Hans Samuel
May 12, 2025
Nestled in the heart of the city, OKUZONO Japanese Dining has long been known for its warm elegance, refined dishes, and family-friendly take on the traditional Japanese izakaya. Now, this serene culinary spot is inviting diners on a new, flavor-forward adventure with its latest seasonal campaign: OKUZONO DIARIES: The UMO Journey.
UMO — short for Umami and Oishii — is all about celebrating the essence of Japanese cuisine: rich, soul-satisfying flavors that go beyond the plate. The campaign transforms dining into a sensory journey, highlighting how food can bring people together, spark joy, and tell stories.
“OKUZONO isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a place where people reconnect over comforting, beautifully crafted Japanese dishes,” said Nadia Sofiandi, Director of OKUZONO Hospitality Group. “With The UMO Journey, we’re shining a spotlight on what makes Japanese cuisine so special — flavor, heart, and a sense of discovery.”
A Japanese Izakaya, Reimagined
While most izakayas are known for their after-work drinks and casual bar bites, OKUZONO takes a more inclusive route. It offers a welcoming space for families, professionals, and friends alike — all while serving pork-free, flavor-rich dishes that appeal to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
Inside, the ambiance strikes a balance between modern sophistication and Japanese tranquility — the name “OKUZONO” itself, derived from the kanji for “inner” (奥) and “garden” (園), sets the tone for a serene urban escape.
Introducing: The Five Signature Dishes of the UMO Journey
The new seasonal menu introduces five standout creations, each designed to capture the depth and beauty of umami:
- Hobayaki
A theatrical dish featuring chicken, beef, or seafood grilled on aromatic magnolia leaves and paired with savory miso — a nod to regional Japanese grilling traditions.
- Salmon Cream Croquette
Crispy, golden bites with a creamy salmon filling, balanced with tartar sauce for a rich yet refreshing finish.
- Tasmania Beef Shoyu Koji Yaki
Premium aged beef, marinated in fermented soy sauce koji for deep flavor and natural tenderness.
- Chicken Akakara Nabe
A bold red miso hot pot inspired by Nagoya, packed with spicy heat and heartwarming satisfaction.
- Shiratama Cream Zenzai
Kyoto-style dessert with chewy mochi, sweet red beans, velvety cream, and matcha jelly — a perfect ending to a flavor-filled meal.
“We wanted this menu to go beyond just good food,” shared Head Chef Shinji Akita. “In Japan, when we eat something truly delicious, we say umai or oishii — it’s not just taste, it’s emotion. That’s the feeling we want every guest to experience at OKUZONO.”
More Than a Meal, It’s a Flavor Journey
With The UMO Journey, OKUZONO reaffirms its identity as a destination for those who appreciate not only good food, but also thoughtful storytelling and hospitality. From the first bite to the final sip of green tea, the experience is meant to be savored — slowly, meaningfully, and together.
Whether you're in the mood for an intimate dinner, a celebration with loved ones, or just a quiet moment over steaming hot nabe, OKUZONO welcomes you to discover the depth of Japanese cuisine — one dish at a time.
The UMO Journey is now available exclusively at OKUZONO Japanese Dining, Jakarta.
