CLAP London continues its evolution with a renewed culinary vision led by Chef Partner Reif Othman, who brings his distinctive approach to contemporary Japanese cuisine to Knightsbridge for the first time. As the brand turns the page to its next chapter, the partnership marks both Reif’s London debut and a natural evolution of one of the city’s most distinctive Japanese destinations. The partnership builds upon CLAP’s existing foundations while introducing a fresh creative perspective for the next generation of guests.
Both CLAP and Chef Reif share a passion for Japanese cuisine and innovation, unafraid of pushing creative boundaries and challenging convention. Together, they aim to create a refreshed expression of contemporary Japanese dining that is both approachable and elevated, combining CLAP’s bold, globally inspired energy with Chef Reif’s renowned expertise and artistry.
Only a few chefs have shaped the modern Japanese dining landscape as notably as Reif Othman. Craft-driven, curious and uncompromising in his pursuit of quality, he pairs deep respect for Japanese technique with a creative, boundary-pushing personality. With a career spanning Zuma and Twiga Sumosan before founding Hotaru Holdings, Reif has built an entirely self-funded portfolio of seven concepts and more than 25 advisory projects, and holds MENA’s 50 Best Chef’s Choice Award. His flagship, REIF Japanese Kushiyaki, is recognised in the MICHELIN Guide Dubai with a Bib Gourmand distinction. Alongside his contributions to other Dubai owned concepts, TERO, SIO Ramen House and KONA Pizza House, he has held residencies and collaborations in Copenhagen, Paris, Turin, Tokyo and Singapore.
As Chef Partner, Reif will lead the global culinary direction, working closely with the CLAP team to enhance and develop a renewed menu that reflects both brands’ shared values of precision and playfulness. Diners can expect familiar favourites alongside new signature creations developed exclusively for CLAP.
The partnership is a meeting of two strong Japanese culinary identities. Reif’s approach is fearless and boundary-pushing yet humble in its respect for tradition; CLAP brings a globally inspired, design-led interpretation of Japanese dining. Together they create a new expression of contemporary Japanese cuisine that is both approachable and elevated, precision met with playfulness, craft met with energy.
“CLAP has built something truly special over the last few years. What excites me about this partnership is the opportunity to build on that strong foundation while bringing new ideas and experiences to the table. We share the same approach to genuine hospitality and authenticity, and I’m looking forward to this new era together.” said Chef Reif Othman.
Chef Reif will unveil a special summer menu of limited edition dishes on 7th July ahead of the new menu release in Autumn. Until then, the CLAP London experience continues. The CLAP Weekend Brunch runs every Saturday and Sunday with its self-service Sushi Bar and signature dishes; the Monday-to-Friday Set Menu remains an ideal contemporary Japanese lunch; and Golden Hours continue daily at the rooftop bar and terrace, with their 180-degree views across Knightsbridge.
