Sushi and sake in an unforgettable setting
Sumptuous setting: The beautiful view enjoyed by diners at Yoshino Restaurant. — VNS Photos Vo Le Hong
Despite being situated in the heart of HCM City, Yoshino restaurant hangs its reputation on an ability to instantly transport diners to Japanese utopia through a thoughtful mix of food, atmosphere, decor and fun. Vo Le Hong reports.
Stepping into Yoshino restaurant in the five-star Lotte Legend Saigon, you feel as if you’re entering the land of the cherry blossom. The magical petals are all around you, reflecting gently in the silent stream by the light of the sparkling lanterns, and the gentle rhythm of the koto creates a charming atmosphere.
We were welcomed by beautiful young girls wearing kimono and led up the steps to a small pagoda. Guests are asked whether they want to enjoy their dining experience at a table or in the more traditional manner on the floor. Seated on our comfortable cushions on the wooden floor, we had a great view of the open kitchen where the chef was preparing sushi and sashimi.
Fishy feast: Traditional Japanese dishes are mainstays at the delightful Yoshino Restaurant in HCM City, sushi (top) and tempura.
The restaurant has wonderful decor, with beautiful white flowers arranged in an Oriental style, bamboo curtains and kimono dolls all emphasising the history of the Land of the Rising Sun.
With traditional dishes created by famous Japanese chefs and served by beautiful waitresses willing to help us enjoy our food in the best way, the dinner took on a cultural meaning.
Each dish is a work of art. You can taste the flavour of the meticulous cuisine just by looking at it.
Even if you don’t usually like raw seafood, it’s worth trying sashimi or sushi here because it is so fresh, imported three times a week from Japan. The tempura spread is also first rate, with a selection of prawns, fish and seasonal vegetables all covered in a wheat flour batter and fried to crispy perfection in vegetable oil. The ideal accompaniment to this diverse array of flavours and textures is sake, before allowing steamed egg custard with mushrooms and chicken to take you to another level. And there’s more to discover of this mysterious world.
A glance outside the window reveals a lush green garden with a large swimming pool, the perfect spot to relax after a big meal with family and friends.
With its elegant serving style, tranquil atmosphere and mouth-watering food, it’s no surprise that Yoshino was named Best Japanese Restaurant in HCM City by a local newspaper. — VNS