A friend of mine was bemoaning the other day on the absence of a good sushi place in Chennai city and we agree whole heartedly. So it was such a pleasant surprise to hear of this wonderful little place that has finally given the city what it most desired. Japanese cuisine is a beautiful art of cooking by retaining the ingredient’s natural integrity and true flavour. The cuisine is subtle and delicate so it takes a bit of acquired taste to get used to it but once you have it, there is no turning back. Presiding on the TTK Road, Alwarpet, Chennai lies the answer to our prayers in the form of ‘Teppan’. The exteriors of Teppan closely resembles a standard home. Located in a bungalow like structure the restaurant has an added advantage of space which we must say is plenty. Ask to be seated on the teppanyaki table or to the regular table by the side. Simple yet charming, Teppan has so much to offer.

Delightful oriental lamps and china blue ming vases add authenticity to the scene. Teppan assures that you don’t forget which cuisine you can enjoy here even for one moment. The staff is prompt and attentive throughout the evening which completely transforms the dining experience. The food that comes to your table will be attractive and eye-pleasing. Assorted carvings of sweet meat are displayed beautifully on the edgy platters accompanied with dipping sauces so your fingers itch to pick up the chopsticks and dive in. As your first course opt to go with a tori satori sarada (chicken salad with wasabi dressing), ebi tempura (tempura batter fried prawns), niku tataki (seared tenderloin with ponzu sauce), gomoku soup, assorted grilled begetables, sashimi, tamago (Japanese omelette), dragon maki and nigiri.

As your main course you will be bombarded with numerous choices but keeping in mind the restaurant’s name ‘Teppan’ dabble in the teppanyaki range. Choose your base ingredient like, sea bass, rack of lamb, chicken breast, Japanese scallops, lobster, tuna and Australian sea bass with a nice sauce and watch them convert it into something sensational. Pair them with a bowl of fried rice or noodles for maximum pleasure. To spoil your sweet tooth they have various ice-creams on offer and ask for the dessert of the day. Teppan is bit on the pricier side but if you love Japanese fare then make it a point to visit soon.