Tabelog ratingA multiple recipient of the Tabelog 'Top 100' award, Akash (アカーシュ) in Nishinomiya stands out for its commitment to regional Indian and Nepali cooking that goes far beyond the familiar. The main draw for many is the rotating daily special, the A-Teishoku, which features two curries of the day or month. This set offers a gateway to less common dishes like rich squid stews, Goan-style prawn curries, and a well-regarded Nepali dal bhat, all served with an unusually large, airy, and slightly sweet naan that earns consistent praise.
Alongside the daily sets, guests single out the tandoori chicken as a signature dish, praising its flavour and execution. On weekends, a limited-quantity prawn biryani is a major attraction. Reviewers also appreciate the bright, complementary pickles (achaar), kachumber salad, and papad that accompany the meals. The kitchen is happy to adjust spice levels and accommodate requests regarding cilantro, making it accessible to a wide range of palates.
While overwhelmingly popular, some diners note occasional service issues during busy periods, such as a perceived preference for regular customers or curt interactions. Portion sizes can sometimes feel inconsistent, and popular items like the weekend biryani are known to sell out early, leading to queues. A minority of reviewers feel the lunch prices are a little high, but most agree the quality and uniqueness of the food represent good value.
Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥1,100–¥1,480 for the A-Teishoku set, with an extra charge of ¥180–¥200 for basmati rice. The weekend prawn biryani was about ¥1,580, and sets including tandoori chicken were in the ¥2,300–¥2,380 range. Typical spend is ¥1,000–¥1,999 for lunch and ¥2,000–¥2,999 for dinner.
- Getting There: Akash is an 8-minute walk from the East exit of Hankyu Mondoyakujin Station.
- Reservations: Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when queues can form.
- Payment: Credit cards are not accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments (such as PayPay) are accepted. Cash is also an option.
- Seating: The restaurant has 20 seats, including counter and table seating. No private rooms are available.
- Dietary: Vegetarian options are available. Staff will ask for your preference on spice level and cilantro.
- Children: The restaurant is family-friendly and welcomes children.
- Smoking: The entire establishment is non-smoking.
- Parking: There is no dedicated parking, but paid coin parking is available nearby.
