WHEN I first heard about Nikkei, I had to ask Google about it. What would Japan and Peru, not exactly direct neighbours, have in common? The answers are that Nikkei cuisine is a type of fusion cuisine that combines Japanese and Peruvian elements. And Nikkei is the word used to describe immigrants of Japanese origin in Peru. It’s also the name of the hottest new restaurant in Cape Town.
I’m going to give you the press release first, and then my review, so stick around.
“In the late 19th century, the cultural exchange between Japan and Peru ignited with the arrival of a Peruvian ship at Yokohama’s port. This vessel, shuttling laborers between Callao and Macau, laid the groundwork for a blossoming fusion. Japanese culinary finesse married Peru’s vibrant ingredients, swiftly becoming a local mainstay.
“Leap to 2020, this distinctive cuisine transcended its roots, permeating mainstream and fine dining spheres. Championed by modernist chefs, it emerged as a vanguard in the culinary landscape, spawning trendy establishments across the Middle East, London, and the US.
“The culmination arrived at the tail end of 2023, as Cape Town welcomed its inaugural Japanese-Peruvian culinary haven—Nikkei Japanese Peruvian, which opened in December 2023. Nestled at 87 Bree Street (formerly Gate 69), this venture emerges under the stewardship of esteemed establishments like Hacienda, Scala, Iron Steak, and Burger & Lobster. The acclaimed and globally recognised chef Rikku Ó’Donnchü, alongside the company’s executive chef, Justin Barker, helm the menu.
“Nikkei is inspired by the founders’ love for Asian and South American cuisine hence why they opened Hacienda Coastal Mexican in 2022. Justin, the group executive chef, has his own ambitions to head to South America and eat at his most inspiring restaurants. He is extremely passionate about South American cuisine and was at the helm of the opening of Hacienda Coastal Mexican.
“Rikku, having recent experience in Korea, Japan and even more recently, the US and Honk Kong, has always had a passion and sentimental/inspiring connection to Asian culture and cuisine, not only because his family connection, but because of the culinary, discipline and dedication to their craft. He was the executive chef of Michelin Korean fusion restaurant Doshi in Orlando, Florida.
“The founders saw a gap in the market on Bree and wanted to have something more than just another Japanese inspired restaurant; they wanted something elevated and untapped into.
“Nikkei’s menu caters to diverse tastes, thoughtfully categorised for easy exploration. Begin with piqueos, delightful small bites perfectly paired with your initial libations. Crudo y Marinados showcases raw or marinated delicacies, featuring the pinnacle of Nikkei cuisine—the celebrated ceviche. Petiscos Nikkei beckons communal dining, inviting patrons to share a variety of sumptuous plates.
“The heart of Nikkei’s kitchen resides in the acclaimed Josper oven, revered for its charcoal gastronomy – a cornerstone utilised in crafting most menu items, barring those from the robatayaki section. Robatayaki, a miniature charcoal grill brought tableside, delivers an authentic Japanese/Peruvian grilling experience. And sushi aficionados can revel in exclusive Japanese Peruvian new style signature rolls and revered Japanese classics.
“The bar at Nikkei boasts an enticing array of Japanese whiskies, some crowned as the world’s finest – a paradise for whiskey aficionados. Noteworthy among the offerings is a meticulously crafted list of sake and pisco cocktails, curated by an award-winning mixologist. The iconic Pisco Sours, a cherished Peruvian libation, now finds its home in Cape Town.
“The restaurant’s interior, a creation by long-time design partners SQ design, is a testament to the harmonious blend of Japanese and Peruvian cultures. A rich deep green palette, complemented by hints of gold and simplistic wood panelling, defines a space that exudes warmth and comfort – a visual ode to cultural equilibrium.
“Nikkei Japanese Peruvian stands as a testament to the artful fusion of Japanese precision and Peruvian vibrancy, adding a captivating chapter to Cape Town’s culinary tapestry.”
Nikkei is utterly stunningly beautiful, at once spacious and airy with the soaring ceiling, and intimate with cosy tables and semicircular booths with buttery leather, and riotous foliage. The balcony is inconspicuous but will be the ultimate spot for people-watching. And you won’t be able to take your eyes off the people. This is a place to dress up for. This is heels and red lipstick, this is Glam. Yes, capital G. You’ll want to fit in. That said, the bloke at the table next to ours was wearing baggy short pants and hippie sandals (and had no inside voice) so there isn’t an actual dress code. But trust me, you’ll be glad you made the effort.
- Fun fact: Where Iron Steak is now, used to be a Peruvian restaurant…
PISCO HOUR
- Mondays to Saturdays 4.30pm-6pm
- Half price on all pisco based cocktails
- Not valid on First Thursdays. No banking. No sharing. Terms and conditions apply
SUSHI AND SAKE SUNDAYS
- Every Sunday 12-6pm
- R199 Sunday sushi platter and half price on all sake based cocktails
- Live DJ from 12.30pm-5.30pm
Nikkei is open daily from noon to 10.30pm. Call 021 109 0081, email capetown@nikkei.co.za or click here.
Instagram @Nikkei_za