The Visionary Behind Nihonbashi and Ministry of Crab
Celebrated chef-restaurateur Dharshan Munidasa, renowned for his culinary artistry and knack for pushing boundaries, is the founder of Nihonbashi Blue.
Born in Tokyo to a Japanese mother and Sri Lankan father, Dharshan’s unique heritage shapes his culinary philosophy, blending traditional Japanese techniques with the vibrant flavours and ingredients of Sri Lanka. As the visionary behind Nihonbashi and Ministry of Crab, Dharshan is the only Sri Lankan chef to have two restaurants ranked on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants List. With a passion for excellence and a dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients, Dharshan crafts extraordinary dining experiences that showcase the culinary philosophies and complexity of Japanese cuisine. From Nihonbashi’s inception in 1995 to the global expansion of Ministry of Crab, Dharshan’s culinary journey has garnered international acclaim, earning accolades such as The Minister’s Award for Overseas Promotion of Japanese Food and the prestigious “Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays” from the Government of Japan. With Nihonbashi Blue, Dharshan invites guests to embark on a culinary odyssey, where the artistry of Japanese cuisine meets the breathtaking beauty of the Maldivian seascape.
Awards
Presented with The Minister’s Award for Overseas Promotion of Japanese Food by the Japanese government in 2014 for his contribution to Japanese culture.
Appointed as an ambassador for ‘Cool Japan’ by the Japanese government for spreading Japanese culture overseas.
Named as a “Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador” by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in Japan in 2021, for his continuous effort toward the dissemination of Japanese food and dietary culture overseas.
Awarded the “Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays” by the Government of Japan in 2023 for promoting Japanese Food Culture in Sri Lanka and enhancing bilateral relations through ways of cultural exchange.