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India has had its roadblocks when it comes to diversity. International immigrants to the country have sometimes faced aggression, racism - both passive and active, or are simply the target for many an unnecessary look or remark. Though there have been travellers that have left the nation with a bad taste in their mouths, in the heart of Gurgaon there’s a thriving Japanese community that has made its mark on the culture, food and community of India’s millennium city.
According to official records there are more than 8,000 Japanese nationals registered in Gurgaon, with over 2,000 coming into the city between 2014 and 2015. It’s no wonder that with such a thriving community, they’ve set-up their own little microcosm in the North. The most notable additions are the many Japanese restaurants, most often set-up and managed by native residents which are indisputably some of the most authentic places in the country to sample Japanese fare. Aside from these however, there are many more unusual additions to the typical Indian landscape that have mushroomed to cater to all the possible needs of the Japanese contingent.
Where To Eat
The aesthetic of Japan with the soul of Ibiza, Nagai is a celebration of all things exciting. The three owners are from Japan, Spain and Italy, and the menu reflects that multicultural identity. Don’t be fooled though, Chef Reina’s Japanese heritage is very much the epicentre of the menu. They are also famed for their diverse bar menu, their Sake cocktails in particular, so head here for Friday night drinks paired with Japanese-style Tapas.
The home of Japanese barbeque, Kuuraku is all about that grill. They don’t hesitate to stick anything and everything on a skewer, from eggplant to thinly sliced pork, so there’s more than enough variety. Unlike the typical staid Japanese experience however, Kuuraku doesn’t take itself too seriously and you can play a round of Jan-Ken-Pon (essentially rock, paper, scissors) and, if you win, get a free upgrade to a super-large drink. Kampai!
This hidden gem is another experience entirely. Their hearty home-style cooking is a favourite among locals who are feeling a tad homesick. If you’re looking for a big bowl of comforting ramen, this is the place you should be. Their crispy fried gyozas will forever ruin those insipid Chindian momos for you but it’s definitely a price worth paying.
When you think Japanese, you think sushi. And though most of the Japanese places in the area will do it justice, Ebisu takes the experience to another level. Rarer delicacies like Ika (squid) and Unagi (eel) grace their menu, still quite rare in the city. Their maki rolls, tempura, and sashimi are also delectable, and with the most extensive menu in the city, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
A quirky modern take on Japanese tradition, Gohan is a local favourite. Fashioned after a typical Japanese Izakaya (informal bar), they prioritise their drinks and bar food. So order a round of Sake or Shochu before you even start in on the menu. Their fan favourites are the chicken kaarage, tempura vegetables and bacon-wrapped sausages that will balance out all the after-effects of your sake.
If you’re looking to indulge your sweet tooth after your meal, head over to Iroha which specialises in the finest desserts, from Japan and beyond. Their Japanese-style cheesecake is particularly popular but we prefer their authentic sweet bean filled doughnuts for an authentic dessert experience.
Where To Shop
Wakaba
A treasure trove of oddities, Wakaba stocks everything from pottery to seafood. This gourmet grocery store has everything you need to whip up your own Japanese feast at home. They even have facilities to order seafood and meat straight from Japan. If you’re just looking, they also have a bakery and cafe to satiate your cravings.
For all you Ramen fanatics, Yamato-Ya has a whole wall of diverse brands, flavours and combinations to choose from. This is also the perfect place to stock up on all your pantry staples like sauces, seasonings and pastes, and of course, don’t forget to hit the candy aisle on your way out.
Kimshin ‘Kim’s Mart’
Fresh food is Kim’s highest priority and they stock everything from rare Asian vegetables, fresh tofu and of course a dizzying array of seafood. If you don’t really feel like much of a chef, pick up their ready-made range of dumplings that come in a variety of flavours for a quick mid-afternoon snack.
Seela Food Mart
Pre-packaged Japanese heaven. For any anime fanatic, the sight of all the on-screen oddities in bright plastic packets is a source of constant envy. But roam the aisles of Seela and fill up those baskets because they have it all, rice cakes and ramen, sticky buns and biscuits–this is the snack-lover’s haven.
What To Read
A lifestyle e-magazine curated for Japanese residents in India, it targets anyone who’s recently moved to the country for work or education and is in need of a little guidance on what to eat, see and do. It’s available across 4 cities, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai, and is completely free of charge.
Bits ‘n’ Bobs
No, while you may claim that dry-cleaning is not usually a cultural experience, we can assure you that Zero Plus’ unique techniques as well as their environmentally conscious ethos will quickly convert you. Plus they’ve been known to shift the toughest of stains and leave your clothes looking pristine, what’s not to love?
Specialising in Japanese-style beauty treatments including things like eyelash extensions and perms or Japanese straightening and colouring. Be warned that the stylists only speak Japanese so keep your requests basic or brush up on your phrasebook.
