About
In a corner of Nishi-Shinjuku, just a step away from the hustle and bustle of Shinjuku, a door exuding exotic charm quietly stands. When you open that door, you are greeted by a space that feels as if you are being invited on a journey along the distant Silk Road. This is “Silk Road Tarim,” Tokyo’s only restaurant specializing in Uyghur cuisine, which opened in 2010. (oasis-tarim.com)
Upon entering the restaurant, you’ll find the walls adorned with traditional Uyghur decorations, and colorful lamps hanging from the ceiling casting a soft glow. The tables and chairs are intricately patterned, creating the illusion of having wandered into an oasis in Central Asia. The restaurant has 34 table seats and 6 counter seats, and from every seat, you can feel the lively atmosphere of the kitchen. (oasis-tarim.com)
From the kitchen, along with the rich aroma of spices, you can hear the chef skillfully making noodles. The signature Uyghur dish “Lagmen” features hand-pulled noodles made to order, served with a tomato-based soup full of vegetables. The chewy texture of the noodles and the deep flavor of the soup blend perfectly, and with each bite, you are transported to a foreign landscape. (japanese-heart.com)
Another dish, the skewered “Shish Kebab,” is simply seasoned grilled lamb, with juicy meat and the aroma of spices stimulating the appetite. The lamb, low in fat and healthy, is also popular among women. (hotpepper.jp)
Uyghur cuisine has been influenced by diverse cultures along the Silk Road, blending elements of Chinese cuisine with Middle Eastern flavors. For example, dumplings, stir-fries, and noodle dishes are reminiscent of Chinese food, while chai, lamb skewers, and pilaf reflect influences from the Middle East and Uzbekistan. This diversity further enhances the appeal of Uyghur cuisine. (japanese-heart.com)
Inside the restaurant, Uyghur folk music plays, and traditional dances are sometimes performed. These performances make the dining experience even more special, drawing visitors deeply into Uyghur culture. Additionally, for reservations of 20 people or more, there is a service where you can enjoy Uyghur folk music and dance performances. (hotpepper.jp)
“Silk Road Tarim” is not just a restaurant, but a place where you can experience Uyghur culture and history. In a corner of Shinjuku, you can spend a luxurious time savoring exotic flavors and culture while feeling the distant winds of the Silk Road.