This experience is a very upscale (and pricy) Japanese meal. I ate here with a friend in February 2024. We made our way to the Japanese pavilion.
The entrance is on the right of the pavilion towards the front.
We checked in but were fairly early.
The hostesses were so amazing they saw us taking pictures while we waited and offered to take one for us.
After only a few minutes, they told us we could enter.
We were taken into the lobby and met by another lady in traditional dress that explained about the restaurant and experience. It is based in the 5 elements.
We were seated in the front corner table in the wood room.
Then we were introduced to our amazing server. She explained about the Omakase experience and how it is a prix fixe plan. There are no a la carte options here.
You can choose between a Kiku (meat) and Hasu (plant based) menu. We both chose Kiku.
The server did ask for our main dish (Yakimono) and dessert (Ocha to Kanmi) choices. She also asked if we wanted the Sake pairing menu. We were pleasantly surprised by this as I had read that it wasn’t back yet. It must have been a recent addition. We both opted for that. Then she brought us warm towels to freshen up.
She also asked our water preference. I chose still and my friend went with sparkling. She brought a bottle of each to the table and used them to periodically refill our glasses.
Next she brought us each a sake pairing map tailored for our main course choice. I had chosen the fish.
Then she brought our first sake.
She gave us incredible details about the sake and why they serve it. This one is meant to be overflowed in the glass.
Then our first course arrived.
She also brought us each a card of the menu with our choice starred.
Here are some individual pictures of the first course.
I believe the next to last one was meant to be eaten like a shot. Everything was tasty.
Next came the sushi course.
Then it was time for another sake.
That was paired with the tempura lobster.
Normally, I’m not a huge lobster fan. However, I think this was the standout of the whole meal.
The sashimi was beautifully presented.
Time for the next sake.
The main course arrived shortly thereafter.
The cup had a broth to pour over the dish. It was very tasty.
Once we finished our dishes, the seasonal broth was served. It was similar to a miso soup.
Finally, it was dessert time. My chestnut creme brulee was served in a very cute owl shaped container.
We also received our final sake.
Then we had a traditional tableside tea presentation. I know most won’t get this, but it reminded me of the scene in Karate Kid part II. I love the ceremony and attention to detail.
Overall, this was a great experience. I’m not a matcha fan so didn’t finish the tea. I’m also not a huge drinker so many of the sake cups were not empty. This was how my place looked in the end.
Our wonderful server even brought us this personalized origami thank you with the check.
I had to get her picture after the great experience we had.
Final impressions:
This experience is long. From the time we were seated to the time we left was 2 hours. This is shorter than Victoria & Albert’s but still lengthy. It is also pricy. This is better for a special celebration or splurge. The servers and staff couldn’t have been more friendly. They explained everything in detail. Every sake and dish had a story and reason. It’s part of why I think the price is reasonable. I do not think this is a good option for those who do not like seafood or are picky eaters. Also, unless your child is a Japanese food lover or adventurous eater, I would save this meal for adults only. Having said that, I think this is totally worth a splurge.