Japanese food tops the list of Singaporean’s favourite cuisine. Breaking into the Japanese dining scene is Seki, a Japanese restaurant and bar.

Seki offers the raging currents of modern Japanese cuisine, but with a characteristic interpretation, complemented by an extensive range of alcohol.

I attended a tasting session at Seki, together with Derrick and Saunders, and met Calvin, Alvin along with a few other bloggers.

*Do take note that the food items in this post are of tasting portions. Prices listed are for regular portions.

Tasting Menu

Kodakara Yoghurt Sake

We commenced our tasting session with the Kodakara Yoghurt Sake.

This thick, creamy liqueur is sharp and sweet at the same time; it opens up the palate. The alcohol can be a little overwhelming towards the end, as the heat hits you seconds after the sweetness disperses.

Fugu Mirin Boshi ($12++)

Fugu Mirin Boshi is a rare delicacy – blowfish seasoned with sweet sake – traditionally consumed as a snack while sipping on sake.

I am not a huge fan of it; like I’m not a huge fan of Bak Kwa (Chinese barbeque meat jerky); like I’m not a huge fan of cuttlefish. This dish has a caramelised texture similar to bak kwa and the redolence of cuttlefish.

Paired with Seki’s special Mayonnaise topped with Japanese chilli powder, it lubricates the rough textures of the morsel, and spices things up.

SEKI Kamo Salad ($8++)

The SEKI Kamo Salad is simply satisfying and fused with pleasing flavours.

Crusted with black pepper, tender slices of smoked duck rest on a bed of wonderfully appetising salad.

The salad is composed of fresh crisp cabbage, shredded, and tossed in a delightfully bright homemade dressing, topped with sesame seeds.

This dish is light on the palate, refreshing and clean tasting.

The cherry on top of the cake is the crown of deep fried spring roll skin.

3-Kind Sashimi Moriawase ($42++)

Head down to Seki on Tuesdays and Thursdays, because sashimi is delivered directly from Tsukiji Market, Tokyo Japan, two days a week –providing nothing less than the luxurious quality of sashimi.

Foie Gras Chawanmushi ($7++)

I love chawanmushi, and I love foie gras. This dish has to be a double dose of happiness for me.

Except, that I’m slightly taken aback by the saltiness of it, as I have always equated chawanmushi to be light on the palate. As I dug in, the over-saltiness diminishes.

When I got to the bottom of it, corn kernels greeted me. It is something I am not in favour for, and would painstakingly pick out from every possible dish that contains it, because I dislike it.

I still love chawanmushi, and I still love foie gras.

Gyu Shioyaki ($15++)

For the mains, we were served Gyu Shioyaki (Grilled Beef) that is set to satisfy the carnivores in us.

The charcoal-grilled beef is lightly seasoned with black pepper and salt, bringing out the beef’s natural and unadulterated flavours.

The beef is lean without being tough to chew; it is nicely pink on the inside, just the way I like it.

The accompanying tartar sauce with mustard seeds is a surprising element, which pairs marvellously with the beef.

Sushi Moriawase and California Roll ($35++)

Sushi breaks no new ground here; it adheres closely to the classics. Combining pristine ingredients and expertise, picky rice-eaters will have no qualms finishing the carbohydrates.

The wasabi certainly clears stuffy nostrils quickly.

If you have time to spare, head outdoors for a round of drinks or two.

Lychee Chu-Hi and Sour Grape Chu-Hi

Chu-Hi is a canned alcoholic drink originating from Japan, made with shochu (a clear distilled spirit similar to vodka) and flavoured carbonated water.

I can easily guzzle down several cans without being aware of the amount of alcohol I’m consuming. Sweet and fizzy, I like!

Both the Lychee and Sour Grape Chu-Hi are highly favoured. I wanted to try the Melon Chu-Hi but they ran out of it. *Pouts*

The interior adopts a sophisticated modern theme, decked in warm varying hues and cosy furnishing.

Glass panels separating each table provide privacy for diners. The clever selection of chandeliers and dim lighting add a charming elegance that makes a romantic spot for dates.

The atmosphere is bound to kindle your appetite.

If you like people-watching, grab a table near the window that overlooks the fast-paced city crowd.

For an intimate dinner party, opt for the private dining room. Isn’t it gorgeous? The vibe is immensely relaxing; it is a dose of tranquillity for those who yearn for a moment of peace.

If you would like a closer view of Japanese chefs at work, grab a seat at the counter bar for an interactive dining experience.

I had a stellar first impression of Seki, however my dining experience was dismayed by wait-staffs who lack efficiency and knowledge. I hope with time and more training, they will gain enough experience to provide diners with better service.

Seki



http://www.seki.com.sg/
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