Nikkei Japanese Peruvian by PAN Collection — Restaurant in Western Cape

I recently had the opportunity to dine at Nikkei, a supposed 'high-end' establishment that boasts opulence and glamour in every corner. From the moment you step through the gilded entrance, you're greeted by an ambiance that screams luxury and sophistication. However, my experience revealed that beneath the dazzling exterior lies a disappointing lack of substance.

The restaurant's decor looks impressive at first glance - until you realize that pretty much everything is fake. Upon being seated, we immediately noticed our cutlery, plates and table was not cleaned properly with some oily residue.

As I perused the menu, my anticipation grew with each extravagant dish description. However, the reality of the dining experience failed to live up to the grandiose promises made on paper. The presentation of the dishes was undoubtedly beautiful, with each plate meticulously arranged to appeal to the eye. Unfortunately, the same level of attention was not given to the flavors.

The starters, while visually stunning, lacked the depth of taste one would expect from a restaurant of this caliber. The main courses fared no better, as the flavors were oddly muted, leaving me searching for the promised gastronomic delights. It was as if the kitchen prioritized aesthetics over the essence of the culinary experience.

Service, though attentive, couldn't compensate for the mediocrity on the plate. The young waiters and waitresses seems to lack knowledge and seem to be untrained as dishes that we never ordered ended up at our table - I would expect properly trained staff in a 'high-end' restaurant...Definitely not students that are looking for a part-time job.

Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of the evening was the exorbitant price tag attached to this lackluster dining experience. While I understand that high-end establishments often come with a premium cost, the disparity between the glamorous facade and the actual quality of the food made the bill a bitter pill to swallow.

In conclusion, Nikkei is a prime example of style over substance. Every single plant in there is fake, only the bonsai's are possibly real.

If you're in search of a dining experience that dazzles the senses but falls short on delivering a truly memorable meal, this may be the place for you. However, those seeking exceptional cuisine to match the glamorous setting should consider exploring other options that prioritize both aesthetics and...

From the moment I stepped into Nikkei on Bree Street, I knew I was in for something extraordinary. This isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a beautifully orchestrated experience that engages all the senses and leaves a lasting imprint on the soul.

The décor is a stunning fusion of modern elegance and Japanese-Peruvian artistry. Every detail, from the ambient lighting to the textures and tones of the interior, creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels both luxurious and intimate. It’s the kind of space that instantly makes you feel special.

But what truly elevates Nikkei is its people. I had the absolute pleasure of meeting some of the most gracious and passionate individuals in the industry. Morgan, the radiant hostess, welcomed me with such warmth and charm that I felt like a long-lost friend. Stanton, the assistant general manager, exudes professionalism and genuine care—his presence is both reassuring and inspiring. Geena, our waitress, was a delight: attentive, knowledgeable, and effortlessly graceful in her service. Odette, the manager, brings a calm confidence and a deep love for the restaurant that shines through in every interaction. And then there’s Chef Asher—a culinary artist whose creations are nothing short of breathtaking.

The food? Sublime. Each dish is a masterpiece, blending the bold, fresh flavors of Nikkei cuisine with impeccable technique and presentation. From the delicate sashimi to the perfectly balanced ceviche, every bite was a revelation. The cocktails were equally impressive—creative, vibrant, and expertly crafted to complement the menu.

The service was flawless, the atmosphere electric yet refined, and the entire evening felt like a celebration of culture, flavor, and connection. It’s rare to find a place where every element—from the team to the table—is in perfect harmony.

Nikkei is more than a restaurant. It’s a magical experience, a memory I will cherish forever. To Morgan, Stanton, Geena, Odette, and Chef Asher—thank you for sharing your passion and your space with me. You’ve created something truly special, and I can’t...

Visited in December 2024. South Africa. Cape Town.

This restaurant presents a fashionable and intriguing fusion of Pan-Asian, Peruvian, and Japanese culinary influences. The interior design is decidedly trendy, boasting a wealth of interesting and vibrant details. The establishment is quite spacious, though I suspect that advance reservations would be advisable during the evening hours.

The Food:

In order to gain a better appreciation for the cuisine, we opted to sample a selection of appetizers. We selected several varieties of nigiri and rolls, as these dishes often provide a clear indication of the quality of ingredients, particularly the freshness of the fish. The tuna nigiri, while flavourful, could, in my opinion, have benefitted from a slightly smaller portion of rice. The tuna itself was undeniably fresh and had a pleasant, buttery texture, without any undesirable aftertastes. Moving on, the roll featuring crispy prawn was masterfully prepared; the rolls were tightly and evenly rolled, and the rice was ideally portioned so as to enhance, rather than overwhelm, the overall taste. The salmon, too, was impeccably fresh and flavourful, with a good balance. My personal highlights were the yellowtail ceviche and the grilled crayfish tails. Both dishes were executed flawlessly, and I would eagerly return for these alone.

Service:

The service was friendly and welcoming. Our waitress was clearly well-versed in the menu and offered several genuinely helpful recommendations. The dishes were prepared and presented with commendable speed.

Conclusion:

This is a commendable restaurant offering a broad range of Asian-inspired cuisine, where I'm sure you'll find something to please your palate. The vibrant atmosphere, beautiful interior, and delicious food create an ideal setting for dinner, especially if you're craving Japanese-inspired cuisine. I wholeheartedly recommend this...