Named after the elegant sash of a Japanese kimono, Obi specialises in sushi, tempura and ramen dishes, echoing the legacy of its predecessor, Takumi.
Co-owned by chefs Hatsushiro Muraoka, known affectionately as Papa San, and Ben Bettendorf, Obi brings patrons the classical sushi experience that made Papa San a legend in Cape Town’s sushi circles, with occasional modern twists that surprise and delight.
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Cape Town was left disappointed when the beloved sushi restaurant, Takumi, abruptly closed its doors in April 2016. Sushi enthusiasts wondered if its renowned owner-chef, Papa San, had bid farewell to the world of sushi for good. However, much to their delight, Papa San’s sabbatical from Cape Town’s culinary scene was but a fleeting interlude.
Obi opened its doors on Long Street just three months after Takumi’s closure.
Inside Obi, the décor remains purposefully understated. Its high ceilings stretch upward and wooden panels adorn the walls, whispering stories of tradition and craftsmanship.
The simplistic furnishings allow the spotlight to remain on the carefully crafted plates of culinary art while thoughtfully blending the worlds of ancient Japan and modern Cape Town.
Papa San’s indomitable reputation and his visible presence in his previous establishments undoubtedly played a role in their success. His expertise is evident in every delicate roll and every precisely sliced sashimi. Together with his culinary partner, Ben Bettendorf, they view Obi as an opportunity to educate and reintroduce the public to the distinct values and clean flavours of Japanese cuisine.
Bettendorf, no stranger to the hospitality and culinary scenes, honed his skills at his late father’s eponymous restaurant, Arnold’s, before embarking on his chef’s course and apprenticeship at The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Français. It was at Takumi that he found his passion for Asian cooking, guided by the tutelage of Papa San. Since then, Ben has made his mark in the culinary world, leaving his imprint on renowned establishments such as Jordan Restaurant and even contributing to the inception of Downtown Ramen.
Obi stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Papa San and Ben to upholding the true essence of Japanese cuisine. Through their partnership, they infuse their culinary expertise and passion into every dish, ensuring that Obi becomes a sanctuary where the flavours of Japan are celebrated and cherished.
The uramaki rolls are the star of the show at Obi, where the traditional sushi roll is turned ‘inside out,’ with the rice wrapped around the ingredients and the nori hugging the interior.
Generously cut portions of seafood sit atop a blend of sushi rice. The fresh seafood, the subtle crunch of the vegetables and the spongey texture of the rice work together to create a perfect balance that leaves customers wanting more.
In addition to sushi, Obi presents a quartet of noodle dishes that offer heartier options. The extensive starter selection caters to all tastes, featuring classics like edamame beans and inventive creations like the ‘fried tuna sandwich’ with a spicy sriracha kick.
Obi offers a lunchtime special that, like its co-owner, has Japanese heritage. In ancient times, specifically during the fifth century, Japanese men would bring along portable meals called Bento while embarking on fishing and hunting expeditions.
The Obi Bento Box pays homage to this rich tradition of a compact and varied lunch, designed to elevate your lunch break.
Within this special lunch ensemble, you’ll discover a Studio Ghibli-esque selection of sushi and tempura delights, including:
- 1 Salmon Rose
- 1 Tuna Nigiri
- 1 Salmon Nigiri
- 4 California Rolls
- 4 tempura vegetable pieces with dipping sauce
- A bowl of miso soup
To complement the dining experience, Obi offers a modest wine list that focuses on white wines, perfectly suited to accompany sushi. The list celebrates smaller producers while still offering a varied selection for wine enthusiasts. For a more authentic experience, guests can opt for sake or inquire about the current stock of Japanese beers.
With the legendary Papa San at the helm and Ben Bettendorf by his side, Obi consistently transports diners on an unforgettable culinary journey through the exquisite flavours of Japan.
Details
- Location: 14 Long Street, Cape Town
- Times: Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm to 2pm for lunch and 6pm to 9pm for dinner
- Book: Book online
- Contact: 021 418 4040 | [email protected]
- Website: obirestaurant.co.za
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Picture: Obi Restaurant / Facebook