J-Garden is a Japanese eatery near Queensbay Mall. The restaurant specializes in yoshoku (洋食), which is Western-style Japanese cuisine. While relatively common in Japan, Penang’s yoshoku restaurants are few and far between.

J-Garden adopts a minimalist approach in its decor. Sleek modern wooden surfaces give the dining area a homely feeling. Overall, J-Garden has a casual ambience for dining with friends and family.

Omurice (オムライス) is a classic example of yoshoku. It is a dish of fried rice wrapped in omelette, and usually topped with ketchup. J-Garden’s Omu Nanban (オム南蛮, RM20.00+) is also served with spaghetti napolitana, fried chicken (チキン南蛮) and tartar sauce.

Customers who order from the special lunch menu can get soup, salad, dessert and drink for only RM6.00+ more. Today’s dessert is orange panna cotta. The pudding has a delightful consistency between jelly and fluid.

J-Garden is known for preparing barbecued pork (チャーシュー) from scratch in the kitchen. The restaurant uses premium pork imported from Spain. One way to appreciate this delicacy is through Char Siew Salad (チャーシューサラダ, RM16.00+).

Tsukemen (つけ麺, RM27.00+), also known as “dipping noodles”, is a dish where cold ramen (ラーメン) is dipped in a hot bowl of soup called dashi (出汁). Other ingredients are barbecued pork, onsen tamago (温泉卵) and cabbage. Sesame seeds can be ground using a mortar and pestle.

Next, Char Siew Don (チャーシュー丼, RM22.00+) consists of barbecued pork, onsen tamago and shredded cabbage served over rice. Horseradish sauce enhances the succulent pork slices by giving a pungent taste similar to wasabi. The meal includes miso soup too.

Meanwhile, Melted Cheese Doria (昭和レトロドリア, RM24.00+) is a rice casserole cooked with stock and onions. The dish is baked with béchamel sauce and cheese. The browned layer keeps the rice moist and enhances its savoriness. Salad is served on the side.

As for something crispy, Thick & Crispy Tonkatsu (肉厚サクサク豚カツ, RM30.00+) the ideal choice. The pork cutlet is coated with bread crumbs (パン粉) and fried to golden perfection. Compared to Western breading, tonkatsu has a lighter crisp because the breading does not absorb as much oil. The cutlet is typically enjoyed with a brown sauce called tonkatsu sauce.

J-Garden has an exclusive parking area for its customers. There is enough space to fit around 6 cars. In addition, the restaurant has an outdoor section in case customers prefer al fresco dining. Furthermore, J-Garden is a suitable venue for corporate functions and private parties. The air-conditioned section can easily accommodate up to 50 people.

Name: J-Garden
Address: 64-G, Persiaran Bayan Indah, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-637-1139
Business hours: 11:30am-2:30pm, 6:00pm-10:00pm, closed on Mondays
Website: https://www.facebook.com/JGardenRestaurant
Coordinates: 5.33650 N, 100.30706 E
Directions: J-Garden is located in Bayan Indah near Queensbay Mall. The restaurant is the corner unit of a row of shops between Eastin Hotel and Shanghai Ding. There are parking spaces at the side of the restaurant.

Umi Japanese Restaurant (海) is one of two full service restaurants in Lexis Suites Penang; the other is Roselle Coffee House. “Umi” means “sea” in Japanese, reflecting the fact that the restaurant places great emphasis on fresh seafood.

Umi presents a family-friendly dining atmosphere with a charming touch of wood. The spacious dining hall can accommodate up to 100 diners at full capacity.

As for patrons who prefer some privacy, Umi has several quaint tatami rooms. Each room can fit around 6 or 7 people. Customers are asked to remove their shoes before entering.

Sakura Set Dinner (RM48.00) is a teishoku- (定食) style meal where diners can choose the main dish: teriyaki chicken or grilled mackerel. The meal also includes tempura, chawanmushi (茶碗蒸し), miso soup (味噌汁), edamame (枝豆) and steamed rice. Sakura Set Dinner is available daily from 6:30pm to 10:00pm.

The teriyaki chicken (照り焼きチキン) is exquisite indeed. The cutlet is grilled with a glaze of soy sauce and mirin (味醂), culminating in savory and sweet flavors. Seasoned scallops (中華ホタテ) and omelette (玉子焼き) are served on the side.

Tempura (天麩羅) comprises of prawns and vegetables coated in light batter. The food items are deep-fried to a scrumptious crisp. Tentsuyu (天つゆ) is the dipping sauce for tempura.

Sashimi Moriawase (刺身盛り合わせ, RM160.00) is meant for sharing among 3 or 4 diners. The chilled platter includes the chef’s selection of marine delicacies. Sashimi is customarily eaten with wasabi (山葵).

Today’s Sashimi Moriawase consists of salmon (鮭), tuna (鮪), mackerel (鯖), octopus (蛸), oysters (牡蠣), scallops (帆立), surf clams (北寄貝) and salmon roe (イクラ). To give customers the freshest seafood available, the actual seafood items may vary from day to day.

Moving on, Unadon (鰻丼, RM40.00) features a large piece of unagi (freshwater eel) grilled in kabayaki (蒲焼) style. The fillet is served with short-grain Japanese rice, omelette and miso soup.

Green tea (お茶) is served from a traditional Japanese teapot. The teapot is kept warm on a portable stove.

Japanese cuisine places utmost importance in seafood freshness, in which Umi Japanese Restaurant passes with flying colors. The restaurant also excels in taste and presentation.

On weekdays, Umi offers Japanese Semi Buffet Lunch (RM80.00) from 12:00pm to 2:30pm. Customers may select from a list of main dishes, and enjoy free flow of salad, cold cuts and desserts. Come with a partner as the restaurant is offering “Buy 1 Free 1” for this promotion.

As for people who want to enjoy a quality weekend with family and friends, Umi Japanese Restaurant also serves Sunday Buffet Lunch. Prior reservation is highly recommended.

Name: Umi Japanese Restaurant (海)
Address: 28, Jalan Teluk Kumbar, 11920 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-628-2888
Business hours: 12:00pm-2:30pm, 6:30pm-11:00pm
Website: https://www.lexissuitespenang.com/dining/umi-japanese-restaurant
Coordinates: 5.28709 N, 100.23254 E
Directions: From Bayan Lepas, drive along Jalan Teluk Kumbar towards the intersection with Jalan Gertak Sanggul. Lexis Suites Penang is the tall building on the left just before the intersection. Umi Japanese Restaurant is located on the Ground Floor, just next to the lobby atrium. There are parking spaces inside the hotel.

Update: This business has ceased its operations.

Bincho By Sango is the latest addition to the Sango Group of Restaurants. The group’s flagship restaurant is Sango Japanese Restaurant (珊瑚日本料理), which is located inside Crystal Crown Hotel in Petaling Jaya. Meanwhile, this outlet at Sentral Jaya is the group’s izakaya spin-off.

An izakaya (居酒屋) is the Japanese equivalent of a pub. In Japan, such drinking establishments are frequented by office workers after work. Besides alcoholic beverages, an izakaya typically serves light meals too. Bincho takes a step further by offering japas, a fusion of Spanish tapas and Japanese cuisine.

The bar near the entrance is where alcoholic beverages like beer, wine and liquor are prepared. Most drinks are served by the bottle, but certain types are also poured by the glass. As a Japanese drinking establishment, Bincho also carries several popular sake (酒, Japanese rice wine) and shochu (焼酎, Japanese liquor) brands.

Sake can be served chilled (冷酒), at room temperature (常温) or heated (熱燗). Hot sake is customarily consumed during winter. Although some flavors may be lost, the wine’s aroma plays a more prominent role. Sake is poured into a ceramic flask called tokkuri (徳利), where it is heated by hot water. This 300 ml bottle of Kacho Fugetsu (花鳥風月, RM68.00) contains approximately 14% alcohol by volume.

In addition, Bincho offers several brands of draft beer like Guinness, Heineken and Tiger. Our choice this evening is Kirin Ichiban (一番搾り, RM12.00), one of the most popular beers in Japan. With a frothy head, the beer tastes remarkably fresh and smooth. It is served in a frosty glass to keep the drink chilled as long as possible.

Alcoholic beverages go particularly well with kushiyaki (串焼き). Sango Signature Platter (RM49.00) allows diners to savor multiple crowd favorites at a time. The platter consists of tsukune (つくね, chicken meatballs), chicken wings, wagyu cubes, salmon cubes and sweet potatoes. Sweet-savory tare sauce and quail egg are provided too.

Creamy Baked Oysters (RM25.00) are presented over a bed of coarse salt crystals. They are each gratinéed with mentaiko (明太子, spicy roe) and mayonnaise. Like most izakaya food items, the oysters are heavily seasoned in order to complement alcoholic beverages. Their creamy texture is satisfying indeed.

The next dish is Bonded Unagi & Foie Gras (RM35.00). This japas cleverly combines the unique flavors and textures of foie gras, unagi (うなぎ, freshwater eel) and fried egg. Flavored with tare sauce, each bite-size piece is elegantly presented on a ceramic spoon. I am particularly fond of the buttery texture of foie gras as it melts in my mouth.

Seared Blue Fin Tuna With Foie Gras (RM36.00) is another similar dish. In this case, foie gras is served over bluefin tuna, unagi and apple chutney. Tare sauce is added for extra flavor. The dish is garnished with thin slices of fried lotus, whose crispiness really enhances the overall texture. I am quite impressed with this delicacy.

For something more filling, Hot Stone Bowl Rice (RM35.00) is topped with seafood ingredients like unagi, scallops, shrimps, tobiko (とびこ, fish roe) and seaweed (ワカメ). It also comes with onsen tamago (温泉玉子, hot spring egg), minced chicken and tare sauce. Mix the ingredients thoroughly before consuming. Be extra careful with the stone bowl because it is scorching hot.

Truffled Wagyu Donburi (RM35.00) is my favorite dish this evening. This gratifying delicacy contains succulent slices of wagyu beef. Beef is cooked medium rare in order to allow diners to appreciate its premium quality. Besides onsen tamago and tare sauce, truffle oil is also added to elevate aroma to a whole new level. Last but not least, fried garlic serves as icing on the cake.

Tobanyaki (陶板焼き, RM65.00) features a serving of premium wagyu beef with fine marbling. The thin slices of beef are to be grilled on a hot ceramic plate, which is heated by burning charcoal below. This exquisite delicacy also comes with shiitake mushrooms, shimeji mushrooms, bean sprouts and asparagus. Spicy garlic sauce is provided.

Thanks to dim lighting and light music in the background, Bincho presents a relaxing yet lively ambience for casual drinking. In case the main dining area is fully occupied, the izakaya establishment has extra dining tables upstairs. In addition, Bincho provides two private rooms that can accommodate up to 10 people each.

Name: Bincho By Sango
Address: 29, Jalan Sentral Jaya, Pusat Perniagaan Sentral Jaya, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-502-4920
Business hours: 12:00pm-1:00am
Website: https://www.facebook.com/binchosangojuru
Coordinates: 5.34132 N, 100.43508 E
Directions: From the North-South Expressway, take the Bukit Mertajam exit and head east. Make a U-turn at the next traffic lights. Turn left into Sentral Jaya. Bincho is near the center of the row of shops. There are parking spaces in front and the back of the restaurant.

Sushi Ya literally means “sushi shop” in Japanese. Like Sakae Sushi, the restaurant specializes in conveyor belt sushi (回転寿司). In addition, Sushi Ya has an à la carte menu which covers sashimi, bento and set meals.

The price of sushi is indicated by the color of the plate: pink (RM1.90) or red (RM2.90). Shown here are Chuka Idako Gunkan, Ebiko Gunkan, Kani Fumi Sweet Mayo, Salmon Sweet Mayo, Tamago Mentai, Futo Maki, Kamo Sweet Mayo, Ebi Panko Sushi and California Maki.

As for Green Tea (RM1.50), sencha (煎茶) is provided in tea bags. Sencha is prepared by steeping whole tea leaves in hot water, unlike matcha (抹茶) where the leaves are ground into powder form and dissolved in hot water. Sushi Ya also sells sencha by the box for home consumption.

Address: 2-G-16, Medan Rajawali, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-293-0815
Business hours: 11:30am-10:00pm
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Sushi-B’rito is located at the ground floor of SPICE Canopy, right next to Pony Tale. The restaurant serves Japanese fusion cuisine. As its menu has been streamlined for speedy preparation, the eatery is quite popular among the lunch crowd.

Stepping inside, the restaurant gives a homely sense of coziness with a touch of modernity. The spacious dining area presents a family-friendly dining atmosphere.

Sushi-B’rito specializes in rice burger (ライスバーガー) and sushi burrito (すしブリトー). In addition, the menu also covers mainstream Japanese dishes such as udon (うどん) and donburi (丼). The food here is prepared using fresh ingredients; all sauces and seasonings are prepared from scratch in the kitchen.

The recommended rice burger here is Gyu Hanbagu (牛ハンバーグ, RM18.90). Made from genuine beef loin, the patty is glazed with savory beef gravy. The grilled patty is then sandwiched between two compressed rice cakes. Japanese short-grain rice is used, but unlike sushi, it is not laced with vinegar. The burger also contains seaweed (海苔), cheese, lettuce, mayonnaise, tomato and caramelized onion. Overall, the beef patty is succulent to the last morsel.

Similar in the diameter to futomaki (太巻), Shake Batayaki (鮭のバタ焼き, RM17.90) is wrapped with seaweed because it is meant to be eaten by hand. Two types of salmon are used: butter-grilled salmon and smoked salmon. The sushi burrito is filled with vegetables and pickles too. A small amount of mint sauce provides the much-needed moisture. Overall, the snack’s taste is perfectly balanced. However should customers prefer, soy sauce (醬油) and homemade sweet sauce are available too.

Mushroom lovers should really try the Kinoko Pesto Udon (キノコペストうどん, RM14.90). The noodle dish is topped with shiitake (椎茸), shimeji (占地) and button mushrooms. Other ingredients are onsen tamago (温泉玉子), cherry tomatoes, roasted walnuts and seaweed strips. The pesto sauce has a tantalizing aroma of basil. If you appreciate the earthy taste of mushrooms and walnuts, this dish is the perfect fit for you.

Sushi-B’rito’s food is ideal for take-away. For all main dishes, customers may get an extra side dish and a drink for only RM3.00 more. This is a no-brainer since the drink itself costs more than that. It is also crucial to emphasize that Sushi-B’rito is a halal-certified restaurant. This is noteworthy as few Japanese restaurants are willing to go to such great lengths.

Name: Sushi-B’rito
Address: 180-B-01-12, Setia SPICE Canopy, Jalan Tun Dr. Awang, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 018-948-6676
Business hours: 11:00am-10:00pm
Website: https://www.sushi-brito.com
Coordinates: 5.32884 N, 100.27889 E
Directions: Sushi-B’rito is located at SPICE Canopy, facing Jalan Tun Dr. Awang and Pisa Corner Cafe. There are parking spaces in front of the restaurant.

Tokyo Kitchen (東京厨房) is a chain of Japanese restaurants from Klang Valley. The dishes here are inspired by Tokyo cuisine. The sole outlet in Penang is located at Icon City, right next to Ittan Izakaya.

The dining area is elegantly decorated with Japanese ornaments. There is even a small pond with live koi (鯉). To enhance the ambience, Japanese pop songs are played in the background.

Tori Karaage Don (鶏から揚げ丼, RM19.80) is a rice dish with a fried chicken cutlet on top. Dressed with mayonnaise (マヨネーズ), the cutlet is crispy but is a bit salty. The meal also comes with a bowl of miso soup (味噌汁) that contains seaweed (ワカメ) and tofu (豆腐).

Una Cheese Roll (うなチーズロール, RM26.80) is a maki sushi (巻き寿司) with freshwater eel (鰻) on top. The rice is rolled with crab stick (カニカマ), daikon (大根), cucumber and seaweed (海苔). Besides unagi, toppings also include tare sauce (たれ), torched cheese and shrimp roe (えびこ).

Tokyo Kitchen Green Tea Latte (ラテ東京キッチン緑茶, RM9.80) is an ice-blended drink using matcha. Unfortunately, the ice is not blended thoroughly, so there are still chunks of solid ice in the drink.

While the restaurant’s ambience and table service are commendable, I think the food taste deserves some improvement. Note that Tokyo Kitchen does not serve pork.

Address: 45, Jalan Icon City, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-505-7282
Business hours: 12:00pm-3:00pm, 5:00pm-10:30pm

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Update: This business has ceased its operations.

Fans of anime (アニメ) and manga (漫画) will be glad to know that a themed restaurant has opened in George Town. Located at Lebuh Tye Sin, Dream Mansion (夢の世界) incorporates elements of Japanese cosplay into its décor, exhibits, menu and even the waitresses’ costumes.

Dream Mansion presents a relaxing, family-friendly ambience with different seating arrangements. Besides proper tables, customers can also opt for tatami- (畳) style dining. This no-footwear dining section has several Japanese low tables (ちゃぶ台) with cushions (座布団) and legless chairs (座椅子).

To keep customers entertained during their visits, Dream Mansion provides pastime such as comic books, board games and card games. In addition, a blackboard with chalks allows children to doodle and express their artistic talents.

The food menu here primarily features Japanese cooking with substantial Western influences. An iconic example is Omurice (黄金オムライス, RM18.90), a portmanteau of the words “omelette” (オムレツ) and “rice” (ライス). Unlike those served in Western breakfasts, the omelette remains soggy inside. When served, the omelette is cut into halves so that it unfolds and covers the heap of rice. This dish comes with Japanese curry (カレー).

The next rice dish is Unagi Don (鰻丼, RM21.90). Served on a bowl of rice, the delicate piece of freshwater eel is seasoned with tare sauce (垂れ) and sesame seeds. The fillet is delectable overall. On the side are onsen tamago (温泉玉子) and strips of seaweed (海苔). Dream Mansion uses gold-colored silverware as a symbol of opulence.

Moving on, Mentaiko Spaghetti (明太子パスタ, RM19.90) is served with white sauce to present a creamy consistency on the lips. The pasta is topped with pollock roe (明太子) and seaweed. The roe gives a distinctive scent which some people might find uncomfortable with. It is advisable to consume the dish while it is warm; otherwise the sauce dries up and becomes too thick and surfeiting.

Temari Bento (手まり弁当, RM28.90) is ideal for sharing between two people. Temari sushi (手まり寿司) is a special type of sushi where vinegar-laced rice is hand-rolled into bite-size balls. There are 6 types of topping with 2 pieces each: salmon, shrimp, squid, omelette, cucumber and turnip. Wasabi (山葵) and soy sauce (醤油) serve as condiments.

Mapo Tofu (麻婆丼, RM18.90) is a specialty of Sichuan cuisine but has now become popular throughout China, Korea and Japan. The spicy stew of soft tofu is typically flavored with chili and doubanjiang. Dream Mansion offers 3 levels of spiciness: 1 (mild), 3 (moderate) and 5 (extreme). I find Level 3 to be quite spicy but still bearable.

Dream Mansion’s drinks are named after popular anime characters in One Piece (ワンピース). For instance, Straw Hat (麦わら帽子を持つ少年, RM16.90) is inspired by Monkey D. Luffy (モンキー・D・ルフィ), the protagonist in the franchise. This thick chocolate milkshake contains strawberry purée and chewy tapioca pearls. Strawberry-flavored whipped cream serves as icing on the cake.

Next, Moss Head (モスヘッド, RM13.90) is a parody Roronoa Zoro (ロロノア・ゾロ), a supporting character from One Piece. This lemonade mocktail is mixed with kiwi juice and honey, presenting citrus tanginess which quenches thirst very well. As for garnishing, there is also a slice of lemon on the glass’ rim.

Sparkling Blood Juice (スパークリングジュース, RM13.90) is a carbonated drink with lemon flavors. Its reddish color comes from strawberry and blueberry purée. As a form of showmanship, this fizzy drink is mixed in front of customers.

Iced Blood Chocolate (アイスチョコレート, RM15.90) is also prepared in front of customers. In this case, thick chocolate sauce is added to milk. The drink has milky consistency with noticeable cocoa aftertaste. The iced chocolate is mildly flavored overall, making it suitable for people who love chocolate but need to watch their sugar intake.

One section of the dining area is a small anime museum which showcases the proprietor’s personal collection. Mansion has over 300 pieces on display. The collectibles cover popular manga and anime series like One Piece, Fairy Tail (フェアリーテイル), Lupin III (ルパン三世), Attack On Titan (進撃の巨人) and more. Some items, such as mecha models, are also for sale.

As there are not many anime-themed restaurants in Penang, Dream Mansion certainly appeals to fans of anime, or Japanese pop culture in general. Another source of attraction is the crew of waitresses in cosplay costumes. While not exactly a maid café (メイド喫茶), Dream Mansion is certainly popular among the young crowd.

Name: Dream Mansion (夢の世界)
Address: 80 & 82, Lebuh Tye Sin, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 010-969-9917
Business hours: 12:00pm-11:00pm
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Dreammansionpenang
Coordinates: 5.41087 N, 100.32951 E
Directions: Dream Mansion is a 2-shop restaurant along Lebuh Tye Sin, between the junctions with Jalan Gurdwara and Lebuh Mcnair. It is within a stone’s throw from Super 8 Hotel. There are several parking spaces in front of the restaurant. Additional parking is available along Lebuh Tye Sin and Lebuh Mcnair.

Prima Tanjung has a disproportionate number of Japanese eateries due to many expatriates living in the vicinity. One of these restaurants is Menya Miyabi Hokkaido Ramen (麺や雅), which is sandwiched between Aji Noren and K-Pot.

Menya Miyabi was founded in Hokkaido (北海道) in 1998. This chain of ramen shops is named after the founder’s wife, Masako (雅子). There are currently 4 outlets in Hokkaido and 3 in Malaysia. Besides this Prima Tanjung outlet, the other Malaysian outlets are located in Queensbay Mall and Sunway Pyramid.

The Prima Tanjung outlet borrows elements from the Shōwa era (昭和時代). Yellow lamps illuminate the dining area with warm light, invoking a sense of nostalgia. On the walls are pictures that depict familiar sights in Hokkaido. Among them is the iconic Susukino Crossing (すすきの交差点) in Sapporo (札幌). Besides old-fashioned wooden tables, customers can also choose to be seated at the bar next to the kitchen.

Menya Miyabi specializes in Hokkaido ramen (北海道ラーメン). Even by Japanese standards, ramen from Hokkaido is renowned for its premium quality. Hokkaido tends to use thicker ramen when compared to other prefectures. This results in a chewier and springier texture.

A good bowl of ramen revolves around the tonkotsu (豚骨) broth. Boiled from collagen-rich pork bones more than 14 hours, the broth is saturated with savory flavors. To keep the taste as authentic as possible, Menya Miyabi sources most seasonings from the original shop in Japan.

Menya Miyabi has 7 types of ramen that differ in terms of seasoning. For instance, the original Yaki-Miso Ramen (焼味噌ラーメン, RM25.00) is prepared from the restaurant’s signature miso paste (味噌). Next, Tonkotsu Ramen (とんこつラーメン, RM25.00) is sweeter and is more aligned with the local palate. Tonkotsu Shoyu Ramen (とんこつしょうゆラーメン, RM24.00), only available in this outlet, highlights the sharp taste of soy sauce (醤油).

Each bowl of ramen contains several slices of barbecued pork (チャーシュー). Made fresh in the kitchen, the pork slices are tender and juicy indeed. As for the onsen tamago (温泉玉子), tonkotsu essence penetrates the egg thoroughly. Other vital ingredients are bamboo shoots (メンマ), seaweed (のり) and scallions (ネギ).

Menya Miyabi also offers Hokkaido Fried Chicken (北海道ザンギ) as a side dish. While most Japanese use the general term “karaage” (から揚げ), fried chicken is peculiarly called “zangi” (ザンギ) in Hokkaido. At Menya Miyabi, Hokkaido Fried Chicken is available in 1 (RM3.00) or 5 (RM15.00) pieces. It is suitable for take-away orders.

What I love about the Hokkaido Fried Chicken is the fact that the marinade permeates the entire chicken. Even as the chicken cools down, it still remains fairly crispy. Nevertheless, it is still advisable to consume Hokkaido Fried Chicken while it is warm. A squeeze of lemon juice heightens the already-lovely taste.

Operating a ramen shop is no easy feat. A significant amount of time goes into preparing the broth. Unlike most ramen restaurants in Malaysia, Menya Miyabi remains faithful to the authentic recipe in Japan. It is no wonder the restaurant is very popular among Japanese families especially on weekends.

Name: Menya Miyabi Hokkaido Ramen (麺や雅)
Address: 98-G-33A, Prima Tanjung, Jalan Fettes, 11200 Tanjung Tokong, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 04-890-0075
Business hours: 11:30am-3:00pm, 5:30pm-10:00pm (Monday-Friday), 11:30am-3:00pm, 5:30pm-10:30pm (Saturday-Sunday), closed on Tuesdays
Website: http://www.menya-miyabi.com
Coordinates: 5.45083 N, 100.30479 E
Directions: Menya Miyabi is located at Prima Tanjung, at the row that faces away from the main road. It is sandwiched between Aji Noren and K-Pot. Street parking is available around Prima Tanjung.

NAMI Restaurant & Bar (波心) is a Japanese fine dining restaurant in Shangri-La Hotel Singapore. The restaurant serves exquisite Japanese fare using the freshest seafood from Japan. NAMI specializes in omakase (おまかせ), which means “I’ll leave it up to you”. This gives the restaurant greater latitude in expressing its gastronomical philosophy.

NAMI is designed by the same team that conceptualized the new Tower Wing lobby. Located on Level 24 of the hotel’s Tower Wing, the restaurant offers scenic views of Singapore’s city skyline. Customers can opt for al fresco dining at the outdoor terrace. Meanwhile, the sushi bar allows customers to watch the chef at work. There are also two rooms to accommodate private dining for small groups.

Head Chef Shigeo Akiba (秋葉重雄) takes the helm in the kitchen. Hailing from Yokohama (横浜), Chef Akiba is a highly accomplished personality in the Japanese culinary profession. Throughout his career which spans over 3 decades, he has the distinction of having served high-profile banquets, including meals for the Imperial House of Japan and many foreign dignitaries. Favoring a minimalist approach, Chef Akiba emphasizes on accentuating natural flavors of seafood as opposed to using heavy seasoning.

NAMI is offering the Hokkaido Omakase (北海道フェアーおまかせ), which is available through the winter season (till the end of January 2018). This 7-course menu features seasonal delicacies from Kitano Daichi (北の大地). Meaning “up north”, this term often refers to Hokkaido (北海道), Japan’s northernmost major island and renowned for fresh seafood harvested from its pristine waters.

The appetizer (先附) is presented as two pieces of amuse-bouche: Hairy Crab With Tosa Vinegar (毛蟹土佐酢掛け) and Yuba Tofu & Sea Urchin (とろ湯葉、雲丹、鼈甲餡). Hairy crab (毛蟹), also known as horsehair crab, is found only in the cold waters of the North Pacific Ocean. The crab is flavored by unami-rich Tosa vinegar (土佐酢), which is prepared from bonito flakes, rice vinegar, mirin, dashi and soy sauce.

Yuba tofu (とろ湯葉) is essentially bean curd skin. Topping the mild-flavored silky tofu is the savory roe of sea urchin (雲丹). This prized delicacy from the marine kingdom is in turn flavored by thick dashi stock called tortoiseshell sauce (鼈甲餡).

The next course is a soup (御椀): Dobin Mushi With Matsutake Mushrooms (松茸土瓶蒸し). Dobin mushi (土瓶蒸し) is a unique style of preparing dashi in a ceramic teapot. The rich broth is prepared from top grade kombu kelp (昆布) from Hokkaido and handpicked katsuobushi (鰹節) from Kyushu (九州).

The first way to enjoy the seafood-infused soup is by pouring some onto a small saucer, add a squeeze of sudachi lime (酢橘), and then sip gently while the broth is still warm. Afterwards, open the teapot’s lid and consume the seafood ingredients that are left behind. Premium ingredients are Daggertooth pike conger (ハモ), matsutake mushrooms (松茸) and Japanese honewort (三つ葉).

The sashimi (御造り) course comprises of 5 assorted pieces of sashimi on a stone board. Fresh botan shrimp (ボタン海老) and scallop (帆立) embody the pristine waters of Hokkaido.

Olive flounder (平目) is prized for its white, delicate flesh. The reddish flesh of tuna (鮪) carries a hint of saltiness. On the other hand, amberjack (カンパチ) presents a rather fatty mouthfeel. Wasabi (山葵) and soy sauce (醤油) are provided as condiments.

The omakase meal proceeds to fish (魚料理). The centerpiece of this dish is Capelin Fish Tempura (シシャモ天麩羅). The fish is highly sought for the delectable roe in its belly. Also included are pieces of pumpkin (南瓜), kidney beans (隠元豆) and lotus root (蓮根), each coated with crispy batter. Tempura is customarily dipped in tentsuyu sauce (天つゆ).

The next course is meat (肉料理): Saga Beef Steak (佐賀牛ステーキ). Widely regarded as the highest quality Wagyu beef, the sirloin is best enjoyed at medium rare doneness. Chef Akiba’s signature steak sauce also helps to elevate the juicy beef to new heights. On the side are grilled shiitake mushroom (ステーキ椎茸), sliced daikon (大根) and katsuobushi.

As for customers who do not take beef, NAMI is happy to replace this dish with Pan-Fried Tuna Head (鮪ノーテン焼). Tuna head is one of the most refined sections of the fish. Each fish has barely enough flesh for three servings. The fillet is flavored with sweet soy sauce and dashi, while a squeeze of lemon brings out the fish’s succulent freshness.

Moving on to rice (食事), the penultimate dish is Rice With Matsutake Mushroom (松茸ご飯). Chopped mushrooms impart savory flavors to the Japanese short-grain rice. Served on the side are red miso soup (赤出汁) and pickles (香の物) like takuan (沢庵) and shibazuke (柴漬け).

The omakase meal concludes with a dessert (デザート), an assortment of fresh fruits. The Yubari melon (夕張メロン) is one of the most expensive cantaloupe cultivars in Japan. Other fruits presented are apples (りんご) and strawberry (苺). Japanese maple leaf (紅葉) provides aesthetic appeal.

The Hokkaido Omakase is priced at SGD180.00++ per person. After the satisfying meal, a fine cup of Japanese sake (お酒) is well deserved. NAMI has a decent collection of wines to choose from.

By the way, the restaurant’s Japanese name consists of two kanji (漢字) characters. The word “nami” (波, meaning “waves”) underscores the vital role of seafood in Japanese cuisine, while “kokoro” (心, meaning “heart”) reflects the passionate service that restaurant strives to provide its customers.

Name: NAMI Restaurant & Bar (波心)
Address: 22 Orange Grove Road, Singapore 258350
Contact: +65-6213-4398
Business hours: 12:00pm-2:30pm, 6:00pm-12:00am
Website: http://www.shangri-la.com/singapore/shangrila/dining/restaurants/nami
Coordinates: 1.31090 N, 103.82674 E
Directions: Shangri-La Hotel Singapore is located along Orange Grove Road. NAMI Restaurant & Bar is located at Level 24 of the Tower Wing. Shangri-La Hotel provides complimentary parking for its guests.

The Starling is a new lifestyle mall in Damansara Utama. Opened about a year ago, this mall is located within a short driving distance from Tropicana City Mall. Carrying a nature-inspired theme, The Starling features a landscaped park at the ground level as well as another one on the rooftop. Meanwhile, the indoor section is illuminated by natural sunlight from the ceiling.

Mitsuyado Seimen (三ツ矢堂製麺) is one of the many restaurants in The Starling. With nearly 20 outlets in Tokyo and nearby prefectures, this chain of full service ramen restaurants made its debut in Malaysia several months ago.

The dining area is designed by a renowned interior designer from Japan. Reflecting elements of the Land of the Rising Sun, the restaurant features vertical lightings from the ceiling that resemble a bamboo forest. Meanwhile, the wall motifs are inspired by the rugged mountains of Japan.

Mitsuyado Seimen’s specialty is tsukemen (つけ麺). Noodle is made from scratch in the kitchen, and is only cooked upon ordering. Compared to regular ramen (ラーメン), tsukemen is substantially thicker and springier. The Malaysian outlet employs some degree of localization to suit the local palate. For instance, the noodle is made softer than the original recipe.

Tsukemen can be served either hot or chilled. I feel that the chilled version has more pronounced springiness. Tsukemen literally means “dipping noodle”. This is because the noodle is meant to be dipped briefly into a special soup, and then slurped into the mouth.

For this bowl of Original Yuzu Tsukemen With Cheese (ゆず和風つけ麺と濃厚チーズソース, RM29.90), the dipping soup uses a rich broth with a hint of yuzu oil (ゆず油) for aromatic appeal. Optionally, one can also add cheddar cheese to the noodle beforehand. After finishing the noodle, it is common practice to add dashi (出汁) to any leftover soup. Dashi dilutes the soup to make it more palatable.

Meanwhile for hot ramen dishes, a recommended choice is Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen With Half-Boiled Egg (辛し豚骨ラーメンと半熟煮玉子, RM27.90). This appetizing soup is prepared by simmering pork bones for several hours. The soup also carries a reasonable degree of spiciness, but I think this is hardly spicy by Malaysian standards. I would go so far as to say that the soup is tasty to the last drop.

The bowl of ramen includes a slice of roasted pork (チャーシュー), which is also freshly roasted in the kitchen. The succulent pork loin is juicy and tender. Meanwhile, the half-boiled egg has runny yolk that is very similar to onsen tamago (温泉玉子). Also included are narutomaki (鳴門巻き), fermented bamboo shoots (メンマ), seaweed (海苔) and Japanese scallion (ラッキョウ).

As for side dishes, Chicken Karaage (から揚げ, RM11.90) is well-received by most people especially among children. Coated with a layer of scrumptious crisp, the bite-size pieces of fried chicken still maintain much of the chicken’s natural juiciness. There are also rice dishes (どんぶり) on the menu, but I have yet to try them this round.

Mitsuyado Seimen uses premium ingredients that are mostly imported from Japan whenever practical. Imported ingredients include wheat flour for noodles, Japanese short-grain rice and various seasonings. Although this drives up the cost of food, the restaurant insists on doing so in order to maintain the same food quality as its counterparts in Japan. As for table service, the waiting staff is impeccable when it comes to courtesy and attention to detail.

Name: Mitsuyado Seimen (三ツ矢堂製麺)
Address: S-229, The Starling Mall, 6, Jalan SS 21/37, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact: 03-7662-5929
Business hours: 11:30am-2:30pm, 6:00pm-9:30pm (Monday-Friday), 11:30am-9:30pm (Saturday-Sunday)
Website: http://www.mitsuyado.my
Coordinates: 3.13538 N, 101.62292 E
Directions: The Starling is located near the intersection of Sprint Expressway (Lebuhraya SPRINT) and Damansara-Puchong Expressway (Lebuhraya Damansara-Puchong). Mitsuyado Seimen is located on Level 2 of the mall. The mall has basement and multistorey parking lots. Street parking is also available outside the mall.