Monday, February 3, 2025

Ganko Sushi @ Penang Road (Dhoby Ghaut) - Welcome Chinese New Year with $98 14-Course Omakase

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Ganko Sushi, situated on Penang Road near Dhoby Ghaut, is the brand’s first foray into Southeast Asia. Since its arrival in Singapore a few years back, the restaurant has consistently maintained its hallmark quality by flying in fresh ingredients from Japan up to three times weekly.

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Diners can choose between counter seating to observe the chefs at work or more traditional table seating, ideal for gatherings.

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14-Course Omakase 4/5

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with Ganko’s meticulously crafted 14-Course Omakase ($98/pax), available for lunch and dinner.

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Appetiser

The omakase began with an Appetiser of lightly torched Chutoro drizzled in Ponzu Sauce and garnished with radish.

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Sashimi

The Sashimi course presented a selection of Salmon, Golden Eye Snapper, Flounder, and Monkfish Liver in a sweet sauce. While the cuts weren’t the finest we’ve encountered, they were considerably fresh.

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Palette Cleanser

Next was the Chawanmushi with Ikura, a Palette Cleanser. It was lightly seasoned with pops of ikura, mushroom and prawn.

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Fried and Grilled

Fried and Grilled offerings followed, including Grilled Eel, Tempura Lotus, Shiso Pepper, and Tempura Sea Bream. My dining companion and I thought it was a pity that the tempura batter was slightly thick and under-seasoned.

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Chilled Dish

The Chilled Dish served thick-cut aburi Amberjack on dashi soy sauce, paired with tender turnip and sweet red pepper.

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Sushi - Tai

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Sushi - Aji

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Sushi - Otoro

The Sushi course featured Tai, Aji topped with ginger and green onion, and Otoro, with each piece offering well-balanced flavours.

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Mid-way through the Sushi course, we were served with a hot bowl of Miso Soup to accompany.

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Sushi - Bara Gunkan

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Sushi - Hotate

The Sushi lineup continued with a Bara Gunkan, a blend of salmon, sea bream, and prawn topped with ikura, and a lightly torched Hotate dressed in sweet soy sauce and a hint of yuzu kasho for a refreshing hit.

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Seasonal Dessert

Dessert rounded off the meal with a seasonal medley of Apple, Pear, Muscat, Strawberry Jelly, and raspberry sauce, offering a simple and sweet end to the feast.

Reservations are highly encouraged to be made by reaching them at +65 8828 2280.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ganko Sushi
9 Penang Road
#01-01
Singapore 238459
Tel: +65 8828 2280
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut MRT (CC, NE, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130a, - 230pm, 6pm to 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Penang Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, February 2, 2025

Hai Tien Lo @ Pan Pacific Singapore - A Top-tier Choice For a Luxurious Lunar New Year Celebration

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Hai Tien Lo at Pan Pacific Singapore ushers in the Year of the Snake with a luxurious Chinese New Year feast curated by Chef Ricky. The feast showcases premium ingredients and masterful execution. The festive menu blends traditional flavours with innovative touches, making it a celebratory dining experience perfect for the season.

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Fortune Yu Sheng with Classic Whole Abalone, Smoked Salmon and Jelly Fish 4.2/5

The feast began with the customary Lo Hei, featuring the Fortune Yu Sheng with Classic Whole Abalone, Smoked Salmon, and Jellyfish. A vibrant mix of flavours and textures, the combination of fresh seafood, crisp vegetables, and tangy sauce set the stage for an auspicious year ahead.

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Double-boiled Buddha Jumps Over the Wall 5/5

A true showstopper, the Double-boiled Buddha Jumps Over the Wall was an absolute delight. Made with premium ingredients such as abalone and matsutake mushrooms, the soup was rich, nourishing, and deeply flavourful. The dish showcases the essence of luxurious Chinese cuisine.

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Braised South African Whole Abalone with Truffles and Crispy Sea Cucumber 4.5/5

For another indulgent treat, the Braised South African Whole Abalone with Truffles and Crispy Sea Cucumber delivered in both flavour and texture. The succulent abalone was beautifully braised in a luscious sauce, while the crispy sea cucumber — coated in a delicate batter — added an exciting contrast of textures.

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Baked Lobster with Butter, Signature Homemade XO Chilli Sauce 4.8/5

One of the most talked-about dishes of the night was the Baked Lobster with Butter and Signature Homemade XO Chilli Sauce. The rich, umami-packed XO sauce elevated the sweet, juicy lobster meat, which had everyone at the table raving. The butter infusion added a layer of indulgence, making this dish a definite highlight of the meal.

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Stewed Inaniwa Udon with Fish Maw, Pan Fried Scallops, Sliced Barbecued Beijing Duck 4.5/5

A unique and unexpected addition to the menu was the Stewed Inaniwa Udon — a departure from the usual rice or noodle dishes found in Chinese restaurants. The silky, delicate udon absorbed the essence of the fish maw, scallops, and barbecued duck, creating a luxurious and well-balanced dish. Though the udon stood well on its own, the addition of premium ingredients elevated the overall experience.

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Double-boiled Imperial Swiftlet's Nest with Red Dates and Rock Sugar 4.2/5

Dessert was a nourishing and refined Double-boiled Imperial Swiftlet’s Nest with Red Dates and Rock Sugar. The light, refreshing sweetness made it a perfect ending to the meal, striking a balance between tradition and indulgence.

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Gold Ingot Cake coated with Finely-ground Nuts and Shredded Yam 5/5

We also had the Gold Ingot Cake coated with Finely Ground Nuts and Shredded Yam. Though simple in appearance, the nian gao was exceptionally delicious, with the nutty crunch and yam shreds adding layers of texture and flavour, making it surprisingly enjoyable.

Hai Tien Lo’s Chinese New Year menu is an extravagant and well-crafted feast, perfect for celebrating with family and loved ones. Standout dishes include the Double-boiled Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, Baked Lobster with XO Sauce, and Braised South African Abalone. With its meticulous execution and premium ingredients, the restaurant continues to be a top-tier choice for a luxurious Lunar New Year celebration.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hai Tien Lo
Pan Pacific Singapore
7 Raffles Boulevard
Level 3
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 68268240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 630pm - 1030pm

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