Japonico: A place for food lovers to experience something new
In a culinary world where new menus often blur into monotony, Japonico on Golf Course Road stands out as a beacon of creativity and authenticity.
Japonico’s interiors are a visual treat. The layout is thoughtfully divided: one side features a live wood Robata grill and family-style seating, while the other, overlooking the bar, offers a more high-energy vibe. Striking design elements, live projections on flowing water and giant pots, create a serene yet vibrant ambience. Subtle lighting is balanced by strategically placed spotlights, ensuring that every dish’s presentation shines as brightly as its flavours.
A Cocktail Journey Like No Other
The experience begins with the drinks. The Legacy, a gin- and vodka-based martini, exemplifies the bar’s mastery. Served with tobiko caviar, pickled radish and an olive, each element adds depth: the tobiko bursts with wasabi and truffle notes, the radish enhances passion fruit flavours and the olive ties it back to the martini’s classic essence. Japonico’s mixology programme promises a standard that few can match.
Culinary Highlights
The meal starts strong with the Mushroom Salad, a delightful medley of textures and flavours. Crisp and dehydrated shiitake mushrooms pair beautifully with iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, mizuna, cucumber and avocado, all elevated by a gomae dressing.
The Rocky Shrimp Tempura, spiced with togarashi and creamy mayo, may not break new ground, but its flawless execution ensures it’s devoured in no time. The dim sum, crafted with precision, leaves no room for leftovers.
The star of the meal, however, is the Atlantic Crab and Aji Chili Taco. The sweetness of crab meat meets the heat of chilli and the crunch of a perfectly crisp taco shell, all brightened by a hint of lemon. It’s so irresistibly good, you might not want to share. If you’re a crab lover, this dish alone is worth the visit.
From the Robata grill comes another standout: the Australian Lamb Cutlet, marinated in gochujang sauce for 24 hours. The result is tender, flavourful meat that melts in your mouth, delivering smoky richness with every bite.
The Team Behind the Magic
Great food and drinks require a great team, and Japonico is no exception. Restaurateur Sahil Sambhi, who I awarded the Best Restaurateur title in the 11th season of The Big F Awards, has honed his craft over the years, evolving from a nightlife innovator to a culinary trailblazer. Known for award-winning ventures like Bawri and VietNom, Sambhi’s passion for innovation and excellence shines through in Japonico. At his side are talented mixologists Chirag Pal and Jeet Rana, and Chef Roberto Blondi, who brings Michelin-starred expertise to the table. Together, they’ve crafted a restaurant that’s as much about the experience as it is about the cuisine.
Setting a New Standard
As the first major restaurant launch of 2025, Japonico has raised the bar for the industry. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a statement of what dining should aspire to be. Judging by the weekday crowd, diners agree, this is a benchmark that will be hard to beat.
