Kampai at DLF Promenade, New Delhi, is where creative interpretation meets Japanese traditional culture
BY KARAN PURI
After serving irresistible delicacies to bon vivants in Aerocity, young restaurateur and entrepreneur, Avantika Sinha Bahl is making waves with the second outpost of her premium authentic Japanese cuisine restaurant, Kampai – Plate & Pour, at DLF Promenade, Vasant Kunj.
With this location, Kampai aims to make Japanese cuisine more approachable. And the good news is that Avantika has plans to open at least 50 more to outlets in the next few years.
At Kampai, creative interpretation and artfully curated experiences meet traditional Japanese culture. It is needless to say that these have been effortlessly achieved by incorporating finest culinary techniques, freshly imported ingredients and nomination of tantalising curations such as nutritious salads, mouth-watering fried and grilled treasures from the sea.
But that’s not all. It also has hearty meats, the freshest of sashimi and irresistible Nigiris and rolls.
In short, good times will clearly ‘roll’ at the newly launched space for anyone who appreciates fine Japanese flavours.
The menu at Kampai is an amalgamation of Japanese classics such as sushi, ramen, tempura and gyozas. After an in-depth R&D, brainstorming and multiple trials, Kampai has introduced several innovative dishes like Japanese-style carpaccio, Japanese pizzas, diverse robata menu, an extensive sushi menu and much more.
The signature dishes include classics like Buta Barayaki, Char-grilled lobster, Tantan Men Ramen, Miso Ramen, Black Cod Miso, Crispy Kale Yuzu Cream Cheese, New Zealand Lamb Chop, Tuna Pizza with freshly shaved truffles and Nori Crusted Salmon Steak amongst others.
The quintessential addition is the section full of a range of Robatayaki skewers that are cooked over hot coals to ensure distinct smoky flavours. These stand out particularly for their unique preparation and scrumptious seasonings.
Extravagant possibilities are accessible for those who enjoy pairing appetising specialties with their favourite blends at Kampai’s freshly spruced up bar that offers a wide range of Japanese sakes; champagnes, whisky, cocktails, beers and carefully-assorted wines from all across the world.
Kampai, which means ‘cheers’ in English, presents an exuberant menu that brings to life a unique storyline to each serve. As you sip these concoctions the stunning projections of the Tokyo skyline and beautiful elements from Japan at the larger-than-life bar transport you to modern-day Japan and its unique culture.
Kampai’s comfortable and intimate arrangement, understated Japanese ambience and memorable experiences, will keep one coming back for more.
The interiors are based on transporting the patrons to Tokyo. At Kampai, Sakura season is through the year with a beautiful patch of cherry blossom covering the ceiling to give a feeling of being nestled under a cherry blossom tree.
Sombre lighting, soothing wall colours, Japanese style lights installations, traditional Japanese art on the walls and a soothing Zen garden make it a very inviting space for its guests. The terrace will transport you to a garden in Kyoto with Japanese fountains, intimate private seating concepts, Japanese partitions and planters.
Team Kampai has gone that extra mile to promise a dining escapade that is congenial, palatable and unforgettable by ensuring selective procurement of fresh seafood, authentic ingredients, unconventional décor, well-trained service staff and an open rooftop overlooking Delhi’s vistas.
