Japanese invasion

Go for the tempura festival at Pan Asian

Japanese invasion

Go for the tempura festival at Pan Asian

Being a foodie, over the years I have acquired a taste for a lot many things. While I do not claim to have 'had' them all, I certainly have tried things which would repulse a lot of people while others may consider them as delicacies. But even then, life never stops springing surprises at you. So here I was, trying to gulp down some Shiokara which is marinated and salted squid, served raw. Let's face it, I like squids, but strictly in their cooked versions. So I kind of felt like a reality TV contestant while having raw ones. The chef later told me it has an 'acquired taste', after he saw dislike quite clearly written on my face. Each to their own, I thought.

The ambience is pleasing and is perfect for a cosy dinner

The twou00a0extremes
The evening though, had started on a much pleasant note. I had gone to Pan Asian for dinner. The restaurant, widely known for good Japanese food,u00a0 was holding Tempura and Yakitori promotions. Tempura is a Japanese dish of seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep fried. It usually consists of crisp fritters. Yakitori, is a much healthier option in comparison as the meat or vegetables are grilled and served.

Back tou00a0regular tast
I started the meal with Hiyushi tomato, which was cold tomato served with mayo and sesame. The mayonnaise, needless to say, enhances the taste of it. It was off to yakitori thereafteru00a0-- with sticks of grilled chicken and vegetablesu00a0-- somewhat like our Seekh kebabs. There was Wakadori (chicken legs), Tebasaki (chicken wings, would have been better boneless), Tori liver (chicken liver, crunchy and tastes like kaleji found in old Delhi streets) and some yummy Shitake mushroom. For main course, I tried some Yakitori donburi which was grilled chicken and rice served with miso soup and Tsukemono moriawase (assorted Japanese pickles). The rice was sticky, somewhat like sushi rice and had shreds of grilled chicken in it. Totally delicious! Go for it, we say.

At: Pan Asian, WelcomHotel Sheraton
Onu00a0 till: April 30
Timings: 7.45 pm to 11.45 pm (dinner only)
Ring: 42661122
Meal for two: Rs 2,400 + taxes