Shin Minori Japanese Restaurant at UE Square

I used to remember Hanabi at King's Arcade many years back when a bunch of my buddies would go there for the great Japanese buffet fare there.

Since then, the ownership has changed hands and somehow, it just wasn't quite the same as before. So it was a pleasant surprise to discover that the original owner, Angeline has since started a new and similar Japanese buffet styled place at UE Square.

Now called Shin Minori, it is nestled right at the top of the shopping area in UE, on the 3rd floor. The entire place is cosy and relaxing, and is really a perfect chill out place for a nice Japanese meal and sake.

Nice Decor

We went there for lunch, and it serves mainly a delightful buffet menu for a very reasonable rate, especially considering the amount of items on offer. It ranges from sashimi/sushi to tempura and teriyaki items, all of which were of a very high standard, and just like how I remembered it from the original Hanabi.

Delightful Selection of Sashimi

The sashimi selection, in particular, was amazingly delightful. Fresh and a wide assortment, we had everything from salmon to yellowtail, to sea urchin. For a buffet, this was simply one of the best sashimi platter I have had.

Trio of Seafood

For the buffet, Angeline informed me that there would always be a special, depending on the season. For this occasion, we were treated to a delicious trio of seafood that was simply marvelous. The highlight was this simple but beautifully crafted salmon and rice roll, topped with a aromatic basil sauce that was both beautiful and delicious!

Beautiful Sushi

The sushi here was equally, of a very high standard. Immaculately made, the combinations of the freshness of the ingredients and the myriad of flavors did really make us feel that this is not your run of the mill Japanese sushi bar.

Japanese Spaghetti

We were also treated to a Japanese Spaghetti that was surprisingly good. It was fried with a certain amount of heat so much so that it had a hint of wok hei in it.

Teriyaki 

The teriyaki was also very good. They had everything from pork slices to chicken wings to even chicken hearts, for the not so faint hearted. Pardon the pun.

Sliced Beef

Last but not least, Angeline herself recommended this sliced beef dish which is one of their signatures. I did find it nice, but perhaps not as inventive as some of the amazing dishes that came before.

All in all, if you are looking for a relaxing outing and is craving for quality Japanese fare at a fair price, Shin Minori meets all the requirements. Angeline was also a perfect host and owner, and would chat with the diners there in a very amiable fashion that simply made one right at home.

81 Clemenceau Avenue

UE Shopping Mall

#03-15

http://www.streetdirectory.com/239917