Little Tokio, a 30-seater Japanese teppanyaki and izakaya restaurant that has been open for over a year in the heart of Tampines, is set to elevate Mother’s Day celebrations in the heartlands from May 1st to May 19th, 2024.
It was my first visit to this neighborhood and by the evening, the tables inside and out, was filled up gradually. My friend who was staying near, gave good feedback about the food too and it was one of her frequent takeaways for her family.
I indulged in a meticulously crafted 12-course Kaiseki set ($28.90 +) designed exclusively by Co-founder and Culinary Director Sherwin Sim. I am a very visual person when it comes to food, I love to try a bit of everything without feeling overwhelmed by the huge portion. So this Kaiseki set is perfect!
Each dish is a culinary masterpiece, carefully balancing taste, texture, and presentation. Inspired by the traditional Japanese kaiseki, the menu showcases an array of delights:
Fresh Sanriku Oyster with Ponzu Pickled Onion: A tantalising appetiser to awaken the palate, which represents Sakizuke (先附) meaning appetiser similar to the French amuse-bouche
Fresh Norwegian Salmon Sashimi with Lemon Wedge: Delicately sliced and artfully shaped like a rose to represent Mukōzuke (向付) meaning a sliced dish of sashimi
Yamasa Soy Sauce with Wasabi: The perfect accompaniment to enhance the flavor of the sashimi.
Refreshing Yuzu Cocktail: A specially curated cocktail to delight the senses of Mother as Kaiseki usually begins with a small glass of sake or alcohol but the Yuzu cocktail can be replaced by a mocktail.
Chicken Karaage with Shibazuke Mayonnaise: Crispy fried chicken served with a tangy purple pickled cucumber mayo
Tamago Mentai Yaki: Crab Stick on fluffy rolled Omelette with Mentaiko
Sake-infused Asari Miso Soup: A comforting broth with silken tofu and wakame to represent Futamono (蓋物) meaning a "dish with a lid", typically a soup.
Sanuki Udon with Naruto Maki: A light noodle dish served with a twist in place of Suimono (吸い物) meaning a soup, usually a clear broth with few accompaniments
3-in-1 Yakimono Skewer: Succulent pork belly wrapped with quail egg, asparagus, and golden mushroom to represent Takiawase (煮合) vegetables served with meat or Yakimono (焼物) meaning flame-grilled skewer rendition
Yakimono Skewer of Hotate Glazed with Yakiniku Sauce: Tender scallops grilled to perfection to aptly represent Yakimono (焼物) meaning another flame-grilled specialty
Spicy Ebi Fry with Little Tokio Special Sauce: Crispy prawn served with a flavourful sauce with Prik Bon (Thai chilli flakes)
Oven-baked Salmon with Mentaiko: Delicately baked salmon embellished with savoury Mentaiko
Hokkaido Yotsuba Fresh Milk Pudding: A delightful dessert with matcha crumble and raspberry coulis to represent Mizumono (水物) meaning a seasonal dessert which may be a fruit, confection, ice cream or cake
The sourish raspberry coulis blended in well with the pudding and the matcha crumble added a texture to the dessert. I loved it totally!
I wiped out every single dish and it was real satisfying and filling and not overeating. This is how every meal should be! Do not miss this limited time offering, I highly recommend it!
This Mother’s Day, whisk your mum to the enchanting land of the rising sun, where she will be welcomed with the heartfelt greeting "Irasshaimase'' at Little Tokio. Immerse her in the local charm of Japanese izakaya-style dining within the quaint residential precinct.
An izakaya, derived from the characters 居酒屋, translates to "stay-drink-place" in English. It's a quintessential Japanese establishment, akin to a cosy bar where an array of alcoholic beverages is complemented by an assortment of affordable snacks and dishes. Here at Little Tokio, the culinary team offers the perfect harmony of Teppanyaki crowd-pleasers alongside Izakaya favourites, ensuring Mother experiences the best of both worlds.
Let Mother revel in the rich tapestry of izakaya culture, harking back to its origins in the Edo period (1603-1867). While traditionally serving as post-work taverns primarily frequented by men, izakayas have evolved into vibrant gathering spots where friends come together to dine, unwind, and create cherished memories. And on this special occasion, let's celebrate with Mother dearest!
ABOUT LITTLE TOKIO
Strategically located in Tampines, Little Tokio has been the neighbourhood’s culinary gem for over a year, captivating diners with its intimate ambience and authentic Japanese flavours. As a 30-seater teppanyaki and izakaya establishment, Little Tokio seamlessly blends traditional Japanese culinary artistry with contemporary flair. From sizzling teppanyaki delights to the cosy comfort of izakaya-style dining, each dish is a testament to the culinary team’s craftsmanship and dedication. Embark on a gastronomic journey like no other and indulge in our signature Yakimono skewers, starting from $1.90 each, with friends and loved ones in the heart of Tampines' vibrant culinary landscape.
Little Tokio
Address: Blk 824 Tampines St 81
#01-22
Singapore 520824
Opening Hours: 11.30am - 10.00pm (Mon to Sun)
Hotline: 69040866
IG: littletokiosg FB: Little Tokio
