Tuna Tataki & Katsu Curry: The Zensations Fest At The Leela Is All About Modern Japanese

Say konnichiwa to the Zensations festival at The Leela Palace! On till July 18, the festival showcases Japanese flavours with a twist.

Adventurous foodies who can’t get enough of Japanese food are in for a treat at the festival. The chefs at the spiffy restaurant have put their thinking torques together and have crafted a special a-la-carte menu {available at lunch and dinner} that presents Japanese flavours in a new light. Yes, there’s no sushi on the menu instead you get Crispy Tofu Salad, Tuna Tataki, and Ginger And White Miso Creme Brulee.

We got a sneak preview into the festival’s menu and we have to report that it’s well worth your moolah. Start off with the comforting Miso Corn Soup that’s perfect for this lovely weather. The broth, thanks to the miso, comes with an earthy flavour and pairs beautifully with the Crispy Tofu Salad. With the tofu salad, you get arugula drenched in mayo and deep-fried nuggets of tofu that give way to a creamy, cheese-like inside. You can also try the fresh Tuna Tataki — slivers of seared fish dressed up in a truffle and wasabi flavoured soy that adds a lovely zing to the dish.

For mains, do concentrate on the Chicken Katsu Curry. A serving of steamed rice sits on top of a thick, curry that’s packed with umami flavours {it will remind you of Maggi and we were told by the chef that Japanese Curry Mix usually feature the same flavours}. And to add crunch, there are chunks of fried up chicken thrown in. Again, this a bowl of hearty food. If you are in the mood for a splurge, do try the Pan Seared Salmon as well. The flaky and juicy fish is accompanied by a sauce that’s loaded with greens and ginger shoots. You’ll relish this one. And equally relish-worthy is the Ginger and White Miso Creme Brulee. The silken brulee comes with a top-notch ginger ice cream and crumble that’ll leave you “ooh”ing and “aah”ing.