Karan Johar Brings In Tokyo Vibe And Highballs At Oju In Gurgaon
Karan Johar’s newest venture, Oju, has opened at The Anya Hotel, Gurgaon. With its garden-inspired interiors, curated Japanese menu, and cocktails crafted by mixologist Siya Negi, Oju is designed as a high-energy dining destination where food, drinks, and ambience come together seamlessly
Gurgaon’s Golf Course Road has a luxurious new address, and that too by Bollywood biggie Karan Johar. Located at the ground of The Anya Hotel, Oju is a high-energy dining destination that offers innovative cocktails and globally inspired Japanese cuisine. Oju comes from the ecosystem of Neuma, which was running successfully in Mumbai’s Colaba (now currently under renovation).
As you enter Oju, the place transitions into a modern garden-inspired ambience. The space is fairly big with both indoor and outdoor seating, along with the option for a semi-private dining area enclosed with tall, rich wine-coloured velvet curtains. Inspired by the Japanese concept of Shibui, the interiors are understated, elegant and dimly lit to create a cosy vibe. Kyoto-style wall art and artefacts adorn the walls, adding a touch of traditional Japanese culture. In addition, Oju’s vibe is elevated by its music.
The place easily reflects KJo’s choice for extravagance and fondness for rich tones. “Oju is a feeling, a lifestyle. It is sleek, it’s sexy. To me, it’s a space where cocktails, food, and atmosphere come together in a way that makes you want to linger. I see it becoming that ritual you look forward to, the place you keep coming back to,” Karan tells us.
Hot Picks From The Menu
Oju’s cocktail menu is planned by mixologist Siya Negi. It is a structured mix—the Highball Rituals include in-house concocted drinks. Try Lima and Piccolo for a heady start. Then there are the House Signatures, which infuse authentic Japanese flavours. Try Ponzu—a vodka-based cocktail that’s tangy and savoury, punched with chilli oil, green apple juice, coriander and some more ingredients. Quite innovative. And of course, there are signature cocktails and beverages on the menu that are globally approved!
Oju is not a Japanese Omakase-style dining, but it’s a curated experience. The Chef is happy to assist and ensure you enjoy what you’re served. The menu is curated by Chef Mahmoud Mohamed (Michelin-starred background) and Chef Nitin Bhardwaj. “We have tried to make the food authentic, innovative and palatable at the same time,” say the Chefs. Oju believes their diner is “well-travelled and knows the flavours well, so we have to keep it authentic and not Indianise it.”
The menu is split into sections; an exclusive range is dedicated to Sushi-lovers with nigiri, sashimi, and maki rolls. If you like your food grilled, try the Robatayaki that offers vegetables, grills and seafood that’s cooked over a high flame. The preparations are kept simple but flavourful. The seafood Gyoza, which was the star dish, accompanied by Ponzu Butter Sauce, Chicken Thigh with Terriyaki, Tiger Prawn Tempura with Tentsuyu Sauce and Sea Salt are the in-house bestsellers. Oh, and don’t forget to try their Spinach with Gomadare sauce salad. It’s nutty sesame sauce and totally refreshing. The greens never tasted so good!
The chef’s signatures include Pickled Tomato Maki Rolls, Grilled Octopus, silky Black Miso Cod, and Grilled Salmon Robatayaki. The menu’s structure, we are told, is based on the lunar cycle (from light to dark), reflecting the changing rhythm of the evening. While Oju is currently an “evening-only” hotspot, the team plans to offer brunches, sundowners, and chef’s tables in the future.
If you are looking for good Japanese food, Oju should be your next stop. Go for the vibe, stay for the food.
Oju | In A Snapshot
What is the ambience like at Oju in Gurgaon?
Oju’s interiors are inspired by the Japanese concept of Shibui—understated, elegant, and modern. The space features indoor, outdoor, and semi-private dining areas with velvet curtains, Kyoto-style art, and dim lighting that create a luxe, cosy vibe.
What is the star dish at Oju?
Among small plates, the Seafood Gyoza with Ponzu Butter Sauce is a crowd favourite.
What makes Oju’s drinks menu stand out?
Oju’s cocktail menu, designed by mixologist Siya Negi, blends Japanese flavours with inventive techniques. Highlights include Ponzu (a vodka-based cocktail with chilli oil, coriander, and green apple) and the refreshing Highball Rituals like Lima and Piccolo.
What kind of food menu does Oju offer?
The food menu covers sushi, sashimi, maki rolls, Robatayaki grills, and chef’s curated plates. It is designed to flow with the lunar cycle—starting with lighter dishes and progressing to bolder flavours as the evening unfolds.