Hanare by Takayama @ Takashimaya - Indulge in the Limited-Time Miyazaki A4 Gyukatsu Set for 2 at $158

Hanare by Takayama at Takashimaya has launched a limited-time seasonal Miyazaki A4 Gyukatsu Set for 2 diners at $158, and it's a luxurious feast not to be missed. This exclusive set menu includes a selection of dishes from appetisers to dessert, offering a fine balance of flavours and premium ingredients. Available to just 10 diners per session for lunch and dinner daily, the exclusivity of this meal makes it an enticing option for those looking to indulge in something special.

Aburi Scallop Salad 3/5

To begin, diners can choose from three salads: White Bait Salad with Plum Dressing, Aburi Scallop Salad (+$18), and Aburi Wagyu Beef Salad (+$22). We opted for the Aburi Scallop Salad. The scallops were plump, fresh, and slightly torched, which enhanced their sweetness. Paired with wakame seaweed and greens, the sancho dressing added a refreshing zest to the dish. While the scallops were delightful, the salad felt somewhat predictable and lacked the wow factor to warrant the additional price.

3 Kinds of Seasonal Sashimi 4.2/5

Following the salad was the Seasonal Sashimi, featuring three types of fresh fish. Thickly cut and beautifully presented, the sashimi was a highlight, offering that perfect melt-in-your-mouth sensation. The freshness of the fish was unmistakable, and each bite was a testament to the quality and care taken in sourcing ingredients. It is a substantial and satisfying dish for sashimi lovers.

Snow Crab Chawanmushi 5/5

The Snow Crab Chawanmushi was another highlight of the meal. The steamed egg custard was silky smooth, with each spoonful bursting with the sweetness of the snow crab. The addition of ikura (salmon roe) added a delightful salty pop, complementing the creamy texture of the chawanmushi. This luxurious version of a classic dish elevated the dining experience with its rich and delicate flavours.

Signature Kamameshi 5/5

A signature at Hanare, the Kamameshi (traditional Japanese rice dish) is a must-try, and luckily, it’s included in this set. Diners can choose from four varieties: Fried Garlic Kamameshi, Salmon and Ikura Kamameshi (+$12), Hokkaido Seiko Kani and Ikura Kamameshi (+$18), and Wagyu Kamameshi (+$24).

We went for the Hokkaido Seiko Kani and Ikura Kamameshi. The fragrant rice, cooked in a specially brewed dashi stock in a traditional iron pot, was topped with female snow crab, ikura, mushrooms, and edamame. The umami-packed rice was served with miso soup and pickles on the side, and every bite was satisfying, with the crab's sweetness enhancing the overall depth of flavour.

Miyazaki A4 Gyukatsu 4.5/5

The star of the show is undoubtedly the Miyazaki A4 Gyukatsu, where 200g of premium, breaded beef fillet is served golden and crispy on the outside while retaining a juicy, tender core. The real fun starts when diners get to grill the gyukatsu to their preferred doneness on a hot plate. The beef's rich marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture made it the highlight of the meal and a true indulgence for meat lovers.

Frozen Yuzu & Mango Prafit with Candied Yuzu Peel 3/5

The meal ended on a refreshing note with the Frozen Yuzu & Mango Parfait with Candied Yuzu Peel. The tartness of the yuzu paired with the sweetness of the mango created a well-balanced dessert, light and palate-cleansing after a rich meal. The candied yuzu peel added an extra touch of elegance and texture to the dessert.

The Miyazaki A4 Gyukatsu Set is a delightful experience for those looking to indulge in a curated menu of premium ingredients. While the Aburi Scallop Salad didn't quite justify its additional cost, the freshness of the sashimi, the luxuriousness of the chawanmushi, and the flavourful kamameshi and gyukatsu more than made up for it. The meal ended on a sweet and satisfying note with the Frozen Yuzu & Mango Parfait.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hanare by Takayama
Takashimaya Shopping Centre
391 Orchard Road
#03-07
Ngee Ann City
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 82989369
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line), Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight at Ngee Ann City until destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Hiyaki Yakitori Izakaya Bar @ Kamping Bahru - Bringing a Fresh and Inventive Twist to Traditional Japanese Cuisine

Nestled in the tranquil stretch of Kampong Bahru, Hiyaki Yakitori Izakaya Bar is a recently opened Izakaya Bar that brings a fresh and inventive twist to traditional Japanese cuisine.

With its cosy and intimate ambience, the bar features a softly dimmed atmosphere with Japanese-inspired decor.

Guests can choose from a private dining room with traditional Japanese zaisu seating or table and bar seating for a more casual experience.

Assorted 5 Kind Sashimi 4.2/5

Although Hiyaki labels itself as a yakitori izakaya bar, its menu is impressively diverse, featuring a wide range of both raw and cooked dishes. We sampled the Assorted 5 Kind Sashimi ($70.80), which included generous slices of otoro, kanpachi, maguro, sake (salmon), and mekajiki. The freshness of the fish was evident in the sweetness of each bite. A similar sashimi platter is also available with chutoro at a reduced price of $10.

Potato Salad 4/5

The quintessential Japanese Potato Salad ($8.80) is a new addition to the menu and offers a delightful twist with crispy fried shredded sweet potato on top, adding an extra crunch to the dish. This creamy salad also features sweet corn kernels, carrots, cucumber, and eggs, making for a satisfying blend of textures and flavours.

Pidan Tofu 4.2/5

Another exciting new appetiser on the menu is the Pidan Tofu ($7.80). Thanks to its inventive twist, this dish left a lasting impression on me. Like the potato salad, it features a topping of crispy fried potato, which adds an unexpected crunch and elevates the traditional pidan tofu. It's a successful and refreshing take on a familiar favourite.

Deep Fried Silver Fish 3.8/5

The final appetiser we tried was the Deep Fried Silver Fish ($12.80), served with mayonnaise dip. While the silver fish was well-fried and pleasantly plump, the dish itself was somewhat ordinary. However, it pairs nicely with drinks and would make a great snack for casual sipping.

Salmon Mentai Maki 4/5

A new addition to the menu, the Salmon Mentai Maki ($16.80) is a favourite among Singaporeans. This maki roll is generously filled with ingredients such as salmon sashimi, avocado, and what appears to be pumpkin. It's topped with Aburi salmon, mentaiko sauce, and the crunchy shredded sweet potato used in the potato salad.

Charcoal Grill – Tsukune, Torimomo & Tebasaki 4/5

Given that Hiyaki prides itself on being a yakitori bar, we had to sample some of their grilled offerings. We tried the Tsukune (chicken meatballs, $7.80), Torimomo (chicken thigh, $5), and Tebasaki (chicken wings, $5). Each item was well-grilled and flavourful. The tsukune featured bits of soft bone, adding a pleasing texture, while the torimomo had a flavour profile more akin to chicken breast, with less fat than expected but still very tasty. The tebasaki, however, was a bit too salty for our taste. The grill menu also includes other chicken parts such as bishop's nose, liver, gizzard, and heart and vegetables like ladyfinger, ginkgo nut, and oyster mushroom.

Kurohana Wagyu (150g) 4.5/5

For our main course, we enjoyed the Kurohana Wagyu Ribeye Steak ($60.80), accompanied by three condiments: snowflake salt, yuzu shisho, and wasabi. The wagyu was perfectly cooked, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, juicy and flavorful. Despite its premium price, we highly recommend giving it a try.

Hotate Nori Wasabi 4/5

We were surprised to find the Hotate Nori Wasabi ($19.80/3 pcs) listed under the main course, as they are bite-sized and feel more like an appetiser. Nevertheless, the scallops were perfectly pan-fried and paired wonderfully with the kizami wasabi and crispy nori.

Unagi Chahan 4.2/5

Last but not least, we tried the Unagi Chahan ($16.80). While it may look ordinary, it packs incredible flavour! Each grain of rice is coated in a savoury sauce and fried to a delightful char. The overall taste is a balanced savoury mix with a hint of sweetness reminiscent of teriyaki. This dish is both appetising and hearty, making it perfect for sharing. Be sure to enjoy it while it's hot for the best experience.

For drinks, Hiyaki offers a well-curated selection of beers, sake, and cocktails. Their highballs are priced at S$10.80, and they feature a 1-for-1 Sapporo beer deal at S$11.80 from Monday to Thursday, between 4:30 pm and 7:00 pm.

Overall, we were thoroughly impressed with the quality and flavours of the food at Hiyaki. We look forward to seeing them maintain these high standards in the future.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hiyaki Yakitori Izakaya Bar
33 Kampong Bahru Road
Singapore 169354
Tel: +65 9487 5363
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 5pm – 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk to New Bridge Road. Left turn and walk down New Bridge Road. Continue onto Kampong Bahru Road. Walk to the row of shophouses along Kampong Bahru Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Akira Back @ JW Marriott Singapore South Beach - Akira Back Brunch Club: A Newly Introduced Social Affair of Flowing Brunch on Saturdays

Akira Back at JW Marriott Singapore South Beach has introduced its very own Akira Back Brunch Club, reimagining the traditional Sunday brunch experience and offering it exclusively on Saturdays. The menu reflects Chef Akira Back's heritage, blending modern Japanese cuisine with a Korean flair.

Tuna & Mushroom Pizza 3/5

Wagyu Taco 3/5

Starters are all about the crunch. We began with Tuna & Mushroom Pizza and Wagyu Taco, both featuring a crunch element — a crisp and thin pizza base and a crunchy taco, respectively. The pizza was elegant, topped with paper-thin slices of tuna and mushrooms over the equally thin base, although I found the truffle aroma to be a tad overpowering. The wagyu taco whetted our appetites with its unctuous mouthfeel.

Japanese Oysters 4.5/5

Next, we enjoyed Fresh Harvest, showcasing Japanese Oysters accompanied by various condiments. I highly recommend trying the fresh oyster with yuzu, which lent an extra zing to the oceany taste.

Sashimi and Nigiri 4/5

Following this was free-flow Sashimi and Nigiri, laid out in a stunning presentation that was a feast for the eyes. The selection included Salmon, Akami, Spanish Mackerel, Seabream, and two types of Maki Rolls. I was pleasantly surprised by how flavourful the Akami was, given that it is a lean meat. The Red Dragon maki and Spicy Garden maki spiced up the course with spice and heat, with the latter reminiscent of gimbap sans the sesame seaweed.

Mung Bean Pancake with AB Kimchi Salad.3.5/5

From the Korean Heritage section, we had a Mung Bean Pancake with AB Kimchi Salad. Including such a traditional dish was delightful, as I rarely experienced such a homely dish. However, I wonder if it could be less greasy. The accompanying salad was a star on its own — fresh and crisp, aromatic with sesame oil and kimchi sauce.

Kanpachi Kama 4/5

The Hot Collection is also free-flowing and was a highlight of the menu. The Kanpachi Kama was perfectly grilled, retaining its moisture and tender flesh. The accompanying yuzu puree accentuated its naturally sweet flavour.

Beef Toban 4.8/5

The Beef Toban came sizzling hot, and the aroma of the caramelising sauce was simply divine. The sauce was umami with a bit of tang, sweetened with caramelised onions. The mushrooms and beef dressed in the sauce delivered the utmost satisfaction.

Rock Shrimp Tempura 4.8/5

Rock Shrimp Tempura was a bowl of battered rock shrimp chunks topped with a slightly sweet, creamy, tangy sauce. The batter wasn't exactly tempura-style, but it was thin and delectable, with a chewy texture that gave a textural contrast to the firm and slightly crunchy texture of the rock shrimp.

Dessert 4/5

Dessert was an artful experience featuring the AB Cigar, Glossy Apple-Y, and aromatic Hojicha Ice Cream.

Akira Back Brunch Club is available every Saturday, from 12pm at $98.00++ per person.

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.


Akira Back
JW Marriott Singapore South Beach
30 Beach Road
Level B1M
Singapore 189763
Tel: +65 68181914
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (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]

Nobu @ Four Seasons Hotel Singapore - Launches new "Taste of Nobu" Bottomless Weekend Brunch

Nobu at the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore has introduced an enticing "Taste of Nobu" weekend brunch, allowing diners to indulge in unlimited servings of Nobu’s signature creations. This semi-buffet brunch concept pairs exquisite dishes with free-flow beverage options, providing an experience that epitomizes luxury and indulgence.

Upon arrival, diners are greeted by a visually stunning counter spread where Nobu’s skilled chefs prepare a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, cold dishes, and salads right before your eyes.

Some standout items from the counter include the Yellowtail Jalapeño, Umami Chicken Wing, Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, and Sashimi Salad with Matsuhisa Dressing. Each dish is meticulously crafted, offering bursts of flavour that are irresistible. However, with so many delectable options on offer, I recommend exercising some restraint to save room for the hot dishes, which are prepared à la minute and served directly to your table.

Rock Shrimp Tempura with Creamy Spicy Sauce 4.5/5

Shojin Tempura 4/5

Nasu Miso 3.5/5

The hot dishes at Nobu are nothing short of spectacular, beginning with the Rock Shrimp Tempura with Creamy Spicy Sauce, Shojin Tempura, and Nasu Miso. Among these, the Rock Shrimp Tempura was the star, with tender shrimp encased in a thin, crispy coating and tossed in an addictive, creamy, spicy sauce that left me yearning for more.

Scallop Wasabi Pepper 3.5/5

Black Cod Miso 4.5/5

Salmon Steak Yuzu Butter Soy 4.2/5

Moving on to more substantial dishes, the Scallop Wasabi Pepper, Black Cod Miso, and Salmon Steak Yuzu Butter Soy offer a true taste of Nobu's signature dishes. The portions are generous, with each dish being almost a complete meal on its own. The Black Cod Miso and Salmon Steak particularly stood out, with flavours so well-balanced and satisfying that they alone are reason enough for a return visit.

F1 Japanse Beef and Mushroom Toban Yaki 4.2/5

The pinnacle of the brunch experience was the F1 Japanese Beef and Mushroom Toban Yaki. Served sizzling on a hotplate, the dish features tender slices of premium beef resting on a bed of mushrooms, all cooked in a sweet and savoury sauce that begs to be paired with a bowl of rice. The beef was succulent and perfectly cooked, making this dish a must-try for any beef lover.

Nobu’s weekend brunch also features a decadent dessert room that showcases the brand's popular Nobu-style Cheesecake along with handcrafted desserts such as Green Tea Flan, Chocolate Miso Cream Puff, and Yuzu Meringue Tarts. Each dessert is an indulgent treat, perfectly rounding off the brunch with a sweet and satisfying finale..

To complement the exceptional food, Nobu Singapore offers bottomless alcohol packages at an additional charge. These packages feature premium Taittinger champagne, Nobu Matsuhisa white wine, red wine, and sake, as well as craft cocktails. One of the beverage highlights is the Nobu Junmai Daiginjo, an exclusive sake available only at Nobu restaurants. This medium-bodied sake is smooth, crisp, and complex, with delicate floral notes that pair beautifully with Nobu's dishes, offering a truly immersive and luxurious dining experience.

"Taste of Nobu" Weekend Brunch
• Priced at SGD 168++ per person, inclusive of free flow of juices, soft drinks, teas and selected mocktails
• Additional SGD 60++ per person for an upgrade to the Classic beverage package, which includes a free flow of selected sake, champagne, wines and beers
• Additional SGD 168++ per person for an upgrade to the Luxe beverage package, which consists of a free flow of selected sake, champagne, wines, beers and craft cocktails

For those seeking a sophisticated brunch experience, Nobu’s weekend offering is an indulgent way to spend a leisurely afternoon with flavours that linger long after the meal is over.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Nobu Singapore
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
190 Orchard Boulevard
Singapore 248646
Tel: +65 6831 7653
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 11. Walk straight to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Jun Omakase @ Samsung Hub - Contunues to Impress with its Commitment to Quality and Freshness

It's been six years since I first visited Jun Omakase at Samsung Hub back in 2018, and I'm delighted to see that it has not only stood the test of time but continues to impress with its exceptional omakase offerings. On this visit, my friend and I decided to indulge in two of their omakase menus: the Ume Omakase ($168) and Jun Omakase ($228).

Ume Omakase - 3 Seasonal Appetiser 4/5

Jun Omakase - 3 Seasonal Appetiser 4/5

We began our omakase dinner with three seasonal appetisers, each offering a unique taste of the season's finest ingredients. The Ume Omakase featured a delightful trio: Fire Squid Tempura, Tofu Skin with Junsai (water shield), and Shellfish. Each bite was a delicate balance of flavours and textures, setting the stage for what was to come.

The appetisers for the Jun Omakase, which included Sawagani, a Japanese soft-shell freshwater crab, and Uni, took on a more premium flair. The Sawagani was crispy and full of umami, while the uni was rich and creamy, a perfect introduction to the higher-end offerings of the Jun Omakase.

Ume Omakase - Ikura Chawanmushi 4/5

Jun Omakase - Uni Truffle Chawanmushi 4.2/5

Next came the Chawanmushi, a beloved Japanese steamed egg custard. The Ume Omakase treated us to an Ikura Chawanmushi, where the briny pops of ikura (salmon roe) contrasted beautifully with the smooth, savoury custard. Meanwhile, the Jun Omakase elevated this dish with a luxurious Uni Truffle Chawanmushi, where the earthiness of the truffle melded with the richness of uni, creating a sublime dish that lingered on the palate.

Ume Omakase - 7pc Seasonal Sashimi 4.5/5

Jun Omakase - 8 pc Premium Sashimi 4.5/5

The sashimi course was undoubtedly the highlight of the night, showcasing an impressive array of freshly imported seafood from Japan. The Ume Omakase offered a 7-piece selection, including Tuna Jaw, Spotted Grouper, Striped Jack, Silver Beltfish, Sweet Shrimp, Scallops, and Sea Bream. Each piece was a testament to the restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality.

On the other hand, the Jun Omakase provided an 8-piece selection of premium sashimi. This included Tuna Jaw, Pomfret, Scallop, Alfonsino, Amberjack Belly, Silver Beltfish, Sweet Shrimp, and Herring Roe on Kelp. The additional piece of sashimi, coupled with the more luxurious choices, made this course a feast for the senses, truly showcasing the best of what the sea has to offer.

Ume Omakase - Two Types of Seasonal Dishes 4/5

Ume Omakase - Two Types of Seasonal Dishes 3.8/5

We were treated to two cooked seasonal dishes for the Ume Omakase: a perfectly grilled Sea Barracuda and a decadent combination of Scallop and Foie Gras. The Barracuda was beautifully charred, retaining its natural flavours, while the Scallop and Foie Gras dish provided a rich and indulgent contrast.

Jun Omakase - Two Types of Premium Dishes 4.2/5

Jun Omakase - Two Types of Premium Dishes 4/5

The Jun Omakase, staying true to its premium promise, offered Kinmedai (Golden Eye Snapper) for the grilled fish dish and an exquisite A5 Kagoshima Wagyu. The Kinmedai was delicate and flavourful, with its skin crisped to perfection. The A5 Wagyu, as expected, melted in the mouth, delivering an unparalleled richness that left a lasting impression.

Ume Omakase - Negi Toro Uni Don 4.2/5

For the carbo course, the Ume Omakase menu offered a choice between 6 pieces of Nigiri or Negi Toro Uni Don. We opted for the latter, a bowl of finely chopped fatty tuna topped with uni. The combination of flavours was as delightful as indulgent, a satisfying end to the savoury courses.

Jun Omakase - 6pc Nigiri 4.5/5

Jun Omakase - 2 Premium Hand Roll 4/5

There was no such choice in the Jun Omakase, but we were certainly not disappointed. It included 6 pieces of meticulously crafted Nigiri and 2 Premium Hand Rolls. By this point, I was almost too full, but the chef kindly reduced the amount of rice in the sushi, allowing me to savour each piece without feeling overwhelmed.

To conclude this exquisite meal, we were served a trio of desserts: Japanese Musk Melon, Cheesecake, and Kanten Jelly with Okinawa Brown Sugar. The Musk Melon was incredibly sweet and juicy, a refreshing palate cleanser. The Cheesecake was rich and creamy, while the Kanten Jelly provided a light, sweet ending to this remarkable dining experience.

Jun Omakase continues to impress with its commitment to quality, freshness, and culinary excellence. Whether you opt for the Ume Omakase or the more premium Jun Omakase, you're in for a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying. This is a place where the art of omakase is celebrated, and where each dish is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. I'm glad to see that after six years, Jun Omakase remains a steadfast beacon of culinary brilliance in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jun Omakase
Samsung Hub
3 Church Street
Singapore 049483
Tel: +65 62240311
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Raffles Place (EW. NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 930pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to the traffic light junction at Cecil Street and Church Street. Cross the road. Walk down Church Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]