The general notion is that Japanese food is expensive but over the last few years thanks to Naniyori Japanese Restaurant, it has become a far more casual and reasonable dining experience. Naniyori started off with delivery and take away therefore paying a lot of attention to packaging but since October last year they have revamped their restaurant and made it accessible for a large number of diners to sit down and enjoy some very decent and fresh Japanese. 

Taste and value for money – 4.5 stars 

We walked out quite stuffed last week when we visited Naniyori. The sashimi and sushi were fresh and delicious in general and included the Naniyori Sashimi (Rs 1,090) which had 11 pieces of Salmon, Tuna, Mullet and Cuttlefish and comes in a boat. It is as eye catching as it is delicious. 

We also had the Sushi Bento (Rs 990) which had Tuna, Mullet, Cuttlefish, Sushi Rice and Pickle as well as Fresh Fruit and Green Tea. 

They also serve really good maki like Avocado Maki (Rs 690) which has 12 pieces as well as the latest addition to the maki family, Mango Maki (which has not been priced as yet). 

Japanese cuisine doesn’t just include raw fish and Naniyori serves some delicious cooked options as well of which the Buta No Shoga Yaki (Rs 640) – grilled pork with ginger sauce and grilled vegetables. 

While one of our favourites was the Bacon Maki (Rs 640) – This deep fried dish included crumbed skewed bacon wrapped cheese and leeks – what’s not to love! 

They also have a lighter and less indulgent option that of the Ni Sakana (Rs 640) which is pan-fried seer fish in Japanese sauce. 

A far more simpler option in terms of flavours was the Chicken Kara Age (Rs 640). It is similar to KFC but less oily and spicy and served with finely shredded vegetables. 

We also tried the Prawn Katsu Kare (Rs 790) which is quite a filling meal but make sure you have it hot if not it tends to be a bit sticky and dry. 

Atmosphere – 4.5 stars 

The restaurant is clean while the setting is relaxing and family oriented. You have the option of dining in the ‘tatami’ dining area, the lounge (Izakaya) or the main dining area which has  tables and chairs. The private dining areas are also quite cool with massive murals of geishas and names of geishas outside the tatami dining areas. Keep an eye out for the conversation starters at your table! 

Toilets – 3.5 stars 

The toilets are clean, equipped with bidet showers, toilet paper, paper towels and hand soap. The dim lighting takes a bit of getting used to. 

Parking – 4 stars 

There is plenty of parking both outside the restaurant and on the street. If you do park upfront you may have to wait for the car behind you to be moved. 

Friendly staff – 5 stars 

Note: 

· They offer corporate dining options so check that out. 

· During weekends there may be a long wait for your order to reach you if you opt for delivery. 

· Watch out for the Japanese dinner buffet (Rs 2,000 per adult) on the last Sunday of every month. 

· Also, to get the maximum out of your wasabi remember to place a small blob onto the sashimi or sushi and then dip it in the soy – the outcome is a very different and potent one. 

Facebook : www.facebook.com/Naniyorirestaurant 

Hours of operation : 11am – 3pm and 6 – 11pm 
Address : 14, Narahenpita Road, Nawala 
Tel : 077-730-0307 (reservations) and 077-730-0306 or 011 280-6806 (delivery and take away) 

By Natasha Fernandopulle
Video and photographs by Kanishke Ganewatte