Tonkatsu ENbiton @ Vivocity - First Ever Yuzu Pork Tonkatsu Restaurant

EN Group has made a remarkable debut in Singapore's culinary scene with the launch of VivoCity's first-ever "yuzu pork" tonkatsu restaurant - Tonkatsu ENbiton. This 46-seater restaurant showcases the unique utilization of yuzu-infused pork sourced from Kagoshima. The pigs are thoughtfully fed with local yuzu as part of their regular diet, resulting in a nutritious pork rich in vitamin C, pectin and citric acid, which holds a higher melting point of fat.

Ume Shiso Hiyayakko

We started with the Ume Shiso Hiyayakko ($5), a delightful arrangement of silky-smooth cold tofu crowned with pickles. The combination provided a clean and invigorating taste, with the tangy zest from the pickles perfectly elevating the flavour profile.

Suntory The Premium Malt’s Pilsner Beer

Given the sweltering weather, we sought solace in a glass of Suntory The Premium Malt's Pilsner Beer to quench our thirst and complement the forthcoming deep-fried tonkatsu selections.

Oroshi Yuzu Rosu Katsu Set 3.8/5

Our attention then turned to the Oroshi Yuzu Rosu Katsu Set (S$24), which showcased the pinnacle of deep-fried excellence. The crispy and succulent yuzu-infused pork loin katsu was accompanied by grated yuzu ponzu daikon, Japanese white rice, cabbage and arugula, pickles, and tonjiru (pork miso soup). The refreshing touch of radish helped cleanse the palate after indulging in the rich, deep-fried delights. While the pork exhibited juiciness, we found it to be lacking in robust porky flavour. However, it's worth mentioning that the rice and cabbage offerings were delightfully free-flow.

Miyazaki Gyukatsu 3.8/5

For those seeking a touch of luxury, the A4/A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Katsu ($39) served with a hot stone grill captured our attention. Adorned with a light coat of crispy panko, this gyukatsu experience allowed diners to grill the wagyu to their desired doneness on the teppan hot stone. While Miyazaki is renowned for its high-quality wagyu, its premium quality didn't shine through in texture and flavour. While it may originate from Miyazaki, it likely wasn't from the top-tier cuts. Additionally, it's important to note that this option is limited to one order per person.

Miyazaki Wagyu Katsu Sando 3.5/5

Lastly, we encountered what could be described as one of the most visually unappealing sando. The chunky presentation made it challenging to bite into, even though it featured the same A4/A5 Miyazaki Wagyu ($37) as the previous gyukatsu dish. Nonetheless, the meat retained its succulence, potentially due to the utilization of a thicker cut.

Despite our observations regarding the premium quality of the cuts, it's undeniable that the dining experience offered excellent value for money.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tonkatsu ENbiton
Vivocity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#B2-27/27A
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 62648633
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Maji Curry @ Square 2 - Award-winning Japanese Curry Restaurant From Japan Impresses With Their Grandprix Winner Cheese Fondue Hamburg Curry Rice

Award-winning brand Maji Curry opened their very first outlet in Singapore, located within Novena Square 2 mall, alongside their current three outlets in Japan and another two worldwide. Their Japan store has made waves for having won the 2018 Kanda Curry Grand Prix the same year it opened, and now Maji Curry is bringing the very same award-winning dish to our shores.

Cheese Fondue Hamburg Curry 4/5

We tried the Cheese Fondue Hamburg Curry ($18.30), which has propelled the restaurant to fame. It comes with House-special Curry topped with a tender handmade Hamburg Steak and cheese fondue sauce on the side to pour atop the dish. Who knew that cheese and curry could pair so well together? Adding cheese to the dish helps amplify the curry's flavour, giving it a creamier and wholesome finish. Every order also comes with a saucer of the brand's take on fukujinzuke, a Japanese-style pickle, and a heap of crispy deep-fried shallots to sprinkle onto your rice.

Kushikatsu Curry Rice 3.8/5

The Kushikatsu Curry Rice ($16.50) features 5 kinds of deep-fried meat and vegetables on skewers atop Japanese rice doused in a savoury curry sauce. Kushikatsu is a classic delicacy from Japan, and if you love your deep-fried skewers, you'd love this dish. The meats are fried with a slightly thicker breaded exterior to a crunch on the outside while retaining their soft, tender texture within. You can dip the skewers into the curry to enhance its flavour.

Tonkatsu Omelette Curry 3.8/5

The Tonkatsu Omelette Curry ($18.50) comes with a panko-coated pork katsu atop a blanket of velvety omelette over Japanese rice, all in a huge plate of Maji Curry's signature gravy. Though a tad dry, the tonkatsu is tender with a nice crisp exterior. Like the rest of the dishes, the thick curry tasted moderately savoury with a mild sweetness. The spice aroma was strong, with a slight spice kick as well.

The humble restaurant is small and fuss-free. Customers can order from the electronic vending machines outside, take a number plate, find a table, and wait for their food which will be served relatively quick to your table. Sets are also available for the main dishes, which come with a salad and drink.

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.


Maji Curry
10 Sinaran Drive
#02-07
Singapore 307506
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Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

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