Showing posts with label Omakase. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Omakase. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Sushi Sato @ Dempsey Hill - Introduces Approachable Fine Omakase Menu Options

Head Sushi Chef Kawana Yusuke

Sushi Sato, located within a miniature Zen garden on Dempsey Hill, has recently launched new lunch and dinner menus, offering a more affordable range to diners seeking a high-end omakase experience. The menus are specially curated by both Master Chef Yuji Sato and his Head Chef Yusuke Kawana. With traditional culinary experience spanning over 28 years and refined at top sushi restaurants in Tokyo, Chef Kawana brings to the table an exclusive Sushi Edomae ($260) menu, available solely at Chef Kawana's sushi counter within a private dining room.

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Chawanmushi with Snow Crab Sauce

The menu showcases Chef Kawana's deep appreciation and mastery of Edomae sushi. It features seasonal appetisers and 15 pieces of nigiri sushi, which concludes with soup and dessert. Our dinner started with Chawanmushi with Snow Crab Sauce, delectable with Hokkaido scallop, sweet chestnut, and a textural crunch lent from the lily bulb.

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Kue - Japanese Grouper

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Sumi Ika - Ink Squid

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Tai - Seabream

The sushi course started with milder-flavoured fish before moving into stronger or richer-tasting ones. We were first served Kue, Ika, and Tai. These selections were simply pleasing, featuring a firm texture and a sweet profile. In particular, the Ika stood out; its creamy texture heightened its delectability even further.

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Zuke Akami - Marinated Tuna

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Shima Aji - Yellowjack

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Saba - Mackerel

We then were served Marinated Tuna, Yellow Jack Shima Aji and Mackerel Kanagawa. The latter was interesting. As Mackerel has a stronger taste, it was garnished with a herb-infused blend of spring onion, ginger and shiso leaf, harmonising with the seasoned sushi rice.

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Hokkigai - Surf Clam

Next, we were presented with an exceptionally crunchy Hokkaido Miyagi Surf Clam.

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Hotaru Ika - Firefly Squid with Vinegar and Sweet Miso

In between the sushi courses, we were served a seasonal appetiser. We had the Firefly Squid Toyama with Vinegar and Sweet Miso. While the Firefly Squid were tasty with their natural umami profile, the vinegar and sweet miso sauce were a tad overpowering.

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Botan Ebi - Shrimp

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Meiji Maguro - Smoked Young Tuna

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Kohada - Gizzard Shard marinated with Salt & Vinegar

We then had Botan Ebi, Young Tuna Meiji Maguro smoked with rice straw, and Kohada marinated in salt and vinegar. My favourite was the sweet Botan ebi, which delighted with a mouthfeeling texture. The Young Tuna was slightly bland for me.

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Kawahagi - Leatherjacket and Liver

Kawahagi, a Leather jack topped with its own liver, was memorable. As now is the season when the liver is fatty, this Kawahagi was a luxurious treat. The spring onion helped to enhance its taste.

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Kinmedai - Golden Eye Snapper

What followed was King Snapper, which was charcoal torched to lace it with a smokey flavour.

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Ikura - Salmon Roe

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Ootoro - Fatty Tuna

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Bafun Uni - Short Spike Sea Urchin

Moving on to the last three sushi that carry a heartier taste - we had Ikura Salmon Roe marinated with soy sauce sake mirin, Otoro and Hokkaido Uni. The Otoro was undeniably the highlight with its luscious texture and rich flavour.

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Tamagoyaki

Before proceeding to dessert, we had a sweet-savoury and spongy Tamagoyaki made with a blend of egg, fish paste, scallop, prawn, and honey. We loved it so much that we indulged in a second piece, as the chef was kind enough to accede to our request!

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Clam Soup Canola Flower

We were served a light-tasting Clam Soup with canola flower to cleanse our palates. We appreciated the delicate seasoning, which allowed the clam's flavour to shine through.

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Amaou Strawberry, Shizoka Melon, Oita Orange

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Kinako Ice Cream

Dessert was beautiful - a platter of prized seasonal fruits Amaou Strawberry, Shizoka Melon, Oita Orange complemented with housemade Kinako Ice Cream.

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.


Sushi Sato
6B Dempsey Road
Singapore 247662
Tel: +65 8380 3830
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 630pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to dempsey road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, March 3, 2024

AN Omakase @ Keong Saik Road - Wallet Friendly 12-Course Lunch Omakase at $88

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AN Omakase, situated on Keong Saik Road and opened last year, is a fresh addition to the omakase scene in Singapore. The intimate 15-seater counter, adorned with black stone and stainless steel, is under the experienced guidance of Singaporean Chef Shim. Specialising in bringing the ocean's freshness to the table, the restaurant offers three omakase menus: the 15-course Tatsumaki ($128), the 17-course Aozora ($188), and the budget-friendly 12-course Tsuyu ($88) for lunch only.

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We had the 12-course Tsuyu, commencing with a trio of appetisers, setting the stage for what awaited us.

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Hamachi 4.2/5

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Ika topped with Yuzu Zest 4/5

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Chitoro 4.2/5

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Hokkaido Scallop 4.2/5

After the appetisers, the focus shifts to the sushi course, presenting a total of seven distinct sushi selections. The sequence begins with Hamachi, Ika, Chitoro, and Scallop. These initial four sushi pieces serve as a testament to the ocean's freshness, delivering clean and natural flavours that highlight the exceptional quality of the seafood.

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Otoro topped with Beluga Caviar 4.5/5

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Ebi topped with Foie Gras 4.2/5

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Ikura Sea Urchin 4/5

The subsequent trio of premium sushi displayed a modern twist, incorporating luxurious ingredients to enhance the traditional sushi experience. It elevated the enjoyment with additional textures and taste profiles. The premium selection comprised Otoro topped with Beluga Caviar, Ebi topped with Foie Gras, and Ikura Sea Urchin.

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Miso Soup 3/5

Concluding the sushi courses, a bowl of warm and comforting Miso Soup complemented the rich array of flavours from the previous dishes.

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Black Sesame Ice Cream 3.5/5

Concluding the meal, a delightful sweet ending awaits with the Black Sesame Ice Cream sandwiched between two crispy wafers.

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For diners seeking a wallet-friendly omakase experience, the An Omakase 12-course lunch set at $88 offers a compelling choice.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


An Omakase
33 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089140
Tel: +65 9053 2226
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm, 130pm, 6pm, 730pm, 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Kreta Ayer Road. Walk down Kreta Ayer Road and turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk down Neil Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Akira Back @ JW Marriott Hotel South Beach - Indulge in “The Omakase Dinner Experience”, A Luxurious 5-course by Chef Akira Back and Chef Bill Hong

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Akira Back's "The Omakase Dinner Experience" is a new 5-course dinner you do not want to miss. Chef Akira Back with Chef de Cuisine Bill Hong has joined hands for this seasonal offering, which is available for dinner daily at $148 per pax. Diners can also opt for a specially curated sake and wine pairing at an additional $88 per pax.

The menu showcases seasonal specialities using quality produce, with each dish highlighting both chefs' expertise in modern Japanese cuisine with Korean accents.

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Treasure Box with Citrus Striped Jack Bite

We started with a special treat of the gorgeous Treasure Box with Citrus Striped Jack Bite. While this is not part of the 5-course Omakase, it was definitely an intriguing start to the dishes to come.

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Umami Hokkaido Uni 4.5/5

First on the omakase menu was the beautifully presented Umami Hokkaido Uni. The creamy and indulgent mouthfuls of uni were paired with goma miso and maitake, a combination I’ve not had before but became a fan of.

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New AB Sashimi 4.2/5

Right after, we were served the New AB Sashimi. This dish features fresh slices of kanpachi dressed in a zesty tomato citrus sauce, with karasumi, ankimo and pickled radish for additional crunch.

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Halibut 4.5/5

While I found the clam ang-sauce and apple purée a tad sweet for my liking, the Halibut itself was impressively buttery and tender. The sauces were also helpful to cut through the richness.

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Shiso Sorbet

For our palette cleanser, we had the refreshing and minty Shiso Sorbet.

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Sanchoku Ribeye

While I can’t take beef, my dining companions were raving about their Sanchoku Ribeye. It was served with cauliflower miso cream, burdock jam and myoga, a Japanese ginger.

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Pork Chop 4.8/5

In replacement of the ribeye, I had a generous serving of Pork Chop. I absolutely loved the grill on the pork, which gave a thin crispness to the exterior while the meat within remained juicy. It was one of the best pork chops I've had recently!

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Lobster Claypot Rice 4.8/5

The Lobster Claypot Rice can be opted for at an additional $65 top-up, and I would highly recommend it. With toppings of ikura and negi, this bowl of rice was light yet flavourful, allowing the sweetness of the tender lobster to come through.

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Lobster Claypot Rice

Alongside the rice, you will be served a comforting bowl of miso soup and intricate homemade banchan.

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AB Tuna Pizza 4.5/5

Before we dug into the final dessert course, we were treated to Chef Akira Back's signature dish, the AB Tuna Pizza. The crunchy crust was paper thin and laid with a blissful mix of herbs, fresh tuna and a drizzle of truffle oil.

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Matcha Tart with Hazelnut Chantilly and Barley Ice Cream 4.8/5

The Matcha Tart with Hazelnut Chantilly and Barley Ice Cream was a lovely end to the meal. I thoroughly enjoyed the well-balanced mix of hazelnut nuttiness, bittersweet matcha and crisp tart shell.

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.


Akira Back
JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach
30 Beach Road, Level B1M
Singapore 189763
Tel: +65 6818 1914
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade MRT (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

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

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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.

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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.

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Alcohol pairing: Mutsu-Hassen Prototype from Hachinohe Sake Brewery

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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Alcohol pairing: Chanter Muscat Bailey A Ycarre CuveeK.

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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]