Tucked away in the artsy lanes of Lodhi Colony, Guppy isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a whimsical portal into the vibrant, pop-drenched world of Tokyo’s modern-day izakayas. From the moment you step inside, you’re met with an explosion of colour: neon-lit lionfish lamps, charming kokeshi dolls, and a riot of green and pink that feels straight out of a Harajuku daydream.
To celebrate Hanami, the cherished Japanese tradition of cherry blossom viewing, Guppy has launched a limited-time seasonal menu (available till May 31) that pays homage to the fleeting beauty of sakura. Each table is thoughtfully adorned with delicate faux blossoms, echoing the spirit of springtime in Japan and making diners feel as though they’re enjoying hanami beneath the blooms of Ueno Park.
As part of the experience, Guppy transforms into a cherry blossom wonderland, where the décor, food, and music come together for a truly immersive celebration. Think soft pink blooms, twinkling lights, and a buzzing yet cosy atmosphere, a perfect setting for a weekend brunch, a fun evening out, or a casual gathering with friends and family. Live music sets the tone, elevating it from a meal to a full-on springtime celebration with an Indian heart and an Asian soul.
We began our journey with a plate of Summer Greens, Avocado & Palm Heart Salad, a refreshing opener with silky textures and crisp notes. This was followed by the Carrot and Spicy Miso Soup—bold, creamy, and comforting, like a warm hug on a breezy Tokyo evening.
Then came the showstopper: Edamame and Exotic Mushroom Sumai. These delicate dumplings were nothing short of exquisite. The edamame tasted garden-fresh, encased in a whisper-thin wrapping, while the mushroom filling was buttery, slightly piquant, and irresistibly umami-rich.
To pair, we sipped on the Sour Crush, a stunning cocktail made with whisky, grapefruit, peach schnapps, green grape shrub, and kaffir lime. Sweet, tart, and beautifully balanced, it’s a dream for anyone who, like me, enjoys a good sweet-sour cocktail with a citrusy zing and aromatic lift.
No Japanese dining experience feels complete without sushi. From the Hanami menu, the Veggie Volcano sushi arrived like a firework of flavours: fried tofu, avocado, and mascarpone, topped with crispy corn and gochujang mayo. The crunch of the corn added a playful twist, while the avocado lent a luscious, melt-in-the-mouth creaminess. It was totemo oishii (very delicious) and far from your usual veggie offering.
We also tried the Exotic Fish Volcano—a rich sushi featuring braised eel and cucumber, crowned with salmon, tuna, avocado, and kabayaki spicy mayo. While flavourful and hearty, it leaned on the heavier side and, to be honest, the vegetarian roll outshone it with its confident finesse and surprising complexity.
For the main course, we were served the Miso Chicken Udon—grilled chicken and slow-braised tofu in a tangy shichimi miso sauce, served over a bed of perfectly pan-tossed vegetable udon. The noodles had just the right amount of bite, making each suu-suu slurp satisfyingly indulgent. The sauce was layered, the miso lending depth and warmth, the chicken and tofu rich with umami and comfort.
Final Thoughts
Guppy’s Hanami menu is a limited-time affair, but one that transports you straight to the sakura-lined streets of Japan. It’s not just a meal: it’s a full sensory experience, layered with flavour, charm, and thoughtful detail. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Japanese cuisine or simply curious, this is one springtime celebration you won’t want to miss.
Itadakimasu! 🌸
