Japanese cuisine has found immense love in India, and is showing no signs of stopping. From sushi to ramen, gyoza to cobbler – these Japanese-origin dishes are now a part and parcel of our usual culinary delights. If you’re looking for some authentic Japanese food in the capital, we’ve got you covered. ADRIFT Kaya in Aerocity, Delhi is the latest addition to Japanese restaurants in the city. Plus located inside the JW Marriott Hotel, it is based on the concept of an ‘izakaya’ or a casual bar with small dishes that can pair well with alcoholic drinks.
The ADRIFT physique is the brainchild of Chef David Myers – who has traveled and lived extensively in Japan. The chefs wanted it to be a love letter to the buzzing restaurant and bar culture found within Tokyo, and also to pay tribute to their Californian roots. A 360-degree bar with an open kitchen and sushi bar gives you a direct view of the action behind the scenes. Indigo-dyed wooden floors, hand-made beaded curtains, and some eye-catching lighting complement the buzzing atmosphere at Adrift Kaya.
We sampled the omakase menu that began with a comforting truffle morel miso soup. The Sudachi Buckwheat Soba and Shave Okra Salad were one of the interesting small plates served to us. The assorted sushi and truffle mushroom gyoza really stole the show for us.
Mushroom Goza. Photo Credit: NDTV Food
Mixed Sushi. Photo: Adrift Physique
Signature sumi delights like teriyaki eggplant and yasai moriyawase ramen were utterly delightful. We tasted the Spicy Salmon Belly Tartare as well as the Tempura Spiny Lobster.
Teriyaki Eggplant. Photo Credit: NDTV Food
Yasai Raman. Photo Credit: NDTV Food
When it comes to cocktails, ADRIFT KAYA had us spoiled for choice. The restaurant has signature concoctions along with famous classics. Desserts like Ginza Parfait and Chocolate Praline round out our meals.
Ginza Parfait. photo credit: adrift physique
What: ADRIFT Physique at JW Marriott
Where: Asset Area 4 – Hospitality District Delhi, Aerocity, New Delhi
When: All seven days, 12:30-3 pm, 6:30-11 pm
Cost for two: Rs. 2,000 approx