This place is called hidden gem because one cannot spot it if casually walking around the central area of Millenia Walk. This restaurant, along with other Japanese restaurants, is actually nested within Nihon Street on the 2nd floor. So just keep an eye out for a big Nihon Street signboard to find the place. Seems like recently, lots of shopping malls are into featuring exclusive areas for Japanese restaurants. Some do not work for me, while some become my favourite haunts. As for the one in Millenia Walk, I like the scenic ambience with bamboos plants lining one side of the wide corridor, and the restaurants here look promising. I had tried Saboten before at 313 Somerset, so naturally, I decide to try out another establishment instead, and Kurama does not disappoint.
The exterior is a mishmash of colourful Japanese ornaments, decorations and sake bottles, which extends to the bar area near the entrance. It does have the feel of a traditional makeshift Japanese-themed chill-out spot. And hiding behind this bar is the restaurant where the countless of white paper lanterns, some with Japanese word on them with black ink, greet the patrons. Another centrepiece of the place got to be the wooden counter that is decked with various produces. The setting somewhat makes this place looks like a nice cosy restaurant located beside the market, minus the noise, of course.
Not only is Tsukune Don a great hearty and flavourful treat, it is unbelievably value for money. At only $9.90, I get a bowl of chicken minced meat skewers, paired with egg and very well-cooked quality Japanese rice topped with seaweed flakes, bonito flakes and other seasonings. The lightly seasoned chicken is fresh and full of meaty flavour, and the half-cooked egg is prepared in such a way that a tiny pressure breaks runny thin egg white to douse the rice and tsukune in egg yolk—simple things in life can be so enjoyable.
Spicy Salmon, which is originally $26.90, is now $8.90—this is the price I remember, these may vary from the actual prices slightly, is a real steal. The fresh slices of raw salmon are glazed with a dash of spicy seasonings, which gives the extra kick to the taste. For its original price, this don is still worth a shot due to the novelty of spicy salmon and the quality Japanese rice. At the super discount, this is a must-try.
Momo: chicken thigh meat on skewers is a good choice to order to try out what the robatayaki dishes here are all about due to the attractive price of $3. The preparation of this dish is reminiscent of that of the best sumiyaki restaurant, Kazu. After sprinkles of sea salt and pepper, plus a spray of oil, and the fresh, succulent meat is off to the grill. And this works because going light on seasonings allow the flavours of grilled meat to shine through. I say the momo here is pretty comparable to the one in Kazu.
The quality of tebasaki is comparable also, but this is more expensive than its counterpart in Kazu, as do other sumiyaki items. But there are times where I will go to this restaurant for sumiyaki over Kazu when I favour better and spacious setting or I have cravings for sumiyaki during lunch time—Kazu is only opened during dinner. And the super value for money dons are worth a trip down there.
Do take note that when I put the tag "Value for Money" to this post, I am referring to the dons available during lunch. Ordering the ala carte items such sumiyaki and robatayaki items is another story.
The service is good. There is this auntie service staff is friendly and full of zest, and we appreciate this kind of great service that has a unique Singaporean feel to it.
Needless to say, this restaurant has become one of my top choices for lunch already due to the great price, variety and decent quality of food.
My Thoughts: It is one of my Favourite Haunts!
Nearest car park: Millenia Walk's car park
Nearest MRT: Promenade
9 Raffles Boulevard
Millenia Walk, #02-07
Singapore
Contact No: 63419668
