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Hype Malaysia
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Sakana Japanese Dining Introduces New Flavourful Menu Perfect For Quick Bites
Sakana Japanese Dining, a modern Japanese restaurant at Suria KLCC known for its authentic flavours and inclusive menu, unveils its latest offering: Small Bites, Big Flavours. Inspired by the simplicity and richness of Japanese cuisine, the menu is for those who crave flavour-packed meals in any form — from light, grab-and-go bites to satisfying comfort dishes. The new menu features a diverse range of offerings that balance bold ingredients, refined pairings, and creative touches. Offerings include an assortment of hand rolls and onigiri, comfort bowls, desserts, mocktails and cocktails. We recently had the opportunity to try a selection from the new menu, so here are our thoughts on each of the items we tried: Mocktails & Cocktails We started our meal by trying out Sakana's new beverage lineup. From the exciting mix of refreshing mocktails, we tried the Yuzu Lemongrass, which perked us up almost immediately with its sweet and tart flavour. Also available on the mocktail menu are Mango, Cucumber Virgin Mojito, Tropical Passionfruit Plum and Coconut Pandan. Sakana also refreshed their new cocktail menu with a selection of Japanese-inspired cocktails, including Hojicha Whisky Highball, Green Tea Gin Tonic, Sake Mojito, Yuzushu Lemongrass and Umeshu Negroni. Hand Rolls & Onigiri Freshly rolled to order, these one-handed delights and classic triangular rice parcels are a nod to Japan's beloved comfort food. We tried the Spicy Fatty Tuna hand roll, the Unagi hand roll, the Salmon Ikura Avocado hand roll and the Vegetable hand roll. Our personal favourites from the four were the Spicy Fatty Tuna, which had a satisfying crunch, thanks to chilli crisp topping. The Unagi and Salmon Ikura Avocado hand rolls are also must-tries, and the Vegetable is perfect for those looking for a vegetarian-friendly option. Additionally, Executive Owner-Chef of Sakana Japanese Dining, Chef Makoto Saito Sam, revealed that the cut of salmon chosen for the hand roll is less oily to ensure a more refreshing bite. Also available on the hand rolls menu are Fatty Tuna, Engawa with Mentaiko Mayo and Shrimp Tempura. For the Onigiri menu, customers can choose from Plain, Yaki (grilled), Kampachi, Tuna Mayo, Mentaiko, Karaage, Grilled Salmon, and Ebi Tempura. Comfort Bowls The ever-popular Omurice with Ebi Fry makes its debut at Sakana Japanese Dining. The classic dish of fluffy omelette over tomato rice is served with crispy prawns and house-made demi-glace sauce. While we didn't manage to try the Omurice, we did have the Spicy Duck Ramen, which is just as satisfying. Each bowl of ramen offers a rich, soul-warming broth packed with flavour. Meanwhile, the tender roasted duck and the soft-boiled egg provided a nice bite to the dish. Despite the name, the spice level is tolerable, so no worries if you're concerned about the potential heat. However, if you're not one for any level of spice, the regular Duck Ramen option is also available. If it's anything like its spicy counterpart, you'll still get an umami-packed dining experience. Desserts Ending our meal on a sweet note, we tried both of the new Japanese parfaits on the Sakana menu. First up was the Strawberry Vanilla Parfait, made with fresh CHITOSE strawberries. The combination of custard, fresh cream and vanilla ice cream sweetened things up, but the cornflakes balanced it out and added a nice crunch. On the other hand, Matcha Red Bean Parfait was more earthy and a must-try for the matcha fans out there. The parfait includes Kyoto matcha, original matcha ice cream, mochi, red bean and crispy cereal. While it's the less-sweet option, it's still a satisfying and aromatic dessert. Overall, the new menu had a good range of offerings that provided both new and familiar flavours. While the price may be a little steep, considering the options for premium Japanese food in the Klang Valley, the new menu is worth it for the quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail in flavour. So, whether you're dropping in for a quick lunch, settling in for dinner, or enjoying a late-night bite with a cocktail in hand, the new menu at Sakana Japanese Dining will satisfy your tastebuds.
Tatler Asia
24-04-2025
- Business
- Tatler Asia
Sakana Japanese Dining: Where tradition meets inclusivity
At Sakana Japanese Dining, authentic pork-free Japanese flavours are served with panache in the heart of KL In a city awash with Japanese dining venues, Sakana Japanese Dining has carved out a distinct presence as a go-to destination for those seeking refined, authentic fare. Located on the ground floor of Suria KLCC, one of Kuala Lumpur's most iconic shopping malls, the restaurant blends premium ingredients, meticulous technique, and inclusive values into a cohesive, elevated experience. With a menu that honours Japanese culinary traditions while remaining entirely pork- and lard-free, it appeals to both locals and international visitors looking for flavourful and faith-conscious dining. Whether for a light afternoon bite or an indulgent evening meal, Sakana offers a dining experience that is both elegant and accessible—led by a seasoned Japanese chef and defined by fresh seafood, premium produce, and an unwavering respect for authenticity. See also: Tatler Dining Guide 2024: The best Japanese restaurants in Malaysia Above Fresh, flavorful, and rolled to perfection (Photo: Sakana) Situated on the ground floor of the city centre's most frequented shopping mall, diners here are privy to a prime view of KLCC park, made even more exceptional by the restaurant's floor-to-ceiling windows. By day, it is a bright and airy spot for business lunches or casual afternoon meals but by night, the space transforms into a sophisticated setting with the help of dim lighting and a jazzy soundtrack. At its helm is Chef Makoto Saito Sam, whose impressive career has led him across the globe from Japan to Italy. Having honed his skills at The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto and as executive chef and owner of one of Kuala Lumpur's finest Japanese restaurants, Sushi Hibiki, he brings with him to Sakana Japanese Dining a wealth of expertise. His philosophy finds its roots in honouring traditional techniques and ensuring each and every ingredient meets the highest standards. The restaurant's name, Sakana, describes fish, reflecting the restaurant's driving force—premium seafood. One of the restaurant's defining qualities is its commitment to inclusivity. Sakana Japanese Dining forgoes the use of pork, alcohol, and lard in its dishes, ensuring its menu is able to accommodate all diners without compromising authenticity. The restaurant sources its halal-certified vinegar and mirin-like seasoning from Tokyo's Yokoi Vinegar Brewing to ensure every ingredient, condiment, and garnish used comply with its inclusive principles. Above Spicy Chicken Ramen at Sakana (Photo: Instagram / @sakana_my) The menu here showcases the best of Japanese cuisine, placing an emphasis on the freshest seafood available and precise techniques. Sushi and sashimi platters are on offer here, featuring expertly sliced fish, each piece carefully prepared to highlight its natural accords. Expect bluefin tuna, yellowtail, red shrimp, and more to grace dining tables here. Diners in search of more substantial meals can look forward to traditional Japanese breakfasts of saba or salmon paired with an assortment of sides. Read more: 圭 K makes use of Malaysia's terroir to present an impressive tasting menu, rooted in Japanese traditions While its menu seems down-to-earth at first glance, Sakana Japanese Dining is no stranger to opulence. Scallop carpaccio with oba ponzu sauce stands as a sashimi dish worth ordering while the eel foie gras sushi roll makes a worthy addition to any sushi spread. Its hot dish selection is similarly stocked with a slew of exceptional offerings from black cod with sweet miso to crispy fried jumbo prawns and steamed asari clams. Above Passed down recipes, bringing the comforting taste of crispy chicken karaage and fresh maki to every bite (Photo: Instagram / @sakana_my) Above Serving all-day long breakfast sets, Japanese style (Photo: Instagram / @sakana_my) For dessert, guests can complete their meals with matcha brownies, scoops of hojicha ice cream, or Mozart pudding. While the restaurant does not use alcohol in the preparation of its dishes, its beverage programme sees a lineup of beer, wine, sake, and non-alcoholic refreshments. NOW READ A weekend in Penang: Must try spots to eat, drink, and play The best French bistros in Klang Valley A brief look into the history of the hot cross bun
