A stroll in Tokyo with Matsuri
Tucked away in one corner of the colonial Lavelle Road, The Chancery boasts of Bangalore’s most authentic Japanese restaurant-Matsuri. I was invited to review this hidden gem along with a few other food aficionados where Chef Okano himself explained each and every dish before they were served up on our table. It was truly an honour to be part of this interactive and informative session.
We started our journey to the Land of the Rising Sun with the traditional Shokado Gozen, a set box of handpicked dishes comprising the appetizers placed separately in each compartment. It comprised of Chicken Tempura, A range of Japanese style pickles and gravy of Mizure Sauce called Sunomono and Mizore-Su, the traditional Sashimi and the Ebi Shinjo which are Shrimp Dumplings with vegetables. Each and every dish was delectable and could be enjoyed with a hint of Wasabi and Miso Sauce provided by the side.
The Soup was up next with the Kuzu Tataki, a Red Snapper variety, was best enjoyed with a hint of Salt and Pepper. The ethereal taste of this dish transports you to the streets of Tokyo.
The Sushi was titled Matsuri-Sushi Moriawase and comprised of an assortment of various ingredients like Tuna and Salmon. My personal favourite is always the Salmon and was delectable to say the least.
The fourth was a Mushimono, a unique Egg Custard with Udon Noodles which I have never tasted anywhere before. Its unique taste is something which needs a little bit getting used to.
The final course was the Dessert in the form of a Fruit Crème Mitsumame, cubes of Seaweed, Agar Gelatin and Ice Cream. This unique combination worked well and was unlike anything I have ever tasted before. Had I not been up to the brim, I would ask for one more portion of the dessert. I paired my meal with a glass of Chardonnay which went quite well with the Seafood dominating menu. A must for every authentic Japanese Cuisine lover, Matsuri has carved a niche amongst the genre and has won numerous awards and accolades over the past few years.
