Restaurant Spotlight: ADRIFT Kaya, JW Marriott’s Exceptional Modern Japanese Izakaya Helmed By Michelin Star-Rated Chef, David Myers

Sitting nice and pretty in the plush premise of JW Marriott, Adrift Kaya is one of the most highly acclaimed modern Japanese Izakaya Restaurants in Delhi launched by American celebrity Chef, David Myers. For the unaware, an Izakaya is a type of informal Japanese bar serving heady concoctions and snacks, a casual place to unwind after work.

Helmed by Michelin star-rated Chef & founder David Myers, the restaurant is an exquisite interpretation of the chef’s travelogue to Tokyo and a love letter to the buzzing restaurant and bar culture found within the city.

Having traveled extensively across Japan and adopted its buzzing capital as his second home, David draws inspiration from the mesmerizing laneways of Tokyo and the ancient culinary craft showcased in kitchens throughout Japan. A modern take on a Japanese izakaya, Adrift Kaya is infused with the playful sense of hospitality that’s become synonymous with the ADRIFT brand. 

The interiors at Adrift Kaya encapsulate the ambiance of a traditional Japanese izakaya with a luxe and modern edge added. The space is designed by the world-renowned Timothy Oulton Studio under the guidance of the late Timothy Oulton.

The design of the restaurant features sumptuous but relaxed surroundings that combine authentic raw materials, state-of-the-art finishes, and beautifully detailed furniture that together create an unparalleled dining experience. Upon entering, guests are greeted by the sights and textures of hand-dyed shibori, the aromas of freshly grilled yakitori, and purposefully curated sounds. An open kitchen and sushi bar each offer counter seating, adding an authentic sense of ambiance to an already stylish setting.

The buzzing heart of the space, a 360-degree bar, combines reclaimed raw timber beams, honed chisel-cut granite, and a central column topped by a canopy of burnt driftwood.

In all its glory, Adrift Kaya is truly a gastronomical and architectural gift that keeps on giving!

At Adrift Kaya, David taps into not only his experience and memories of Japan but also his Californian roots to create a flavor-forward and ingredient-focused menu.

Only the most pristine seafood and top-quality meat has been selected alongside fresh and seasonal vegetables – sourced locally where possible – to orchestrate a collection of truly spectacular dishes. 

Signature dishes include Hinoki-scented black cod, Ramen, Koji lamb rack with Yakuniku sauce, Sake marinated Salmon and sweet Miso tofu as well as a traditional Japanese ‘Tsumami’ selection of mushroom gyoza, vegetable tempura and Chicken Tsukune with Onsen egg, to name a few.

To end on a sweet note, desserts include burnt cheesecake with Japanese whiskey and warm spiced cherries, a selection of mochi, Ginza parfait, matcha chocolate bar, and more! 

The cocktail bar and lounge offer a wide selection of sake, fine wines, and Japanese craft beers alongside its stellar collection of fruit-forward Ginza-style cocktails, which have especially been curated by Jimmy Barratt, an icon in the global bar community. Previously the global bar development director for Zuma, Barratt’s legacy has been recognized by both World’s 50 Best Bars and Diageo World Class. Some of the finest must-haves from this selection include concoctions such as the Marunouchi; a twist on the Manhattan named after Tokyo’s business district, Suika; a blend of Japanese gin, yuzu, Aperol, and watermelon, and the Pachinko Highball; inspired by the popular Japanese whiskey highball.

State-of-the-art delicacies, world-class drinks, and an enthralling ambiance await you at Adrift Kaya. Delve into the world of a wanderer, explorer and dreamer; David Myers for an exquisite dining experience that you'll never forget.