Xi Man @ Penang Road - A New Unagi Speciality Restaurant Helmed by Chef Ryosuke Deguchi

At Penang Road, Xi Man is a new unagi speciality restaurant that uses fresh eels imported from Miyazaki. In addition, Xi Man uses artisanal all-natural Marunaka Shoyu as the base of the accompanying sauces and superior quality rice from Niigata prefecture to complement these premium eels.

Grilled Eel and Rice 4/5

Instead of the usual kanto method, the eels are cooked using kansai method. The method involves first grilling the unagi on its own before brushing on the tare and grilling it again for a crispier finish. Kanto involves a steaming step, which results in a more unctuous texture. I enjoyed the slightly crisp exterior for sure, especially the charred bits with well-caramelised tare sauce.

Tare

Your Grilled Eel and Rice (half $40/whole $78) will be served with three tares: Original, Sweet, and Spicy, which use Marunaka Shoyu as the base. This shoyu maker has a rich history of two centuries, and to date, each batch is still handcrafted and takes three years to produce. Its clean taste and subtle flavours are apt for both the unagi and the pearly Niigata rice. A drizzle of the tare over the unagi and rice bring both elements together in harmony.

Obanzai 4.8/5

Opt for the 3-Course Set Menu ($58/$95) for a complete experience. You will get an additional platter of 3 seasonal obanzai and eel liver soup. We had a radish with yuzu miso served warm, simmered pumpkin and pickled lotus roots. The obanzai was treated with finesse to bring out most of their flavours. I appreciate how each obanzai carried a different flavour profile - savoury, sweet and spicy.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Xi Man
9 Penang Rd
#01-02
2 Singapore 238459
Tel:+65 88282280
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC Line, NE Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am – 2pm, 6pm – 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk straight to Penang Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]