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]

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]

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]

Sakaba Igokochi @ NEWest - Transformation from Omakase to Izakaya Concept

Igokochi, nestled in NEWest, has recently undergone a captivating transformation. From its origins as an omakase restaurant, it now embraces the spirited essence of a Tokyo izakaya. Inspired by Shinjuku's bustling back alleys and hidden gems, Igokochi beckons with its izakaya-focused menu and bar.

Peperron Edamame 3/5

Takara MIO Sparkling Rose Sake Limited Edition 300ml

Before delving into the dining experience, we indulged in the Takara MIO Sparkling Rose Sake Limited Edition (300ml), served chilled. Accompanying this refreshing libation was the Peperron Edamame ($7). While the edamame pods were flavoured, the seasoning remained on the surface, sparing the prized beans inside.

Salmon Yukke-Style Carpaccio 4/5

The Salmon Yukke-Style Carpaccio ($13) graced our table next. Thick, luscious salmon slices bathed in a sweet and tangy chef's special sauce. Adorned with ikura, the pearls of umami goodness, it elevated the salmon's rich, fatty flavours.

Beef Tataki with Dashi Ponzu 3.8/5

Beef Tataki with Dashi Ponzu ($16) followed suit, showcasing thinly sliced, seared beef drizzled with a zesty dashi ponzu sauce. Adding green onions and fried garlic provided an aromatic and harmonious finish.

Kombu-marinated Chicken Thigh Steak 3.5/5

The Kombu-Marinated Chicken Thigh Steak ($15) showcased dry-aged chicken marinated in kombu before grilling. The result was a tender, moist, and intensely flavoured chicken. While the distinct chicken flavour might not suit every palate, it was a bold and unique creation.

Pressed Sushi 2.5/5

Despite its creative intent, the Pressed Sushi left us with mixed feelings. We opted for the Scallop Pressed Sushi ($22) adorned with ikura and green onions. Regrettably, the ratio of rice to scallop was skewed, overwhelming the delicate sashimi topping.

Japanese Style Grilled Apple 4/5

We savoured the Japanese Style Grilled Apple ($8), accompanied by red bean, mochi, and vanilla ice cream for dessert. This simple yet delightful dessert offered a sweet conclusion to our meal.

At Igokochi, the transformation from omakase to izakaya has brought forth a medley of flavours inspired by Tokyo's vibrant back alleys. While some dishes soared, others left room for further refinement, promising intriguing culinary journeys to come.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sakaba Igokochi
NEWest
1 West Coast Drive
#01-98/99
Singapore 128020
Tel: +65 6963 9430
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Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Clementi MRT station (Stop ID 17171). Take bus 154 or 201. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]