Like its short, crisp, monosyllabic yet embracing name “EN” meaning “togetherness” in Japanese, the trendy specialty restaurant located in the heritage Ambawatta complex of Mehrauli, epitomizes the Japanese ethos of superlative experience, reflected in the elegant yet understated décor, attentive service, high prices and authentic food.
The Steamed Soybeans Edamame peppered with chilli garlic sea salt was a welcome start, tender beans slipping tenderly into appreciative mouths. The slightly sweet Dashimaki omlette and Nanbanzuke- fried sole teased with orange juice and zest were delightfully devoured and the Chawanmushi- Steamed Egg Custard was nice without being eceptional. While above par in taste, it was served steaming too hot. The mushrooms in it would have been better served shredded, to go with the smooth texture of the dish rather than as whole. Kakiage Veg tempura was disappointing. I would have preferred them sliced than diced. The texture was soft with dense bite instead of the crispy and light, that one tends to expect from tempura.
The Sashimi however made up with its freshness and an interesting citrusy, mildly spicy yuzukoshu dip. Tenderloin flown in from Bangalore served in teppan style was tender slices of joy, with a highlight of pepper, garlic, and soy sauce. Competing with it was the Buta Kakuni, the restaurant’s special 28 hours braised pork belly. A succulent must try. However, the Yaki Gyoza, pan fried pork dimsum, was a let down with the under-cooked meat.
The assorted Sushi platter comprising of Ebi Tempura Roll, Chicken Tatsuta-Age roll and Aburi Salmon Special roll were more than compensatory. But what got me hook, line and sinker was the Teppan Black Cod drizzled with a yuzu pepper miso sauce. The soft, plump fish was a masterpiece with the mildly sharp sauce accentuating the delicate fish.
The Anmitsu, a take off on the crème brulee and the Yuzu sorbet, flavoured with sharp Ooba herb brought to a glorious end, a languorous and satisfying meal.
With Japanese chef heading the kitchen, Japanese manager holding forth the show and Japanese of Indian origin owning the stakes in the place, food, ambience and service are as authentic as they can get at EN. The restaurant is spacious, multi-levelled with striking and romantic view of the towering Qutub Minar from its terraces. Emphasis being laid on healthy eating by both the young and the old and food as close to being natural being the preferred choice of the cool generation, it is no wonder that EN enjoys a varied client base of both expats and the global desis.
Ratings (Out of 5)
Category: Specialty Restaurant/ Japanese
Food: 4.0 | Service: 4.0 | Ambience: 4.0 | Overall: 4.0
Address: EN, H-5/1, New Ambawatta Complex, Kalkadas Marg, Mehrauli, New Delhi | Tel: 7861004444
Timings: 12.00-3.00 pm; 06.30-11.30 pm
Meal for two without alcohol: ~5000/++ | Wheel Chair Friendly: No | Credit Card: Yes | Alcohol: Yes
Disclosure: This review was done at the invitation of the restaurant. Due diligence has been taken for the review to be as objective as possible. Reader discretion however, is recommended
