Time to suss out hidden gems in Cuppage! Actually, Cuppage used to be my favourite dining destination. This dingy place houses lots of quaint Japanese eateries that it feels like treasure hunting in a forgotten cavern. After change of lifestyle that takes me to treasure hunting in Chinatown area instead, I don’t really have chances to visit Cuppage again.
A Watercolour Art event brings me to an evening at Orchard, and this is exactly the opportunity to uncover a hidden gem in the good ol Cuppage. This time I found Aoi 葵, a pretty new, but not exactly new restaurant.
There is buffet option with over 100 items to choose, which is very attractive, but yours truly opt for ala carte instead since I want to have a quick meal. The over 100 items are good ol izakaya food prepared in all possible Japanese ways, from cold appetizers, sashimi, maki, temaki, sushi, deep fried food, grilled food, steamed food rice, noodles to yakitori. The variety is very good, and the food is yummy.
The interior is reminiscent of modern, stylish Izakaya, having that cool yet cosy ambience. The service is very warm, friendly and efficient.
Hokkaido scallop with Foie Gras is such a rich, luxurious dish with flavours that mesmerizes the palates. Being seared lightly on the surface and raw in the core, the plump, juicy scallop retains the nice bouncy, creamy texture. Its briny sweetness is perfect match with the earthy umami of foie gras. I even finish the tomato slice underneath because it tastes so good after absorbing the essence of scallop and foie gras, with refreshing tobiko trapped within.
Nice Soft Shell Crab Temaki.
Nice zesty 8% alcoholic drink, Yuzu Shu.
I enjoy dining here due to the variety, tasty food, quaint vibe and cosy environment. A good place for gathering, especially with the buffet option.
Thoughts: Quaint, Cool Place
Nearest MRT: Somerset
