Despite opening for a couple of months, this supposedly famous ramen shop from Kagoshima remains quite under the radar. (Also read: 10 NEW Ramen Shops In Singapore)

Kagoshima Satsuma Shimuja Ramen has opened at Tanjong Pagar’s Enggor Street, right outside Icon Village.

Perhaps the success of a ramen shop in Singapore is a combination of location, branding, and good marketing. I haven’t talked about taste.

The words “Shimuja” 思無邪 have an interesting connotation of the purity of the mind though, perhaps a reflection of the Japanese’s noodle-cooking process.

Shi = Omoi (Thoughts) Mu = Nashi (Without) Ja = Yokoshima (Evil)
“With no wicked thoughts in mind.”

Ramen offerings in Singapore include the Kagoshima Special ($21), Satsuma Ramen ($15), Tokuaji ($19) which is a tonkotsu and chicken based soup, and Dry Ramen ($17).

The Kagoshima Special ($21) contained thick pork broth, topped with scallions, sprouts, kikurage mushrooms and kurobuta chashu.

A special feature is the Kaneyo soy sauce used which is made in Kagoshima.

Unlike other ramen, there are strips of burdock root, adding some crunch, and sweet-earthy flavours. I was more indifferent to it, though my friend found that distracting.

To me, the weakest link was the curly and moderately thick noodles though.

I didn’t mind that it was mid-wavy, but perhaps was cooked too soft. Also, it didn’t taste overly fresh (could be imported and refrigerated?), and would have preferred something chewier.

All in all, a decent bowl of ramen with unique, rich-tasting soup, but perhaps lacking in the visibility aspect.

Satsuma Shimuja
16 Enggor Street #01-01 Altez Singapore 079717
Tel: +65 9066 9448
Opening Hours: 11am – 2:30pm, 6pm – 10pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

Other Related Entries
10 NEW Ramen Shops In Singapore
Kanshoku Ramen Bar (Northpoint City)
Ramen Nagi (Suntec City)
Ippudo Ramen (Tanjong Pagar)
Menya Sakura (Boat Quay)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Satsuma Shimuja 薩摩思無邪 – Famous Kagoshima Ramen Shop Opens in Singapore At Tanjong Pagar appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Keisuke is indeed the “Ramen King” in Singapore, with (almost) every ramen concept he opened being popular with the crowds.

He has launched Singapore’s first dedicated duck ramen restaurant Ginza Kamo Soba Kyudaime Keisuke at Holland Village, also Keisuke’s first restaurant located in the West side of Singapore. (It is located above Basil Thai Kitchen, next to a shop called “Love In A Pot” with a logo very similar to the other “X In A Pot”.)

This comes after his other ramen concept stores of Keisuke Tontotsu King at Orchid Hotel, Tori King at 100AM, Four Seasons at Bugis Village, Ramen Dining Keisuke Tokyo at Suntec City, Matsuri at Parkway Parade and Ramen Keisuke Lobster King at Clarke Quay, and Keisuke Kani King at Orchard Cineleisure.

“Kamo Soba Keisuke” which literally translates to “Duck Ramen Keisuke”, was first established in Ginza Tokyo.

While you don’t often find duck used for ramen, the meat is ubiquitous in French cuisine which Chef Keisuke is formally trained in.

The offerings at Ginza Kamo Soba Kyudaime Keisuke include Rich Duck Broth ($14.90 base price), Clear Duck Broth ($14.90), Spicy Miso ($16.50), Miso ($16), Tsukemen ($14.90) and Mazesoba ($14.90).

All the ramen is served with slices of premium Irish hybrid duck – similar to the ‘London Duck’ that many other Singapore restaurants are using, chosen for its tender texture, fat content and rich flavour.

The duck is first grilled to give its skin a nice char, marinated in a special shoyu-based sauce, finally steamed at 65 degrees Celsius for a juicy bite.

I had the Hybrid Duck Broth Ramen (Rich Soup $14.90, $16.90with Flavoured Egg, $19.90 Special).

This has a more robust broth, in which duck bones and herbs are added to the stock and simmered for at least eight hours over a strong fire.

The soup reminded me of the versions at Lobster King, and Kani King – thick, slightly creamy and rich, except that I didn’t enjoy this as much due to the faint gaminess.

I preferred the Spicy Miso Hybrid Duck Broth Ramen ($16.50, with $18.50 Flavoured Egg, $21.50 Special) for the ball of homemade minced chilli, which perhaps covered that gaminess.

The duck meat was indeed tender, but one wished for thicker slices to experience that fullest and succulence.

There were oven-roasted Duck Meatballs added with yuzu peel for the Special Bowl, though they were less impressive as they lacked the bounciness one would expect, not ‘packed’ enough and quickly fell apart.

The beansprouts that I was so used to eating at all of the other branches, were sourish and off.

Overall, a decent and interesting bowls. I think there were some aspects that lowered the dining experience.

Ginza Kamo Soba Kyudaime Keisuke
16A Lor Mambong, Singapore 277677
Tel: +65 6463 4344
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10pm (Mon – Fri), 11.30am – 10pm (Sat – Sun), Last Order 30min before closing

Other Related Entries
10 NEW Ramen Shops In Singapore
Satsuma Shimuja 薩摩思無邪 (Tanjong Pagar)
Kanshoku Ramen Bar (Northpoint City)
Kaneta Shoten (Chinatown Point)
Ramen Hitoyoshi (Harbourfront Centre)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Ginza Kamo Soba Kyudaime Keisuke – Keisuke’s Duck Ramen At Holland Village appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Tokyo] Buzzfeed calls Jiro Ramen, ”One Of Tokyo’s Most Infamous Ramen Shops”, and you got to realise this is not quite like any other ramen. This is Japan afterall.

Established back in 1969, Ramen Jiro (not related to the sushi restaurant) has an avid cult-like following and is highly popular with college students.

There are around 30 locations in the Tokyo area and although all branches follow the same recipe, each varies slightly depending on the toppings and ingredients.

Take note though, there are some imitation shops serving their own take on Jiro-style ramen.

BUT if you don’t take beansprouts, don’t come. If you are on diet, don’t come. If you only love tonkotsu ramen, don’t come.

Ramen Jiro branch in Shinjuku Kabukicho is usually packed with (male) customers, especially during lunch hours.

The interior of the Ramen Jiro shop branch in Shinjuku is quite simple. There is a counter where guests are seated and an open kitchen in front of you where the staff prepares your food.

Keep in mind that this branch is tiny not more than 10 people can be seated at the same time. This is also why it is completely normal to see a long line in front of the shop.

The basic bowl of Jiro Ramen is priced at 700 Yen (SGD8.60, USD6.60). Then you realise it can feed two, or an individual for two meals.

The portions here are HUGE and on the top of the massive bowl of ramen, you will be asked if you want additional pork fat, bean sprouts, and garlic.

A bowl is made of fatty soy-sauce broth with pieces of sliced pork and thick noodles, with ingredients and toppings that included a hard-boiled egg, garlic, lard, and vegetables.

The beansprout and shredded cabbage sat on the noodles like a mini-mountain. I already felt full looking at it.

The best way to eat this dish is to bring the noodles on top of the vegetables, so they get soaked with the greasy broth.

As both the noodles and pork pieces were thick, I struggled to finish half the bowl. Not my style, but I can imagine why people would enjoy this richly possibly-satisfying style.

As I was leaving, the chef looked at unfinished bowl, and we BOTH gave an awkward embarrassed look.

An interesting fact is that Ramen Jiro has many fans and they call themselves Jiro-rian. Most of them are young men who take pride in having enormous appetites. One of them even opened up his ramen store and named it “Ramen Jirorian”.

Rāmen Jirō ラーメン二郎
Shinjuku Kabukichō branch: Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku, Kabukicho, 2 Chome−37−5, 日新ビル
Tel: +81 3 3205 1726
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3:am (Mon – Tues, Thurs – Sun) Closed Wed
Google Maps – Rāmen Jirō Shinjuku Kabukichō

Other Related Entries
Tsuta 蔦 (Sugamo, Tokyo)
Shin Udon 慎 (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
Tokyo Mentsudan Udon 東京麺通団 (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
Afuri Ramen (Tokyo)
Ichiran Ramen 一蘭 (Shinjuku, Tokyo)

Click HERE for other TOKYO Food Entries

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook and Instagram for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Ramen Jiroラーメン二郎 – Ramen With A Massive Portion And Following In Tokyo appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Cross-collaborations can be beneficial for new F&B owners who need more time and experience, and a platform for test-bedding of products.

After Boru Boru, Rakki Bowl is the next to partner with Candour Coffee, serving up Japanese Donburi. With that said, there are MANY rice bowl shops in Singapore of late.

The menu consist of Bara-Chirashi ($12.90, $17.90), Spicy Salmon Don ($12.90, $17.90), Salmon Don ($13.90, $18.90), Teriyaki Chicken Don ($9.90, $13.90), and Signature Truffle Wagyu Don ($12.90, $21.90).

Price is wallet-friendly enough for the youths in the vicinity to want to give it a go.

I had the Signature Truffle Wagyu Don ($12.90, $21.90), which I consider a steal for its portion.

For those who get a high from the scent of truffle oil (may it be real or not), you would get yours satisfied from this bowl.

There was a strong smoked garlicky aroma in the midst as well, one of those bowls that worked on the scent element.

I was also pleasantly surprised with the amount and quality of beef used, for that price – thinly sliced, meaty yet tender, in a good meal to rice ratio.

Niigata Koshihikari rice is used, and therefore you could taste that the rice is of better quality and fluffier.

(Some Japanese donburi shops use Koshihikari rice from the US or Canada, and there is still that difference. Niigata prefecture is known for growing delicious rice due to long hours of sunlight and large temperature differences between day and night.)

A promising start. Hope to give the other bowls a try the next time.

Rakki Bowl
41 Beach Rd (within Candour Coffee), Singapore 189680 (Bugis MRT Station)
Tel: +65 8818 8198
Opening Hours: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 9:30pm Daily

Other Related Entries
Kogane Yama (Bugis Junction)
Tendon Kohaku (Chinatown Point)
Kuro Maguro (Tanjong Pagar Centre)
Sama Curry & Café (Downtown Gallery)Tamoya Udon (Liang Court)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Rakki Bowl – Delicious Truffle Wagyu Donburi With Generous Portion For $12.90 appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Finally got a chance to travel out from Changi Airport Terminal 2, and so I made a visit to SORA – the Japanese gourmet hall at Level 3 that is fashioned after an airline lounge.

SORA which translates to “sky” in Japanese, has a 7,760 square feet space which can seats about 300 diners, making it the largest ‘restaurant’ across the four terminals in Changi Airport.

It is located at the public area, so do not worry about needing to take a flight for a meal there.

There are six Japanese stalls located within, which are familiar names mostly from Eat At Seven from Suntec City, serving up ramen, sashimi, okonomiyaki and Nippon-inspired desserts and beverages.

Two of them are new-to-market brands: Tsuruhashi Fugetsu and Japoli Kitchen.

While the stalls are called ‘restaurants’, SORA functions like a food court in reality, in which diners have to order food and sit at the shared seating area. Wait for the buzzer, and then collect your food.

The good thing is, you are given a tracking tag so you only pay on your way out at the cashier.

However, I suspect that diners may come expecting slightly cheaper food than served in a restaurant, though it is inevitable that airport food can be at a higher price point.

Tsuruhashi Fugetsu
An okonomiyaki chain that hails from Osaka, serving up Okonomiyaki ($13) made with Available fresh cabbage, yakisoba (fried noodles) and an assortment of battered meat and seafood.

The ‘pancake’ would be drizzled in Worcestershire sauce and mayonnaise and topped with bonito flakes.

I ordered a Yakisoba ($13, $15 with additional egg) and was not overly impressive. The pork slices turned out too tough and lacked that hot-flavoursome feel (then I recall a better one from Takashimaya basement).

I mean, it was okay. Maybe food-court standard?

Japoli Kitchen
Italian dishes with a touch of Japanese. The brand uses fresh pasta and flour specially imported from Japan.

Pasta dishes include Arrabbiata ($10.80), Bolognese ($14), Mentaiko ($14), Truffle & Mushroom; while pizza choices are Margherita ($14), Teriyaki Chicken ($15), Pepperoni Spicy ($15) and Smoked Salmon ($15).

Tendon Kohaku
Tendon Kohaku can be considered as one of Singaporean’s favourite Tendon shop.

It is known for its Edomae Tendon ($17.70), where bowls of Hokkaido rice piled with tempura drizzled in a specially made sauce are served.

To be honest, I still like the Tendon – compared to many mediocre one served in Singapore, though I think it has seen better days in the past.

Menya Takeichi
Tokyo’s top chicken ramen chain known for its collagen-rich Chicken Paitan broth. The ramen shop has consistently been ranked in the “Best 10 in Chicken Paitan Broth Ramen” category in Supleks Ramen Database, the largest ramen-related website in Japan.

The restaurant’s signature recipe is the Chicken Paitan Ramen, containing collagen-rich broth by simmering fresh chicken and chicken feet for hours. Though I read some not-so-good reviews of late.

A bowl of rich Shoyu Ramen starts from $13.90.

Kuro Maguro
Started by the number one Japanese fish wholesaler, offering meshi (rice dishes) with kaisen (seafood) and torobutsu (tuna) that are air-flown daily from Japan.

Bowls served here include Toro Butsu Meshi ($29.80), Kaisen Meshi ($23.30), Salmon Teri Mayo Meshi ($18) and Barachirashi ($18).

Tokyo Sundubu
Sundubu is a type of Korean jjigae featuring tofu cooked with a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, meat and seafood. Treat this like a fusion of Japanese and Korean cultures.

Varieties include Miso Butter ($18.20), Chicken ($15.00), Cheese ($18.20), Japanese Oyster ($32.20) and Kimchi ($18.20).

There is also SORA Bar, which offers desserts, beverages, sake and cocktails such as Singapore Sling and Mojito.

SORA Japan Gourmet Hall
Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2, 60 Airport Boulevard #036-058/059 Singapore 819643
Opening Hours: 10.30am – 11pm Daily

Other Related Entries
Hokkaido Marche (Orchard Central)
TAKI Kyoto Grill & Sake (Wisma Atria)
Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurant (Orchard Central)
Japan Foods Garden (Shaw Centre)
Emporium Shokuhin (Marina Square)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post SORA Japan Gourmet Hall – Tendon, Okonomiyaki And Sundubu At Changi Airport Terminal 2 appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[Tokyo] There are just too many good foods in Tokyo to list here, from sushi, kaiseki meals, ramen, soba, yakitori, donburi – where you can get from the streets to Michelin starred restaurants.

These are just some of the 10 popular or known food places in the bustling city that attract diners from all over the world, not to deny that some of the best dining experiences are found in unknown hole-in-the-wall places.

I included a mix of more affordable quintessential Japanese food, to acclaimed fine dining restaurants.

Enjoy!

Sushi Dai 寿司大
Tsukiji Market Part 6 Building, 5 Chome-2-1 Tsukiji, Chūō, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan
Opening Hours: 5am – 2pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

Sushi Restaurant At The Famous Tsukiji Fish Market
Tsukiji Fish Market 築地市場, the world’s most famous fish market, is the must-go for first time visitors to Tokyo Japan.

The most popular sashimi and sushi restaurants can be found in inner alleys of Building 6, reached by walking in from the main entrance.

Although they are many sushi joints at Tsukiji, two shops attract the longest queue – Sushi Dai 寿司大 and Daiwa Sushi 大和寿司. (Many chose to walk in random shops during their visits, without the queue, and their standards won’t be too far off.)

Sushi Dai 寿司大 is the easily most popular joint in the whole of Tsukiji, with queues snaking at the side of the shop, and can take from 2 to 3 hours for your wait. Starting operations at 5am, the set of 10 pieces and 1 roll will set you back by ¥3900 (SGD48.15, USD36.74).

For something very similar in quality and a much shorter queue, move to a few shops away at Daiwa Sushi, which is actually run by the son of the owner of Sushi Dai.

Historical Tonkatsu Institution At Omotesando
Maisen has been known for serving tonkatsu since 1965, located in a former World War II public bathhouse, thus you can still appreciate some of the original design details and high ceilings which stand through the test of time.

Their signature is the kurobuta pork, also known as the Japanese black pork from the Berkshirepork pigs known for its fine meat fibers and juicy flavors.

BUT, look out for their specially reared and locally sourced pork brands such as Amai-Yuwaku and Tokyo-X, available in limited quantities per day. Much more pricey of course.

The Maisen tonkotsu is said to contain four distinctive features: fat-rich meat with finest sweetness; fine meat texture; tenderness that melts in your mouth; and deep, delicious taste.
Maisen Tonkatsu (Omotesando, Tokyo)

Ichiran Tokyo
Shinjuku: Peace Building B1F 3-34-11 Shinjuku Shinjuku-ku Tokyo-to 160-0022
(3 min walk from JR Shinjuku Station Higashi Exit)
Opening Hours: 24 Hours
Google Maps – Ichiran Shinjuku

Tonkotsu Ramen With Snaking Queue
Ichiran Ramen 一蘭 is known as one of the best ramen in Japan, if not the best – mass market wise.

Its winning formula can be attributed to the creamy smooth classic pork-based tonkotsu soup, topped with Ichiran’s original red pepper sauced mixed with 3 type of spices.

First sip of the creamy goodness, peppered with a touch of spice, and I told myself “I can have this tomorrow again.”

Thin and springy home-made fresh noodles slide through the milky rich broth, which remained piping hot almost throughout. The sliced pork was thin, tender and tasty.

My ‘half-portion’ red sauce was spicy enough, and was indeed the all-important element which differentiated Ichiran from the-other-good-ramen-down-the-street.

Is this the best? Maybe not. But at least satisfying and well-known. Ichiran Ramen 一蘭 (Shinjuku, Tokyo)

慎 Shin Udon
2 151 0053, 2 Chome-20-16 Yoyogi, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0053, Japan (Shinjuku Station, Exit 6)
代々木2-20-16 (相馬ビル1F), Shibuya, Tōkyō, 151-0053, Japan
Tel: +81 3-6276-7816
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon – Thurs, Sun), 11am – 11pm (Fri – Sat), Closed during New Year period
Google Maps – Shin Udon

Hole-In-The Wall Udon Shop
Shin Udon is a short 5-10 walk from Shinjuku station (try Exit 6), but I know of people taking half an hour simply because they got lost.

If it helps, the small eatery is hidden in view in a lane near a police post, about a minute away from the insanely popular Fu-unji ramen 風雲児.

The buckwheat udon is made in house, fresh upon order, in cold or hot versions, topped with ingredients such as tempura, sliced beef, mentaiko and soft boiled egg.

The basic variants are Kake Udon – Hot udon in broth topped with thinly sliced scallions; Zaru Udon – cold noodles accompanied with a chilled dipping sauce; and Bukkake Udon – cold udon with thicker dashi broth.

Thick, square cut udon traveled into the mouth with that slippery soft texture, which had a certain ‘bounce’ which made it pleasurable to just chew and chew. Shin Udon 慎 (Shinjuku, Tokyo)

(Click PLAY for video highlights of Tsuta Tokyo.)

Tsuta 蔦
1-14-1 Sugamo, Toshima-ku, Tokyo (5 min walk from Sugamo Station)
東京都豊島区巣鴨1-14-1 Plateau-Saka 1F
Tel: 03-3943-1007
Opening Hours: 11am – 4pm
Google Maps – Tsuta

1st Michelin Ramen Shop In Tokyo
Tsuta 蔦 Japanese Soba Noodles in Tokyo is the first ever ramen joint to get a Michelin star, which is an indication of its possibly exceptional quality.

First thing’s first, while Tsuta is named a “soba” shop, it won a Michelin for its “ramen”.

Only 150 bowls of ramen are served daily – priced at ‎¥1,000 to ‎¥1,500 (SGD13 to SGD20) a bowl.

The 9-seater ramen eatery serves soba in ramen style (¥1000 for its most basic bowl, ¥1500 for the most popular shoyu bowl), known for its soy based broth where the soy is aged for 2 years.

The noodles are made with four types of whole wheat flour, chashu served with black truffle sauce, and broth an umami chicken-seafood blend, along with rock salt, red wine and rosemary infusions.

The broth itself had a clean yet layered taste, intricate and delicate, unlike other rich heavy ramen broths (which excite in a different way). It was light enough, and so won’t leave queasy feeling even if you intend to finish the bowl.

Warning: Must queue very early to get a ticket. Find out how to. Tsuta 蔦 (Sugamo, Tokyo)

Harajuku Gyoza Lou
6−2−4 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo (Meiji-Jingumae Station, Chiyoda, Fukutoshin lines)
神宮前6-2-4 Shibuya, 東京都 〒150-0001
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 4:30am (Mon – Sat), 1130am – 10pm (Sun)
Google Maps – Harajuku Gyoza Lou

Harajuku’s Most Famous Gyoza Shop
There are just two styles of gyoza dumplings available – Fried or Steamed, at ¥290 for six of them. That works out to be SGD3.60 or USD2.70.

Affordable by Tokyo standards.

The Gyozas were fantastic – delightfully thin and just a thin layer of crisp.

As you bite your way through, the juice from the pork fillings would burst in your mouth, savoury-sweet and fresh. So good you won’t even need any additional sauces to complement.
Harajuku Gyozaro (Harajuku, Tokyo)

Bills Omotesando 東急プラザ表参道原宿
4-30-3 Jinugu-mae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 7F Tokyu Plaza Omotesando Harajuku, Tel: +81 3-5772-1133
Opening Hours: 8:30am – 11:00pm
4-minute walk from JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station or 1-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line/Fukutoshin Line Meiji Jingu Mae Station
Google Maps
Reservations can be made online https://bills-jp.net

“Best Breakfast in The World” at Harajuku
Other than traditional Japanese food, Tokyo is only the city for some brunch, pancakes and crepes.

Bills at Omotesando Harajuku 東急プラザ表参道原宿 is one of the most popular brunch place there.

The classics include the Ricotta Hotcakes, Fresh Banana & Honeycomb Butter (¥1400, SGD17.27) and the Scrambled Organic Eggs with Toast (¥1200, SGD14.80).

Every single table was having the light soft fluffy pancakes. Every Japanese lady was all smiles after eating it.

I would recommend the Full Aussie Breakfast with Toast, Mushrooms, Bacon, Roast Tomato and Chipolatas (¥1800, SGD22.20). You would realise Bill’s scrambled eggs are not that ‘scrambled’, with slippery texture and a light buttery fragrance. Bills Omotesando (Omotesando, Tokyo)

Sukiyabashi Jiro すきやばし次郎
B1F, Tsukamoto Sozan Bldg, 4-2-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Tel: +81 03 3535 3600
Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30am – 2pm, Dinner 5:30pm – 8:30pm
Closed Sun and Public Holidays, and during mid-August, late Dec to early Jan for annual holidays)
Google Maps

Jiro Dreams Of Sushi. I Dream Of His Sushi
3-star Michelin Sukiyabashi Jiro すきやばし次郎 run by sushi master Jiro Ono has been touted as one of the most difficult restaurants to book in the world, other than Sushi Saito.

Reservations have to be done a month in advance, in Japanese language with a local number from Japan. Its popularity multiplied after the award-winning documentary.

That means you need a reliable hotel concierge or good Japanese friend to make that call for you on the first day of the month at 9am (Japan time) for the next month.

The Omakase Tasting Menu of 20 pieces is priced at ¥30,000 plus taxes, for both lunch and dinner. It used to be cash-payment only in the past, but the restaurant has started to accept credit card payment.

The sushi course could take below 45 minutes. Pace yourself, just eat (don’t eat a heavy meal before this), don’t talk too much.

If getting a reservation at the main restaurant is too tough, you can head over to the son’s Roppongi branch of Sukiyabashi Jiro (link for reservation details), helmed by second son Takashi Ono. 2-star Michelin nevertheless.

Florilège
B1 Seizan Gaien, 2-5-4, Jingumae, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo City (6min walk from Gaiemmae Station on the Ginza Line)
〒150-0001 東京都渋谷区神宮前２丁目５−４
Tel: +81 03 6440 0878
Opening Hours: Lunch from 12:00pm – 1.30pm (last order), Dinner from 6.30pm to 8:00pm (last order), Closed Wed
http:// http://www.aoyama-florilege.jp/en
Google Maps – Florilège
Reservations Online – Florilège

Amazing And Imaginative French Cuisine. Asia’s 50 Best
Among all the rising dining stars in Tokyo, Florilège by Chef Hiroyasu Kawate is definitely the one meal to have if you are looking for a fine dining option.

Awarded 2 Michelin stars in the Michelin Guide Tokyo 2018 and ranked Number 3 in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2018, the relatively new restaurant has been widely recognised.

Florilège, meaning anthology in French, serves up classy Japanese and French fusion cuisine.

Lunch course is 6 or 7 dishes at ¥7000++ (SGD$84.14), while the Dinner course is 11 courses at ¥13000++ (SGD$156.27).

The food served combines the exquisite styles and techniques of French cuisine with the freshest Japanese produce and ingredients.

The menu is omakase style French-Japanese fusion cuisine and varies with the seasonality of the ingredients and changes every two months. Florilège (Aoyama, Tokyo)

Nihonryori RyuGin
Side Roppongi Building, 1st Floor, 7-17-24 Roppongi Minato, Tokyo 106-0032, Japan
Tel: +81 3 3423 8006
Roppongi Station on Hibiya Line (Tokyo Metro), 2 minutes walk from Exit2（in front of Meiji-ya super market). Tokyo metro oedo subway line roppongi station exit 7(in front of Tokyo Mid-town) 5minutes walk.
Reservation Online – Nihonryori RyuGin

One of Japan’s Finest, 3-Michelin Stars
The meal at Nihonryori RyuGin at Roppongi Tokyo was probably one of my best meals ever.

A tasting menu is priced at ¥21,600 Yen (SGD266.65, USD203.47), excluding service charge (10% for table, 15% for dining room).

RyuGin’s Chef Seiji Yamamoto is known to push culinary boundaries, creating avant-garde dishes, while blending with the seasonal ingredients available in Japan.

Every season has a different menu, and every day it may differ based on what is available in the market.

And every single dish was a piece of art.

The dinner was not only about eating anymore, but appreciating every containing plate, smelling the scents, appreciating the plating, listening to the explanation and story, and just simply watching in awe how art is created. Nihonryori Ryugin (Roppongi, Tokyo)

Other Related Entries
10 Top Japanese Snacks To Get From Tokyo
10 Must-Try Ramen & Tsukemen at Tokyo
10 Must Eats At Shinjuku Tokyo
Robot Restaurant (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
Michelin Guide Tokyo 2018

Click HERE for other TOKYO Food Entries

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post 10 Must Go Restaurants In Tokyo, Japan – The Tokyo Famous Food Guide appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Marugame Udon & Tempura, known to be the No. 1 Udon noodle restaurant chain in the world, has finally opened in Singapore at ION Orchard basement 4.

Those who frequent Japan should have seen this brand around, also known as Marugame Seimen 丸亀製麺.

It is named after Marugame 丸亀, the city in Kagawa Prefecture known to serve the best of these thick wheat flour noodles.

There are more than 1000 stores in the world, and I heard from the grapevine that Singapore’s first outlet is the 1001th shop.

With so many ramen shops locally, it is about time we get more Udon eateries.

The brand is known for its freshly made Sanuki-style Udon at affordable prices, starting at $5.90 for a classic regular Udon. Inexpensive considering ION Orchard is at the heart of town.

Sanuki Udon is probably one of the most commonly found types of Udon noodles, characterised by its square shape and flat edges.

To make these special noodles, the restaurant in Singapore is equipped with a specially-imported machine that stimulates traditional methods to efficiently knead the flour.

Kneaded, cut, boiled, and cooked fresh in the store.

Similar to the Japan restaurants, Marugame Udon & Tempura in Singapore operates in a self-serve style where you first can choose the Udon, then add your preferred tempura.

After paying, there is a toppings seasoning bar to further customise your bowl. Choose from coriander, spring onions, grated ginger, wasabi, and agedama – deep-fried batter bits from cooking tempura.

The Udon can be ordered in regular or large portions; and I think that the former should be filling enough for the average diner with its thick, chewy strands.

Here are some recommendations from Marugame Udon & Tempura in Singapore:

Udon with Seasoned Cod Roe & Half Boiled Egg ($11.90, $12.90)
One of the best sellers and my personal favourite is a dry udon with mentaiko and seaweed strips.

After mixed together, the roe imparted a layer of complex salty-sweetness, while the egg helped to balance the dish.

You still get to appreciate the chewy texture and mild flavour of the Udon noodles.

Clam Udon in Bonito Broth ($11.90, $12.90)
A brothy bowl with slight umami, and natural briny flavour from the shellfish. Comforting when you are in need of something more soupy and savoury.

Pork Udon in Spicy Miso Soup ($11.90, $13.70)
Marugame creates their soups daily with varieties of stock from sardine, mackerel, and bonito, then added with Japanese kelp and soy sauce to further enhance the flavours.

The Pork Udon in Spicy Miso Soup which is another of its best seller, may take some getting used to as it is not quite the same as rich ramen miso that most local diners are used it.

In case you are wondering, the spiciness was not too strong, with that slight level of kick.

Beef Udon in Bonito Broth ($11.90, $13.90)
A Nikutama Udon which features a sweet dashi and bonito beef broth, topped with tender seasoned sliced beef slices.

Beef Curry Udon ($9.90, $11.60)
A combination of two Japanese popular food – Udon and Japanese curry, for something more hearty and rich.

I would suggest adding on some crispy tempura for that dip into the smooth gravy.

Japanese Classic Original Udon with Bonito Soy Sauce ($5.90, $6.90)
This is actually what most of the Japanese would go for, the classic Udon at its simplest, served in a wooden bucket.

For more flavours, the noodles can be dipped into the accompanying bonito soy sauce dip, or added with toppings such as spring onions and battered tempura bits.

Japanese Classic Cold Udon with Bonito Soy Sauce ($5.90, $6.90)
Suitable when you are feeling the heat from Singapore’s weather, as the cold version of the classic is a summertime treat.

The tempura station serves up choices of freshly fried karaage chicken, shrimp, chikuwa (Japanese fish cake), cod fillet, fried dumplings, lotus root, sweet potato, fried mixed squid and vegetables, and a ball of mixed vegetables. My favourite was the Karaage Squid Tentacles.

Prices start from $1.50.

You may just notice a few pieces of the tempura in the tray at another one time, reason being they are all freshly fried. If your choice is not available, you can make an order first and wait for a couple of minutes for it to be ready.

Just in case you want something other than noodles, a selection of Donburi such as Beef Curry Rice ($6.90), Miso Pork Rice ($8.90) and Beef Rice with Half Boiled Egg ($9.90); and Eel or Seasoned Cod Roe Onigiri ($2.20) are available.

For a first timer, I would say get one of their soup-based Udon, then feel free to top up with some of those tempura flakes.

As for Udon lovers, this should be great news that Japan’s most popular Udon is finally here, at comparatively inexpensive prices.

Marugame Udon & Tempura Singapore 丸亀製麺
2 Orchard Turn #B4-67/68 ION Orchard Singapore 238801
Tel: +65 6732 0687
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm Daily

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Marugame Udon & Tempura.

The post Marugame Udon & Tempura 丸亀製麺 – Most Popular Udon Shop From Japan Has Arrived In Singapore, At ION Orchard appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Call this the Man Man effect.

We are seeing more Unagi-specialised Japanese restaurants opening up in Singapore, when eels used to be once-upon-a-time part of an extensive menu.

After Uya at Wheelock Place, the next is Unagiya Ichinoji which has opened in Singapore at Riverside Walk, Robertson Quay.

Finding the restaurant can be tough for first timers, as it is located behind the other Japanese restaurants, where Daikokuya used to be.

Miyagawa Honten is one of Tokyo’s famous unagi restaurants, with a history that spans 125 years, now operating 20 outlets in Japan alone.

Its outlet in Meguro-ku, Tokyo has recently been awarded Bib Gourmand in Michelin Guide Tokyo 2018.

However, it is called “Unagiya Ichinoji” in Singapore instead of its parent-name. Instead of speculating too much, this could be a perceptive business decision should the local entity need to depart in terms of concept, branding or menu.

The success of Miyagawa Honten is said to be attributed to the chefs’ grilling techniques, temperature control of the charcoal grill and special inhouse tare (sweet basting sauce) whose recipe has been passed down for four generations.

The Japanese head chef at Unagiya Ichinoji has undergone three months of training at Miyagawa’s outlet in Japan to master the skills.

The 34-seater restaurant will serve unagi in three different styles: Hitsumabushi ($19.80), Seiro Mushi (S$19.80) and Mamushi Donburi ($18.80).

The small Hitsumabushi at $19.80 should be the one of the most inexpensive in Singapore. But to say Unagiya Ichinoji offers the “cheapest” unagi may be far-fetched.

The medium and large are priced at $26.80 and $32.80 respectively, compared to Man Man’s at $26.80+ and $35.80+ (without service tax); and Uya’s $35++ and $48++.

I ordered a medium Hitsumabushi ($26.80). Comparing portion to portion, I honestly thought it was sufficient, but not say overwhelmingly-fantastic. (Those you seen on Instagram could have been L or XL $77.80 version).

There are three ways to enjoy the Hitsumabushi: Enjoy the first portion of the eel on its own and relish the eel; then add nori (seaweed), wasabi and green onion to the Hokkaido rice and eel; and lastly For pour in some of the the clear dashi to the abovementioned mix.

Perhaps I have read too many positive reviews, and so my expectations were raised.

The eel pieces which were first steamed then grilled were unexpectedly tougher and more charred than expected, with that slight fishy taste.

It was thankfully saved by the accompanying spicy sauce in a bottle, which was very tasty, but I wished I didn’t need to go there that often.

Two other types of Unagi dishes are available exclusively at the Singapore outlet – the Seiro Mushi and Mamushi Donburi which is served with Japanese yam, mentaiko, kinshi eggs and onsen egg.

The Seiro Mushi ($19.80, $24.80 with Chawanmushi) is a special version hailing from Yanagawa, Fukuoka.

The slab of unagi is first charcoal grilled, then steamed in a bamboo steamer together with kinshi egg and Hokkaido rice mixed with sweet sauce for five minutes before serving.

I thought most of the rest of the ingredients were fine, from the fluffy rice, egg to the sweet sauce.

The three components which I thought were the weakest links were the Chawanmushi which tasted over-steamed, rather diluted dashi stock, and unfortunately the eel that was slightly lacklustre in terms of texture.

Opening jitters, maybe?

The overall experience was actually not bad, but I won’t make a special trip to queue – if there is one.

Unagiya Ichinoji
01-05 Riverside View, Robertson Quay Singapore 238251
Tel: +65 6732 1970
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm; 5:30pm – 10pm Daily

Other Related Entries
Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant (Duo Gallery)
Man Man (Keong Saik Road)
Uya (Wheelock Place)
SBCD Korean Tofu House Unagi Special (Millenia Walk)
Kogane Yama (Bugis Junction)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Unagiya Ichinoji – Unagi Speciality Restaurant Miyagawa Honten Opens 1st Singapore Outlet at Robertson Quay appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Unagi ウナギ which means freshwater eel, used to be a minor part of an extensive menu in many Japanese restaurants. This is before Man Man came along.

The Japanese restaurant opened to huge fanfare, insane queues, to an eventual Michelin Bib Gourmand listing.

These led on to other Unagi specialty restaurants such as Uya at Wheelock Place and Unagiya Ichinoji at Robertson Quay opening up.

Other restaurants which serve up Unagi meals in Singapore include Chikuyotei Japanese Restaurant at Intercontinental Singapore, and Unagi Nara at 72 Tanjong Pagar Road (opened by Kko Kko Na Ra). Though I am pretty sure they won’t be the last.

The Unagi is typically served as part of unadon – a donburi dish with sliced eel served on a bed of rice. Prized for its quality and sweet taste, the eel however, is facing shortage due to decreasing supply and increasing international demand.

Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant – Keong Saik
1 Keong Saik Road #01-01 Singapore 089109
Tel: +65 6222 0678
Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30am – 3:00pm Last order 2:30pm,
Dinner 6:00pm – 10:30pm (Mon – Sat, PH), Closed Sun

Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant at Keong Saik Road has been attracting long lines, especially after the Michelin Bib Gourmand win.

The queue is said to be anything from 30 minutes to 2 hours, and the safest bet would be to go early evening, or late lunch (before last orders though).

The Unagi supply comes solely from the Mikawa Isshiki region, famous for supplying high quality freshwater eel.

Chef Nakagawa, who had been working in a Mikawa Unagi shop for more than 20 years, (or his team members) will cut the unagi live in front of diners. That’s part of the thrill, I guess.

There are three recommended steps to enjoy the don. First, you can enjoy Unagi itself with rice. Secondly, include the spices. Lastly, pour the dashi stock over the bowl.

To me, it is “Very oishii!” Beautifully char-grilled unagi with the light crisp, matched with top-grade rice, and tantalising sauces. No fishy taste too.

However, the queue is madness (and very hot) lah, and there are people who go “over-rated”. Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant (Keong Saik Road)

Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant – DUO
7 Fraser Street, Duo Galleria #01-48, Singapore 189356
Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30am – 3:00pm Last order 2:30pm,
Dinner 6:00pm – 10:30pm (Mon – Sat, PH), Closed Sun

Man Man’s second branch is located at DUO #01-48, a contemporary twin-tower integrated mixed-use development, located on a site bordered by Ophir Road, Rochor Road and Beach Road.

The DUO branch has an in-house exclusive of “DUO Unagi” ($39.40+) in which a bowl contains both Tokutoku Kabayaki (seasoned with Unagi sauce) and Tokutoku Shirayaki (broiled and seasoned with salt).

Seems on the expensive side, and the broiled eel wasn’t as impressive as the grilled pieces.

Also note that this newer place is more cramped, stuffy, and has more uncomfortable bar stools, which affected the dining experience.

BUT a place for you to try Man Man without that much LONGer queue. Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant (Duo Gallery)

Uya 四代目菊川
501 Orchard Road, #02-15/16 Wheelock Place, Singapore 238880 (Orchard MRT)
Tel: 6732 1096
Opening Hours: Lunch 12:00pm – 3:00pm (Last Order 2:30pm), Dinner 6:00pm – 10:00pm (Last Order 9:30pm)

Uya 四代目菊川 located at level 2 of Wheelock Place, aims to offer affordable and authentic Japanese traditional unagi cuisine to the masses in Singapore.

The eels at Uya are said to be selected to ensure the ideal quality in colour, plumbness and tenderness.

The tare used is made using a sauce base that has been a family secret for over 4 generations and was specially brought over from Japan to Singapore.

The price of the Hitsumabushi Set is at $35++ for the medium, and $48++ for large.

So while the unagi was of reasonably good quality, it lacked that slight char and smokiness one would come expecting (perhaps it was an ‘off’ day when I visited.)

The good thing is, those who find Man Man’s version too sweet, could prefer this as you can savour more of the natural flavours of the eel. Uya (Wheelock Place)

SBCD Korean Tofu House
Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Blvd, #01-114, Singapore 039596
Tel: +65 6873 6441
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 10:00pm (Mon – Sun)

The Korean Soontofu Restaurant has also introduced Jang-Eo (장어) dishes – fresh water eel imported from Korea.

While the Jang-Eo is popular during the hot summer days in Korea, you seldom see it in Singapore, at least not yet. Therefore, the restaurant chose to call these dishes “Unagi” in the introduction phase.

When the sizzling hotplate dish arrived, I could not tell initially what the difference was, at least purely from appearance.

The portion should leave an impression, so much for $19.90. Reasonably inexpensive.

The eel cut up to several small pieces, had a satisfyingly soft texture, mild richness, and sticky sweet taste from the sauces.

They were thick yet tender, very tasty when eaten hot with rice. (The differences between this and the usual unagi to me, is that the pieces were softer without that crispy outer layer.) SBCD Korean Tofu House Unagi Special (Millenia Walk)

Unagiya Ichinoji
01-05 Riverside View, Robertson Quay Singapore 238251
Tel: +65 6732 1970
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm; 5:30pm – 10pm Daily

Miyagawa Honten is one of Tokyo’s famous unagi restaurants, with a history that spans 125 years, now operating 20 outlets in Japan alone.

Its outlet in Meguro-ku, Tokyo has recently been awarded Bib Gourmand in Michelin Guide Tokyo 2018. However, it is called “Unagiya Ichinoji” in Singapore instead of its parent-name.

The success of Miyagawa Honten is said to be attributed to the chefs’ grilling techniques, temperature control of the charcoal grill and special inhouse tare (sweet basting sauce) whose recipe has been passed down for four generations.

The 34-seater restaurant serves up unagi in three different styles: Hitsumabushi ($19.80), Seiro Mushi ($19.80) and Mamushi Donburi ($18.80).

The eel pieces which were first steamed then grilled were unexpectedly tougher and less flavourful than expected, with that slight fishy taste. Unagiya Ichinoji (Robertson Quay)

It was thankfully saved by the accompanying spicy sauce in a bottle, which happened to be very tasty. Unagiya Ichinoji (Robertson Quay)

Other Related Entries
Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant (Keong Saik Road)
Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant (Duo Gallery)
SBCD Korean Tofu House Unagi Special (Millenia Walk)
Uya (Wheelock Place)
Unagiya Ichinoji (Robertson Quay)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Best Unagi Restaurants In Singapore, For Your Unadon 鰻丼 Cravings appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Anyone still remember the days of the “Flying Noodles”?

The once-trending #foodporn shot with the noodles “hanging” from a pair of floating chopsticks, as if one had walked into a trick eye museum.

Yes, that’s from Hana Restaurant located at The Forum Galleria along Orchard Road under the same parent company as Benjamin Browns.

Benjamin Browns was the first in Singapore sensationalise various social media platforms with their “Over The Top” Shakes 3 years ago.

The café has recently introduced “overflowing” bubble tea in toasts and “dirty” matcha latte.

Fast forward one and a half years after the “Flying Noodles” took off (pun not intended), aesthetically and “Instagrammable” food trends continue at Hana Restaurant.

This time, these overflowing Nissin Cup Noodles.

Initially, I thought I was in a Cup Noodles Museum, with flavours such as Lobster Nissin Tom Yum Noodles ($22), Chicken Nissin Laksa Noodles ($18) and Chili Crab Nissin Noodles ($18).

Using the instant noodles that comes with the Nissin cups, the noodles are first cooked before stir frying with the respective sauce such as Tom Yum, Laksa and Chili Crab.

A sunny side up is then added, followed by the respective meat such as Lobster with tom yum, Chicken with laksa and chili crab.

My favourite was the Lobster Nissin Tom Yum Noodles ($22) with a balanced sour and spiciness kick coupled with springy instant noodles.

Instead of the “wet” version in cup noodles, the stir fried instant noodles is served as a “dry” version with a fair amount of lobster meat in it.

If you are up for some hands-on experience as a scientist, the “Alchemist” series with dripping Cha Soba/ Unagi Rice/ Some are available at $18 each.

Or if you had previously missed out on the “Flying Noodles” series, the Flying Cha Soba ($18), Flying Salted Egg Udon ($18), Truffle Some ($20) and Chili Crab Somen ($25) are still available.

Hana Restaurant
Forum Galleria, #01-17, 583 Orchard Road, Singapore 238884 (10 min walk on Orchard MRT)
Opening Hours: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.30pm (Mon-Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/HANARest

* Written by Nicholas Tan @stormscape who loves all things [NEW]. Daniel’s Food Diary pays for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Hana Restaurant – Overflowing Nissin Cup Noodles And “Flying Noodles”, At Forum Galleria Orchard Road appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

While Unadon, Chirashidon and Gyudon all enjoy different levels of popularity in Singapore, Buta Don seems to be under the radar.

I previously enjoyed Butahage at Liang Court, which offered tender and juicy grilled pork from Hokkaido Tokachi with a secret sauce of over 80 years of history. However, standard seems to have dropped of late.

Tokachi Tontaro which specialises in Buta Don, has opened by both Plaza Singapura and OUE Downtown Gallery.

It features bowls of grilled pork cooked in a Hokkaido speciality tare sauce and served atop premium Hokkaido Yumepirika rice.

Tokachi is an area in Japan known for its pig farming and Butadon restaurants – all with characteristic flavours and toppings.

I have tried Tokachi Tontaro twice at Plaza Singapura, though I won’t say I was exactly bowled over.

Available are the Premium Butadon ($22.80, $25.80) which uses Japanese Kagoshima Pork; or Regular Butadon ($11.80, $13.80, $16.80) which is topped with American pork coated in a signature tare sauce.

The regular version offers you other flavours of Spicy Tomato and Miso Butadon.

You can customise the serving of rice, tare sauce, size of meat slices, to the amount of spring onions and black pepper.

The Regular Butadon ($13.80) was an acceptable bowl, and as straight-forward as it gets – 5 slices of grilled pork on rice.

There wasn’t anything really bad about it, but lacked that special something that kept me excited when I first tried Butahage.

My main reservation was that the pork slices looked pale in appearance (in Hokkien, we call it ”pek pek”), and suggested they were not smoky, charred or grilled enough.

Fair enough, the pieces were tender; but were lacking in the juiciness and succulence one would expect.

Not bad, not fantastic. It was the same during a 2nd visit, as I thought of giving a chance. With that said, perhaps Downtown Gallery may offer a better version.

Tokachi Tontaro – Downtown Gallery
6A Shenton Way Downtown Gallery #03-20 Singapore 068815
Opening Hours: 11am – 9:30pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

Tokachi Tontaro – Plaza Singapura
Plaza Singapura #06-12 68 Orchard Road Singapore 238839

Other Related Entries
Best Unagi Restaurants In Singapore
Kogane Yama (Bugis Junction)
Rakki Bowl (Beach Road)
Tendon Kohaku (Chinatown Point)
Kabuke (Telok Ayer)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Tokachi Tontaro – Japanese Buta Don (Pork Rice Bowl) Eatery Opens At OUE Downtown Gallery & Plaza Singapura appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

While crowds have been queuing outside unagi restaurants such as Man Man and Unagiya Ichinoji for their Hitsumabushi bowls, Chirashi King Kong will be able to provide a more ‘budget’ option.

Chirashi King Kong is a hole-in-the-wall Japanese Donburi eatery located on the second floor of Tanjong Pagar Plaza.

With its affordable pricing, it won’t be long before office executives head over for inexpensive lunch and takeaways.

Its Bara Chirashi ($13.90) bowl comes topped with of diced salmon, tuna and swordfish sashimi, served on Japanese rice, added with a mixture of truffle oil and flying fish roe.

Other bowls include Salmon ($7.90, $9.90), Tuna ($9.90, $11.90), Salmon Mentaiko ($9.90), Swordfish ($10.90, $13.90), to the attractively-priced Japanese Curry Rice ($6.90).

The eatery is fuss-free and casual, looks like a one-man operation with limited counter seats and some tables outside… kopi-tiam style.

I ordered the Unagi Truffle Rice Box ($11.90) which was served in an easy takeaway box, and a pre-packed utensil kit of chopsticks, spoon, serviettes and toothpick. Nice.

The sea eel was soft and tender, coated with an appetising sticky sweet sauce.

What I enjoyed was the fluffy rice mixture, with just the right amount of seasoning that didn’t tip on being salty, and there was just that whiff of truffle oil without being overpowering.

Will be back to try their other stuff.

Chirashi King Kong
2 Tanjong Pagar Plaza, Blk 1, Singapore 082002 (Tanjong Pagar MRT Station)
Opening Hours: 11:00am – 7:00pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

Other Related Entries
Kogane Yama (Bugis Junction)
Rakki Bowl (Beach Road)
Kabuke (Telok Ayer)
Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant (Duo Gallery)
Tendon Kohaku (Chinatown Point)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Chirashi King Kong – Hidden Eatery With $12.90 Unagi Truffle Rice And $6.90 Japanese Curry Rice, At Tanjong Pagar Plaza appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

It is fair enough to say I am a fan of some of Chef Teppei Yamashita’s concept, from the earliest Teppei Japanese Restaurant (gosh, wrote it in 2012) to the more recent Man Man Unagi Restaurant.

There is thus, a certain expectation for Men-Men Tei, his first ramen eatery located at the basement of Marina One.

The shop is helmed by Chef Yoshihiko Watanabe, who drains the water from the noodles quite dramatically with a loud “Hey-sho!” (or something like that). It makes you anticipate more for what is to come.

Men-Men Tei is a no-fuss rather cramped eatery that should fit no more than 15. You eat and you go. This is the CBD.

The signature is the Special Tonkotsu Ramen ($15.80), comprising of 12-hour cooked pork bone soup, pork shoulder char siew, noodles supplied from Kanezin, and Ajitama egg.

Two interesting ramen in the menu include Creamy Sardine Ramen ($12) – a combination of dried baby sardine stock and tonkotsu soup; and Red Snapper Ramen ($15) – made from Kagawa red snapper’s extracted stock.

Although a local magazine reviewed that there would be Lobster Tonkotsu and Mazesoba in their preview, they were perhaps left out in the end.

I noted something amiss when the two customers seated next to me, just took some bites and a couple of sips of the soup, and left with their bowls three quarters untouched. Both of them. Four out of the five pieces of char siew stayed afloat right there. Hmm…

My order became the Red Snapper Ramen ($15) as the cashier heard wrongly (and also saw the wrong pointing in the menu).

The bowl arrived looking very ‘healthy’ – a piece of fish across, pale-looking noodles and clear soup.

To be honest, slightly disappointing, and it had to do largely with the noodles – perhaps too soggy and lacking of that springy bite.

The broth cooked with Japanese red snapper bones in salted water, lacked depth. Egg could have been more runny. All right, at least the fish was fresh-tasting.

Teppei’s restaurants typically open to a certain level of fanfare. Men-Men Tei however, is unfortunately not very satisfying. Sorry Teppei-san.

Men-Men Tei
Marina One #B2-28, The Heart, 5 Straits View Singapore 018935
Tel: +65 6282 7280

Other Related Entries
10 NEW Ramen Shops In Singapore
Kanshoku Ramen Bar (Northpoint City)
Ramen Nagi (Suntec City)
Satsuma Shimuja 薩摩思無邪 (Tanjong Pagar)
Ginza Kamo Soba Kyudaime Keisuke (Holland Village)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Men-Men Tei – Teppei’s Ramen Restaurant With Red Snapper Ramen, At Marina One appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Gyudon 牛丼 which literally means beef donburi, is a Japanese dish consisting of a bowl of rice topped with beef.

There are various versions available in Singapore, some cooked with simmered onions in a mildly sweet sauce; beef slices piled like a mini-mountain; or with grilled beef pieces typically added with a soft poached egg.

I didn’t use to be a beef-bowl person, and was probably happy with Yoshinoya (Yes, I know.)

As my need for protein increases (because I am working out to lose weight), plus various players are churning out inexpensive, hearty bowls of Beef Donburi, I started to pay attention and tried quite a number of them.

The appeal is that its both comforting and nutritious with ingredients such as beef, eggs and onions. Some have gotten more experimental and it is not difficult to find more luxe ingredients such as truffle and foie gras added.

Here are some of the 12 Best Gyudon in Singapore:

Sushi Murasaki
9 Raffles Boulevard, #02-08, Millenia Walk, 039569
Tel: +65 6341 9668
Opening Hours: 12pm – 2:30pm, 6pm – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

Sushi Murasaki at Millenia Walk is known for its omakase dining concept and seasonal fish freshly-flown directly from Japan’s famous Tsukiji Fish Market.

But look out for THIS. Yes, this. A Premium Wagyu Don ($85) that spells indulgence, sumptuousness and savour all at the same time.

The Donburi includes Kagoshima Wagyu Beef, WITH buttery foie gras, uni, ikura, black truffle, onsen egg and further drizzled with truffle soy sauce.

Every spoonful, you are consuming something luxe.

Fat Cow
Camden Medical Centre #01-01/02, 1 Orchard Boulevard Singapore 248649
Opening Hours: Lunch 12pm – 3pm (Mon – Sun); Dinner 6pm – 10:30pm (Sun – Thurs), 6pm – 11pm (Fri, Sat)
Reserve Online Now – Fat Cow

Interesting. The word “Fat” in Fat Cow stands for luxury and indulgence, and is also a play on the word “Fatt” which in Mandarin dialect means prosperity. The Japanese restaurant is known to serve handpicked selection of the finest Wagyu from reputable farms around the world.

The Fatcow Premium Donburi is one of its signature items, also at a premium price of $98 – of sliced wagyu steak on rice, uni, caviar, foie gras and onsen egg.

The buttery foie gras which melted in the mouth was surprisingly the best part; I did wish that the steak pieces could be tenderer – for the price paid.

The Butcher’s Kitchen
Suntec City Mall Towers 1 & 2 (North Wing) #02-472 Singapore 038989
Opening Hours: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 9pm, Last order 8:30pm (Mon – Fri)
11am – 9pm Last order 8:30pm (Sat – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/thebutcherskitchensg

The Butcher’s Flaming Hokkaido Beef Bowl ($23.90) incorporates premium beef imported from Hokkaido, in which the meat is first cut to thin slices, then neatly stacked over the Japanese grain rice like a mini-mountain.

The rice is mixed with furikake for that added savouriness and zing.

Hokkaido beef is used due to its tender and juicy quality, corresponding with suitable amount of fats for an enjoyable bite.

At first I thought the dousing and flaming with the Cognac seemed a tad gimmicky (though I admit it is quite instagrammable), but it added this touch of caramelization, smokiness and subtle complex alcoholic taste.

Although the bowl was topped with an egg and two types of signature sauces (which they won’t reveal what), the beef slices were flavourful enough to savour on their own. The Butcher’s Kitchen (Suntec City)

Sandaime Bunji
9 Raffles Boulevard #01-14/15, Millenia Walk Singapore 039596
Tel: +65 6333 1516
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3:00pm, 5:00pm – 11:00pm (Mon – Fri), 11:30am – 11:00pm (Sat), 11:30am – 9:00pm (Sun)

Sandaime Bunji established in Tokyo Ginza, is an 80 year old family business known for making Kamaboko — a fish cake snack.

What really caught my attention was the Wagyu Round Roast Beef Set ($24.90), which came in a towering bowl with slices stacked above rice.

The portion is generous with 250 grams of beef, tasty and tasty, worth every bit of its price.

Hint: It is even more affordable during lunch time at $19.90! Sandaime Bunji (Millenia Walk)

Kabuke
200A Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068638 (Telok Ayer MRT Station)
Tel: +65 8822 5525
Opening Hours: Lunch 11:30am – 2:00pm (Mon – Fri)
Dinner 5:00pm – 11:00pm (Mon – Fri), 5:00pm – 12:00am (Fri – Sat), Closed Sun

Kabuke is a 50-seater Sake gastrobar, so named as it combines the art of kabuki and the wonders of Japanese Sake.

I was pleasantly surprised with the Gyudon ($15), which contained grain-fed striploin topped with onsen egg and garlic chips.

Some other Gyudon I tried elsewhere tasted like beef on rice with some sauce, and that was it.

These beef slices had succulent flavour and enough tenderness, made more pleasurable with addition of truffle shoyu which added that tinge of saltiness with subtle aroma. Kabuke (Telok Ayer)

Rakki Bowl
41 Beach Rd (within Candour Coffee), Singapore 189680 (Bugis MRT Station)
Tel: +65 8818 8198
Opening Hours: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 9:30pm Daily

The Signature Truffle Wagyu Don ($12.90, $21.90) is a steal for its portion. For those who get a high from the scent of truffle oil (may it be real or not), you would get yours satisfied from this bowl.

There was a strong smoked garlicky aroma in the midst as well, one of those bowls that worked on the scent element.

I was also pleasantly surprised with the amount and quality of beef used, for that price – thinly sliced, meaty yet tender, in a good meal to rice ratio.

Niigata Koshihikari rice is used, and therefore you could taste that the rice is of better quality and fluffier. Rakki Bowl (Beach Road)

Kinsa Sushi
4 Hillview Rise HillV2 #02-02 Singapore 667979
Tel: +65 67107278
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm, 5:30pm -10pm (Mon-Thurs), 11:30am – 10pm (Fri-Sun, PH)
Reserve Online Now

The Wagyu Don ($24.80) which contained pan fried wagyu beef on rice and miso soup, was prepared using A4 Grade Wagyu from Kagoshima Japan. Co-owner Shannon Wong illustrated that it was “fine dining quality beef, heartland price”

Not exaggerating, this was one of the best beef bowl I had.

The glistering slices were luxurious with their marbling, perfectly cut, tender and flavourful that would leave traces of happiness in your mouth and belly. Kinsa Sushi (HillV2)

The Sushi Bar Ngee Ann City
391 Orchard Road #05-34/35 Ngee Ann City Singapore 238873 (Orchard MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 9:45pm (Mon – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/thesushibar.sg

Humble and popular Japanese outlet The Sushi Bar from Far East Plaza has a fuller-fledged restaurant at Ngee Ann City.

It is not uncommon to see long queues outside the Far East Plaza branches both weekday and weekends, with a line of people waiting mainly for their coveted bowl of Chirashi Don and Salmon Aburi Roll.

The Wagyu Don ($34.90) was not mind-blowing in taste, thought it needed more sauce or something, but certainly could hold its own with generous portion of beef and a sprinkling of enjoyable fried garlic. The Sushi Bar (Ngee Ann City)

Waa Cow
Shaw Foundation Alumni House, 11 Kent Ridge Drive, Singapore 119244 (Kent Ridge MRT)
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 4.30pm (Mon-Fri), Closed Sat, Sun
https://www.facebook.com/waacowsg

Offering a variety of Japanese rice bowls and udon, the recommended ones were the Signature Wagyu Beef Rice Bowl ($9.90 for petite/ $17.90 for standard) and the Aburi Bara Chirashi Bowl ($16.90 for standard).

The Signature Wagyu Beef Rice Bowl ($17.90) arrived with strips of wagyu beef sous-vide and seared to a pinkish hue with a tender texture. Oishii!

A 62°C egg set on top of the Japanese short grain rice with soy-based beef sauce reminded me of a bowl of “mui fan” (wet cooked rice). Perhaps there’s too much zhup (sauce) in the rice. Waa Cow (Kent Ridge Drive)

Sun with Moon Japanese Dining & Café
501 Orchard Road, #03-15 Wheelock Place, 03-15/16/17, 238880
Tel: +65 6733 6636
Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm (Mon – Sun)

The Japanese fare created by Executive Chef Toshio Sawai offered here is quite extensive, from Sun Original Kamameshi, Bento sets, Kobachi, Sushi, Sashimi, Washoku combinations, to Steak dishes.

The donburi sets at Sun with Moon Japanese Dining & Café have been popular among lunch-goers, and you can expect Unagi Don ($23.80), Tendon ($23.80) and Buta Don ($22.80) – pan-fried sliced pork served on rice.

I would recommend the Roast Beef Don Set ($25.80) of sliced sous-vide tender roast beef served on Japanese rice with special sauce, mayonnaise, and topped off with a soft boiled egg.

The portion is generous and makes for a satisfying meal.

Nuevo Café
115 Eunos Ave 3 #01-01 Singapore 409839 (Paya Lebar MRT)
Tel: +65 9632 6045
Opening Hours: 8:00am – 10:00pm (Mon – Sun)
https://www.facebook.com/NuevoCafeSG

For those working around Paya Lebar who needs a protein fix or a fuss-free meal, you can go for the Yakiniku Beef Striploin ($8.50) at Nuevo Café.

Served during lunch and dinner times, you get grilled beef striploin on a bed of Japanese rice, topped with pickles and sous vide egg, sprinkled with sesame seeds and roasted nori.

The beef used for the Gyudon was grilled quickly and cut thin, giving the pieces a layer of even char and tenderness. I do think they could up slightly on the sauce element, or provide a dip as an option.

On Weekends, they serve the beef bowl as well, but using the ribeye cut instead.

Ryori by Sushiro
301 Upper Thomson Road, #01-113F Thomson Plaza, Singapore 574408 (Near Marymount MRT)
Opening Hours: 11:45am – 2:15pm, 5:45pm – 9:15pm (Tue – Sun)>

Sushiro has opened a Ryori by Sushiro, which is more focused on Gyuniku Donburi.

I opted for the Tokyo Gyuniku Don ($12). When I first tasted a few spoonfuls, I felt the meats were juicy enough. Compared to the usual donburis which are typically drier, their version was more soupy.

The bowl was also overloaded with onions and rice, and I wished that they mixed in more beef instead. Ryori by Sushiro (Thomson Plaza)

Other Related Entries
12 Best Tendon In Singapore
12 Japanese Restaurants & Cafes At Suntec City
11 Best Japanese Restaurants At Millenia Walk
12 Best Sushi Rolls In Singapore
20 Matcha Desserts In Singapore

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights

The post 12 Best Gyudon In Singapore – Where To Find Comforting Japanese Beef Bowls 牛丼 appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

[NEW] What? Man Man Unagi without a queue. As of now.

Man Man Unagi by Teppei has quietly opened at Ubi Oxley Bizhub under the Yamato Izakaya concept – which also houses Ramen Hitoyoshi and Tora Tora.

Ubi may seem too far for many, but great for those working in the MacPherson and Tai Seng areas, and diners who need unagi after your driving lessons.

The other good news is Yamato Izakaya can accommodate over 300 patrons, with free onsite parking.

Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant
Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant at Keong Saik Road has been attracting long lines, especially after the Singapore Michelin Bib Gourmand win.

It is known for generous portions of high quality grilled Japanese eel selected by professional breeders and directly imported from Mikawa Isshiki Town in Aichi Prefecture.

For first timers, get the Hitsumabushi with freshly char-grilled unagi – of reasonable thickness, slight crispy layer, and without that fishy taste that most people do not fancy. Perfect with the accompanying tantalising sauces.

Ramen Hitoyoshi
The creamy tonkotsu broth was supposedly cooked for 8 hours, and taste reminded me of Keisuke Tonkotsu King
when it first started out. (Heard from the grapevine that the chefs here used to work for Keisuke.)

Except the Ramen Hitoyoshi had an even thicker quality, and used different type of noodles. The Cha Shu I had was superbly tender without that meaty-porky taste.

Tora Tora
Tora Tora offers a different menu of ‘futago’ which means pairs or twins in Japanese.

You have to choose 2 don’s from wide array of dons to complete your order, probably the first place in Singapore where you can taste two different dons in one time.

Yamato Izakaya
65 Ubi Road 1, #01-92 Oxley Bizhub, 408729
Tel: +65 6385 5273
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 3pm, 5:30pm – 10pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

Other Related Entries
Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant (Keong Saik Road)
Man Man Japanese Unagi Restaurant (Duo Gallery)
Ramen Hitoyoshi (Harbourfront Centre)
5 Best Unagi Restaurants In Singapore

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Yamato Izakaya – Man Man Unagi, Ramen Hitoyoshi And Tora Tora Under One Roof, At Ubi Oxley Bizhub appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Newly opened at Downtown Gallery, Takayama Japanese Restaurant is where you can savour a medley of authentic Japanese flavours in its multi-course menu.

This is a “kappo-style” restaurant, similar to a Keiseki meal where elaborately prepared dishes which look like pieces of art, are served.

(Click PLAY for highlights of Takayama Japanese Restaurant.)

The influence of the dishes originates from Osaka, and the menu is inspired by the four seasons of Japan, using ingredients at the peak of their flavours. Therefore, if you go during different months, you are likely to get varied dishes depending on the ingredient sourced.

The main dining room features two kappo counters for seven and five guests, as well as a booth seats that can accommodate two and four diners.

For those who require more privacy, there are two private dining rooms which can sit six and eight guests.

I would suggest taking the kappo counter though, where you can watch your food being prepared by Chef Chef Taro Takayama and his team.

Chef Takayama is formerly chef de cuisine at Mandarin Orchard Singapore, and began his career at three-Michelin-starred restaurants Kashiwaya and Koryu in Osaka.

After which he was appointed master chef at the residence of the Japanese ambassador to Singapore, where he served dignitaries such as Japan’s Crown Prince Naruhito and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Here are some of the dishes served at Takayama. Do take note that items vary by the season and menu chosen:

APPETISER: Homemade tofu

OTSUKURI, TAKAYAMA-STYLE: Assorted seasonal fish from Japan, Osaka sushi

MONAKA: Foie gras, fig

STEAMED: Abalone, uni

FISH: Saikyo miso black cod

CHARCOAL GRILLED: Kumamoto wagyu beef “WAOH”, young corn

RICE: Ochazuke

DESSERT: Seasonal fruits such as musk melon.

Takayama’s signature dish is the Abalone + Uni which can be found in the dinner omakase menu.

The other dish to look forward to is the “Otsukuri”. While it essentially means sashimi, I got a combination of Hokkaido uni, Toyama baby squid, Nagasaki Otoro and Chutoro and a couple of surprises – each item there elaborately presented and even paired with different soy sauces to bring out the best of the flavours.

Pricing
Seasonal Lunch Sets: $68++ or $98++
Includes Homemade Tofu, Seasonal Otsukuri, Seasonal Cold Appetiser, Pickled Vegetables, One Seasonal Main, Hokkaido Rice, Miso Soup, and Fruit Jelly.

Dinner Omakase: $280++
Includes Appetisers, Otsukuri, Monaka, Signature dish of Abalone + Uni, Charcoal Grilled Sish, Oshokuji, Fruits and Confection.

The latest seasonal menu is available on takayama.com.sg.

Takayama Japanese Restaurant
6 Shenton Way #01-09/10 OUE Downtown Gallery Singapore 068815 (Tanjong Pagar MRT)
Tel: +65 6224 0864
Email: enquiry@takayama.com.sg
Opening Hours: Lunch 12pm – 2:30pm, Dinner 6:30pm – 10pm (Mon – Sat), Closed Sun

* This entry is brought to you in partnership with Takayama.

The post Takayama – Japanese Kappo-style Restaurant At Downtown Gallery, With Seasonal Set Lunches And Omakase appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Seems like some Bara Chirashi shops in Singapore are going on the “cheapest” route. Well, great for consumers who are looking at saving some money while indulging in sashimi cubes.

Kei Kaisendon, available at Novena Square 2 and Paya Lebar Square, offers their Kaisendon in SML versions, priced at $12.90, $16.90 and $19.90.

The small bowl should satisfy those who are budget or carb conscious.

Other than the Signature Kaisen Don ($16.90), other bowls include Unagi Kaisen Don ($19.90), Chirashi Kaisen Don ($26.90), Scallops Kaisen Don ($19.0), Salmon Kaisen Don ($18.90) and Aburi Mentaiko Kaisen Don ($17.90).

I had the Signature Kaisen Don, overall a decent bowl. This reminded me of Teppei Syokodo’s version to a small extent in terms of usage of seasoning for the marinate.

With addition of salmon, tuna, baby scallops and yellowtail, I wished that the pieces were more evenly cubed.

My friend commented that the tuna was mushier than the rest of the ingredients, which I agreed.

With Unadon all in the rage in Singapore, the introduction of an Unagi Kaisen Don ($19.90) seems to ride on with the trend.

While the Japanese sea eel pieces added some sweet-savoury flavours in the overall combination, some diners may not feel comfortable with having both raw and cooked ingredients mixed in the same bowl.

Also wondered about the ample addition of wakame, which while added colour was overall distracting in appreciating the full freshness of the bowl.

There are currently branches at Novena Square and Paya Lebar Square, soon to open at Suntec City (near Kimchi Korean Restaurant).

Kei Kaisendon
Novena Square 2, 10 Sinaran Drive #02-95, Singapore 307506
Opening Hours: 11:30am – 9:30pm Daily

60 Paya Lebar Road, Paya Lebar Square #01-84, Singapore 409051

Other Related Entries
Hokkaido Marche (Orchard Central)
Rakki Bowl (Beach Road)
Kabuke (Telok Ayer)
The BetterShip (The Cathay)
Platform M by MOF (Paya Lebar)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Kei Kaisendon – With Unagi Kaisen Don And Bara Chirashi, At Novena Square And Paya Lebar Square appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

So which eateries sell the cheapest Bara Chirashi Don in Singapore? Not the the kiosk ones, but those that sells donburi in a sit-down restaurant.

It should be District Sushi’s which was previously $10 (but now $13), En Sushi’s version at $10.80, and Umi Nami which sells theirs for $10 – with no GST or service charge.

Umi Nami is located along Lorong Mambong at Holland Village, and kept its interior with the basics – wooden tables, grey floors and paper lanterns hanging from the ceiling.

I suppose reducing unnecessary cost on its interior décor, gave it some room to offer bowls at more affordable pricing.

The Bara Chirashi Don is priced at $10, while other bowls included Salmon Don ($12), Aburi Salmon Don ($13), Maguro Zuke Don ($12), and Aburi Scallop Mekajiki Don ($24) – consisting of lightly seared scallops with cubes of swordfish belly.

The signature bowl came with cubes of salmon, tuna, sweet tamago egg and ebiko, marinated with light soy-saltiness.

To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much and so thought that it was a decent bowl for its price, with warm fluffy rice and good-enough portion.

The fish cubes were the freshest or tastiest around, but could be another choice if you are in the vicinity and in need a casual meal. It might not have warranted an out-of-the-way trip.

Comparatively, I found the Aburi Salmon Don ($13) a tastier and heartier bowl overall.

I also ordered other side dishes such as Marinated Scallop Bits ($4) and Tamagoyaki ($3), which would more to go with drinks, but not impressive enough to make me want to order them again.

If there are not further constrains, the restaurants can consider selling some hot side dishes.

Umi Nami
8 Lorong Mambong, Holland Village, Singapore 277674
Opening Hours: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm Daily

Other Related Entries
Kogane Yama (Bugis Junction)
Rakki Bowl (Beach Road)
Kei Kaisendon (Novena Square)
Platform M by MOF (Paya Lebar)
Tokyo Joe (Science Park)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Umi Nami – $10 NETT Bara Chirashi Don At Holland Village appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

A less-talked about sushi restaurant has opened at the basement of Orchard Central.

Sushi Shiki Hanamaru 花まる is the latest addition to Hokkaido Marche next to Don Don Donki, though it is operated as a restaurant concept rather than a food stall like the rest.

Hanamaru originated from Nemuro, one of the representative port towns in Hokkaido known for its harvests of fresh fish throughout the year.

There are currently 13 sushi stores in Hokkaido, with 3 in Tokyo – most operated as a Kaiten-style conveyor belt sushi restaurant.

However, do not expect mass-market pricing similar to other chain sushi stores, as Sushi Shiki Hanamaru’s pricing suggest a more mid-tier level. Actually only realised that after really observing the menu closely.

Sushi starts from $4.80++ for a Ika (squid) Ingiri Sushi, to $7++ for Akami Bluefin Tuna, $10++ for Chutoro (medium fatty tuna), $12++ for Ootoro (fatty tuna), to $17++ Sea Urchin Sushi.

The plus point is, the fish used is imported from various parts of Japan with some not so common varieties, and its rather pictorial menu would provide brief descriptions of what is included in each sushi.

For a more budget meal, then the Burnt Soy Sauce Sushi ($15++ for 5 pieces) could do the trick, but that may not be the best way to savour the freshness of the dish.

After a rather long deliberation, my friend and I went for the Hanamori ($96++ for 20 pieces) with a variety of salmon, tuna, tako (octopus), yellowtail, uni and prawn sushi.

Generally, I liked that the restaurant offered relatively fresh fish – better than the average chain sushi store, and had types that were less commonly seen in Singapore.

However, the rice used was the stumbling block to a perfect sushi – slightly on the dry side, and therefore not as packed with grains falling out already when picked up with the chopstick.

The other ala carte dishes such as the Fresh King Crab Miso Soup ($8.50++), Handmade Fried Fish Cake ($7++) and Fried Chicken ($9.50++) were notable dishes.

I am therefore slightly conflicted with this place. The Japanese chefs seemed skilful at what they were doing, but price-point and consistency throughout dishes may hinder me to make frequent repeat visits.

Sushi Shiki Hanamaru
Orchard Central #B2-11/29/44/48 181 Orchard Road Singapore 238896 (Somerset MRT)
Tel: +65 66340211
Opening Hours: 11am – 2pm, 5pm -11pm (Mon – Fri), 11am – 11pm (Sat – Sun)

Other Related Entries
Don Don Donki (Orchard Central)
Hokkaido Marche (Orchard Central)
Misato (The Centrepoint)
Tamaya Dining (Cuppage Terrace)
Marugame Udon & Tempura 丸亀製麺 (ION Orchard)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Sushi Shiki Hanamaru – NEW Under-The-Radar Sushi Restaurant At The Basement Of Orchard Central appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.

Chef Teppei Yamashita is indeed on a roll. After another Man Man in Ubi, Men-Men Tei Ramen at Marina One, and even Teppei Syokudo in Hong Kong, he has opened an Udon eatery in the CBD at Hong Long Building.

Yeah, the Teppei empire is spreading.

Finding this Udon shop may not be the easiest thing. Get across Lau Pat Sat, and find the escalator that leads to “The Basement”.

Fu-Men serves up Hakata-style Udon from Fukuoka, characterized by mildly thick, soft and tender noodles.

The noodles are slightly slimmer as compared to the Sanuki style more commonly found in Singapore – offered at Marugame Udon and Tamoya Udon.

There are two good things about the shop already.

It is “Muslim friendly” and therefore no pork or lard is used in the ingredients, and they are in the process of apply for Halal certification; half size portions are available for those watching your carb-level.

Varieties such as Tempura Udon ($15), Big Fish Cake Udon ($12), Bean Curd Sheet ($8), Chicken ($12) and Premium Beef ($15) are available.

I went for the signature Gobo ($12) which came topped with Burdock Tempura, reminding me of the exceptional Zagin Soba from Hong Kong.

As for burdock, I do not think many diners in Singapore are that familiar with it yet, as they are typically used in soups and can have an overly-earthy taste.

Surprisingly, the tempura burdock were deep fried with a light, not-too-greasy batter, with a soft crunch and retained its unique woodiness.

The udon noodles were soft with a pleasant bite, didn’t feel too heavy for a lunch-time meal, complemented with clear, reasonably flavourful soup.

The main set-back which I thought were the operational kinks such as the time needed to cook up the noodles.

For many CBD workers, time is of essence and more than half hour’s wait for udon, and even longer for side dishes can be stretching beyond their comfort level.

Fu-Men Japanese Udon
16 Raffles Quay, #B1-17/18 Hong Leong Building, 048581
Tel: +65 6224 1134
Opening Hours: 10am – 8pm (Mon – Fri), 10am – 2:30pm (Sat), Closed Sun

Other Related Entries
Marugame Udon & Tempura 丸亀製麺 (ION Orchard)
Tamoya Udon (Liang Court)

* Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. Daniel’s Food Diary paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.

The post Fu Men Japanese Udon – Teppei’s NEW Udon Shop At Raffles Place, Pending Halal Certification appeared first on DanielFoodDiary.com.