In one of the rare cases of the mountain making the trip to Mohammed, Kuuraku, which first opened on Brigade Road, manifested in Nexus Shantiniketan, Whitefield. I think this was where Smokehouse Deli used to be.
We loved the ambience – cosy, but somehow managing to fit in lovely nooks, outdoor seating, long tables for large groups, and kitchen-facing seats too.
It also has a nice ‘traditional with a side of play’ vibe that’s very endearing.
For instance, depending on how we fare in the Jan – Ken – Pon (rock paper scissors) game we play with them when we order drinks, you could get double your drink! D won, and I lost, but they ended up switching the drinks, so I got double! That was the Lemon Sour soju that I tried. But D’s drink was better – Ryokucha Hai (green tea with Soju)
We first tried the Torimiso Tantan Tofu – fantastic texture, and a delicious spicy chicken sauce. Also, quite pretty!
There are really a lot of options, but when there is ramen… D asked for her favourite Miso and I tried a Kuuraku Ramen (chicken). The Miso has sea weed, sweet corn, minced chicken, leek and butter, and to begin with, the flavours were quite a hit. But somehow as the meal progressed, the other, relatively simpler chicken broth won us over.
For dessert, we had Annin Tofu – almond jelly with mango sauce. Subtle, and a perfect ending.
Extra points to the staff who were friendly and vivacious, and that includes the omiokuri – waving until we were out of sight.
The bill came to just under Rs.4000. That is not very wallet friendly, but maybe just right for a celebration. Reserving a table is a good idea.
Kuuraku, Lower Ground Floor, Nexus Shantiniketan Mall, Whitefield Ph: 9311734476
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