A Flavour of Nikkei at Henshin Jakarta

Perched on the highest floors of The Westin Jakarta, Henshin has long been one of the city’s most striking culinary destinations, known not just for its panoramic views, but for its bold celebration of Nikkei cuisine, the unique intersection of Peruvian and Japanese flavours. The restaurant has recently unveiled a reimagined menu that reflects a deeper evolution, one inspired by the very meaning of its name.

Henshin dining area boasts spectacular views of the Jakarta skyline

In Japanese, “Henshin” (変身) means transformation, and it’s this spirit that animates the restaurant’s latest culinary direction. Nikkei cuisine itself is a story of migration and integration; born from the Japanese diaspora in Peru, it fuses local Peruvian ingredients with Japanese techniques, creating a cuisine that’s vibrant, unexpected, and deeply umami-forward.

The newly launched tasting menus, available in four- to eight-course formats, offer an immersive entry into this world of flavour. The journey begins with Piqueos, a playful trio of small bites that set the tone for what’s to come. The star of the tasting menu is the Carpassion Ceviche, where salmon and avocado meet a tangy passionfruit leche de tigre in a chilled, citrusy symphony. As a main, guests are treated to Australian Black Angus Tenderloin, followed by elegant desserts such as Carro de Chocolate, a nod to Peruvian cacao, and Suspiro de Maracuya, where passionfruit and camu-camu (a small, cherry-like fruit found in the Amazon rainforest) mingle beneath a crisp meringue veil.

Tartar de Atun is one of the Nikkei dish offered at Henshin in Jakarta

For those who prefer à la carte, the menu is equally compelling. Signature dishes include the Nikkei Wagyu Tartare, and the indulgent Henshin Rolls, which combine salmon belly, foie gras, and caramelised Amarillo chili. The Vieira ceviche – a medley of Hokkaido scallop and octopus – exemplifies the menu’s seafood finesse, while Langosta (spiny lobster with smoked rocoto butter) brings rich depth.

Complementing the menu is a thoughtful wine and sake pairing experience, curated to accentuate the dynamic layers of flavour in each course.

Henshin’s Nikkei ramen offers a hearty option for discerning diners

Beyond the cuisine, Henshin’s appeal lies in its multi-level, multi-sensory design. With its bar and lounge areas offering front-row seats to the Jakarta skyline, Henshin elevates not only your palate but your entire evening. Recognised among Asia’s Top 80 Fine Dining Restaurants in 2023 and again in 2024 as a Top 80 Dining & Bar destination, the restaurant continues to evolve while staying rooted in its Nikkei identity.

Henshin, Jalan H.R. Rasuna, Jakarta 12910, Indonesia, +62 21 27887768 / +62 87800028008, henshinjakarta.com, @henshinjakarta