The new Asian restaurant at One Horizon is inspired by a fictional Silk Route trader, and there are little nods to that story everywhere, deep wood tones, low lighting, a live sushi counter, robata grill and a really pretty alfresco section surrounded by greenery.
@kimikai.india feels like the kind of place Gurgaon loves, somewhere between a dinner spot and a night out.
The Hamachi Carpaccio was one of the best things we ordered, rich slices of fish with enough acidity to lift the whole dish. The Chicken Nan Ban came with bubbling cheese sauce and yuzu kosho mayo, all sizzle and spectacle, an indulgent starter you share across the table.
The Spicy Udon Carbonara with bacon was one of those dishes that got better the more we ate it. Great texture, good heat, very umami, though I would have loved a little more acidity. We paired it with the Gulai Ayam Curry and sticky rice, a really well done yellow prawn curry with layers of coconut, spice and warmth that worked beautifully alongside the udon.
The Miso Honey Toast looked better than it tasted for me, so I’d probably try a different dessert next time.
Cocktails are a big part of the experience here too, which makes sense considering the bar programme was developed with Pass Code Hospitality. Bae of Bengal is a must-order, Forbidden Fruit and Paper Wing were two more favourites, and Black Pelt is perfect if you like darker drinks.
Also, special mention for the service because they really get it right. The team is warm, accommodating and very hands-on, which makes such a difference.
Kimikai is definitely one of the more interesting new restaurant openings in Gurgaon right now.
