Relax your mind, indulge your senses and enter the world of ‘Chikusen’ which means bamboo and fountain. Simplicity and tranquility are reflected in both the food and dining experience at Chikusen Japanese Restaurant. This 120-seater restaurant is suitable for any occasion with its semi-private tatami area, two private rooms, a sushi bar and an open dining space featuring walls adorned with exquisite Japanese paintings that momentarily transport you back into an old world of Japanese culture. Want to watch your orders being made? You can choose to watch the chefs in action at the sushi bar which promotes an open dining concept.
Chef Ben who helms the kitchen is equipped with years of Japanese culinary experience and has been featured in various local media publications. The menu offers a good selection of both seafood and meat dishes with categories such as Sashimi (Raw fish), Nigiri (Sushi served in pairs), Age-mono (Fried), Yaki Mono (Grilled), Nabe Mono (Claypot), Teppanyaki (Hot plate), Mushi Mono (Steamed), Owan Mono (Soup) and more, catering to a diverse range of diners. For those who enjoy their saké, Chikusen offers a good selection for food pairings.
A must-try from the menu that I highly recommend is Pitan Tofu. This dish consists of egg tofu topped with creamy century egg sauce and fish roe. The unusual but complementary flavours of the ingredients will delight your tastebuds faster than you can say ‘egg overdose’. The flavour of the ingredients whets the appetite and is great as a starter.
Another favourite egg dish has to be the Mushi Mono (steamed egg with salmon roe). The steamed egg was simply full-flavoured goodness topped with fresh roe. Savour the delectable outburst of flavours as you put a spoonful in your mouth.
For the freshest catch of the season, opt for Sashimi Omakase which puts together the freshest cuts of seasonal fish that taste as good as it look. The sashimi is flown in from Japan up to four times a week so you can be assured of the freshness. Like most of Chikusen dishes, the excellent aesthetics and presentation of the dish adds to the sensory experience.
Those who prefer their fish cooked can try the Yaki Sakana (Grilled seasonal fish). The slightly crispy exterior of the fish gives way to tender fish meat as you bite into this flavourful dish. The grilled sea bream fish I had was well-seasoned and satisfying, without being overly salty.
Sakura Ebi Kakiage (Tempura Cherry Shrimps and Vegetables) is a dish you should try if you are a fan of tempura. The shrimp, coated in tasty batter is fried to golden-brown perfection. The batter lends a slightly sweet crunch to the cherry shrimps. Yummy-licious!
To kick things up a little, I tried the Tataki (Wagyu Beef) which comes served with a specially made sauce. The finely cut slices of the grilled beef was divinely succulent, moist and tender.
A meal at a Japanese restaurant is not complete without the sushi. I tried the Nigiri (Assortment of sushi) which comes in a serving of three sushi selections: Special Maki, Chikusen Maki and the Hirami Nigiri (Fresh founder fish), touched to medium rare pinkness. I highly recommend the Special Maki that consists of sea eel and fish roe topped with special wasabi sauce and the Chikusen Special Maki which includes crabmeat, white fish and mentaiko sauce rolled up in a mouthwatering treat. If you are dining with others, it is good to share a platter as the dish can be quite filling.
For soup option, I tried the Asari Osuimono (Japanese short-neck clams in clear soup). This is a clear and simple broth made from bonito flakes (dried tuna). The soup’s light flavour makes it a pleasing dish to prepare your taste buds for desserts.
To round up the meal with desserts, I had Musk Melon (Japanese Melon) which ends the night on a sweet note.
Whether you are a lone diner unwinding after a day of work or a group of friends bonding over good food, there is something at Chikusen for everyone. The staff here has a commendable knowledge of the food and are pleasant to interact with. Thumbs up for quality ingredients, innovative creations and good service!
Chikusen Japanese Restaurant is located at 309/311 Tanjong Katong Road Singapore 437092
Opening hours:
Afternoon-11.30am-2.15pm | Evening-6pm to 10.15pm
Call +65 6348 1966 for reservations
Chikusen is a MUST-GO!!!!!!!!!!!
Well written article. Enjoyed reading !