In the chaotic times we live in, it’s hard to find a moment of peace, even while having a meal. The Japanese Forest inside Eco Park urges you to take a break from your hectic schedule, turn your phone off and bask in the tranquility of nature. 

As for food, we all know delicious tidbits only increase an appreciation for life, and as you walk through the entrance, past the two pairs of Komainu (lion-dogs) guarding the garden, Fuji tempts you with a meal. This is the second outlet of the Japanese restaurant at 209A Sarat Bose Road. 

“We have a lot of seating outside, including the benches in the garden close to the restaurant. We encourage people to sit outside unless it’s raining or very hot, because the greenery and the water bodies make it very cool here and it’s important that they soak in this atmosphere,” said Palash Banerjee, managing director, Fuji, who moved to Japan at age 22 and lived there for 25 years. 

t2 took a stroll around the forest,  pausing at proverbs such as Get up every morning and remind yourself: I can do this, which resulted in a spot of introspection and an appetite.

Ramona Sen
Pictures: Arnab Mondal