
Hokkaido Uni
Seasonal ingredients are imported twice a week from Toyosu Fish Market. The freshest of seafoods are magically transformed into dainty, tasty morsels by the skilful knife work and deft hands of the chef. Every piece of sushi at our tasting session was delectable. Standouts were the Kamasu, a small Barracuda from Nagasaki Prefecture that’s gently grilled over charcoal embers to create a smoky and rich flavour; and the Ika (squid) topped with Russian caviar enhanced by a light grating of rock salt and yuzu zest. No omakase is complete without Uni, and here you get a generous bowl of luxurious sea urchin atop a bed of rice paved with golden fish roe.

Otoro Handroll (Photo from: Sushi Ichizuke)
Another of Chef Nakatani’s notable dish is the House-special Handroll, packed with rich, melt-in-your-mouth Otoro and sweet Japanese radish, reminiscent of my lunch at Hasida Sushi. Chef Nakatani patiently answered all my questions about each dish in halting English. When asked about food and alcohol pairing, he advised: “Pairing of meals depends heavily on the preference of each guest, and our job is to understand and cater to each unique palate. I personally prefer sake and wine, which does not clash with or overpower the flavour of the food.”
Prices for Sushi Ichizuke’s omakase experience will seriously dent your wallet. The lunch menu starts from SGD80++ (five courses) to SGD180++ (seven courses) and the dinner menu starts from SGD220++ (seven courses) to SGD380++ (eight courses) but rest assured you’ll be amply rewarded by a culinary odyssey that doesn’t diminish with each exquisite bite. As I finished my meal, I asked Chef Nakatani when he’s happiest at work. “When I see the smiles on my guests’ faces. Those are my happiest moments,” he said. I gave him my biggest smile.

Here Kitty Kitty Lounge. (Photo from: Sushi Ichizuke)
As you leave the restaurant, do meander through the Instagramable Here Kitty Kitty speakeasy bar. Its three concept rooms, vibrantly decorated and designed as vice dens, as well as a private bar and lounge, will transport you back to the flourishing nightlife heydays of 1950s Shinjuku where the Golden Gai once was.