The traditional Japanese drink is not the only surprise at Izakaya
The traditional Japanese drink is not the only surprise at Izakaya
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The problem with restaurants in malls is the lack of surprises. But Izakaya, one of the first Japanese fine dining restaurants of its kind in the country, manages quite a few. To begin with, there is the alfresco area and the Zashiki (private four seating dining area) with a traditional floor seating arrangement. The ambience is relaxed and the space has been done up in red, black and gold.
The name game, and beyond
The food too be realistic, how many of us are really well versed in Japanese gourmet cuisine - surprises you with its accessibility. While the names may sound exotic, indecipherable even, you are bound to like what you get. The staff is very helpful and their suggestions seemed thoughtful of the Indian palate, which prefers hot food to cold, and spices and sauces.
How can you begin a Japanese meal without traditional alcohol, so I had the Seven Samurai (Hamada Kaidu Sochu, rum and green apple), which had just the right punch. Coupled with what I was told were specials ufffd Tsukune (chicken mince balls that actually resembled seekh kebabs) and the Tori Momo Sumibi Yaki (chicken legs charcoal grilled only with salt and served with three sauces) - the meal was off to a great start. The more adventurous can try other options of the Yakitori (parts of the chicken) menu that includes the heart and the skin.
For the main course I highly recommend the Kaku-Ni, stewed pork belly Japanese style. Cooked with an ample layer of fat and just the right amount of sauce, this is a must-try. Because I was in a Japanese restaurant and because Executive Chef Junya Nishikawa told me their seafood, like him, comes from Tokyo, I also tried the sea bass in teriyaki sauce and the Teppenyaki style butter (Ebi) garlic prawns.
The prawns were humongous and I had the rare pleasure of having to cut one up before eating it. The sea bass could have done with a bit more flavour. I must also mention the Yaki Udon noodles that you must try if you are looking for something authentic. If not, you can choose from the variety of (sticky) rice. There was dessert too, but unlike other times when I say I am full and still end up having it, this time I had to give it a miss. And that is the greatest compliment I can offer Izakaya.
Izakaya
Food: good
Service: helpful
Ambience: relaxed
At Shop No 317, Second Floor, DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj
Call 46656317
Timings Noon to 3 pm, 6.30 pm to 11.30 pm
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