KOFUKU, DELHI
From Features Desk
For over a decade, one name has been synonymous with the democratization of authentic Japanese cuisine in India: Kofuku. Derived from the Japanese word for “Happiness,” the restaurant was founded with a singular, ambitious mission-to spread joy through the craft of exceptional food.
Breaking the “Luxury Snob” Myth
When Kofuku entered the industry in 2012, the culinary landscape looked very different. Italian and European cuisines dominated the spotlight, while Japanese food was largely confined to high-end luxury properties. At the time, Japanese fare was often perceived as a “luxury snob” due to the extreme scarcity of key ingredients and its reputation as one of the most expensive dining options available.
When Kofuku entered the industry in 2012, the culinary landscape looked very different. Italian and European cuisines dominated the spotlight, while Japanese food was largely confined to high-end luxury properties. At the time, Japanese fare was often perceived as a “luxury snob” due to the extreme scarcity of key ingredients and its reputation as one of the most expensive dining options available.
Kofuku set out to shatter these myths. By focusing on authenticity and tradition, they proved that high-quality Japanese cuisine could be accessible without losing its soul.
A Traditional Sanctuary
Stepping into Kofuku is an immersion into Japanese culture. The restaurant distinguishes itself through its commitment to traditional aesthetics:
Stepping into Kofuku is an immersion into Japanese culture. The restaurant distinguishes itself through its commitment to traditional aesthetics:
• Horigotatsu Seating: Kofuku was likely the first in India to offer this traditional style of seating, where the floor is recessed to allow for comfortable legroom.
• Zashiki Settings: The restaurant is renowned for its warm, wood-empaneled “Zashiki” settings, which provide an atmosphere of intimate hospitality.
An Award-Winning Legacy
This dedication to quality hasn’t gone unnoticed. Kofuku has maintained a staggering 1.5-decade-long legacy, standing strong on its vision of passion and warmth. Their trophy cabinet reflects this excellence:
• Times Food Awards: Winners for eight consecutive years starting in 2012.
• Restaurant India Awards.
• Peaklife Gourmet Awards.
This dedication to quality hasn’t gone unnoticed. Kofuku has maintained a staggering 1.5-decade-long legacy, standing strong on its vision of passion and warmth. Their trophy cabinet reflects this excellence:
• Times Food Awards: Winners for eight consecutive years starting in 2012.
• Restaurant India Awards.
• Peaklife Gourmet Awards.
The Culinary Stars
While the ambiance is inviting, the food remains the heart of the experience. Kofuku continues to serve authentic dishes that have become favorites among gourmands. Highlights from their menu include:
While the ambiance is inviting, the food remains the heart of the experience. Kofuku continues to serve authentic dishes that have become favorites among gourmands. Highlights from their menu include:
Black Cod in Miso: A delicate, buttery classic.
Miso Ramen: Comforting and rich in traditional flavors.
Buta no Shoga Yaki: Savory ginger pork.
Meat Tobanyaki: Sizzling grilled meats prepared with precision.
Miso Ramen: Comforting and rich in traditional flavors.
Buta no Shoga Yaki: Savory ginger pork.
Meat Tobanyaki: Sizzling grilled meats prepared with precision.
As Kofuku moves forward, it remains committed to the same warmth and authenticity that defined its beginning, ensuring that “Happiness” remains on the menu for years to come.
