TakaHisa Japanese Restaurant, synonymous with authentic Japanese cuisine, proudly reveals the meticulous curation behind its exceptional beverage program. Guided by Senior Sommelier Ram Khadka, alongside the expertise of Sommeliers David Yap and Tomokazu Abe, and Head Bartender, Ryuta Asahara, TakaHisa offers an unparalleled selection of wines, sake, whiskey, and champagnes.
TakaHisa’s wine collection, boasting 30 references, weaves a global narrative that perfectly complements the diverse flavours of its cuisine. From Old World classics to New World gems, each bottle is a testament to the sommeliers’ dedication to presenting a comprehensive and curated experience.
TakaHisa’s spirits and whiskey selection of 23 labels, though concise, showcases premium labels emphasizing quality over quantity. Each spirit is chosen for its distinct character, offering a refined complement to the bold and nuanced flavours of the cuisine.
TakaHisa offers a curated selection of 26 rare sake labels, some of which are challenging to acquire even in Japan. These exceptional sakes are carefully selected to complement the diverse menu offerings. Notably, Juyondai which is a premium sake very difficult to source in Japan and priced accordingly, can be found exclusively at TakaHisa in Dubai.
For lovers of effervescence, TakaHisa presents 10 unique references of champagne, each chosen to elevate moments of celebration or enhance the experience of a perfectly crafted dish. From renowned houses to boutique discoveries, the champagne collection is a celebration in every bubble.
Senior Sommelier Ram Khadka, recognized for his energetic and personalised approach, leads the beverage program at TakaHisa. His responsibilities include ensuring the highest standards of wine service, supervising sommeliers, managing the wine cellar, and analyzing the alcoholic beverage business. As one of only a handful of sake sommeliers in the city, Ram carefully seeks out selections to build the sake and wine list for TakaHisa. He is also in charge of recommending premium drinks that pair with the delicate Japanese dishes. With a passion for determining and exceeding guest needs, Ram Khadka plays a pivotal role in elevating TakaHisa’s status as a 2 Toques Gault & Millau-awarded and Michelin Guide 2023-recognized restaurant.
Tomokazu Abe, an accomplished professional in the food and beverage industry, brings over two decades of expertise to his role as Sommelier at TakaHisa Japanese Restaurant. With a robust background managing various aspects of restaurant and hotel operations, he has honed his skills as a certified sommelier, ensuring an exceptional dining experience for guests. His extensive history includes overseeing prestigious venues, achieving remarkable sales milestones, and contributing significantly to the growth and success of each establishment. Tomokazu’s passion for the culinary arts and his profound knowledge of the world of wines and sake make him an invaluable asset to the TakaHisa team.
David Yap, a dedicated sommelier at TakaHisa, contributes to the restaurant’s prestige. His refined expertise encompasses recommendations, inventory management, and quarterly training for service staff. David’s notable achievements include WSET Level 2 & 3 Awards in Wines, the WSET Level 1 Award in Sake, and a remarkable 5th place in the Champagne Index Category by Gault & Millau. As a Certified Sommelier, David combines extensive wine knowledge with leadership and team management skills, ensuring an exceptional dining experience for TakaHisa’s esteemed guests. His top achievement is being TakaHisa’s Best Seller for January, April, May, June, and July 2023.
Head Bartender, Ryuta Asahara is a master of ingredients who effortlessly combines them with different styles, crafting innovative elixirs that grace the tables at TakaHisa. The bar is his orchestra, and each cocktail is his opportunity to create something new —a unique masterpiece that tells its own story. His signature cocktail is the Samurai Ego Gift made with Hibiki 21, Japanese tea, honey, and orange.
Alongside the stellar beverage program, TakaHisa extends a warm invitation for guests to indulge in the enchanting concept of Omakase. This experience provides a dining experience that enlightens the palate with each meticulously crafted dish. This fine dining journey commences at 3:00 pm, positioning TakaHisa as a versatile venue suitable for diverse occasions.
TakaHisa Japanese Restaurant stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of authentic Japanese cuisine and a thoughtfully curated beverage program. It’s where every dish tells a story, and every sip is a melody—a symphony of perfection.
To book a seat for a personalised beverage pairing with the TakaHisa Omakase experience, please contact TakaHisa at +971 4 556 6688 or reservations@takahisa.ae for early bookings.
