Ramen, Japan’s national comfort food, sits conveniently and around our city. If by no means deliberate you emerge into the bustling lunch crowd of Cityhall along North Bridge Road and acquire a craving for Ramen, HAKATA IKKOUSHA is professionally able to bestow that ramen-craved satisfaction. Titled as the Ramen Champion in 2011 and 2012, HAKATA IKKOUSHA opens its second Singapore-based restaurant at CHIJMES. Continue reading
Chikusen Japanese Restaurant, located along the row of shophouses at Tanjong Katong, is where fine Japanese cuisine meets comfort. Executive Chef Fabio Lee demonstrates his broad wealth of culinary experience, of over 25 years, through fresh, inspired and palatable dishes.
The welcoming 80-seater restaurant encompasses a graceful yet cosy dining room, two private rooms that can open up to one, and a bar area ideal for pre or post dinner drinks. Parking lots are available right behind the restaurant.
Rape Blossom (Nanohana) with Soya Sauce Dashi
This spring season, Chikusen curates a 7-course menu that will be available from April through June 2014, priced at $138++ for 2 persons. Courses include an appetiser, salad, sashimi, braised/grilled fish, beef/pork sukiyaki, noodle and dessert. Continue reading
Aurora Salmon possesses a discernible pristine quality.
It is noted for its meltingly smooth texture, subtle sweetness, vibrant colour and unique artic origin. Farmed under the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) of the Arctic Circle in Northern Norway where ideal temperatures, currents and oxygen levels ensure optimal and slow growth, the Aurora Salmon has its own distinctive trait and is higher in fat content as compared to other farmed salmon. The high fat content comprises Omega 3, antioxidants, vitamins and protein, beneficial for health and beauty.
Promoted by the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC) and supplied by Lerøy Seafood Group, Aurora Salmon is highly sought after in Japan since its launch in 2007. Now, it is finally available in Singapore, air-flown fresh within 2-3 days of harvesting. They will be retailing at all Kuriya Japanese Fish Markets. Continue reading
Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore has recently appointed Takaya Ishizuka as head chef of Nadaman, who was previously the assistant head chef at Nadaman Zipangu Tokyo.
Brought up in a family of chefs, Chef Ishizuka discovered his passion for cooking at the tender age of nine. His culinary career began with the Nadaman group of restaurants in Tokyo in 1991, and has helmed the kitchens of Nadaman at Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong for seven years. He has also imparted his Japanese culinary skills as a culinary instructor at the recognised VTC Hospitality Industry Training Development Centre in Hong Kong for 2 years. Armed with 23 years of experience, he is well versed in all areas of Japanese culinary techniques.
Chef Takaya Ishizuka puts a creative touch to the best seasonal ingredients available, bringing forth a new kaiseki menu each month at Nadaman.
Melicacy had the opportunity to experience the Aoi Kaiseki ($165++ for dinner) this month, which comprises some of Chef Ishizuka’s signature dishes.
Boiled Spring Vegetable topped with Bonito Flake in Mild Sauce; Milk Tofu with Wasabi Soy Sauce; Firefly Squid, Spring Cabbage and Seaweed with Vinegar Miso Sauce
Continue reading
Chef’s Recommendation – Tokusen Sashimi ($110 for 2 persons)
There are several tiers in the Japanese dining scene in Singapore, mostly categorised by pricing, and identified by ambience, setting and of course reputation. Hinoki Japanese Dining happens to fall snugly in the upper-middle tier –not too shabby, but not fine-dining calibre.
We would usually associate the lowest tier with offering uninspiring and mass produced sushi that are made of low quality ingredients, and the highest tier offering exquisite kaiseki ryori (a multi-course meal showcasing the deft hands and creativity of the kaiseki master), made of the finest and freshest ingredients.
Assorted Tempura – Tempura Moriawase ($30)
Hinoki Japanese Dining is owned by restaurant group Epicurean Concepts Pte Ltd that concurrently runs 2Fifteen Kitchen at (read my review here: https://melicacy.com/?p=4860).
Tucked in China Square’s Nankin Row within the bustling Central Business District, this restaurant has earned a marvellous reputation over the years, and is seemingly exceedingly well received by native Japanese. Continue reading
Sumire first started out in Tokyo back in 2009, and till date there are 15 outlets in Japan. Its first overseas venture, managed by Dining Innovation Group, was launched in September 2013 in Singapore, at the enclaves of Bugis Junction.
This 85-seater restaurant encompasses a theatrical open-plan grilling station where diners can watch the cooking process of each skewer.
Unlike most typical yakitori bars, Sumire Yakitori House aims to target not only men who enjoy yakitori with beer or sake but also families, office ladies, couples and more.
Apart from a wide variety of skewers, the extensive menu comprises salads, appetisers, rice/noodle options, dessert, and a range of Japanese alcoholic beverages.
Cabbage Shiodare ($1.90)
A portion of Cabbage Shiodare is served complimentary to all dine-in guests, while subsequent orders cost $1.90 each.
Browse through the menu and place your orders conveniently on the iPad that’s placed on every table.
Tamagoyaki (Homemade Omelette) with Mentai Cheese ($7.90)
Fans of Wagyu beef will be delighted to know that Pan Pacific Singapore’s signature restaurants – Edge, Hai Tien Lo and Keyaki – will be featuring special Omi Wagyu menus, available from 12 to 31 August 2013. Continue reading
Ishi Mura Express is a subsidiary of Ishi Mura Japanese Foodstreet, and as its name suggests, it presents itself as a Japanese fast food joint, providing a convenient and quick solution to rumbling tummies –especially after an intensive day of fun-filled activities at SAFRA Club.
The most attractive aspect of this eatery is its unbeatable pricing. It is indisputably the cheapest option in SAFRA Jurong Club, and possibly one of the cheapest dining options in Singapore for Japanese meals.
The menu spans across four categories: bento sets, donburi, omu rice, sushi, and ramen & curry don.
Saba Teriyaki Bento ($6)
Bento options include the Saba Teriyaki, Teriyaki Chicken ($6), Unagi ($8.50), Chicken Katsu ($6), Pork Katsu ($6), and Chicken Katsu & Yakiniku Beef ($7).
For those working or schooling in the vicinity, you’re in for a treat. Bento sets are affordably priced from $6, which includes a generous portion of rice, watermelon, chawanmushi and your choice of protein. Continue reading
The Saga Tomato Festival was celebrated for the first time ever in Singapore at KUMO Japanese Kaiseki Restaurant, concurrently with 9 other restaurants around the globe including a Michelin-starred restaurant in France, on 5 April 2013.
Chef Hirohashi Nobuaki from KUMO scales new heights with his inventive interpretation of the Saga Kouji tomato, in this tomato-based Kaiseki menu, leaving us in fathomless awe. Continue reading
Shokudo Japanese Coffee House introduces a revamped menu, adding a slew of new items to the extensive menu encompassing over 130 items, in conjunction with the celebration of fresh spring blossoms in Japan.
A brand by ThaiExpress Concepts Pte Ltd, Shokudo Japanese Coffee House is best known for its Yoshoku-style Japanese cuisine –a style of Western-influenced Japanese cuisine.
Mount Fuji Curry Omu Rice ($16.80)
A notable new highlight ready to knock curry lovers off their socks is the Mount Fuji Curry Omu Rice, which features scrumptious omelette rice topped with a thick slab of juicy beef patty concealing melty cheese in between, huddled together in a shallow pool of their signature Japanese curry, topped with fresh greens, and served with potato salad and pickles on the side. Continue reading
Smacked right in the hustle and bustle of the Bugis precinct is Ramen Keisuke’s 4th ramen store in Singapore –Tonkotsu King Four Seasons. Since its debut at Orchid Hotel last year, its immense popularity has led to the opening of two outlets shortly after to cope with high demand.
Chef-owner Mr Keisuke Takeda is one of Japan’s most highly praised celebrity ramen chef, affectionately known as the “Ramen Revolutionist”. His exceptional culinary flair that infuses innovative concepts into the traditional Japanese staple has earned him countless accolades and a strong fan following in both Japan and Singapore.
This 56-seater restaurant located at Singapore’s Bugis Village features an exclusive menu that’s inspired by the four beautiful climatic seasons in Japan: Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter.
Always passionate about pushing the boundaries about ramen dining and staying true to his vision of presenting different ramen concepts through each restaurant under his belt in Japan and Singapore, the bar is raised once again with the launch of this menu.
Combining his vast experience in Japanese and French cooking methodologies, his winning formulae lies in the flavourful and aromatic broth. Continue reading
A long contender in this rapidly expanding parameter of Japanese restaurants in Singapore, Tampopo continues to satisfy the local and Japanese taste buds with its consistent quality and authenticity.
It has been established for almost a decade, with its first semi-casual dining outlet situated at Liang Court. The outlet spans across two decks to cater to the overflowing crowds during peak hours. Its popularity is marked by the presence of families and the office cliques.
Hokkaido Tonkotsu Miso Ramen ($15.80)
Also a pioneer to bring in the immensely popular Kurobuta black pig, their various methods of execution will not disappoint.
The extensive menu covers a multiplicity of Japanese food items. Ramen, sushi and tempura are just a few out of the many items available.
Black Pig Layer Katsu Don ($23.80)
The Black Pig Layer Katsu Don is one of the highlights. Continue reading
Dolce Tokyo sets its sights on sugar-coating the dwellers of Orchard Road. ‘Dolce’ means ‘sweet’ in Italian, and true to its namesake, Dolce Tokyo serves a variety of Japanese and Italian-influenced desserts.
Those who are too engrossed in what’s within will find the bustling surrounding melting away to leave one basking in the cosiness and comforts of this chic enclave. But still, the open concept allows diners to people-watch while having small talks.
The relaxed vibe and convenient location are major pluses for shoppers who’re taking a pit stop before continuing their shopathon; or students who’re running out of brain juices from incessant mugging in dire needs of unwinding; or trendsetters strutting their style, habitually seen in stylish cafés.
Apart from sweet treats, this 56-seater café serves up an arresting array of Japanese-Italian influenced cuisine and coffee.
Iced Matcha Latte ($7.50)
The menu is extensive and attractive primarily due to its sheer variety and vibrant colours, but it is a pain to read. The font choice is deliberately snazzy, but it overthrows its sole purpose of allowing diners to make their choices with ease, without having to squint their eyes.
Mixed Crostini ($16)
The Mixed Crostini is a delightful platter of grilled bread topped with shrimp, ikura (salmon roe), okaka (smoked skipjack tuna), mentaiko, tamagoyaki, and gammon ham. Though quite a mess to consume, with bits and chunks scattering over the table as you pick them up, each and every distinctive component is nevertheless palate pleasing.
Did you know that Genki Sushi is Japan’s pioneer in serving sushi on a revolving conveyor belt? Continue reading
Set foot in a sanctuary of calmness and serenity… Keyaki sits on the fourth level of Pan Pacific Singapore, where a glass door opens to an enchanting Japanese garden.
Surrounded by a beautifully sculpted garden and koi pond, with soothing sounds of water flowing from the mini waterfall feature, this makes the perfect backdrop for an exquisite dining experience.
Renowned for the use of fresh, seasonal imports from Japan, Keyaki offers sashimi, teppanyaki, sukiyaki and more.
They have recently launched a Weekend Set Brunch, served from 11.30am till 2.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays, priced at $60++ per person. The 8-course set brunch includes assorted sashimi, chawanmushi, tempura, cod fish with teriyaki sauce, teppanyaki, California roll, miso soup and dessert.