Discovering Ukko - The Finnish Jewel Of Bryanston

Lunchtime on a Wednesday afternoon saw the Discover Jozi team head across to Ukko Restaurant, located in the Nicolway Shopping Centre in Bryanston. Named after Ukkonen, "a Finnish mythology referencing the god of the sky, weather, harvest, and thunder - and a place where people came together to eat and drink as a sacrifice - Ukko was a jewel that had more to offer than we ever expected.

From the facade of the restaurant, gazing out across the parking lot, you can tell that this spot is one that embodies elegance, attention to detail, luxury, and a touch of magic. We took the entrance from the inside of the Centre to get the full experience of walking into Ukko, and to get the Ukko vibe. The first thing that hit us square in the face was the welcome from the staff - and you'll read us talking about the exceptional service throughout this walk-through of our culinary adventure - it was that good!

Colours for the appetite

We were led to our table, and I'll admit, I nearly tripped over my own feet I was so distracted by the pristine, elegant furnishings and tasteful decor. Light earthy colours are infused with gentle greys and gold to create a setting where you just want to move in and stay forever. It's not overwhelming, but spacious and open to give you a sense of freedom while belonging. And I found the palette invited my appetite to increase (though I'd intentionally skipped breakfast so I could enjoy the menu more fully).

A menu that blurs boundaries

The menus were plush with choice, but not overwhelming - inspired by Mediterranean tapas, a hint of Asian influence, and beautiful sushi. From Tabbouleh to wagyu tartar; tapas blurring the boundaries of vegetarian, meat and seafood to cater for every persuasion; and mains that ranged from tomahawk steak to grilled salmon.

A shared starter of tapas that included halloumi (one of my all-time faves), lamb riblets, and squid heads, got us started. The plating is exquisite - it's been a while since I've seen such creative and elegant plating (and I've been to many restaurants in my time) - and I could've ordered the trio of starters three times over that were so delish. And don't judge, but I made short work of those starters, leaving me to choose between a main course or dessert (because the tummy can handle only so much!) And yup, you guessed it - I went with dessert. But we'll get there shortly.

On-point service

Circling back to that service, it was almost as if our serving team had their intuition plugged into our needs before we knew we needed anything. They were there like unicorns at the moment we needed something, but at a respectful distance when we were indulging in Ukko's fine dining delights. Friendly and helpful, this team was also highly professional - poised and alert, with some of the finest service I have experienced to date.

Waxing lyrical on the main course

Now we could easily get our poetry on over the main course that Lee ordered - Sesame Crusted Seared Tuna. Cooked to absolute perfection, it was also extremely well balanced with the crunchy side greens of red onion and fennel. Complemented by the perfect white wine pairing, this is what Lee had to say about that: "The cellar is truly remarkable, and you can see the efforts and precision in setting the bar menu." 

To the dessert, maestro

Right, now it's time to talk dessert. And what desserts they were! I went with our waiter's recommendation of Baked Chocolate - the Ukko version of a choc fondant but better. It had a Lindt centre, and was served with classic vanilla ice cream in a sugar-work cage. Not only was it meltingly delicious, but so incredibly pretty (and I like pretty things). Lee opted for the Mini Churros - cinnamon sugar-coated fingers of yumminess, served with a chocolate caramel dipping sauce.

But Ukko did one better - they threw in a complimentary Italian Kiss just kiss us goodbye as we sighed our way out of the restaurant.

Truly one of the most memorable fine-dining experiences I have had the privilege of enjoying. A definite recommendation on the Discover Jozi Must-Visit list. And we'll be back!

Yours in adventuring,

Kerry