and disciplined.
Omboo sends out no starters or mains, only platters made and served as they leave the kitchen. The menu includes fried chicken karaage with soy, chilli and sake, miso-glazed black cod, and wok-fried ribeye with a spiced dipping sauce. Vegetarian diners can order truffle spring rolls, spicy aubergine or an Asian mushroom and tofu curry. Desserts include a yuzu meringue tart and a matcha and adzuki bean cheesecake.
Guests can start in the Octagon Bar, which sits in the oldest part of the house and takes its name from its octagonal room. The bar serves innovative timeline cocktails, and arriving around 30 minutes early gives time for one before the first platters arrive.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
Location
Facebook
Instagram