Even a decade back, getting good quality Japanese food across all Tier 1 cities of India was simply impossible. If you were in a city like Pune, you would have had to travel to Mumbai to eat some sushi, and you’d definitely come back having burned a big hole in your pocket. Gone are those days. Today, you can get Japanese food across Pune, although you would also be faced with the flipside of easy access—where high access often translates into low quality, inauthentic food that doesn’t do justice to the cuisine. Miyuki in Pimpri-Chinchwad changes all that.
For those living in PCMC, the up-and-coming area of Pune’s suburbs where even metro connectivity has developed faster, Miyuki is the place to go to for authentic, high-quality Japanese cuisine. Nestled within the DoubleTree by Hilton, Pune, this 7-seater, intimate Japanese restaurant offers a unique dining experience that captures the essence of traditional Japanese cuisine, particularly focusing on the art of teppanyaki. Is this a hidden, high-end gem Punekar foodies, especially those who love Japanese food, should try out? Yes, it certainly is.
Slurrp caught up with Vinay Nair, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton, and Chef KSR Murty, Chef de Cuisine, to understand how Miyuki has carved a niche for itself in Pune’s burgeoning food scene.
The Concept: An Exclusive Teppanyaki Affair
"We wanted to create an authentic and immersive Japanese dining experience," shares Vinay Nair, as he elaborates on the thought behind the 7-seater concept. The idea of offering limited seating and a more interactive experience came from a desire to ensure that the chef and diner share a personal connection, with the chef preparing each dish in front of the guests. “Teppanyaki is not just about cooking; it’s a performance,” he notes, pointing out how the limited seating allows for personalised attention. The intimate setting fosters a memorable connection between the chef and guests, enhancing the authenticity of the dining experience.
Of course, creating a space like this where the diner can see each ingredient up close even before it makes it to the plate also requires immense attention to detail. The fish and seafood need to be not only fresh but of the highest possible quality. The restaurant sources high-quality ingredients from reputable vendors in Delhi and Mumbai, with key elements such as seafood and condiments imported directly from Japan. "We wanted to maintain the original flavours of Japanese cuisine," explains Chef Murty.
Chef Murty and his team also ensure these high standards by using up their fish and seafood stock within two-three days, not only for local foodies but also for their frequent Japanese guests who demand such a high standard.
So, from concept to execution, every detail of Miyuki is meticulously planned, ensuring that the space reflects the harmony and elegance synonymous with Japanese culture. The teppanyaki counter right at the centre of the intimate 7-seater space was designed not just as a cooking space, but as a platform for interactive conversations that focus on everything from the cooking techniques to the presentation over sake or Japanese whisky.
Making An Impact Through Japanese Dishes
Since its opening, Miyuki has received an overwhelming response from food enthusiasts and the Japanese community alike. “The feedback has been phenomenal,” says Vinay. The restaurant prides itself on offering traditional Japanese flavours, made with the finest ingredients, many of which are imported directly from Japan. "We don’t compromise on quality, and that’s been key to our success," Vinay emphasises.
One of the defining features and definitely most attractive feature of the restaurant is its teppanyaki counter. Unlike conventional dining experiences, the teppanyaki setup allows diners to witness the culinary process up close—and yes, it also makes for a great topic for banter. “It’s a performance, a dialogue between the chef and the diner,” says Chef Murty. To watch the chefs sear tuna and flambe shrimps, or even create their signature Fried Rice, is surely a sight not to be missed by any.
Another thing on the menu that you will love is the sushi. Chef Murty says that the sushi at Miyuki is special because of the attention to detail his team pays to the craft of making these Japanese favourites. Chef Murty proudly notes, "Our sushi is crafted with the utmost attention to authenticity and quality, setting us apart from others in the city. “Japanese cuisine simply requires such precision and attention to detail." Miyuki offers a variety of options, including maki, uramaki, gunkan maki, nigiri, temaki, and sashimi platters.
As mentioned before, the menu at Miyuki reflects traditional Japanese techniques, with a particular focus on teppanyaki and sushi, but there’s a lot more on offer too.When asked about the top five must-try dishes at Miyuki, Chef Murty recommends the ramen bowls, sushi platters, gyozas, steaks, and grills. “These are the staples that our guests rave about,” he shares with pride.
A New Chapter in PCMC’s Dining Scene
Miyuki has undoubtedly set a new standard for Japanese cuisine in Pune’s PCMC area. As Vinay Nair puts it, “We wanted to bring something truly special to Pune, and I believe we’ve done that with Miyuki.” The restaurant’s intimate setting, combined with its dedication to authenticity, offers a dining experience that is both exclusive and immersive.
As Miyuki continues to evolve, plans are already underway to expand its offerings and further refine the dining experience. Looking ahead, the team plans to introduce a curated selection of premium Japanese beverages to further enhance the dining experience. In response to popular demand, they have also expanded their hours to include lunch service, ensuring more people can enjoy the unique offerings at Miyuki. From extending hours to introducing new beverages, the focus remains on quality and guest interaction. "The goal is to create an experience that our guests will remember long after their meal is over," concludes Vinay.