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]

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Showcasing Best of Irish Produces, Silver Hill Duck, John Stone Dry-Aged Beef and Hampshire Pork

Man Fu Yuan at InterContinental Singapore has partnered with the Irish Duck Company to present 'The Best of Irish Showcase.' From 1 October 1st to 15 November, three 6-course menus highlighting some of Ireland's finest produce will be offered for lunch and dinner. Irish Duck Company is the exclusive distributor that first brought the world-famous Silver Hill Duck to Asia, and thanks to them, we get to savour the 'wagyu of duck' right here in Singapore. They are now ready to introduce the exquisite John Stone Dry-Aged Beef and Hampshire Pork to Singapore. In the hands of Man Fu Yuan's Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan, these premium Irish meats to the table, highlighting their qualities with Cantonese traditional flavours and techniques.

Appetiser 4.5/5

Each of the 3 menus brings together all three of these finest Irish products in a single menu. We tried the Elegant Set Menu. We started with an appetiser featuring John Stone Irish Smoked Salmon Flower with wasabi aioli, Chilled Cherry Vine Tomatoes with crab meat and Chilled John Stone Dry-Aged Beef. The aged beef, infused with the aged-citrus honey soya sauce, intensified the already rich flavour, creating an incredibly meaty texture. The smoked salmon was just as delectable with its luscious texture and deep flavour. The exquisite crab meat added balance to the dish, introducing a sweet and refreshing note that harmonised the flavours beautifully.

Soup 4/5

The Soup course was a Braised Golden Bird's Nest with golden pumpkin superior stock. The soup had an incredible depth of flavour with a slight creamy consistency.

Wok-fried John Stone Irish Lamb Loin 3/5

The 3rd course is Hong Kong Kailan with Wok-fried John Stone Irish Lamb Loin with Sarawak black pepper sauce. The lamb loin was succulent, tender, and quite delicate on the level of gaminess. The black pepper sauce, however, was too much for me.

Braised Irish Hampshire Pork Belly 5/5

Next was Braised Irish Hampshire Pork Belly with South African 5-head Abalone. A very considered dish - a sumptuous pork belly with an ideal balance between meat and fat, resulting in an unctuous delight. To complement this decadent meat, a 5-head abalone was paired with the pork belly, tender and infused with the rich flavours of the braising sauce.

XO Chinese La Mian with Rock Lobster, Silver Hill Irish Duck 4/5

The last main was a much-anticipated dish - XO Chinese La Mian with Rock Lobster and Silver Hill Irish Duck in XO sauce. Like the previous course, pairing relatively fatty meat with lean seafood created a harmonious balance between two exquisite ingredients, enhancing the other's qualities. The XO sauce didn't work for me.

Oven-baked Mango Pudding 4/5

The dessert is Oven-baked Mango Pudding, which is extra comforting. It is served warm in the traditional way.

The Elegant Set Menu, ideal for 3 to 5 persons, is priced at $228 per person. All set menus include an optional wine-pairing option at $68++ 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. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1145am - 330pm, 630pm - 1030pm

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