MOSS CROSS TOKYO Singapore @ Capri by Fraser China Square - Debuts its First Outlet Outside Singapore

MOSS CROSS TOKYO Singapore, located in Capri by Fraser China Square, is the brand's debut outside Japan. Helmed by Executive Chef Akihiro Masuyama, boasting a wealth of experience in French cuisine, the restaurant presents traditional Japanese flavours infused with a modern French flair, showcased in its omakase menus.

Shokado-9 5/5

Two lunch menus start from $69, and two dinner menus start from $128. We had the 7-course $150 Dinner Menu alongside a 7-flight alcohol pairing ($90). Shokado-9, the dish signature to MOSS CROSS TOKYO, is presented as the First Course for all menus. The 9-course small-bite masterpiece is pieced together by arranging each dish (vary by season) according to their distinct flavour profiles. Unfolding from right to left, top to bottom, the sequencing allows diverse flavours to build up on one's palate gradually. First to awaken our palate is a chilled, tangy Tomato Raspberry Fruit Salad of Tomatoes, Fresh Raspberries and Blackberries in a Plum and Tomato Compote, followed by Seared Madai in Chef Masuyama's renowned Herb Dressing, a signature blend hailing from Tokyo. Then we moved on to a slightly spicy and creamier Chutoro Wasabi Tartar and a more vibrant Squid Shiso Sauce Orange. What came after was a delightfully sweet and rich Carrot Mousse Crab Tomato Consommé before proceeding to a savoury-sweet Corn Jelly Caviar Yuzu that exuded an intense corn sweetness.

The last column began with an interesting blend of texture and flavour - Octopus Mango Gochujang, balanced with a Red Bell Pepper Herb Rice Sushi that follows. We ended with a mouth-filling Roasted Wagyu Seaweed Sauce Avocado, featuring tender, roasted Wagyu elevated by an umami homemade seaweed sauce crafted with Marushin soy sauce from Shimane Prefecture.

Alcohol pairing: Mutsu-Hassen Prototype from Hachinohe Sake Brewery

Hyogo Oyster 4.5/5

The second course, Hyogo Oyster, is paired with a Camembert mousse and milk foam, topped with Caviar and konbu. The Camembert mousse gave the oyster a further textural boost with complementing milky notes. The dish's robust flavours are punctuated by punchy diced raw onions and tangy bursts of yuzu pearls and lime zest, adding the right amount of acidity to the overall composition.

Alcohol pairing: Matsumidori S.Tokyo Junmai Ginjo Aroma is like green apple and muscat.

Molten Crab Chawan-mushi 4.5/5

Third Course Molten Crab Chawanmushi. Done using the French technique, the spoonful of the chawanmushi was exceptionally soft and pillowy, with textural contrast lent from bits of Lily Bulb. Bisque Emulsion provided a delectable crustacean flavour to the dish.

Alcohol pairing: 2022 Sato 'L'Atypique' Orange Pinot Gris

Hokkaido Tokachi Herb-fed Beef Cutlet 5/5

Fourth Course Hokkaido Tokachi Herb-fed Beef Cutlet. Chef Akihiro Masuyama would like to showcase the lesser-known Tokachi beef in this course. While slightly less marbled than Wagyu, Tokachi beef boasts a profound and rich flavour profile, elevated by its unique diet featuring over ten types of herbs. With a slightly crisped breading of parsley and breadcrumbs, the exceptional texture of the meat was accentuated even further. The addition of Parmesan cheese sprinkle added a depth of savouriness to the accompanying homemade Worcestershire sauce.

Alcohol pairing: Wakaze Red Wine Barrel Sake

Roasted Hirame 4/5

The Fifth Course of Roasted Hirame is served with toasted Almond Flakes in Sake-Beurre Blanc with Herb Oil. While I found the fish slightly drier than desired, the sake cream sauce provided that additional richness to balance the fish.

Alcohol pairing: Folium Sauvignon Blanc 2022 This Sauvignon Blanc exhibits vibrant aromas of citrus fruits

Kyoto Wagyu Sushi, Sea Urchin 4.5/5

Sixth Course Kyoto Wagyu Sushi, Sea Urchin, Truffle Soy Sauce served with Tsugani (Crab) Miso Soup. Again, much attention was given to providing a satisfying mouthfeel. Sushi rice is marinated overnight with red wine, which helps to blend even better with the luxurious slices of tender Kyoto Wagyu and creamy sea urchin sitting atop. Bringing the elements together is a dab of truffle soy sauce spiked with more assertive Middle Eastern spices.

Alcohol pairing: Chanter Muscat Bailey A Ycarre CuveeK.

Daikon Compote Tiramisu, Mikan 5/5

Seventh Course Daikon Compote Tiramisu, Mikan. The dessert was definitely the highlight for me. A tiramisu dessert that uses daikon as the cake base. The daikon is boiled with rice to enrich its sweetness. I love the charred fresh Mikan Mandarin oranges that imparted a lot of freshness to the dish and the vibrant accompanying Mikan puree that paired perfectly with the dusting of Chinese five-spice powder and cacao powder. The airy mascarpone cheese provided that creaminess that bound everything together in harmony.

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.


MOSS CROSS TOKYO Singapore
Capri by Fraser China Square
181 South Bridge Road
#02-01
Singapore 058743
Tel:
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue–Sun: 12 – 3pm, 6 – 10pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to South Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Downtown MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to China Street. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes [Map]

Kuroki Japanese Yakiniku Restaurant @ Paragon Shopping Centre - Unveiling Orchard Road’s Hidden Lunch Gem

Amidst Paragon's opulent retail and dining landscape, Kuroki Japanese Yakiniku Restaurant pleasantly surprised me with its affordable yet premium lunch sets starting from $35.

Kuroki sets itself apart by sourcing prized cuts of beef based on availability and prime freshness. The selection ranges from A5 Iwate Wagyu to Kumamoto Wagyu and Snow-Aged Karubi from Hokkaido, promising an elevated yakiniku experience.

Kuroki Tasting Set 4.2/5

Opting for the Kuroki Tasting Set ($35), I discovered a well-curated ensemble featuring Kurobuta pork belly, Kurobuta pork collar, and a choice between tontoro or chicken thigh. The set, designed for a hearty lunch, didn't compromise on the quality or portion of the meats. It included an appetiser, salad, chawanmushi, rice, soup, and a delightful dessert, creating a wholesome dining experience.

Kuroki Premium Set 4.5/5

For the ardent beef aficionados, the Kuroki Classic Set ($48) beckons with three cuts of wagyu beef, accompanied by appetisers, salad, chawanmushi, rice, soup, and dessert. To escalate the indulgence, the Kuroki Premium Set ($58) offers four cuts of Wagyu - Wagyu Sirloin, Wagyu Prime Karubi, Wagyu Ribeye Lip, and Wagyu Short Rib, providing a symphony of textures and flavours.

Wagyu Tongue 4.5/5

Kimchi Soup 3/5

To enhance our dining experience, we indulged in add-ons such as the Wagyu Tongue ($22). When grilled, it exhibited a delightful crunch, adding a unique texture to the meal. While rich and robust, the Kimchi Soup ($10) veered towards being too hearty for a drinkable soup, brimming with shredded meat and kimchi.

Wrapping up our lunch set, a scoop of ice cream sealed the meal on a sweet note. I opted for the earthy matcha flavour, while my dining partner savoured the delicate sea salt flavour.

In the heart of Orchard Road, Kuroki Japanese Yakiniku Restaurant stands out as a hidden gem, offering premium lunch sets at an unparalleled value. With a commitment to quality cuts, thoughtful sets, and add-ons for customisation, Kuroki invites diners to savour the essence of Japanese yakiniku without breaking the bank.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kuroki
Paragon Shopping Centre
290 Orchard Road
#05-03
Singapore
Tel: +65 6339 3383
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line), Orchard Road (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm
Set Lunches: 1130am - 230pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. At the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link, cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 2 or 3. Proceed to the road level. Walk down Orchard Road until the junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road and walk to Paragon. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

sen-ryo @ Suntec City - Popular Japanese Restaurant at Ion Orchard Opens 2nd Outlet Offering Exclusive Items

sen-ryo has recently opened its second outlet in Suntec City. While the brand continues to deliver the brand's philosophy of 'affordable luxury' with a menu much similar to its outlet at Ion, you may look forward to outlet-exclusive platters, draft sake – a rare offering – as well as new set lunches from just $15.80.

Appetiser Platter 4/5

We started our dinner with the outlet-exclusive sen-ryo Appetiser Platter ($26.80). Aesthetically pleasing with 4 seasonal creations. My favourite is the mouth-watering Wagyu Sando. The rich and savoury beef notes against the sweet buttery notes of the brioche are deeply satisfying. The Monaka-Negitoro with Bafun Uni sandwiched between 2 crisp wafers was also a delightful treat. Hyogo Oyster with Ikura will definitely excite oyster fans, but for the Spicy Tuna in Black Sesame Cone, I feel it can do more with more tuna for a better mouthfeel.

Bamboo Shoots 4.5/5 (Tasing Portion)

Tsubugai Wasabi 4/5 (Tasting Portion)

This new outlet is also specially designed to be a space for a great drinking experience, both in the interior and the menu, offering a lineup of new appetisers. Slow-cooked Bamboo Shoots ($19.80), simmered in shoyu and bonito, allowed me to enjoy the beauty of both its mildly sweet-earthy flavour and crunchy texture. Using Ice Plant, Tsubugai Wasabi ($16.80) plays on the crunch element as well, with the zest of Wasabi Root to bring a kick to its neutral flavours.

Abalone Sashimi 5/5

Ankimo Ponzu 5/5

Abalone Sashimi ($20.80) features green-lipped abalone aged for three days after steaming and marinated in shoyu. Every bite released its beautiful intricate flavours accentuated by the whole process. What intrigued me the most was the Ankimo Ponzu (monkfish liver) ($19.80). It's neither fishy nor liver-y, and I love its melt-in-your-mouth texture that spreads its deliciousness into my mouth.

Signature Sushi Platter 4/5

The outlet-exclusive sen-ryo Signature Sushi Platter ($68) was a feast for my senses, with various crafted sushi on the platter. The huge and plump Hotate topped with Seaweed jam and shredded fried leek was one of the first that caught my eye, followed by the jumbo-sized Salmon and Anago sushi. Others include sweet Botan Ebi, melt-in-your-mouth Otoro, Uni, Ika, Negitoro, Akami, Ikura, and Madai (sea bream). Sen-ryo's signature Tamagoyaki provided a sweet note to this platter.

Maguro Sashimi Trio Don 3/5

Tuna continues to the star offering in Sen-ryo. One of the popular items is the Maguro Sashimi Trio Don ($32), offering tuna sashimi with varying degrees of fattiness, paired with a fragrant bed of Koshihikari rice from Aomori Prefecture. Given the taste and the varieties offered, I enjoyed the Sushi Platter more.

Kaki Soy Nabe 2.5/5

A new addition to the Mains is Kaki Soy Nabe ($38.80), which features fresh Hyogo oysters. While the oysters looked enticing, the soy broth disappoints with a thin consistency.

Complementing the mains was a refreshing Kaisen Sashimi Salad ($17.80) that delivered a harmony of varying bites and textures lent by the Ice Plant and sashimi, with a welcoming touch of sweetness from the corn.

Premium Sashimi Platter 4.5/5 (Tasting Portion)

The Premium Sashimi Platter ($26.20) offers a premium cut of sashimi, mainly the belly portion, such as Salmon Belly and Otoro.

Peach Sorbet 3.8/5

Watermelon Sorbet 3.8/5

Our desserts were so cute! We had Peach Sorbet, and Watermelon Sorbet contained within the fruit itself. They were on the sweeter side, but they paired well with the draft sake that we had. Rumiko Kinmoto Tokubetsu Junmaishu Kijioshu, being full-bodied and strong, was recommended for dessert pairing. This premium sake is outlet-exclusive as well.

As mentioned, Sen-ryo at Suntec City amps up the dining experience with the inclusion of KEG Draft into its beverage offerings. You can choose from a menu of diverse and exquisite flavour profiles, which includes the SENSUKE KEGDRAFT Special Junmai, an elegant, unfiltered sake renowned for its melon and muscat aroma. Selections will change according to availability. You may approach the staff for personalised recommendations to accompany your meal.

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.


sen-ryo
Suntec City Mall
Tower 5
5 Temasek Boulevard
#01-434
Singapore 038985
Tel: +65 6957 7978
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Hakata Japanese Restaurant @ NeWest - Homely Japanese Comfort In The West

Nestled in NeWest, Hakata Japanese Restaurant welcomes diners to a cosy haven offering affordable Japanese cuisine. With roots tracing back to 1999 at Hong Leong Garden Shopping Centre, this establishment prides itself on a diverse menu featuring traditional Japanese delights, including sashimi, sushi, domburimono, tempura, sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, yakitori, udon, soba, and ramen. The commitment to freshness is evident, with all fish items air-flown four times a week from Japan.

Shishamo Isobe Age 4/5

For a delightful start, the Shishamo Isobe Age ($9) caught my attention. A popular choice among diners, this dish features crispy fried shishamo flavoured with seaweed, providing a unique blend of crunch and seaweed-infused richness, complemented by the burst of shishamo egg roes.

Potato Salad 4/5

A classic favourite, the Potato Salad ($5) offered a creamy medley of mashed potatoes, carrots, and eggs enveloped in mayonnaise. Adding cucumber and tomato refreshed the palate, adding a crisp contrast to the creamy texture.

Buta Shogayaki 3.8/5

Transitioning to the mains, the Buta Shogayaki ($16) stole the spotlight. A comforting ensemble of stir-fried pork with vegetables in ginger sauce, this set included rice, tofu, miso soup, a slice of watermelon, and pickles. The tender pork and the medley of sides provided a substantial and satisfying meal at an excellent value.

Matsu Nigiri Sushi Set 3.5/5

We continued with the Matsu Nigiri Sushi Set ($27), an assortment of 11 sushi types. While it may not compete with the premium offerings of high-end Japanese omakase restaurants, it delivers a good variety and value for money, satisfying Japanese food cravings without breaking the bank.

Hakata Japanese Restaurant has become a neighbourhood favourite, drawing locals with its homely charm and affordable Japanese fare. While it may not aim for the premium spectrum of Japanese cuisine, it excels in providing a diverse and wallet-friendly menu that caters to the masses. For those seeking a comforting Japanese dining experience without the frills, Hakata Japanese Restaurant at NeWest is a reliable choice.


Hakata Japanese Restaurant
NeWest
1 West Coast Drive
#01-93/70
Singapore 128020
Tel: +65 6265 3680
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Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun, PH: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Take bus number 154 or 201. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

SHUNSUI @ Hongkong Street - Merger of Kyuu by Shunsui and Kappo Shunsui Offering Affordable Kappo-style Japanese Cuisine

SHUNSUI, located at a secluded spot on Hongkong Street, is a new concept by the Shunsui Group, formed from the merger of Kyuu by Shunsui and 5-time Michelin Plate awardee Kappo Shunsui. It aims to offer authentic yet affordable Kappo-style Japanese cuisine with cutting-edge techniques coupled with a contemporary flair. In conjunction with its opening, Shunsui has launched a Grand Opening Dinner Special Course - the Kacho Course ($129++) consists of 10 seasonally-curated dishes made from fresh, premium ingredients from various parts of Japan (Ala Carte upgrade options available). Diners can also opt for the Shunsui Course ($179++) for additional premium delicacies.

Umeshu

We were offered a glass of Umeshu at the start to freshen up our senses.

Appetiser 4.5/5

The Appetiser teased my appetite with its sweet, savoury and creamy profile - In a martini glass, it contains aburi scallop, sweet persimmon and fig layered on top of mascarpone sauce.

Soup 4.5/5

For Soup, we had a comforting grounded long cabbage soup with deep fried kisu. The soup was sweet with a depth of savouriness. The deep-fried Kisu had a moist and tender flesh.

Sashimi Course (2 servings) 5/5

The Sashimi Course was rather spectacular, offering not just sashimi but also other elements of textures. Torched mackerel, seabream and chutoro are of different leanness and mouthfeel, and the touched mackerel stood out with its hint of smokiness. The Botan Ebi was creamy and succulent, and the Steamed Oyster with edamame and zingy apple vinegar puree provided another texture experience. I ended this course with a satisfying Pressed Anago sushi.

Uni Sashimi (2 servings)

The premium set allows you to enjoy Bafun Uni Sashimi.

Unagi and Eggplant tempura 4.8/5

For the Grill course, we were served a 'Japanese Burger', made with layering Unagi, Eggplant tempura and uni, finished with a douse of Japanese mountain pepper sauce to bind the elements together. The two crisp thin wafers were the right vehicle to deliver the rich flavours and mouthfilling texture all together in one bite.

Steamed Dish 4.5/5

Instead of Chawamushi with Snow Crab sauce, the Shunsui course offered an interesting dish made with Tiled Fish and Prawn steamed with turnip. The broth was light but flavorful, and both the fish and prawn were firm with a good bite, contrasted with steamed turnip, which had the consistency of a grated Chinese yam.

Negitoro, Shiro Ebi 4/5

The Sushi Course offers Hirame, Kinmedai, Nodoguro, Otoro and Negitoro. Shiro Ebi Sushi is offered instead of Negitoro for the Shunsui course. While the various ingredients delight with their freshness and flavours, I also appreciate the rice used for the sushi; it has a good bite, accompanied by a pleasant acidity that elevates the flavour of the sushi, balancing the richness of the fish and seafood.

Miyazaki A5 Sirloin Beef with Miso 4.5/5

The Main showcases Miyazaki A5 Sirloin Beef, with the right doneness to render the fats for its beautiful flavours. The miso is mixed with nuts and vegetables, hence it has a grainy texture that helps to spread over the sirloin, flavouring the meat evenly.

Rice 4/5

We had a bowl of overflowing Ikura Rice for the rice course, which the chef served with much gusto. There are 2 sizes to choose from - regular and small. I chose the regular bowl as the rice itself was really tasty!

Matcha, Sweet Bean Jelly with Chestnut 4.5/5

Desserts are of very different characters. On the one hand, we had a traditional Sweet Bean Jelly with Chestnut served with a cup of matcha brewed by the chef right before us. On the other hand, we had a homemade Mikan Sorbet crafted on the spot with liquid nitrogen, giving our meal a theatrical ending.

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.


SHUNSUI
17 Hong Kong Street
#01-01
Singapore 059660
Tel: +65 67237733
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Nearest MRT: Clark Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clark Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road using the overhead bridge. Turn left and walk down New Bridge Road. Turn left onto Hong Kong Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]