Kakushin @ Scotts Square - Authentic Japanese Omakase with an Imaginative Twist

Nestled in the heart of Orchard, Scotts Square is Kakushin, a Japanese Omakase restaurant that offers a captivating journey through the seasons of Japan. With a seating capacity of 46, the restaurant provides an intimate and immersive dining experience. Chef Chan, the culinary visionary behind Kakushin, showcases his innovation by using the freshest and highest-quality seasonal ingredients sourced directly from renowned markets such as Toyosu Market and speciality farms in Japan.

We tried their 7-course Lunch Omakase ($168), which includes an appetiser, Carpaccio, Seasonal Warm Dish, Chef-curated Nigiri Sushi, Chef's Seasonal Dish, Soup and Dessert.

Appetizer 4.2/5

The 7-course omakase commences with an Appetizer featuring an Oyster delicately crowned with ikura and yuzu jelly. It is exceptionally fresh, exhibiting a plump and juicy texture. The toppings of ikura and yuzu jelly complement the oyster beautifully, adding layers of flavour depth to this delectable start to the meal.

Carpaccio 4.2/5

The omakase experience progresses with a captivating Carpaccio featuring uni, edible flowers, black caviar, and expertly balanced umami seasonings. This course presents a visually stunning and harmonious composition of premium ingredients, promising a truly delightful course in this omakase journey.

Seasonal Warm Dish 4/5

The next course introduces a Seasonal Warm Dish, showcasing fried Sakura Ebi that offers a delightful contrast of crunchiness and crispiness.

Chef-Curated Nigiri Sushi 4.2/5

The following course presents a platter of Chef-Curated Nigiri Sushi, including selections like flounder, sea bream, and tuna belly, each piece meticulously handcrafted to perfection. This visually pleasing and appetising presentation showcases not only fresh but also impeccably executed sushi, underscoring the chef's culinary mastery.

Chef's Seasonal Dish 4/5

The Chef's Seasonal Dish graces the dining experience with a mini donburi adorned with ikura, tuna, mushrooms, seaweed, spring onions, and delicate edible flowers. This dish is a visual and culinary masterpiece, presenting a harmonious blend of textures and flavours.

Soup 3.8/5

Next is the Kakushin Omakase Soup. Despite its unassuming appearance, this soup is a true gem. It is not overly rich to the point of being heavy, but instead, it warms both body and soul, akin to a comforting embrace.

Dessert 4/5

To conclude this delightful culinary journey, the Dessert course offers a lovely pairing of sweet Muscat Grapes with zesty sour lime jelly. This combination promises a harmonious balance of flavours, offering a refreshing and sweet-tart note to round off the meal on a satisfying and palate-cleansing note.

Salmon Ikura Don 4/5

The Salmon Ikura Don features fresh salmon slices, briny ikura, and seasoned sushi rice. It's a harmonious blend of flavours and textures, with additional garnishes like pickled ginger and wasabi and a soft and fluffy tamago. Next is the salad appetiser, followed by Chawanmushi, seaweed soup, and dessert, consisting of a sweet mango mochi.

The Chef's Lunch 5-course set offers an excellent alternative for diners seeking a more budget-friendly option than the more extensive 7, 8, or 10-course omakase menus.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kakushin
6 Scotts Road
#02-03
Singapore 228209
Tel: +65 9728 6813
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to Scotts Road. Turn right onto Scotts Road. Walk down Scotts Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

SENSHI Sushi & Grill @ Dorsett Singapore - All-You-Can-Eat A La Carte Japanese Buffet with Newly Expanded Menu

SENSHI Sushi & Grill sits in the corner of Dorsett Singapore, a stone's throw away from Outram Park MRT Station. The Japanese restaurant offers both a la carte dishes and an all-you-can-eat buffet that has recently introduced a refreshed selection. Diners can expect new dishes that include Aburi dishes, Kaki Fry, Kani Gratin, Niku Jaga Braised Beef, Buta Kakuni Braised Pork and Japanese Mochi.

The buffet rates are as follows:

Lunch (11.30am to 3pm)
Weekday: $40+/pax
Weekend: $48+/pax

Dinner (6pm to 10.30pm)
Weekday: $50+/pax
Weekend: $55+/pax

The buffet includes free-flow drinks of house tea, soda and juice. With an add-on of $38/pax, you can also enjoy free-flow alcohol.

Included in the buffet are free flow drinks of house tea, soda and juice. With an add on of $38/pax, you can also enjoy free flow alcohol.

We tried the Weekend Dinner menu here, which differs slightly from their Weekday and Lunch menus. The range includes appetisers, sashimi, maki sushi, nigiri sushi, aburi nigiri sushi, handrolls, grilled dishes, hot dishes, deep-fried dishes, rice and noodles, and shabu shabu.

Assorted Sashimi

It's not a Japanese buffet without sashimi! We started with an Assorted Sashimi platter with salmon, tuna, swordfish, yellowtail and octopus. Their quality was decent, though some of the cuts could be improved. You can order these individually too.

Hot Appetisers - Truffle Chawanmushi

There is a selection of both hot and cold appetisers. From the Hot Appetisers range, you can choose from dishes such as Truffle Chawanmushi, Mentaiko Fries, and Asari Tofu Soup.

Cold Appetisers - Pidan Tofu

There are Pidan Tofu, Wafu Seafood Salad, Cold Spinach, Edamame, and more from the Cold Appetisers. The Pidan Tofu was a little disappointing, as I hoped the Pidan sauce would be more distinct.

Sushi

We ordered a mix of different items from the extensive range of Sushi items, consisting of maki, aburi sushi and nigiri sushi. Our favourites from here were the salmon dishes, such as the Aburi Salmon Mentaiko, Aburi Salmon Cheese and Salmon Mentaiko Maki.

Other non-salmon dishes include Chicken Floss Maki, Tuna Truffle Sushi and Aburi Ebi Mentaiko.

Handrolls

There are six types of Handrolls. We had the Softshell Crab Handroll but did not like it as the crab filling came lukewarm and needed a crunch. I suggest skipping this and trying the others instead.

Grilled Dishes - Baked Half Shell Scallop

From the Grilled Dishes section, we tried the Baked Half Shell Scallop, Baked Half Shell Oyster and Kani Gratin. These were generously topped with torched cheese! While the Kani Gratin had little crab meat, the scallops and oysters were plump and fresh.

Hot Dishes - Niku Jaga (Braised Beef)

My dining companion had the Braised Beef, one of the newest items in the Hot Dishes section. While she appreciated the flavourful sauce, the beef slices were a tad tough.

Hot Dishes - Sea Clam Butter Monte

Other Hot Dishes include the garlicky Sea Clam Butter Monte, Beef Cubes, Eggplant in Miso, Pork Yakiniku and more.

Deep Fried - Kaki Fry

My dining companion and I recommend getting their Kaki Fry from the Deep Fried selection. The oysters were creamy and fried to a crunch, faring much better than we expected.

Shabu Shabu

Their Shabu Shabu comes in a sharing portion with the choice to add on Pork Slices, Beef Slices and Sea Clams. The base broth leans towards the bland side. Hence, I suggest adding meats and clams to provide better flavour.

Beverages

For Beverages, we had their Slushies from the a la carte menu - Strawberry Yuzu ($6) and Lychee Grapefruit ($6). Unfortunately, both of them were too sweet for my liking.

If you prefer alcohol, they have quite a range of alcoholic drinks, from wines, beers and sake to soju, umeshu and Japanese whisky. Non-alcoholic options include juices, coffee, tea, soft drinks and water.

Hokkaido Cheesecake with Soft Serve Ice Cream

Desserts are not included in the buffet. We picked two from the a la carte menu, the first being the Hokkaido Cheesecake with Soft Serve Ice Cream ($9). While the cheesecake was creamy and soft, the soft serve had quite an icy texture.

Fresh Melon

The second dessert we chose to end the night was the crunchy and sweet Fresh Melon ($6).

Overall, we appreciated SENSHI’s fast and warm service in serving orders, but the buffet dishes were a mix of hits and misses.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


SENSHI Sushi & Grill
Dorsett Singapore
#01-01
333 New Bridge Road
Singapore 088765
Tel: +65 8518 8616
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park MRT (EW, NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 9pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Hanamaruken Ramen @ Bras Basah - Popular Ramen Chain from Osaka Serving Braised Marbled Soft Bone Pork Rib in Rich Tonkotsu Broth

This new ramen spot in Bras Basah is for you if you are a fan of meats and rich tonkotsu broths. Hanamaruken Ramen is a popular ramen chain founded in 1982 in Osaka and has now set up its space at the Lazada One building, a brief stroll from the MRT station.

With its close proximity to SMU, SMU staff and students can also enjoy a discount here just by flashing the relevant staff/student pass.

Signature Happiness Ramen 4/5

The highlight of the ramen menu is definitely their Signature Happiness Ramen ($22.80 for regular, $19.80 for junior), served with braised marbled soft bone pork rib alongside thin handmade noodles, bamboo shoot, nori and shoyu-flavoured tamago.

Unlike the usual tonkotsu broths that shout pork flavours, Hanamaruken's rendition has a distinct added touch of umami shoyu. Made of chicken and pork bones, the broth was simmered for at least 9 hours with a mix of spices and other ingredients. I enjoyed how creamy and nicely balanced it was without being overly salty.

The massive slab of braised marbled soft bone pork rib was prepared by stewing for long hours, resulting in even its soft cartilage. While the meat was fork-tender, I found it too fatty and heavy for my liking. You'd enjoy this if you are a fan of such rich cuts.

Double Happiness Ramen 4.2/5

For a greater variety of pork, try the Double Happiness Ramen ($19.80), which will include both a cut of the pork soft bone and two thick chashu slices. My dining companion and I preferred the chashu more for its better balance of fat and tender meat.

Apart from these two pork-focused bowls, the restaurant also offers Miso Ramen, Seafood Ramen and Tan Tan Ramen.

Chahan Japanese Fried Rice 4/5

The owners enthusiastically shared with us about the Chahan Japanese Fried Rice ($9.80) being one of their favourite items on the menu. We can see why, as the Japanese pearl rice was fragrantly fried with eggs and bits of pork without being greasy. That said, I prefer my fried rice to be dry, while this leaned just a touch more wet.

Gyoza 4/5

Diners can choose from a couple of sides such as Chicken Karaage, Ebi Tempura and hand-made Gyoza ($8.80 for 6pcs, $15.80 for 12pcs). The crisp wrap was delightful, but the filling could be more generous.

Artisanal Sparkling Tea 4.5/5

I thoroughly enjoyed the special range of Artisanal Sparkling Tea ($6.80) that the restaurant offers. Available on tap in three flavours - Osmanthus Squirrel, "Unknown Fragrance" and Lychee Red Tea, the owners introduced them as they found it to complement their ramen well.

I loved how each tea had a unique profile, and provided a refreshing break from the intensely rich ramen.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hanamaruken Ramen
Lazada One
#01-07
51 Bras Basah Road
Singapore 189554
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Nearest MRT: Bras Basah (CC Line), Bencoolen (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bencoolen MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit D or E. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Akanoya Robatayaki & Bar @ Orchard Rendezvous Hotel - A Revamped Robatayaki Experience with a $48++ Lunch Set

Nestled within the Akashi Group, Akanoya Robatayaki, a renowned Japanese bincho grill restaurant, has unveiled a fresh chapter in its culinary journey. After 8 years of serving delectable robatayaki dishes, the restaurant underwent an extensive transformation, modernising its space to provide an enriched dining encounter. This makeover added more booths, private rooms, and a bar while keeping the central robatayaki dining counter intact. Simultaneously, as part of this renaissance, Akanoya Robatayaki introduced lunch service for the first time in its history. The Hirugohan Lunch Set, priced at $48++, presents an indulgent collection of 8 delightful dishes.

The Hirugohan Lunch Set ($48++) commences with a parade of 5 diverse appetisers, which vary daily to ensure a fresh experience. This initial array aptly reflects the restaurant's meticulousness and commitment to quality.

Sashimi 4.2/5

Additionally, an optional Sashimi course is available for an extra $20. Our sashimi ensemble spotlighted Maguro, Hamachi, and Salmon, each exhibiting the impeccable freshness synonymous with Akanoya Robatayaki.

Meat Skewer with Half-boiled Egg 4.5/5

Moving ahead, we savour the Meat Skewer with Half-boiled Egg. This creation boasts a unique combination of meat with soft bone, providing a captivating textural interplay. As the half-boiled egg complements the skewer, a delightful fusion of flavours emerges, evoking memories of a classic Singaporean breakfast.

You can also order a couple of cocktails from the bar to complement the lunch. If not, it also has a stellar sake list offers 30 to 40 selections of rare sakes carefully sourced from various parts of Japan

Grilled Japanese Vegetables and Mushrooms 4/5

Enhancing the culinary affair, Grilled Japanese Vegetables and Mushrooms come into play. These delectable bites, caressed by the bincho charcoal's essence, acquire a subtle smoky allure while retaining their inviting crunch.

Beef Croquette 4.2/5

Among the highlights of the lunch set is the Beef Croquette, a scrumptious creation that marries flavoursome, juicy beef with a crispy exterior.

Wagyu 4.2/5

The main course offers a choice between Wagyu and Cod. Opting for the Wagyu, diners are treated to marbling that translates to a heavenly blend of flavour and melt-in-the-mouth texture, an epitome of culinary delight.

Donabe 4/5

The finale arrives with the Donabe, where fragrant rice dances with sakura ebi and salmon roes. Each spoonful bursts with intricate flavours, crafting a memorable conclusion to the meal.

Dessert 4.5/5

As a final touch, a duet of Japan Melon and Nashi Pear provides a sweet epilogue, aligning harmoniously with the lunch's unbeatable value.

This splendid 8-course lunch set, priced at $48++, is not limited to weekdays. The offering extends its allure on Saturdays, providing an equally captivating afternoon escapade. Akanoya Robatayaki beckons all who seek a revitalised robatayaki encounter brimming with authenticity, innovation, and culinary finesse.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Akanoya Robatayaki & Bar
Orchard Rendezvous Hotel
1 Tanglin Road
#01-01
Singapore 247905
Tel: +65 6732 1866
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 130am
Sun-Mon: 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Walk down Orchard Road to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Unkai Sushi @ Orchard Rendezvous Hotel - 8 Course Summer Omakase Lunch Menu at $68++

Unkai Sushi at Orchard Rendezvous Hotel has unveiled a delightful summer culinary experience with 5-course lunch sets starting from $26 and a seasonal 8-course omakase menu priced at $68. We visited the 30-seater restaurant and opted for the 8-Course Summer Omakase Lunch Menu (舞 Mai), meticulously curated by Chef Eugene Lam, whose culinary expertise includes prestigious establishments like Hide Yamamoto, Ashino, and Sushi Mieda.

Appetisers4/5

The omakase lunch commenced with two exquisite seasonal appetisers. The first was a delightful Scallop paired with grapes, perfectly complemented by a sweet miso sauce. The refreshing combination of flavours was an ideal way to begin the meal. The second appetiser, served in a bowl, featured a medley of Seaweed and Shrimp dressed in an appetising vinaigrette, enticing our taste buds and whetting our appetite for the courses to come.

Sashimi 4/5

The sashimi course followed the appetisers, boasting thick and fresh cuts of Hon Maguro Akami (Lean Tuna) and Sea Bream. Each bite offered a clean and distinct taste, showcasing the quality and freshness of the ingredients.

Chawanmushi 4/5

The Chawanmushi, a traditional Japanese egg custard dish, was next to grace our palates. Smooth and silky, the chawanmushi was enhanced by the delightful popping savouriness of ikura, adding a burst of flavour to the delicate ensemble.

Gindara Miso Yaki 4/5

A standout dish from the omakase menu was the Gindara Miso Yaki, featuring black cod marinated and grilled with a miso glaze. The fish's tender, buttery texture paired harmoniously with the umami-rich miso glaze, creating an exquisite combination of flavours that left a lasting impression.

Sushi 4.2/5

The sushi course presented three delectable pieces: Flounder, Chu-toro, and Scallop. Each morsel was skillfully crafted, with seasoned rice and wasabi complementing the freshness of the fish. The sushi maintained a perfect rice-to-fish ratio, allowing us to appreciate the premium ingredients fully.

Magic Bowl 4.2/5

The following course was the mini chirashi don, where an upgrade option to the Magic Bowl for $38++ was available. We had the Magic Bowl, which featured a tantalising combination of minced tuna, ikura, uni, and abalone liver sauce, elevating the dish to a whole new level of indulgence.

Matcha Ice Cream 3.5/5

Finally, our 8-course omakase lunch concluded with a sweet note, a Matcha Ice Cream. Creamy and delightful, the matcha ice cream was a delightful conclusion to a value-for-money meal that left us thoroughly satisfied.

Overall, Unkai Sushi's Summer Omakase Lunch Menu (舞 Mai) was a delightful culinary journey through Japan's finest and freshest summer produce. Chef Eugene Lam's expertise shone through in each thoughtfully prepared course, offering a balanced combination of flavours and textures showcasing Japanese cuisine's essence. Whether you're a sushi enthusiast or a connoisseur of Japanese delicacies, Unkai Sushi's summer omakase menu promises a memorable and delightful dining experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Unkai Sushi
Orchard Rendezvous Hotel
1 Tanglin Road
#01-10
Singapore 247905
Tel: +65 9634 8508
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11.30am - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Walk down Orchard Road to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]