SATISFY YOUR CRAVINGS FOR THE LATEST FOOD TREND IN TOWN.
SATISFY YOUR CRAVINGS FOR THE LATEST FOOD TREND IN TOWN.
Thanks to the increasing number of unagi speciality restaurants in Singapore, there’s no need to fly to Japan for a comforting bowl of smoky char-grilled eel on perfect pearls of rice.
UNAGIYA ICHINOJI
This outlet at Robertson Quay was opened by one of the oldest and most famous unagi restaurants in Tokyo, Miyagawa Honten. The secret behind the success of this 125-year- old unagi specialist? Excellent grilling techniques and its special sauce, whose recipe has been passed down for four generations, so you can expect nothing less for its first overseas outlet.
Other than the signature Hitsumabushi (from $19.80), Unagiya Ichinoji offers two special versions of unagi don – Seiro Mushi ($19.80) with crepe-like kinshi tamago, and Mamushi Donburi ($18.80) for mentaiko lovers. They accept reservations on weekdays, so call ahead to avoid disappointment.
MAN MAN JAPANESE UNAGI RESTAURANT
When it comes to unagi rice bowls, Man Man in Keong Saik resonates with most of us since it was the first unagi speciality restaurant to open in Singapore. Here, live eels are flown in from Aichi Prefecture and grilled over a charcoal pit in their glass-fronted kitchen before they are served to you covered in their secret sauce.
You won’t be disappointed by the Hitsumabushi ($26.80+), which is traditionally consumed in three steps – first with rice, then spices, and finally pouring in the dashi. Trust the Michelin Bib Gourmand win. Unfortunately, they don’t take reservations, so if you dread queuing in the hot sun, head over to their second outlet at Duo Galleria in Bugis.
UYA UNAGI RESTAURANT
Conveniently located in Wheelock Place at Orchard Road, Uya Unagi Restaurant gets its eel supply from a wholesaler in Nagoya and is headed by a chef with experience working at the city’s top unagi restaurants. The tare (basting sauce) here is less sweet compared to its competitors – great for those who prefer a milder taste.
Definitely share the Hitsumabushi ($35++ for medium, $48++ for large). For an even more nutritious meal, go for the Healthy Unagi Rice Bowl ($29), which comes with sous vide egg, natto and okra.
PHOTOS MAN MAN JAPANESE UNAGI RESTAURANT, UNAGIYA ICHINOJI, UYA UNAGI RESTAURANT
