The newest kid on the block at the burgeoning hipster area of Yeong Seik Road (and Tiong Bahru in general). A titillating slogan like "Ikyu is the new sexy" clearly states the direction the restaurant is aiming towards and the first experience re-enforced the expected departure from traditional Japanese restaurants. Decor was modern with exposed pipings and ducts (a lot like its neighbour ODP, so won't be surprised if they are with the same group). The mixed sushi set lunch was slightly pricier than your usual restaurants' but at least the fish was fresh though small; 5 pieces of sushi plus maki. The set came with a small salad, cold chawanmushi (a tad fishy, likely from the roe), fresh tofu skin, miso soup and ice-cream. Note: hot tea is payable and the set does not come with coffee/tea. The yuzu umeshu was good but way overpriced for the minute amount that was served. Service was barely acceptable and they need to brush up on their awareness of the menu. 2 waitresses and 1 senior staff could not name in English, much rather less rattle off in Japanese, the sushis served by chef; I actually had to name it for them. No fresh wasabi seen. Updated (28 Sept 2012): Much improved! Definitely way better to sit at the counter (the sushi is served one by one, instead of all at one go, and chat with the chef. Had the sushi set lunch again and was served by Chef Andy - an affable, friendly guy who made eating there more fun! The fish was undoubtedly fresh(er) especially since the shipment has now increased to three days from the previous twice a week. The Hokkaido oyster, as an a la carte, was fresh, succulent and creamy, but however the shirako tempura was a disappointment as it was too firm inside (actually, quite a surprise to know that they already have shirako in stock so early). No umai feeling, but a very enjoyable lunch experience with fresh fish at a very reasonable price. Chef Seki was there too, but he was busy with another group although we did chat a bit and he too was warm and friendly.
Verdict: Value for money! Will definitely keep on coming here for their sushi set lunch, but gotta be at the counter. May come and try their dinner menu one day and see how it goes!
Doesn't look sexy at all. Sushi seems kind of out of shape. Food is supposed to be delicious and presentable not sexy so wonder why the slogan.
ReplyDeleteI guess it's the management idea and concept to try to capture the yuppie crowd that's has been flocking to that area recently. The sushi presentation was acceptable, but perhaps a chat with the chef will allow a better understanding of whether there's a dissonant between kitchen and floor.
ReplyDeleteI guess the service level in Singapore is really getting from bad to worse. To think that you, as a customer, has more knowledge than the Service staffs in identifying the sushi served. Guess they created a 'First' in Singapore. What a joke! Lol!!
ReplyDeletesushi looks crappy. how much is the set you had?
ReplyDeleteAfter trying a few times of the so called "yuppie" restaurants in the area, my general feeling is that it's all about packaging, lack of contents (food and service).
ReplyDeleteThe sushi set was at S$35. Also, thus far, I agree with the comment that most "yuppie" places put aesthetics/coolness above quality of food.
ReplyDeleteSome of the other food were decent, a tad expensive I thought. :)
ReplyDeleteThey are on the expensive side for the quality that's being served. Guess we are paying for the sexiness of the place.
ReplyDeleteWhy pay for the sexiness of the place? Is it a sleazy place?
ReplyDeleteNot at all...
ReplyDelete