The sweet Japanese retreat

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

Tucked into a quiet by-lane in Uttara, with only a modest sign proclaiming its location, it's easy to miss Nagasaki Hostel, which has its own Japanese restaurant downstairs. Sometimes unassuming facades hide real treasures, and this is doubly true for this food outlet, a concern of Bangladesh Travel Homes Ltd.

Stepping into the restaurant itself, one is greeted by warm wood paneling, paper windows, silk fans and mini rock-garden landscaping, with J-pop piping cheerfully in the background. MA Salam, the manager, who happens to have designed the interiors, tells us he picked only natural materials to create the peaceful ambiance that is de rigueur for the proper dining experience. One takes off one's shoes at the entrance, slips on a pair of straw slippers, and makes way into the dining area, which is composed of low tables on raised wooden platforms and punch spaces by the seating area, where one can sink in, and sit comfortably, and still maintain the illusion of sitting on the floor.

For those who do want the experience of the real thing, the party rooms upstairs offer the floor-level tables and tatami mats. In total, the restaurant has a seating capacity of 75. This allows for great service, with friendly serving staff ensuring your comfort.

The menu is comprehensive, ranging from tempura and nattou, to sushi and set menus featuring rice/noodles, miso soup, vegetables and a choice of meat or fish. The grilled butter squid, which melts in the mouth, is a must-try, as is the sushi platter, which provides a wide range of fish and vegetable sushi, teeming with savoury flavours, and that elusive taste of umami.

Chef and restaurant owner Mori Shinji has an eye for detail, so expect to see pretty little extras like the wasabi being molded into the shape of a leaf, or the red ginger curled into the shape of a rose. One has to appreciate the fact that the food at Nagasaki remains true to its roots without being distorted to suit the deshi palate. This is definitely a place for serious connoisseurs. The seafood ingredients are all freshly imported from Japan to provide that authentic taste, and there are takeout facilities for the fried food. The menu also changes on a seasonal rotation, and starting from October 15, one can expect the winter menu, with a whole new range of exciting treats.

The prices are a little on the high side, and since credit cards are not accepted, you want to make sure your wallet is well-stocked before heading this way. The food is definitely worth a splurge, and what's more, for the next few weeks, if you bring this copy of Lifestyle with you, you're entitled to a 10 percent discount. So if you're hankering for a little Japanese food, don't forget to give Nagasaki a try.

Nagasaki Japanese Restaurant is located at: House #13, Road #6, Sector #1, Uttara Model Town.