by Laura Fumiko Keehn 

It comes in a tall frosted glass. Yellow as the sun on a bright sunny day, fading into icy red crystals. It’s the colorful dessert special served by Colours of India; Tur­meric Ice Cream and Tomato Sorbet, topped with balsamic vinegar sauce… and it’s delicious.

I must admit I was a little taken aback by this unusu­ally vibrant colored dessert. But the burst of cinnamon, coriander and sweet pepper flavors complimented the frozen dessert well. “It’s good for you too,” announces Sae-san, the owner, “the spices keep your skin beauti­ful, see? I’m not wearing any make-up!” she says, pat­ting her flawless skin.

Right about here I think I should apologize for start­ing this dinner review with the dessert, but I couldn’t wait to share with you the surprise ending.

Not that the rest of the menu doesn’t have its share of pleasant surprises. Serving what is known as Slow Food, no preservatives, no artificial coloring, and no MSG, the ingredients are fresher than fresh. With such items as the Salad of Herb Paneer, garnished with home made cottage cheese, and the Masala Dosa, served with tomato and coconut chutney (what decadence), this Slow Food is made to be eaten leisurely, and is as sooth­ing as Sae-san’s smile.

Luckily for the picky eater, the Colours chefs Ram and Kato are not bound by convention. They are ready and willing to adapt anything in their extensive menu to individual whims and fancies. “You don’t even have to be specific,” smiles Mama-Sae.

And judging from the colorful dessert I so enjoyed, you’re sure to be pleasantly surprised.

GO

Azabudai, across from Azabu Post Office
Tel. 03-5545-7182
Open daily 11am-11pm, lunch specials 11am-4pm.
15 minute walk from Roppongi or Kamiyacho station

EAT

Whatever your heart desires. Tell the chef what you’re in the mood tor and he’ll whip up something special. Like the Colours Lunch; an euro-oriental-asian combination original of rice, nori and keema curry topped with a fried egg. Originally cooked in the home of Tokyo-born Anand J. Murti, President of the Colours of India. Make sure you finish off your meal with the Tumeric Ice Cream and Tomato Sorbet. Topped with balsamic vinegar sauce, this bright yellow concoction is sour, sweet, full of spice and everything nice. Apparently it’s what keeps Mama-Sae’s skin so youthful!

DRINK

Indian Latte. Made from Indonesian coffee beans, and that’s it. The best coffee-break in town. Of course, a good frosted Kingfisher beer always goes down well, and Mama-Sae recommends a good sparkling white wine.

SIT 

On the deck. Yes, they are located in Roppongi, and, yes, you can sit outside.

PAY

¥2,000 – ¥4,000 for a decent sized meal, including drinks and des­sert.

SEE 

Embassy types walking by, IT types dropping by.

ASK FOR

Mama-Sae of course. A great compliment to any meal.