Masaaki Sakashita, previously of Ishi and Hashida Sushi, comes to his own at new omakase sushi restaurant Masaaki. This addition to lifestyle destination South Beach Avenue offers a different Japanese fine dining experience.
The stage for the 46 year-old’s culinary mastery and ingenuity is a contemporary space conceptualised by sought-after design firm Takenouchi Webb. Departing from the classical discreet design of traditional Japanese fine dining establishments, yet retaining a distinct Oriental elegance, the interiors exude refinement and a relaxed charm.
The rich details draw one in: walls draped in a soft pink Gucci wallpaper depicting dancing cranes; room dividers mimicking undulating mountain landscapes; a cascading wave of washi sheets suspended from the high ceiling, emulating clouds. Anchoring the dining room: a heavy wood counter crafted purely from 250 year-old hinoki, and an okudo – a rustic stone charcoal hearth – forms the heart of the open kitchen.
Here, chef-owner Masaaki Sakashita infuses traditional cooking techniques with his personal ingenuity to deliver omakase menus with a difference. Expect nothing but the finest premium ingredients of the season, each thoughtfully crafted into delicate courses. The flavours are natural and distinct, reflecting the ethos of Japanese culinary principles. Yet, each course – from a seemingly simple bowl of hamaguri soup to a deftly shaped piece of sushi – also features subtle inflections that reflect Masaaki’s spontaneous, intuitive cooking style.
One who believes that exceptional meals are a 360° sensorial experience, Masaaki delivers a feast for the senses. Expect dynamic action from the open kitchen, especially over the charcoal hearth where the chef would be teasing the flavours out of live crabs and other seasonal ingredients with the licking flames.
And just as he delivers dramatic highs, Masaaki pays equal attention to the minute touchpoints that might be appreciated only by those in the know: from a sushi platter meticulously constructed of washi paper, to chopsticks crafted from precious ebony.
Just as it is a treat for the connoisseurs who seek exquisite refinement, a meal at Masaaki is also an experience designed to deliver exceptional quality and value. Lunch menus range from $120++ for seven courses to $250++ for a nine-course omakase and sushi meal. Dinner menus range from $280++ to $380++.
While guests sitting at the counter will be treated to a feast for the senses as they take in the sights, sounds and aromas from the show kitchen, those seeking a more intimate experience will also find privacy in two secluded dining areas that can be converted to an events space.
a. 26 Beach Road #B1-17 South Beach Avenue 189768
