Singapore, October 2016 – Long before the recent emergence of upscale sushi restaurants all over Singapore, Aoki has been and still is the place to go for refined Japanese cuisine.

Recently, I was treated to a fantastic Omakase dinner (SGD300). It was pure indulgence of the finest seafood and ingredients.

Ikura appetizer – every spoonful was refreshing and ikura full of sweetness.

Salted ginko nuts served inside an edible basket made of seaweed – the basket tasted like a thin pretzel.

Shiromi Shio Konbu Shiro Truffle : Thin slices of natural white fish served with White Truffles (Alba, Italy), sesame oil, lime and seaweed – This is Aoki Restaurant’s Truffle Signature dish. I have had this dish several times over the past few years, and it never disappoints.

Uni, Botan Ebi with Caviar – This dish was very rich and extremely sinful (in a good way!).

Oyster & Fish Liver – Raw oyster was seasoned with vinegar and yuzu (I think), and the fish liver was accompanied by wakame (fresh seaweed).

Nigiri Sushi – The usual suspects in premium sushi, Kimedai, Akami, Otoro, Akagai, Bonito, Ika, Uni, Tekka Maki, are all here. The sushi chef crafted each piece of sushi skillfully, and seasoning was perfect!

Aoki still has that special touch.

Just a word of caution, I suggest to avoid ordering an Omakase for lunch. I was at Aoki for lunch several times over the past few months, and the set lunches (though reasonably priced) did not project the same level of quality that one experiences during dinnertime. The restaurant offers two seatings (12noon-1:20pm and 1:30-2:40pm), and the waiters really rush through the meal (one time, the staff switched off the lights at 2:40pm…I guess my cue to leave though I barely finished dessert).

Aoki Restaurant, 1 Scotts Road, #01-17 Shaw Centre, Singapore; T: +65 6333 8015    www.aoki-restaurant.com.sg

All photos were taken by Mrs. King.