Stepping into the grandeur of Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, I felt a sense of excitement that was hard to contain. My destination? The renowned Wakuda Restaurant & Bar is a culinary haven that has been on my must-visit list for quite some time.
With a reputation for crafting exquisite Japanese cuisine, I was eager to embark on a culinary adventure that promised to redefine my palate’s expectations.
Walking into Wakuda Restaurant & Bar was like entering an oasis of elegance amidst the bustling cityscape. The sleek and modern design is accented by subtle Japanese influences. immediately set the tone for what was about to unfold.
The highlight of the interior is a long open preparation counter with a full glass backdrop that showcases the beautiful garden landscape outside, immediately setting the tone for what was about to unfold.
I was ready to dive into the world of Chef Tetsuya Wakuda’s culinary artistry, and the menu offered a tantalising array of choices. Opting for the “Chef’s Signature Tasting Menu” was a decision I would not regret, as it promised a curated journey through the restaurant’s finest creations. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are so enthusiastic to share every dish and recommend two aesthetically pleasing cocktails to start the night.
A Symphony of Starters
My commenced with the marinated loin of tuna on toasted bread, adorned with a lavish crown of caviar. The juxtaposition of textures, the delicate marination of the tuna, and the burst of briny caviar created a harmonious overture on my palate.
Next was the chef’s selection of sushi, an array of bite-sized delights that showcased Wakuda’s prowess. The impeccable cuts of fish, the precision of flavours, and the mastery of balance left me in awe, as I savoured each piece with reverence.
A Dance of Contrasts
The Yuba, a revelation in itself, paired fresh beancurd skin with the luxuriant creaminess of sea urchin and the exquisite burst of mountain caviar. The amalgamation of earthy and oceanic flavours spoke volumes of the artistry at play. This dish was a delicate ballet of contrasts, a testament to the chef’s ability to elevate simplicity to the sublime.
Next, the vegetable and seafood tempura unfolded a symphony of textures. Crispy, golden batter gave way to succulent seafood and perfectly cooked vegetables, a playful interplay of light and crisp against the tender and succulent.
Culmination of Elegance
The aroma alone of the charcoal-grilled A5 Ohmi Wagyu was a sensory delight, and the first bite was nothing short of transcendental. The buttery tenderness of the Wagyu, the umami-rich flavours imparted by the charcoal grill, and the subtle notes of the chef’s signature touch left an indelible mark on my taste memory.
A Sweet Finale
No symphony is complete without a satisfying finale, and in this case, it came in the form of the Wakuda signature miso coconut soft serve. The juxtaposition of the savoury miso against the tropical sweetness of coconut was a dance of flavours that lingered on my palate.
Sake Sojourn
No visit to Wakuda would be complete without exploring their impressive selection of sake. A curated collection that ranged from delicate and floral to robust and full-bodied. The knowledgeable staff guided guests through the options, helping to select sakes or cocktails that perfectly complemented each course.
Leaving Wakuda Restaurant & Bar was a bittersweet moment. The culinary journey I had embarked upon had been nothing short of extraordinary. Every dish, every sip of sake, had been meticulously crafted to create an experience that transcended the ordinary.
