Ishinomaki Grill & Sake Bar: Bringing Japan right to your table

updated the 6 October 2015 à 23:34
Ishinomaki Grill & Sake Bar
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Think Japanese cuisine is all about sushi and maki? Ishinomaki will definitely prove you wrong.

Located in the basement of Palais Renaissance on Orchard Road, entering the premises is akin to arriving at a Japanese fishermen village. Everything from the floor to ceiling was thoughtfully designed, not just for the folkloric vibe but to bring a rustic Japanese atmosphere to Singapore. Even the big colourful flag is a gift of recognition to Chef Chi Pin Han from the Japanese Fishermen Association.

Ishinomaki is way more than any ordinary Japanese restaurant. It vividly tells the Chef’s passion and love for Japan. After mastering the Japanese cuisine for over 25 years, he was affected by the 2011 tsunami that hit his nation and decided to embark on a mission trip.

Ishinomaki is actually the name of a fishing city that is currently still struggling to be rebuilt by the tsunami. The restaurant, named after the city, is a celebration of Japanese culture, which explains the wide range of wisdom, passion and dedication that you will unearth in this place.

At first glance, you will notice the fish tanks, but this time they are a little more interesting than usual. The fishes that you see were flown directly from 3 different renowned ports of Japan. Sustainability is an important issue for the restaurant, which is why they opted for the black box. But what is this black box? Simple. Instead of having a fixed set of dishes everyday cooked form a fixed set of ingredients ordered, the chef and staff have to work and cook with what the fishermen have packed for them from their fisheries.

This is quite the challenge for them, but definitely entertaining for the customers. Only someone with strong experience can take on such a challenge and come up with new creations everyday.

Ultimately, there’s no need to say anymore as the food speaks for itself. Here are some of our food recommendations to enjoy with good friends: Asari Claims in Sea Water with Rice Wine (SGD15) or Ika Popo Yaki, Squid stuffed with Squid Tentacles (SGD23).  Thanks to Chef and owner Chi Pin Phan’s expertise and skills, each visit is a new culinary journey – without breaking the bank. Classics are on the menu as well with fresh sashimi, sushi rolls or yakitori, starting at SGD3.

What about a sake pairing? Hot or cold? Get some advice from the friendly staff to guide you through over 50 references. Definitely a place to go back over and over again!

Ishinomaki is located at Palais Renaissance, 390 Orchard Road, #B1/02/02A/03, +65 6737 1065

Celine Manoukian
Celine is the Managing Editor of Gourmand Asia, a newly-launched online F&B magazine featuring food recipes, reviews and more. For more food-related content please visit www.gourmandasia.com


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