January 2016 103 www.bahrainthismonth.com finedining This 30-year-old restaurant has stood the test of time and serves soulsatisfying Japanese food to its loyal customers. We speak to the chef about what makes his cuisine so special. “When I was 19, I used to watch a reality TV programme in Japan called Chef of the Emperor and the passion and dedication I saw in the participants ignited my own desire to become a chef,” says Umekawa who now boasts a career of more than 35 years in Japanese gastronomy. He is the executive chef of Bahrain’s oldest Japanese restaurant, Kei, at the Golden Tulip Hotel. Living in Bahrain for almost a year now, he’s well settled and is quite taken by the country’s enthusiasm for food. A huge hit among Japanese expats and tourists alike, food at Kei is as authentic as it can possibly get. “When I first joined the kitchen here, I wanted to introduce more fusionstyle dishes, but I soon realised that it would be better to make Kei all about the delicate, fundamental flavours of our cuisine and give Bahrain a taste of what we Japanese eat at home,” Umekawa adds. “People who come here don’t really look for Japanese fusion, but true kyõdo ryõri or regional dishes, hot pot or nabe mono preparations and other dishes that we usually eat back home.” This ‘authentic’ approach is not only reflected in the restaurant’s food but also the work ethic of the service and kitchen staff. Kei underwent a refreshing make over during the summer months and that has certainly helped in renewing the vibe of the venue. In addition to the lunch and dinner service, Kei serves business lunch for BD5++ and will be offering traditional Japanese New Year treats in January. Call 17 533-450. KEI RESTAURANT The Real Taste of Japan Chef Umekawa GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL, BAHRAIN (TEL.:) +973 17533450 (OPEN) 12:00pm - 3:00pm / 7:00pm - 11:00pm Happy New Year 2016 * DELIVERY & OUTSIDE CATERING ARE ALSO AVAILABLE WITH RICH SELECTION OF DELICACIES Enjoy the wonder of authentic Japanese cuisine. 謹 賀 新 年 謹 賀 新 年 謹 賀 新 年 BTM Ad 2015.indd 1 12/23/15 4:56 PM
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==