Wagokoro Mineno (和心 嶺野) @ Orchard Plaza - A New Kappo Omakase Experience That Not Quite Justify Its Price Point

Tucked away on the second floor of Orchard Plaza, Wagokoro Mineno (和心 嶺野) is a relatively new addition to the local omakase scene, offering a Kappo-style dining experience. Priced at $148 per pax, the 8-course omakase menu can be further elevated with a $30 supplement to include uni in the courses.

Sesame Tofu, Ikura, Uni 3/5

Our dinner commenced with a visually appealing trio of Sesame Tofu, Ikura and Uni served in a martini glass. While it set a luxurious tone, the execution fell short of expectations. The robust nuttiness of the sesame tofu overshadowed the more delicate flavours of the ikura and uni, resulting in an imbalance.

Clam Soup 3/5

Following that was a comforting bowl of Clam Soup with seaweed. The clear broth carried a gentle sweetness from the clams, complemented by the briny depth of the seaweed. It was light yet soothing, offering a nice transition into the subsequent courses.

Sashimi 3/5

The Sashimi course featured a trio comprising white fish, salmon and sea urchin. The cuts were fresh, with the white fish offering a clean, subtle sweetness, while the salmon delivered a richer, more familiar profile. The uni added a creamy element to the assortment, though it lacked the intensity and lingering umami one might expect at this price point. Overall, while competent, the course did not particularly stand out.

Deep-fried Japanese Saba 3.5/5

Next, the Deep-fried Japanese Saba impressed with its crispy exterior and moist, flavourful flesh within. The frying was well-executed, locking in the saba’s natural oils and enhancing its richness.

Chicken 3.8/5

Taking a break from seafood, the Chicken showcased tender poached meat with the skin lightly torched for a hint of smokiness and textural contrast. The addition of yuzu brightened the dish with a refreshing citrus note, lifting the overall flavour profile and making it an enjoyable interlude.

Chawanmushi 4/5

A highlight of the meal was the Chawanmushi. Unlike the usual rendition, this version incorporated sushi rice and shirako, offering a more layered experience. The silky steamed egg paired beautifully with the creamy shirako, while the sushi rice introduced a surprising bite, adding dimension to the dish.

Kimedai 4/5

Isaki 3.5/5

Flounder Fin 4.2/5

Akami 3.5/5

Sayori 3/5

For the sushi course, we were presented with an assortment of five: Kimedai, Isaki, Flounder Fin, Akami, and Sayori. Standouts included the kimedai and flounder fin. The latter, in particular, delighted with its subtle crunch, while the inclusion of shiso leaf released a fragrant aroma with each bite. On the other hand, the isaki was slightly overwhelmed by an overly assertive use of wasabi, and the sauce on the sayori proved too heavy-handed, disrupting the balance. The sushi rice across the board leaned towards the sweeter side, which may not appeal to all.

Otoro topped with Uni, Gold Flakes 4.2/5

The indulgent Otoro topped with Uni and Gold Flakes was arguably the highlight of the evening. Rich and buttery, the otoro melted effortlessly in the mouth, while the uni amplified the umami, creating a decadent, flavour-packed bite.

Miso Soup 3/5

The meal concluded rather abruptly with a simple Miso Soup and no dessert. This unconventional ending felt somewhat underwhelming, especially given the premium pricing and expectations associated with omakase dining.

Overall, while Wagokoro Mineno offers a competent Kappo-style omakase experience, it did not quite justify its price point. With several strong contenders in Singapore offering more refined and cohesive experiences at a similar range, this felt like a meal that, while enjoyable in parts, lacked the finesse and balance to truly stand out.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Wagokoro Mineno (和心 嶺野)
Orchard Plaza
150 Orchard Road
#02-27/28
Singapore 238841
Tel: +65 8338 2065
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 6pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Killiney Road. Cross the road. Walk to Orchard Plaza. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Honō 焱 Omakase @ International Plaza - Most Theatrical Omakase Experience in Singapore

Honō 焱 Omakase is arguably one of the most theatrical omakase experiences in Singapore now. Built around the concept of the “Magic of Fire,” guests are invited on a multi-sensory dining journey where flames, smoke, and Japanese culinary techniques create a visually captivating performance alongside each dish.

This presentation style may not appeal to purists who prefer a more traditional, understated omakase experience. Still, it offers a novel and exciting approach for diners who enjoy that touch of theatrics and dramatic presentation with their meal.

For lunch, Honō 焱 Omakase offers two menus priced at $138 and $168. Dinner features more elaborate experiences and premium ingredients, with the $238 Supreme Omakase and the $268 Ultimate Omakase.

Chawanmushi 4.2/5

In some restaurants, guests may be given a shot of dashi to start. Here, we were served a bowl of Chawanmushi with foie gras, Ikura, and mushrooms as a warm introduction to the evening.

Appetiser 4/5

The appetiser plate arrived shrouded in wispy plumes of mystery, created with the use of dry ice. It featured three small bites: baby eel, prawn tempura, and yuba topped with uni and caviar. Decorative popcorn was scattered across the plate, which turned out to be edible as well, adding a playful touch to the dish.

Baby Abalone

This Baby Abalone dish arrived covered by a paper cone, and we were given a match to light it. As the cone burned away, complete with a sprinkle of gold dust for added flair, it revealed a bowl of stewed baby abalone with pumpkin, mushrooms, and broccoli. The chef then ladled over a tasty, savoury sauce. Drama aside, it was a hearty and satisfying dish that I enjoyed very much.

Sashimi 4/5

The sashimi course was presented in a wooden box filled with billowing smoke. When the lid was lifted, it revealed an assortment of fresh cuts: Amberjack, Seabream, and premium fatty Tuna Belly, all topped with gold dust for good measure.

Tempura 4/5

The tempura course was one of my favourites, featuring deep-fried Amberjack accompanied by shiso leaf tempura, pumpkin purée, green pepper, and garlic chips. Happily, the fish was perfectly fried, crisp on the outside while remaining moist and flaky inside.

Sushi 4.2/5

What followed was a curated series of sushi courses: the delicate Kinmedai with Kombu, the tender Sea Robin, brightened with a hint of yuzu; warm, fatty Aburi Engawa topped with nutty mullet roe; and Botan Ebi paired with rich foie gras.

Uni 4.5/5

For the next course, be ready to use your hands: the chef gently places Uni on the back of your palm, then blows a shimmering, delicate bubble over it, turning the bite into a fleeting balancing act.

Chutoro 4.5/5

The next presentation gave us some edible jewellery: the chef presented each of us with a ceramic ring, placed a decadent Chutoro sushi topped with caviar on the flat top, and finished with a generous sprinkle of gold dust. A proposal we were happy to accept (and eat).

Wagyu Truffle Somen 4.2/5

The Wagyu Truffle Somen was also presented with a cloud of dry ice and smoke. It was a delight, with silky somen strands paired with tender, melt-in-your-mouth wagyu, a classic flavour combination that I love.

Clam Soup 4.2/5

To finish, the Hamaguri Clam with clear soup was simple yet satisfying. The clam was large and tender, and its natural brininess enriched the light, flavourful broth.

Dessert was presented on an elevated platform, with a carbon ring below ignited to create a magical, sparkling effect. We enjoyed a Monaka with Goma Ice Cream, along with premium Melon and White Strawberries. The combination was very pleasing. My tip is to eat the fruits first, to fully appreciate their sweetness before enjoying the ice cream.

Overall, this was a fun and interactive omakase experience, and the food was enjoyable. The theatrical elements added a lot of visual flair and creativity, though at times they shifted focus from the flavours themselves. Skill and care were evident in each dish, but the many details, such as spraying gold dust, pumping smoke, and lighting fires, kept the chefs quite busy, which, in a way, distracted them from the focus on the chef’s craft and the quality of the ingredients.

Perhaps it reflects the need to maximise every aspect of a dining experience, from flavour to presentation and entertainment, all at once. In Singapore’s highly competitive dining landscape, such theatrics may well be necessary to stand out. In any case, it made for a lively and engaging meal and would make for a nice special occasion celebration.


Hono Omakase
International Plaza
10 Anson Road
#01-50A
Singapore 079903
Tel: +65 9822 1722
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sun: 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Xita Lao Tai Tai (西塔老太太) @ Bugis+ - Launches 4 Pax Feastive Feast

Suppose you enjoy tasty barbecue, hearty dishes, and the lively atmosphere of communal dining. In that case, Xita Lao Tai Tai Bugis+ is ready to welcome you for a season of feasting and gatherings this holiday season. Known for its Korean-influenced Clay Stove Barbecue grills, signature marinades, and charmingly nostalgic interior, Xita Lao Tai Tai has built a following in Singapore’s ever-evolving BBQ scene. It is also well worth joining their membership programme, as members get to enjoy special deals and attractive discounts.

Festive Set BBQ Platter

Their seasonal Festive Set is priced at $108 for members (usual price $151.80) and includes four types of BBQ meat: the Xita BBQ Meat Tower, pork belly, pineapple-glazed beef rib fingers, and secret-marinated chicken chop. It consists of a cold-dressed chicken appetiser, joyful sesame balls, and strawberry ice burst for dessert.

We also ordered some a la carte items to complement our experience. I was pleasantly surprised that the team helped grill all the meats for us, which made the experience relaxed, enjoyable, and completely fuss-free. We could focus on eating and chatting while the staff refilled our plates.

Banchan/Accompaniments, Drinks

Along with our meal, we were served a generous selection of accompaniments, including kimchi, fresh lettuce for wraps, potato salad, and a comforting pumpkin soup. We also enjoyed some refreshing iced slushies, which were perfect for cooling down between all the grilling and feasting.

The highlight of the Festive Feast has to be the Xita BBQ Meat Tower, dressed for the festivities with charming decorations and stacked generously with assorted cuts. Each cut is well-seasoned, tender, and neatly portioned for easy sharing.

Pineapple Glazed Beef Rib Fingers

The Pineapple Glazed Beef Rib fingers come with a tangy, lightly sweet glaze that helps tenderise the meat, and the natural richness of the beef pairs beautifully with these flavours. The grilled pineapple slices were a delightful treat as well.

Pork Belly

No barbecue meal feels complete without Pork Belly, and the slices here are deeply marinated, allowing the fat to render into a crisp outer layer with a soft, melty centre.

Pork Collar

The Pork Collar, which is not part of the Festive Feast but is a recommended add-on, is another excellent choice. It is slightly leaner than the belly yet still wonderfully succulent, and it grills beautifully over the claypot heat. Both cuts are the sort of crowd-pleasing staples that disappear quickly once the grilling begins.

Secret Marinated Chicken Chop

The Secret Marinated Chicken Chop is juicy and stays wonderfully tender on the grill, with a comforting flavour that makes it an easy crowd-pleaser at the table.

Golden Tofu

Cold Dressed Chicken

For a light side dish, golden tofu is satisfying yet straightforward, adding a pleasant contrast to richer meats. The Cold Dressed Chicken appetiser, part of the set, is served chilled and refreshing, offering a gentle, clean-tasting start before the grilled items begin to arrive.

Seafood Pancake

Golden Glutinous Rice Ball

The Seafood Pancake came out nice and crispy, but unfortunately, we found it a little too oily for our liking. The Golden Glutinous Rice Ball, on the other hand, was satisfyingly yummy and chewy, with a slight sweetness.

Clam Soup

The Clam Soup is light, clear, and subtly sweet from the clams. It helps cleanse the palate between bites and is also comforting to sip while waiting for the next round of grilling, especially amid all the smoke and warmth from the stove.

Joyful Sesame Balls

Strawberry Ice Burst

Two desserts are included in the festive set. The Joyful Sesame Balls are pleasantly crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, with a sesame filling. To conclude, the Strawberry Ice Burst is light, fruity and refreshing, making it ideal after a table full of smoky and savoury dishes. It is, however, on the sweeter side.

In conclusion, dining at Xita Lao Tai Tai Claypot Stove BBQ is lively and well-suited for gatherings. If you are looking for a fun place in town to celebrate with friends or simply enjoy a good BBQ with quality meats, Xita Lao Tai Tai is a wonderful option this season.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Xita Lao Tai Tai (西塔老太太)
Bugis+
201 Victoria Street
#04-06
Singapore 188067
Tel: +65 6908 4181
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Victoria Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]