Rubinaa by the Bay – Kanazawa, Japan

Review: Rubinaa by the Bay ★★★★★

Unfortunately, Rubinaa decided to close their doors in March 2020. This review is more of a keepsake of the great memories we have had there.

There is much to be said about Rubinaa by the Bay. One wouldn’t think to find the world’s best Indian restaurant out in the middle of the Japanese countryside, but here it is. Without reservation, it is truly the best Indian food I’ve had, that includes India.

It is clear that owner Farooq and his staff strive to create an ideal balance of form and function. Their menu has just the right amount of options to keep diners coming back, but not too many that you will get lost. It’s got a classy ambience, but without being stifling. The food is balanced just right, ranging from savory to sublimely sweet, each morsel containing just the right about of spice. Inside Rubinaa, it’s life perfected.

Best in Show

Unsurprisingly, Rubinaa has been singled out for having the best naan in Japan. One bite and you’ll understand why. It is a buttery cloud of starchy goodness, so make sure you opt for their naan instead of rice. For main dishes, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Naomi and I have been through the entire menu, and then some. From samosas to offering from the tandoori, the appetizers are all pleasing. The creamy boneless chicken with garlic is out of this world. Salads come with in-house dressing, taste depends on in season vegetables. There are close to a dozen curries, ranging from vegetarian, chicken, goat and seafood. I’ve always been partial to their cashew chicken curry and rogan josh. The mango lassie float is the best I’ve ever had, so leave space at the end of the meal for that.

If you’re willing to shell out ¥5,000 yen (per person), the chefs at Rubinaa will craft a unique meal for your special occasion. It’s perfect for an anniversary or something like that. The thing that makes this set so amazing is that everything prepared is not on the menu. Expect a lot of personal attention if you decided to do this set.

Menus are in English and some of the staff speaks English. The only downside is that Rubinaa is located in Uchinada, and is a little far from central Kanazawa. You’ll need your own car or will have to take a taxi.

While you’re here, why not check out some of other REVIEWS or TRAVEL WRITE UPS from around the world.

Contact & General Information

Price: Mid-ranged

Hours: Daily, 11:30-3pm & 5:30-10pm

Website: Rubinaa by the Bay (the website is no longer up)

Location: Google Maps