Pan-Asian Restaurant Sekkoya in Canterbury Faces Mixed Reviews for Ambitious Menu

A recent dining experience at Sekkoya, a newly opened pan-Asian restaurant in Canterbury, has left customers with mixed feelings about its ambitious menu offerings.

Located next to the picturesque Riverside and in close proximity to the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, Sekkoya boasts a modern and opulent ambiance, reminiscent of popular Chinese restaurant chain Hakkasan.

The restaurant’s website promises a gastronomic journey through Asia, yet initial impressions of the food fell short of expectations, with dishes like under-dressed Thai salad and poorly executed gyoza.

While the decor and service at Sekkoya exude luxury and sophistication, the menu offerings in the small plates section were likened to those found at mainstream chains like Wagamama, lacking the boldness and authenticity expected from a pan-Asian restaurant.

Menu items such as miso truffle tagliatelle and truffle soy rib eye raised eyebrows among diners, with some feeling that the flavors were diluted and catered towards a British palate.

The main course options, including masala cod and pork ribs in Japanese-style bbq sauce, received mixed reviews, with some dishes lacking the depth of flavor and spice traditionally associated with Asian cuisine.

Despite criticisms of the main courses, the dessert menu at Sekkoya offered a pleasant surprise with options like yuzu cheesecake and mango mochi ice-cream balls, providing a sweet note to end the meal.

Overall, Sekkoya’s attempt to redefine pan-Asian cuisine for a British audience has sparked discussions among diners about the balance between innovation and authenticity in modern dining experiences.