Restaurateur Des McDonald (of Vintage Salt and Q Grill fame) sets his sights outside of the capital for his latest venture – a modern Japanese izakaya opening at the top of the Park Regis in Birmingham. Rofuto will officially launch following a £3 million investment on 26 April with a 50% off food soft launch offer from Friday 22-Saturday 23 April. Reservations can be made via email reservations@rofuto.co.uk.
The venue boasts 360 degree views over the city from the 16th floor, as well as a 120-cover dining room and 100-cover cocktail lounge and sake bar, Kurabu.
Rofuto, a direct translation of the word ‘loft’ in Japanese, will be decked out with a large central bar, an open kitchen and an eclectic mix of furnishings, unique hand painted murals and design. McDonald, who was CEO of the Caprice Group before striking out on his own, was inspired to open an izakaya following visits to Tokyo and Singapore.
Rofuto will serve an array of Japanese cuisine, from traditional sushi to yakitori from the grill. The menu is divided into six sections: Sushi and sashimi, tempura, Robata Grill, mains, sides and desserts.
Dishes include: Foie gras nashi pear gunkan Chinese truffle; Confit duck and raspberry sunomono; Saffron gindara with razor clams, Chinese sausage, kohlrabi puree and sea herbs; Sesame tuna tataki and soft shell crab with wasabi puree and black garlic crumble and Miyazaki Wagyu beef served with gobo crisps, avocado puree, garlic ponzu and truffle salt. Desserts feature twists on European classics such as Matcha tiramisu and wasabi macaroon and Cardamom and coconut panna cotta with passion fruit.
Fresh sake from Takashimizu Brewery in Northern Japan will be on offer, alongside Koshua aged Sake from Shiraki Brewery in central Japan. On the cocktail list: Red Lotus which combines Shochu, Tequila, Cranberry and Lychee Sorbet and Kietsu which is an exotic combination of infused Raspberry Sake, Passionfruit liqueur, Apple and Pineapple.
