Heading up in a wooden elevator in Vipul Tech Square at Gurugram’s Golf Course Road, I had a different expectation about Japonico, the new Japanese bar. I expected copious use of the typical Japanese elements—cherry blossoms, anime, manga, geisha, and a rising sun. However, as the door opened to this newly-opened bar, I was greeted by another element of Japan—quality minimalism—blended perfectly with cool modern luxury.
Japonico is the brainchild of Bawri and VietNom-fame restaurateur Sahil Sambhi, who says the idea of his newest venture goes back three years “when I visited Zuma in Dubai and found a huge difference between dining out there and what was then available in India. It was about time that somebody raised the bar and bridged the gap between international and Indian dining standards,” he says.
As it takes a village to do a restaurant, Sambhi roped in chef Roberto Blondi, an ex-Zuma, for the food menu; mixologists Jeet Rana and Chirag Pal to head the bar programme; and designer Freddy Birdy, “who needs no introduction,” for the design concept.
As I sit down to eat in the outdoor sitting area called the deck, I start with The Humble Beginnings, a cocktail made with in-house fermented fruit wine, sparkling sake, and vodka that also serves as a palette cleanser. Whether coming solo for a drink or a nice meal by yourself or in a large group, varied seating arrangements are scattered around, with the deck offering the view of Gurugram’s skyline with metro trains zipping past in front of you. It’s perfect for a cozy meal.
There are two other sections: the main dining area, “for a nice peaceful meal, whether they are family dinners or corporate lunches. Whoever comes to eat, choose this section as the sound is lower, the light brighter, and has an overall restaurant vibe,” explains Sambhi. The party comes alive in the bar area, which has a DJ console, a huge community table, and cool video projections. The interior switches effortlessly from cozy to vibrant and shows that much thought has gone into the design.
Drinks with a dash of storytelling
The bar programme is interesting not only in its content but also in how it’s presented. Fashioned like a book and focusing on anime storytelling, the menu takes you through the life of the fictional character Kaito Sakamoto, where each drink represents a chapter of his life.
There’s Roots of Ambition, made with whiskey, goji berry, and kaffir lime, for those looking for a minimalist spirit-forward concoction. Dragon’s Ascent is made with in-house seaweed vodka, and The Bond, a must-try, has chrysanthemum-infused gin. The Struggles Shadow is for coffee lovers, and The East Meets West, made with gin and Campari consists of pandan leaf and guava and is another must-try.
Food stands out
While Japonico is projected as a Japanese bar, the food menu is extensive, well-rounded, and high-quality.
“The intention behind Japonico was to do a global standard bar wherein we serve great food, as food is the backbone. Our idea was to create this space that serves great comfort food, super high quality of produce, and let the ingredients do the talking,” Sambhi says.
And rightly so. There’s no theatre in plating or presentation, and the food alone does the talking.
I start with a simple shiitake mushroom, and truffle oil salad, followed by Atlantic crab and Peruvian Aji Chilli Taco.
“85% of the menu is Japanese, but other than that, we have gone ahead with our international favourites,” Sambhi says.
And while there are the classic sushis and sashimis on the menu, it’s the simple Sri Lankan curry that takes the cake for me.
Coming to desserts, like the decor, food, and drinks, there appears something for everyone. And while the dessert platter would go well for the sweet tooth, for those looking for simpler options, a simple coconut panna cotta works perfectly.
And whether for a nice cozy meal or to enjoy the nightlife, this contemporary Japanese bar has much in store.
