REVIEW: Wasabi by Morimoto, Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

Wasabi by Morimoto brings an elevated take on Japanese cuisine with beautifully balanced flavors, top-tier ingredients, and attention to detail that creates an unforgettable dining experience. The omakase theme is special and it is a delight watching the chefs artistically present their knife skills in front of you. Each dish highlights their precision and artistry, making it a must-visit for Japanese food lovers in Mumbai.

Address: The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001

Price: $$$

Tiramisini Rating: 4.7/10

Ambience, Service, and Price

Located in one of India's most iconic hotels with breathtaking views of the Gateway of India, a windowside seat at Wasabi by Morimoto takes the experience to a new level as you overlook the Arabian Sea in all its splendor. The service here is impeccable, with attentive servers who make thoughtful recommendations to enhance your meal. While it’s certainly among Mumbai’s priciest dining spots, the restaurant is committed to fine dining without compromises—ingredients are top-notch, and even the fruits are imported to maintain authenticity. Overall, Wasabi is a splurge well worth it, delivering an exceptional culinary journey in a stunning setting.

Shrimp Sushi

The shrimp sushi is a standout, with crispy, well-rounded textures that balance sweet, tangy, and savoury flavours harmoniously. The sauce on top is rich and velvety, enhancing each bite without overpowering the delicate flavour of the shrimp.

Vegetable Sushi

The vegetable sushi, featuring black garlic, is another delight, with a delightful blend of crispy textures and balanced flavors. The black garlic adds a hint of sourness that enhances the taste, and the mayo on top is just right, subtle enough to allow other flavours to shine. The sushi starts with a satisfying crunch, and the wasabi and ginger accompaniments are perfectly balanced to complement rather than dominate the dish.

Ramen

The ramen is mild, warming, and authentically flavored. While the broth is comforting and full of Oriental flavors, the meat, unfortunately, falls slightly short, with a chewy texture that detracts from the otherwise quality bowl. The noodles are high-quality and cooked to perfection, adding to the overall authenticity.

Salmon

The salmon is the star here, with a perfectly crispy skin and a tender, juicy interior. The fish sauce has hints of tamarind, lending a unique tangy sweetness to the dish without making it overwhelmingly “Asian” in flavor. The salmon feels balanced and authentic, with every bite showcasing a harmonious blend of fish and sauce. This dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Wasabi.

Calamari Tempura Salad

The vegetable selection is thoughtfully curated, offering a light yet satisfying course. The lotus stem is crunchy and well-marinated, similar to a delicious snack. The avocado is grilled and has an unexpected yet pleasant potato-like texture, which adds intrigue without feeling out of place. The sweet potato, while good, could use a bit of balance, as its strong flavor overpowers other elements. A substitute like pineapple might provide a more interesting contrast.

Fried Rice

The fried rice is simple but well-executed, with premium ingredients evident in every bite. Small, bite-sized prawns integrate seamlessly into the dish, showing the chef’s attention to detail. The rice itself is creamy and rich, with a slightly milky texture that’s hard to resist. The quality of ingredients shines through without any one element dominating the dish.

Dessert

They lacked eggless desserts which was a drawback. We had one option of ordering an eggless Mille-feuille with chocolate and strawberries (imported from Germany) was a fun, somewhat whimsical ending to the meal. The pastry is flaky, and while the whipped cream could be improved (a bit oily in texture), the strawberries add a fresh, fruity accent that perfectly rounds out each bite. The ice cream is a standout in itself, a creamy delight that enhances the dessert as a whole.

Teas

Don't miss out on these, pick any that you fancy. We'd recommend the matcha to pair with the dessert.

Wasabi by Morimoto is an elegant dining destination with some of the finest Japanese cuisine in Mumbai. While there are minor flaws, the creativity and quality of the ingredients make each dish a memorable experience. The restaurant’s atmosphere and attention to detail solidify its place among Mumbai’s top fine dining spots.