Singapore - Omakase at Beppu Menkan

Omakase, which translates to “I'll leave it up to you” in Japanese, refers to a meticulously crafted meal curated by a head sushi chef, using seasonal, finest ingredients available on the day. Basically, you do not choose your order and give your trust to the chef. While it is menuless, the number of courses served is usually specified such that you know what are you expecting. Traditionally, patrons sit at the sushi bar and observe the skillful chef preparing the dishes in front of them. A very unique dining experience, best to try it in Japan when we are allowed to travel again.

Back to the restaurant of interest today, Beppu Menkan is actually renowned for its wide variety of ramen. Spoiler here - their signature ramen is one of the items served during our visit. You don't get sushi bar experience here, but the waiter/waitress will explain each dish in details, in terms of ingredients, cooking styles and flavours expected, which satisfy my curiosity. The entire dinner took about 2 hours; the 12-course portion was just right, in fact, slightly too much for a girl with a small appetite. The food was generously delicious and nicely plated.

Of course, you cannot compare it to authentic omakase-specialised Japanese restaurants given the affordable price tag here, particularly after "1-for-1" promotion on Fave. Of note, drinks are not part of the Fave deal. Overall, we were satisfied with our first experience with Omakase. While we might not come back for another Omakase meal (gotta try something new), we will certainly return for its ramen.

Beppu Menkan

Address: 3 Pickering St, Nankin St, #01-32/33 China Square Central, 048660.

Opening hours: Mon to Fri: 11am to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm; Sat: 11am to 10pm; closed on Sundays

Price for 2 pax on FAVE = $80.26