We went to try it: ONO Nikkei in Colegiales

There’s something that happens when a restaurant manages to combine great food with a neighborhood vibe: you feel it right away. That’s exactly what we experienced when we went to check out ONO Nikkei, the modern Peruvian restaurant that opened a few months ago in Colegiales and has already become one of those places locals return to again and again. The project comes from Alfredo Sansone and Daniela Franco, a couple who already had experience with their first spot in Ciudad Evita and decided to go big with this new location: more space, an extensive menu and a concept designed for long, lingering meals.

The restaurant occupies a large corner in the neighborhood and strikes a balance that works really well: modern yet warm. Shades of gray and black dominate, with wooden tables and leather seating, round mirrors and adjustable lighting that creates an intimate atmosphere without losing its edge. There are tables inside and also outside on the sidewalk, ideal for mild evenings. The dining room seats around fifty, and each table has its own lamp—a simple but effective detail—that lets you adjust the lighting and set the perfect mood for a relaxed dinner.

The experience begins with a welcome otoshi, a mini Peruvian causa that whets the appetite and sets the tone. From there, the menu unfolds with several Peruvian classics given a contemporary twist. We tried some causas, which really take center stage: the Limeña features a smooth mash of Andean potatoes with yellow chili, chicken, avocado, tomato and homemade mayonnaise, while the warm causa with grilled salmon adds pickled mushrooms and an interesting contrast of temperatures. Another version worth trying is the octopus with olive sauce, intense and well balanced.

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The ceviches deserve a chapter of their own. The Classic, with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, cilantro and chulpi corn, works as the perfect introduction to Peruvian cuisine. But if you’re looking for something different, try the Nikkei, which combines pink salmon with mango and passion fruit honey. Finally, the Wasabi goes for a more intense, creamy combination. For those who can’t decide—we’ve been there!—there are ceviche or causa trios, ideal for sharing.

Among the main courses, there are plenty of tempting options. The teriyaki salmon with sautéed quinoa nicely blends Japanese flavors with Andean ingredients, while the “mero a lo macho” with batayaki-style seafood is richer and more robust. We also tried the ONO cazuela, a generous dish with octopus, salmon, mussels and shrimp in curry served with black rice. And of course, the lomo saltado with pisco couldn’t be missing—a Peruvian classic that’s juicy and well executed here.

Sushi also plays an important role on the menu: traditional rolls, vegetarian options, premium combinations and hot pieces that maintain the Nikkei identity. Plus, from Monday to Thursday there’s an all-you-can-eat sushi option, adding yet another draw to a menu that already keeps the place busy even during the week.

For dessert, the offerings follow the Peruvian line with some house favorites. The nikkei suspiro is smooth and sweet without being heavy, while the five-milk cake or the dessert tasting are ideal for those who want to try a bit of everything.

The experience is rounded out by a bar serving pisco sours, classic cocktails and Argentine wines, with a drinks menu designed to complement the bold flavors of Peruvian cuisine.

In short: ONO Nikkei is one of those restaurants that combines great food, a pleasant atmosphere and a neighborhood spirit. It’s perfect for a relaxed dinner, a night out with friends or any excuse to keep exploring Nikkei cuisine in Buenos Aires.

Where: Avenida Forest 1399, Colegiales.