Sanpō yoshi traces its roots back to Edo Japan in the 17th century, when a group of Omi shōnin first established the principle that business should benefit all parties. The businessmen’s philanthropic efforts were guided by the commitment to do good for themselves, their clients, and the wider community – forming the foundations of sanpō yoshi, translated as three-way satisfaction.
Since the start of her career, and further strengthened with the opening of Ichigo Ichie, Chef Akane Eno has taken these values to heart. Over the years, she shaped her unique set of sanpō yoshi principles and crafted her treasured bonds with industry partners and guests through special menus and exhibits.
In September 2021, Chef Eno launched an initiative at Ichigo Ichie to highlight these cherished affinities and the art of reciprocity. The inaugural project focused on partnerships with rice farmers in Yamagata, Azumanofumoto Sake Brewery, and Tōhoku University of Art & Design.
Partial proceeds from a special menu was used to purchase rice from these farmers, which was then used by the sake brewery to create a new sake exclusively for Ichigo Ichie. Chef Eno worked closely with the university students to name the sake and design its bottle label, granting them a hands-on opportunity to work on a retail product.
Six months on, the project comes to fruition with the arrival of La La La, the exclusive sake. La La La represents the links forged between Ichigo Ichie, producers in Japan, and the restaurant’s supporters in Singapore.
From now till 30 June 2022, in the spirit of sanpō yoshi, Ichigo Ichie reciprocates the support of guests with gestures of appreciation.
Guests who had made bookings for the sanpō yoshi menu will be invited to return for dinner, where they will be gifted a complimentary bottle of La La La.
During the same period, all guests will also enjoy a complimentary welcome glass of the sake.
Those who wish to demonstrate support for the project can purchase La La La, priced at $198++ per bottle (720ml).
The bottle label embodies the cross-border collaboration; the striking colours of red and white symbolise the national flag colours of both countries. Freeform wavy patterns and the three characters allude to the crescent moon and stars of the Singapore flag, while the overall circular design brings to mind the Japanese flag.
Made with Miyamanishiki rice and a polishing ratio of 50%, the junmai daiginjo offers gentle scents of white grape and grapefruit. The dry sake presents well-balanced umami and acidity, a hint of minerality, and finishes with a fresh and crisp aftertaste.
Savour the delightful conclusion of Ichigo Ichie’s first sanpō yoshi initiative.
Menus
Lunch is available as a 5-course menu at $138++ per person and a 7-course menu at $188++ per person.
Dinner is available as a 9-course menu at $350++ per person, or as 9 courses at $428++ per person with a specially curated menu upon request.
a. 1 Nanson Rd, #02-07A located within Intercontinental, Robertson Quay, Singapore 238909
e. reservations@ichigoichie.com.sg
w. robertsonquay.intercontinental.com/ichigo-ichie
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