Walking into Moshe Segev’s restaurant Nihon Nu Ba in Petah Tikva feels like stepping into a promise of adventure. The name alone hints at something exciting, and the moment you’re greeted by the hostess, you know you’re in for more than just dinner - you’re in for an experience.
With a sleek bar, plenty of cozy seating, and an atmosphere buzzing with energy, it’s less about traditional Asian formality and more about a joyful, eclectic celebration of flavors. Think Japanese inspiration with Israeli soul, sprinkled with Segev’s signature creativity.
The menu is both a blessing and a challenge - you’ll want to try everything.
A challenging kosher menu where you want to try everything
Appetizers set the tone: delicate gyoza that practically dissolve the moment they touch your tongue, crispy nems (my personal favorite), and a surprising showstopper - tempura cabbage. Yes, cabbage! Elevated from humble to heavenly with a golden crunch and paired with an aioli so addictive you’ll be tempted to lick the bowl.
Then comes the sushi course, where artistry meets appetite. Rolls arrive like little jewels, each one plated with precision. A vegetable roll for balance, two fish rolls for indulgence, and a piece of torched nigiri so silky it could pass for butter in disguise. But the real scene-stealer? The tuna cake: a crispy rice base topped with a vibrant crown of tuna and playful garnishes - colorful, fun, and utterly delicious.
By the time the entrees arrive, you may think you’re too full. Spoiler: you’re not. The sirloin with eggplant is a dish worth making room for. Tender beef meets smoky, rich eggplant - a perfect pairing for anyone who, like me, believes eggplant should be its own food group.
And just when you think you can’t possibly eat another bite, dessert arrives like the encore you didn’t know you needed. A Japanese crème brûlée with a shattering sugar top that gives way to pure velvet underneath, and a passion fruit–pistachio creation that nods to malabi but takes it on a joyride with bold, playful toppings.
Behind it all is Chef Moshe Segev, a culinary celebrity with more than eight restaurants to his name. For those who keep kosher, the fact that two of them are accessible is a true gift. Segev himself is larger than life—literally. Standing next to him, I realized for the first time what it feels like to look short. But more importantly, he radiates warmth, humor, and a genuine love for sharing his craft. His dishes reflect his personality: creative, approachable, and brimming with joy.
Nihon Nu Ba isn’t just about eating - it’s about laughing, tasting, and being surprised at every turn. And if you’re already planning your next visit before dessert is done, don’t worry - you’re not the only one.
- Nihon Nu Ba
- Tozeret Haaretz Street #2
- Petah Tikva, Israel
- 073-266-5555