Greeted by a smooth R&B version on Ginuwine’s ‘ Pony’ I knew my experience would be nothing less than uniquely interesting…
This is your first look inside NUPO by Chef Darren MacLean
Located inside Calgary’s Alt Hotel, NUPO identifies themselves as a “Japanese style restaurant with a focus on vegetarian and vegan cuisine paired with fresh and dry aged sushi and fish dishes.”
Its name pays homage to that of Chef Darren’s mother and her maiden name, which bring it a respected and thoughtful legacy.
Inside the quaint restaurant, three options are available for seating: Bar side, table top or seated sushi side during their omakase experience.
Tonight I had the opportunity to try them all!
These are a few of the sips and snacks I had the pleasure of sampling while seated at each.
Bar Side:
Nupo focuses on the options, allowing you to create yourself the perfect mar-tea-ni – like this Vodka White Buddha.
Choose from one of four vodkas or gins and then one of the 7 tea varieties to create your libation.
Table Top:
Sink into a soft bench and peruse the menu… And although I was never saw one, I assume its offerings are as creative as this Prawn sushimi topped with fried apple juice
Lastly there’s the Omakase Sushi Experience:
This is a chance for adventurous sushi goers to trust the chef as they prepare unique offerings not found on the menu.
During this 12 course, 3 snacks and a soup and/or dessert offering, ($125) you may even be served up the Wagu Nigiri as I was.
Tonight’s sneak peek inside NUPO was an interesting one.
A blend of a high-end sushi bar without feeling the pomp and circumstance of an unapproachable concept.
Thank you to Chef Darren and his team for the warm welcome and comfortable experience.
NUPO opens to the world on January 20th 2020.
Mr. Fab o
