Delhi Dining Day 2: Yokoso! Sakura @The Metropolitan Hotel and Spa, New Delhi

My trip to New Delhi on July 16th 2016 was marked by many a setback and sudden developments. From the time I missed my flight to the torrential rains in the capital that morning, some things just did not go my way to start with. But about the things that did go right, my stay at the prestigious Metropolitan Hotel and Spa at Bangal Sahib Road topped them all. Earlier known to Delhites as Hotel Nikko, this unique property stands atop in the heart of Central Delhi a stone’s throw away from Janpath and Connaught Place. And located at Level 1, is India’s first Japanese restaurant-Sakura.

Sakura in Japanese means Cherry Blossom. Like the rare flower, the cuisine served here is Kaiseki-former Royal cuisine of Japan and stands out from other contemporary venues. I was lucky to have a taste of their ongoing themed event-Sushi Art, a unique amalgamation of Japanese and Indian cuisine. Sounds outlandish? Read on for this unique experience.

The event is primarily Japanese Sushi and Maki Rolls prepared with an Indian flavour and feel to it. The result is a unanimous appeal to anyone who has always anticipated trying out Sushi earlier. From Vegetarian to Sashimi options, this unique menu has it all. Needless to mention, this has gained tremendous popularity with the local residents of Delhi as well the visitors from around the world.

I started my culinary affair with some Nigiri which included Salmon, Tuna and the very Indian Tandoori Paneer. The latter was by far a very well-curated dish and fit the palate of a North Indian foodie perfectly. I paired some Wasabi Martini with it.

The Uramaki section compromised of the exotic California Roll with Flying Fish Roe adorning the zenith. The Tikka Delhi Roll and the Chennai Special Roll formed the Indian counterpart with Chicken Tikka and Tandoori Prawns cooked in Chettinad style as the main ingredient.

The Futomaki was the final section to my culinary extraordinaire and The Dragon Roll formed the perfect penultimate dish to my satisfaction. Its crunchy exterior and Grilled Salmon Sashimi is definitely something worthy of mention. The Indian counterpart featured Paneer Teriyaki Roll with Teriyaki Paneer and Shitake Mushrooms. I spiced it up with an extra dash of Wasabi.

As I bid goodbye to the polite and sophisticated staff of Sakura, I managed to click a few pictures of its ethereal interiors in bright red and white. Resembling the dining room of a traditional cottage, the décor and its chic interiors echo the discrete composure Japanese culture is known for. My heartfelt thanks to the Marketing team of The Met Including Shagun for this wonderful experience.