Quest for the best

A second branch of Rakuzen, recently sprouted in the hub of NTUC Income Tampines Junction, provides a welcome respite for professionals and ravenous shoppers. Located a short step away from Tampines Central, the inviting retreat highlights its show kitchen and six-seater sushi counter with design materials from Japan. When it comes to authenticity, decor elements at this Japanese gem are just the tip of the iceberg.

Choice sashimi including kanpachi (amberjack) and toro (fatty tuna) are directly air-flown from Ishikawa and Kagawa prefectures twice a week, and weaved into a range of sumptuous sushi. The shime saba oshizushi (vinegared mackerel pressed sushi) tempts with its tart flavours and rich, oily textures. Rakuzen's brown rice, specially sourced from Akita prefecture for its firm-to-the-bite goodness, is freshly milled on premises before turning into hearty creations like yaki onigiri (grilled rice, $5) or kaizen doria ($12), a gratinated offering with seafood that combines the best of what the restaurant offers.

There's a substantial range of wholesome options ranging from skewered items, teppanyaki, comprehensive sets and a Special Broiled section (with items blow-torched at the table for smoky, charred flavours) but the small bites are not to be overlooked. Addictive appetisers such as the irresistibly crisp himatsubushi, julienned burdock coated with potato flour and deep fried ($5), and ehire, sweet-savoury strips of grilled stingray fin ($8), warrants repeat orders with a sake or shochu.

300 Tampines Avenue 5, #01-01A, NTUC Income Tampines Junction. Tel: 6786 8484