Monday, 28 November 2016

Tsuta 蔦 at Pacific Plaza

Tsuta 蔦



So nearly everyone have heard of the first ramen shop to earn a Michelin star - Tsuta. But being tucked away in Sugamo, Tokyo in Japan, not many of us might've a chance to try it.

That's when Yuki Onishi, the owner of Tsuta, was invited to open a branch in Singapore. And he did.



The wait for a bowl at Tsuta can go up to 2 hours during peak periods, but you can have a try during 3-5pm in the afternoon, where the wait is much shorter.

So what separates Tsuta from the rest? Well, mostly brand and fame, but also because it serves fusion ramen. Yes, expect truffle oil in your bowl of shoyu blend.



So then, how was it? Not quite jaw-dropping, but yes, it is a wonderful bowl. Deep shoyu flavours mixed in with the aromatic truffle oil is indeed a delight to behold. It gets better with every mouth, as you find yourself noticing more and more notes encompassed in their wonderful broth.



The cha-shu was lean yet tender, and a bit similar to prosciutto. It goes well with the fusion theme.



The egg was a tad too runny and soft, but still good.



One thing is for sure though, this bowl is nowhere near the one I had in Sugamo. So no, this is not a Michelin starred bowl of ramen. It is good though, although I would rather term it as consomme with noodles than real hearty ramen.



Open kitchen concept is rather nice, though I would've preferred a more traditional design.





Nonetheless, this is a bowl you shouldn't miss. It might not fit my palate, but it might be perfect for yours. Onishi-san is only working here till 21st Jan 2017, so the quality might deteriorate after he leaves... or not. Anyways go before he goes lol.





#01-01 Pacific Plaza, 9 Scotts Road, 228210 Singapore, Singapore
Nearest Station: Orchard

Daily 1100 - 2200
Price Range: 15~23
P.S. First pic is from www.ramenadventures.com

Friday, 18 November 2016

Tonkotsu King Matsuri at Parkway Parade

Tonkotsu King Matsuri



Keisuke's Tonkotsu Matsuri King is located quite conveniently at Parkway Parade, but it also has the poorest reputation among his branches. I have walked past it many times without actually going in to taste, and have never felt the urge to do so.

So when my friend suggested to have lunch here, I thought, why not? Nothing to lose from giving a try.



Tonkotsu King Matsuri has some interesting decor featuring the festivals of Japan. This one right here is my favourite, colourful and vibrant.



So what about the ramen? Well, I have to say it was underwhelming. More is not better. The pork belly was a tad too dry, and the broth one-dimensional and lacking. The additional aji-tama and cha-shu though, is good.



My verdict? Wouldn't hurt if you're in the area, but not worth taking a trip for. Just stick with the main outlet at Tanjong Pagar.



80 Marine Parade Road, #B1-18A Parkway Parade, Din Tai Fung, Singapore 449269
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar/Dakota

Daily: 1130 - 2200
Price Range: Below to Low 20s