From Chasing a Dream to Building One of Shillong’s Most Loved Restaurants: The Story of the Man Behind Lady Aiko’s
In the hills of Shillong, where misty evenings call for warm gatherings and comforting meals, Chef Reuben (also spelled Ruben) Sooting has turned a personal vision into a thriving destination. Lady Aiko, India’s first integrated hotpot and Korean barbecue experience, has quickly become one of the city’s most talked-about restaurants since opening its doors in January 2026. Located in the heart of Laitumkhrah, it blends Japanese-inspired flavors, bold Korean BBQ elements, and a cozy, experiential vibe that feels both modern and deeply rooted in communal dining.
A Chef’s Journey Back Home
Reuben hails from Shillong itself. Like many passionate chefs, his path wasn’t a straight line. After years of honing his craft working in kitchens across India and abroad, he felt the pull to return to his roots. The decision wasn’t just about coming home — it was about filling a gap he saw in Shillong’s food scene.
“After living and traveling across Southeast Asia, I realized that Shillong and India as a whole was missing a truly great hotpot and K-barbecue experience,” Reuben shared in the restaurant’s early announcements. He spent months building, tasting, tweaking, and dreaming — perfecting broths, sourcing quality ingredients, and designing a space that invites people to linger.
His vision: create not just a place to eat, but an experience where food brings people together. Conversations that stretch longer than planned, meals shared around steamy pots and sizzling grills, and flavors that feel both exciting and welcoming. Lady Aiko draws from East and Southeast Asian traditions while infusing Reuben’s own creativity and attention to detail.
What Makes Lady Aiko Special
From the start, the restaurant stood out. It offers an integrated hotpot and Korean BBQ setup — something unique in the region. Diners can enjoy customizable broths (including a popular in-house Mala broth), premium cuts like Wagyu (one of the first in Northeast India), fresh seafood, vegetables, and sides that highlight quality and balance.
Reviewers and visitors praise the flavorful, satisfying food that feels “real and homely,” the cozy Nordic-Japanese inspired ambiance, and the exceptional service. Reuben himself is often present, known as an incredible host and hands-on chef who ensures every detail hits the mark.
The restaurant operates from Laitumkhrah Main Road, open Monday to Saturday, welcoming locals and visitors looking for something beyond the usual Shillong dining options. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a special meal, the focus remains on warmth, creativity, and memories made around the table.
Chasing the Dream in Shillong
Reuben’s story resonates because it’s familiar to many in the Northeast — the drive to bring global experiences home while celebrating local hospitality. In a city known for its vibrant culture and community spirit, Lady Aiko represents a fresh chapter in Shillong’s evolving food landscape. It’s not just about introducing new cuisines; it’s about creating a space where people feel seen, fed, and connected.
From the early days of dreaming and construction to becoming one of the city’s beloved spots, Chef Reuben Sooting’s journey shows what happens when passion meets persistence. If you’re in Shillong, Lady Aiko offers more than a meal — it delivers an experience worth savoring. Bring your appetite, bring your people, and let the hotpot do the rest.
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