Stepping into Hanare at The Intermark, Kuala Lumpur, is akin to entering a haven away from the bustling Kuala Lumpur city centre. “Hanare” itself translates to “離れ” (hanare), meaning “away from home,” yet the ambiance exudes a sense of warm comfort and pampering, truly a home away from home. Here, they aim to fulfill not just physical comfort but also a deep-seated desire for delicious, authentic Japanese cuisine.

Hanare caters specifically to those who appreciate the quality and freshness of authentic Japanese fare. They use some of the finest seasonal seafood, air-flown directly from Japan to ensure the perfect ingredients for each dish. This dedication to freshness is evident in every bite, creating an unparalleled dining experience.

One of Hanare’s specialties is the Omakase experience (お任せ料理, omakase ryori), which translates to “entrust to the chef.” This is a true indulgence for the adventurous palate, a multi-course feast crafted by a highly skilled chef based on the freshest seasonal ingredients available. At Hanare, Omakase is their way of spoiling diners with a divine exploration of traditional Japanese cuisine.

Leading the culinary team is Chef Akira Yonomoto, a sushi master chef from Osaka with over 45 years of experience. His expertise shines through in every dish, transforming simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces.

The restaurant’s interior is sophisticated, featuring dark wood accents and an open kitchen that allows diners to witness the artistry of the chefs firsthand. The space boasts a large sushi counter, a cozy bar, teppanyaki counter seating, three private rooms, and comfortable open seating for a variety of dining experiences.

 

Our Omakase adventure started with Zensai, a trio of appetizers that tantalized the taste buds. Each bite was a delightful surprise, showcasing the chef’s creativity and the restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients.

 

This was followed by a stunning selection of Sashimi, featuring an array of the freshest seafood imaginable. The melt-in-your-mouth chutoro (tuna belly) boasted a rich, fatty flavour that exploded on the palate. The vibrant Shimaaji (striped jack) offered a delightful contrast with its delicate, slightly sweet flesh. The ika (squid) surprised with its surprisingly tender texture and subtle briny notes. Finally, the uni (sea urchin) was a textural and taste sensation, its creamy richness perfectly balanced by a hint of ocean freshness. Each piece of sashimi was a testament to the quality of the seafood, its vibrant colour and glistening sheen a promise of the deliciousness to come.

 

Next came the Nimono, a beautifully presented dish that showcased the delicate art of simmering. A plump and perfectly cooked scallop, nestled amongst an array of colourful vegetables in a flavorful broth. The gentle simmering process infused the broth with the essence of the seafood, creating a depth of flavour that warmed the soul.

 

The Yakimono course presented a perfectly grilled Kamasu (Barracuda) seasoned simply with salt. The simplicity of the preparation allowed the natural sweetness of the fish to shine through. The expert grilling technique ensured crispy skin and perfectly cooked flesh, a testament to the chef’s mastery of fire and flavour.

 

The Agemono course brought a delightful surprise: tempura of ice fish and vegetables. Tempura is a delicate art, and here it was executed flawlessly. The batter was light and airy, clinging to the ingredients without overpowering them. The ice fish, a small, delicate fish, was cooked to perfection, its mild sweetness accentuated by the tempura. The accompanying vegetables, a medley of seasonal offerings, provided a delightful textural contrast and a burst of freshness.

 

The true star of the Omakase was undoubtedly the Nigiri sushi selection. Each piece was meticulously prepared, a visual masterpiece as well as a culinary delight. The melt-in-your-mouth chutoro (tuna belly) was a repeat performance, its rich, fatty flavour a luxurious treat for the palate. The wagyu beef, known for its marbling and tenderness, lived up to its reputation, its buttery texture and delicate flavour a revelation. The madai (sea bream) offered a delightful contrast, its subtle sweetness a perfect counterpoint to the richer flavours that came before. Finally, the ikura (salmon roe) provided a burst of vibrant orange colour and pops of salty freshness, a perfect ending to the parade of nigiri.

 

A comforting bowl of Asari Miso Soup, brimming with fresh clams and a rich miso broth, cleansed the palate before the final course. The miso, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean paste, added a complex depth of flavour to the broth, while the clams offered a delightful briny counterpoint. This warm and comforting soup was the perfect bridge between the savoury and the sweet.

 

The dessert was a delightful combination of fresh seasonal fruit and ice cream, providing a sweet and refreshing ending to the culinary journey. The fruit, perfectly ripe and bursting with flavour, was a delightful contrast to the richness of the preceding courses. The ice cream, homemade with a hint of green tea, offered a subtle sweetness and a touch of earthiness that perfectly complemented the fruit.

As we finished the final bite, a sense of contentment and satisfaction washed over us. The Omakase experience at Hanare was more than just a meal; it was a symphony of flavours, textures, and artistry. Chef Yonomoto’s expertise, combined with the use of the freshest seasonal ingredients, had created a truly unforgettable Japanese dining experience.

Leaving Hanare, we carried with us not just a full stomach but also a newfound appreciation for the art of Japanese cuisine. The dedication to quality, the meticulous attention to detail, and the focus on creating a harmonious dining experience – all these elements combined to make the Omakase at Hanare a must-try for any discerning food lover. It’s a place where you can truly entrust yourself to the chef and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you wanting more.

 

Hanare Japanese Restaurant is located at:

Ground Floor, The Intermark,
348, Jalan Tun Razak,
54000 Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia. 

Telephone: 03-2164 2133

For more info, head over to http://www.hanare.com.my/ or  https://www.facebook.com/HanareJapaneseRestaurant/

 

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