Showing posts with label Sashimi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sashimi. Show all posts

Saturday, June 28, 2025

Sushi Muni (無二) @ International Plaza - New Kid On The Block, Offering $98 Lunch Omakase

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Tucked away in International Plaza, Sushi Muni (無二) has quietly made a name for itself in just over six months since its opening. This intimate 10-seater omakase restaurant, often fully booked, has cultivated a loyal following who return time and again for Chef Chon's meticulous creations. The name 無二, meaning "one of a kind," perfectly encapsulates the restaurant's philosophy, offering diners a culinary experience marked by purity, precision and artistry.

We had the pleasure of trying their Omakase lunch, priced at $98 per person, which takes guests on a thoughtfully curated journey across multiple courses.

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Umibudo Salad 3.8/5

The meal started with a refreshing Umibudo Salad. Served alongside hot green tea, the crunchy fresh seagrapes added a pleasant saltiness, balancing the light and palatable flavours of the salad.

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Muzuku with Ebi Chawanmushi 3.8/5

The second course, Muzuku with Ebi Chawanmushi, showcased an interesting textural play with Japanese seaweed and minced shrimp, lightly accented by a hint of ginger. This creative take on chawanmushi was both surprising and enjoyable.

Chef

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Sashimi 4/5

Next came the Sashimi course featuring Mizu Tako and Chutoro. The Mizu Tako is thinly sliced giant octopus leg, recommended to be paired with sea salt instead of the usual soy sauce, allowing its natural flavours to shine. The Chutoro was fatty, sweet and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

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Wagyu Sukishabu 4.5/5

The highlight of the meal for us was undoubtedly the Wagyu Sukishabu - Presented with great flair, the beautifully marbled Wagyu was lightly swished in broth right before our eyes, served atop a poached egg and finished with crispy sushi rice for added texture.

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Tomio Miso Kuzu Somen 4/5

Following that was the Tomio Miso Kuzu Somen, served in a charming cup. Made with konjac, the somen offered a slightly crunchy texture, paired with tiny Tomio fishes in a soy milk broth that was light and refreshing.

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The sushi selection featured five varieties: Shima Aji, Ama Ebi, Tachiuo, Otoro, and Uni. While the freshness was undeniable, we personally found the texture of a few pieces a tad slimy for our taste.

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As a pleasant surprise, we were also served a bonus Handroll with Pickled Gourd, offering a sweet and crunchy bite. Additionally, the chef presented us with a special mackerel sushi of the day, which we found slightly fishy.

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Torotakudon 4.2/5

Another standout was the Torotakudon, generously topped with fresh minced tuna and ikura, a dish that is both indulgent and straightforward

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Miso Soup 3.5/5

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Homemade Tamago 4/5

As we approached the end of the meal, we were served Miso Soup and an eye-catching Homemade Tamago. The tamago resembled a chiffon cake, subtly sweet and savoury with hidden layers of fish paste, shrimps and taro bits. This is such a delightful twist on tradition.

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Matcha Pudding with Corn Shiratama and Hokkaido Red Bean 4/5

Dessert brought a satisfying close to the meal with the Matcha Pudding with Corn Shiratama and Hokkaido Red Bean. The handmade corn shiratama offered a wonderful mochi-like texture, while the stretchy matcha pudding and perfectly cooked red bean rounded off the dessert beautifully.

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Sushi Muni offers an impressive value with their $98 lunch omakase, available Tuesday through Saturday, with two seatings daily. Choose either Sushi Omakase or the Omakase Course that we had. For dinner, guests can enjoy the elevated Muni Omakase experience for $198 per person. Whether you're a seasoned omakase enthusiast or a curious first-timer, Sushi Muni delivers an artful and memorable dining experience well worth trying.

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


Sushi Muni (無二)
International Plaza
10 Anson Road
#02-28
Singapore 079903
Tel: +65 8492 6387
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 6pm - 10pm
Tue-Sat: 1130am - 1pm, 130pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
(Closed on Sun)

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

Monday, June 16, 2025

Cafe Quenino @ Artyzen Singapore - Celebrating SG60 with Local Flavours and a Nostalgic Kaya Collaboration

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In celebration of Singapore's 60th birthday, Café Quenino at Artyzen Singapore launches The Heart of SG60, a six-month culinary campaign running from May to October 2025. This gastronomic journey pays tribute to local flavours, people, and stories that define Singapore's culinary identity. Each month features guest collaborations, heritage partners, and menus that showcase Singapore's diverse food culture in a uniquely local light.

For June, Café Quenino partners with the iconic Chin Mee Chin, the beloved East Coast confectionery celebrating its 100th anniversary. For the first time, Chin Mee Chin's famed kaya is now available beyond its flagship store, thanks to this exclusive, year-long collaboration.

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A must-try from the bar is the Kaya Toastini ($26), part of the campaign's Spirit of Singapore cocktail programme curated by Senior Mixologist Sathya. Served in a nostalgic kopi cup with a slice of kaya butter toast (made with kaya from Chin Mee Chin), the cocktail blends Roberto Cavalli vodka, coffee liqueur, and kopi, striking a balance between bold, bittersweet, and creamy flavours. It's a playful yet nostalgic drink that bridges the heritage of traditional mixology with modern techniques. It is a true crowd-pleaser.

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Ora King Salmon Sashimi 4/5

The meal begins with Ora King Salmon Sashimi, delicately paired with chilli and black bean, which give a punchy umami lift to the buttery salmon. A squeeze of calamansi brightens the flavours even more. It was light, refreshing, and appetising.

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Heirloom Tomato Salad 3.5/5

Next is the Heirloom Tomato Salad, a simple yet flavourful medley of sweet heirloom tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, basil, and shallots, finished with a black vinegar dressing. Clean and vibrant, this dish is a palate refresher with just the right acidity to balance the richness of the main courses.

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Ayam Percik 4/5

The Ayam Percik features tender chicken cooked in aromatic percik sauce paired with vibrant capsicum salsa and coconut basmati rice. The rice was a standout. It was fragrant and fluffy, garnering praise from diners. The percik sauce could be more robust and spicy to match the full-bodied profile it typically carries. A side of sambal or chilli dip would round out the dish nicely.

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Hainanese Beef Brisket 4/5

As part of the collaboration, Chin Mee Chin reimagines the traditional Hainanese Beef Brisket in a modern light. The tender, slow-braised beef is paired with Café Quenino’s silky mashed potatoes, offering a comforting and creamy base. Accompanied by pickled onions and a crisp garden salad, the dish strikes a harmonious balance between nostalgic flavours and contemporary finesse—a thoughtful nod to heritage with a refreshing twist.

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Kaya Mille-feuille 4.2/5

To end on a sweet note, the Kaya Mille-feuille is a nostalgic dessert that layers Chin Mee Chin's kaya, mango lychee, and coconut ice cream between crispy pastry. It evoked fond memories of childhood, reminiscent of kaya spread on cream crackers. It is a clever reinterpretation that respects tradition while adding new textures and flavours.

Café Quenino's "The Heart of SG60" series is more than just a dining experience. It's a celebration of memory, identity, and evolution. With Chin Mee Chin's heritage kaya now given a broader platform and new creative expressions, the campaign promises many more heartfelt stories and flavours in the months to come.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Cafe Quenino
Artyzen Singapore
9 Cuscaden Road
Level 1
Singapore 249719
Tel: +65 6371 6020
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line), Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 12 midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT Station. Take Exit 1. Walk to Cuscaden Road. Turn right onto Cuscaden Road. Walk down Cuscaden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT Station. Take Exit 11. Walk down Orchard Boulevard towards Four Seasons Hotel. Take the walk path beside Four Seasons Hotel to Cuscaden Road. Walk to the junction of Cuscaden Road and turn left onto Cuscaden Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Friday, April 25, 2025

Sapoto @ Amara Hotel - A New and Stellar Yakitori Omakase Experience

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The yakitori omakase scene in Singapore got even more exciting with the arrival of Sapōto, tucked away in Tanjong Pagar. This modern yet intimate Japanese grillhouse is helmed by Chef Shyong, formerly head chef of Shirokane Tori-Tama, bringing over a decade of yakitori mastery to the table. Backed by the team behind Sushi Yujo and SHINRAI and guided by the creative vision of Chef Desmond Fong, Sapōto promises a captivating blend of traditional Japanese grilling and modern culinary finesse — all at an exceptional value, with lunch omakase starting from $48 and dinner from $98.

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Sashimi 3 Kinds 4.2/5

I had the pleasure of experiencing their $148 Sapōto Omakase, and it was a journey that fired up all the right senses. We began with Sashimi – 3 Kinds (Akami, Tai, Otoro), showcasing the restaurant's quality commitment. Each slice was pristine and expertly cut, offering clean, fresh flavours that opened the meal beautifully.

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Chutoro Carpaccio 4.2/5

The next dish, Chutoro Carpaccio, elevated the richness of fatty tuna with the luxurious touch of truffle and caviar. Rolled up like a wrap, the bite delivered a satisfying explosion of umami, creaminess, and decadence.

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Tsukune with Egg Yolk 5/5

Surprisingly, the first skewer to arrive was the Tsukune with Egg Yolk, usually saved for the finale at most yakitori joints. Sapōto flipped the script — and it paid off. Juicy and smoky with a delightful crunch from embedded soft bones, the tsukune was divine when dipped into the rich egg yolk. This was hands down one of the best versions I've tasted.

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Bonjiri, Chicken Tail 4.2/5

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Grilled Chicken Heart 4.2/5

The Bonjiri (Chicken Tail) followed, showcasing tender meat and a crispy skin that added an extra layer of textural enjoyment. Meanwhile, the Grilled Chicken Heart was juicy and springy, delivering the slight chew that offal lovers crave.

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Grilled Chicken Shoulder 4.5/5

The Grilled Chicken Shoulder brought even more tenderness, with juicy meat that practically melted in the mouth.

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Grilled Mushroom 4/5

Next, the Grilled Mushroom provided an earthy counterpoint to the meats — charred on the outside yet juicy within, it was simple but satisfying.

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Uni Truffle Brioche 4.2/5

Then came a luxurious interlude with the Uni Truffle Brioche. Soft, buttery brioche paired with creamy uni and shaved truffle was indulgent without being overwhelming.

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Grilled Chicken Thigh with Leek 4.8/5

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Grilled Chicken Neck 4.2/5

We then resumed our yakitori lineup with Grilled Chicken Thigh with Leek and Grilled Chicken Neck. The thigh skewer was a standout — perfectly seasoned with just salt, it let the chicken's natural flavours shine. The addition of leek offered a smoky sweetness. The neck was slightly chewier with more bite, but it still delivered on flavour.

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Grilled Japanese Broccoli 3.8/5

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Grilled Pork Jowl 4.2/5

The Grilled Japanese Broccoli felt slightly overseasoned but was nonetheless a welcome break from the meats. The Grilled Pork Jowl, with its fatty marbling and charred edges, was decadent and rich, a worthy competitor to the chicken skewers.

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Grilled Chicken Mid-Wing 4.5/5

We circled back to poultry with the Grilled Chicken Mid-Wing, a crowd-pleaser with its juicy meat and bone-in goodness — sometimes simple really is best.

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Scallop with Toasted Seaweed 4.5/5

A delightful surprise arrived next in the form of Scallop with Toasted Seaweed. Lightly torched Hokkaido scallop was served alongside crispy seaweed, the combination creating a beautifully balanced bite of oceanic sweetness and crisp nuttiness.

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Sapoto Ramen 4/5

As the savoury portion of the omakase drew to a close, the Sapōto Ramen offered a comforting finale. The broth was light yet full of flavour, and the piece of grilled chicken nestled within tied it back to the theme of the meal.

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Musk Melon 4.5/5

For dessert, we were served a slice of Musk Melon, known for its aromatic sweetness and juicy perfection. It was a simple but elegant ending to a satisfying and cohesive meal.

Overall, Sapōto impresses with technique and thoughtful progression, premium ingredients, and a confident balance between classic yakitori and modern Japanese touches. With its value-for-money omakase menus and polished execution, it's a must-visit for yakitori lovers and anyone looking for a standout omakase experience in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sapoto
Amara Hotel
165 Tanjong Pagar Road
#02-26
Singapore 088539
Tel: +65 8823 8831
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Peck Seah Street towards Gopeng Street. Turn right onto Gopeng Street and walk down Gopeng Street. Turn left onto Tras Street and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, April 17, 2025

Kaya @ The Standard Singapore - A Bold New Take of Japanese Izakaya

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Kaya at The Standard Singapore is a relatively new addition, opening in December 2024. The menu offers sharing plates inspired by familiar Japanese flavours with a fresh, inventive twist — mirrored by the equally creative cocktails from Kaya Bar.

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Daikon Slaw 5/5

To begin with, both starters — the Daikon Slaw ($14) and It Is What It Is ($26) — were excellent. The Daikon Slaw delivered the perfect crunch, thanks to the way the white daikon was sliced into bean sprout-like strips and then tossed with charred corn and cucumber slices. A generous heap of crispy onions and ginger added a savoury warmth that balanced the freshness of the dish. Lightly coated in dressing, every bite celebrated the simplicity and quality of the ingredients.

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It Is What It Is 5/5

It Is What It Is was a beautifully plated presentation of seasonal sashimi, dressed in a tangy wasabi vinaigrette and topped with dashi jelly and olive dust. The vinaigrette was vibrant and addictive, delivering a mustardy sharpness that enhanced the delicate flavours of the fish. A sprinkle of mustard cress echoed the wasabi notes, while the olive dust — presumably made from dehydrated olives — added a salty umami depth reminiscent of shoyu.

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Nikujaga 5/5

For mains, the Nikujaga ($39) impressed me with its twice-cooked short rib, which had a buttery mouthfeel and a robust beefy flavour. An umami-sweet nikutare, shio kombu, and katsuobushi elevated this richness. Pickled shimeji mushrooms added just the right acidity to cut through the fattiness of the meat.

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Kani Meshi Nabe 3.8/5

The Kani Meshi Nabe ($65) offered an interesting take on Japanese claypot rice, combining elements of Kani Meshi and Kani Nabe. Served tableside with a drizzle of uni crème mixed into slightly scorched rice, the dish brought together sweet, oceany, and briny notes from the snow crab, ikura, and uni. While the flavours were spot on, I would have preferred the rice to be firmer and less wet, better to emulate the texture of traditional claypot rice.

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Sweet Potato Mont Blanc 4/5

Dessert was a tough choice, with every option looking equally tempting. I settled on the Sweet Potato Mont Blanc ($16), which featured a trio of Japanese sweet potatoes: velvety purple potato purée, yellow sweet potato crisps, and savoury-sweet orange sweet potato dust, served together with nutty pistachio sponge and candied chestnuts. I loved the interplay of textures and the depth of flavour, though I felt the generous amount of sweet potato purée could have been better balanced with a bit more of the pistachio sponge.

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Niji Negroni

From Kaya Bar, the meal was completed with the Niji Negroni — a vibrant concoction of Sakura tea–infused Roku Gin, Discarded Cascara Sweet Vermouth, yuzu umeshu, barrel-aged Campari, and yuzu bitters, served in a glass rimmed with zero-waste lemongrass powder.

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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.


Kaya
The Standard, Singapore
12 Orange Grove Rd
#02-00
Singapore 258353
Tel: 6040 1888
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 630am - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 630am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 23 minutes. [Map]