“I wanted to create a casual and comfortable atmosphere so customers
can unwind while dining on dishes from around the world,” replied
Niels Thomsen when asked why he started up Oasis almost two years
ago. “Of course, envisioning and creating are two separate things
and I found I had no idea how complicated the restaurant business
can be,” he adds with a knowing smile.
But all of the hard work and long hours have resulted in a restaurant
truly worthy of its name. “We’re right in Roppongi, but you’d
never know it from the peace and quiet,” Niels remarks. Upon entering
Oasis the atmosphere envelops the senses, leaving the sights and
sounds of Tokyo behind. A beautifully varnished bar encircles
a large open grill, colorful photographs and numerous plants abound,
and rhythmic music plays in the background. It’s a great combination
which creates just the right vibe.
“I used to travel around a lot,” said the 26-year-old Danish American.
Niels admits that while he’s not a chef, many of the menu items
reflect his own personal favorites. “A lot of the people living
in Tokyo have traveled quite a bit as well, so I tried to create
a menu that reflects the kinds of dishes encountered on one’s
travels. That’s why we offer an eclectic menu of Thai, Indian,
Brazilian, and Italian foods.”
Start with the Middle Eastern Dip Set (¥1,000) a healthy portion
of humus, babaganouch, and tzatziki dips accompanied by fresh
vegetables and warm, crisp pita bread. Then move on to the potato
gnocchi with ham, spinach, tomatoes and sweet onions in a buerre
noisette sauce. Topped with a poached egg, it’s rich and tangy
without being overwhelming. But since Oasis is a grill, you can’t
miss if you choose the grilled chicken breast or the swordfish
steak. The chicken is covered in well-spiced bread crumbs and
is grilled around a sweet marinated pepper. Resting atop a vegetable
cous cous, the chicken has a smoky flavor which goes well with
the herb yoghurt dressing. But the best dish by far is the grilled
swordfish steak topped with a chickpea vinaigrette. The fish is
well-cooked, just the right texture and flavor.
“Working in the restaurant has been an all-encompassing education,”
Niels says while reclining on a comfortable teak chair. “And it’s
been worth it.” As diners listen to the ambient and trip hop music
and dig into the special Oasis apple pie wrapped in a puff pastry
with raisins, they’re sure to agree.
Tel: 5411-2419
Elsa Bldg., 3-13-12 Roppongi, Minato-ku
Open: Tue-Sun 6pm until late (last order 11:30pm) |
