No other city in India does food quite like Delhi. It’s a place where global cuisines find a new identity and seamlessly blend into the city’s vibrant scene. And now, a fresh current has entered, bringing together two rich gastronomic cultures from Japan and Peru. Today, the Nikkei cuisine, a blend of these vibrant cuisines, is having a moment of glory, finding a home in eclectic restaurants in Delhi. And at the helm of it all lies Hikki, the newest addition to the city at the Eldeco Centre. I recently stepped into this vibrant new restaurant, and let me tell you, Hikki is a portal into a different world.
Hikki Brings You A Space That Speaks To You
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From the moment you step in, you will be drawn into the energy of the space. The concept is rooted in the Japanese philosophy of hikikomori, which traditionally refers to reclusion. But at Hikki, it is reimagined as a space for selective immersion. It invites you to step away from the bustle of everyday life and enter a world of flavours and storytelling.
The space exudes an intimate yet eclectic energy. The design features striking red tiles, tropical greenery, fluted wood, and a dramatic mirrored bar that instantly grabs your attention. The centrepiece, however, is an olive tree that serves as a nod to Peru’s rich heritage and invites you to pause and appreciate the beauty around you.
Whether you’re looking for a vibrant lunch spot or a high-energy evening, the space is designed to evolve with the time of day. The staff, too, plays a crucial role in this experience, offering personalised recommendations and guiding you through the menu with ease. Helmed by the talented Chef Vaibhav Bhargava, Hikki offers a menu that is meticulously crafted to offer an unexpected thrill.
While each dish feels familiar, it offers new flavour experiences. And let’s not forget the drinks. Hikki is proudly cocktail-forward. The bar program here seamlessly marries the precision of Japanese mythology with the wild spirit of Peru. The selection ranges from well-curated sake varieties to expertly crafted cocktails.
Flavours That Complement The Feels
Appetisers That Set The Tone
- Jinja Burrata Salad: This salad is a symphony of textures. Imagine creamy burrata, crunchy quinoa, earthy beets, and a punchy ginger dressing coming together. It’s thoughtful, hearty, and visually stunning.
- Spicy Edamame: This humble dish is elevated with the right amount of tobanjan heat and delivers a wholesome and addictive experience.
- Peri-Peri Chicken Karaage: Crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with peri-peri dust and spicy mayo – this dish adds a playful twist to the Japanese classic.
- Nikkei Vegetable Gyozas: These vegetable gyozas are packed with vibrant flavours. Who knew gyozas could be this exciting with a vegetarian filling? These were bursting with life, colour, and flavour.
- Prawn Gyozas: The prawn gyozas were light and simple, yet so satisfying that you would keep reaching for more.
- Salmon & Avocado Sushi: Made with black sushi rice, mango salsa, and orange tobiko, this was sushi at its seasonal best!
Mains You Can’t Miss
- Chicken & Leek Yakitori: Skewered to perfection, each bite of this chicken and leek yakitori was tender, slightly sweet from the teriyaki, and a definite highlight. It definitely left me curious about the full robata menu at Hikki.
- Yaki Udon Noodles: The yaki udon noodles offered a balance of chew, umami, and subtle pickled zing. It was ideal for those looking for something comforting, yet flavourful.
- Braised Soy Tofu: This pan-seared tofu with assorted vegetables, soy, and mirin (sweet rice wine) made for the perfect pairing for the noodles and rice. It was simple, yet deeply satisfying.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Garlicky, fluffy, and full of flavour, the garlic fried rice was the kind of side dish that steals the spotlight.
Also Read: 8 Best New Restaurants In Jaipur You Must Try This May
Bar Creations Of Your Dreams
- Yuzu Mizu: The yuzu mizu was a fresh, citrussy hit, with clean and elegant flavours. It was like sipping on sunshine with a sharp edge.
- Midnight In Peru: If there’s one drink at Hikki you can’t leave without, it’s this! Tequila, fermented plum, passion fruit jelly – it may read like a lot but it sips so smoothly. This one was earthy, sweet, slightly rebellious, and my personal favourite.
- Wasabi Picante: The wasabi picante offered a sharp, spicy twist on the classic picante. The wasabi kicks in just right, and it’s certainly not for the faint of heart.
Enter A World Of Nikkei Excellence
Hikki, Delhi’s newest hotspot, celebrates food, drink, and design like never before. Here, the blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavours and impeccable cocktails come together to create an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re a fine dining enthusiast or cocktail lover, or simply looking to indulge in something unique, Hikki deserves a spot at the top of your Delhi dining list.
Where: Ground Floor, Eldeco Centre, Block A, Shivalik Colony, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi
When: 12 pm – 4 pm | 8 pm and 10:30 pm
Cost: ₹2,500 (For two)
Cover Image Courtesy: Mallika Khurana and Supplied
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