Hanare

Hanare: Round Two. Click here for earlier entry (February 2).

The sashimi platter is worthwhile, with fish flown in thrice weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) from Tsukiji Market. Hanare's selection _ including succulent scallops & tuna belly _ is mercifully free of salmon (which we enjoy, but it often feels like a creatively bankrupt option).

Uni kurage (marinated sea urchin & jellyfish). Squishy stuff, with a briny oceanic aftertaste that lingers on the palate (no fear, strong booze can cleanse it with ease).

Heshiko (marinated mackerel). Super-salty; might actually work well as a bar snack. Addictive, as long as you're into preserved seafood recipes.

Dashimaki tamago (omelet with fish broth). Comfortingly warm and lusciously soft. Beware though, prices here can be steep; this item cost 30 ringgit.

Frontera Sauvignon Blanc (Chile).

Hanare also offers champagne lunches on Sundays for about RM300 per person. But the brief two-hour span allocated (12-2pm) might seem too rushed for a relaxing weekend meal.

Hanare Japanese Restaurant,

Ground Floor, The Intermark,

Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur.

Tel: 03-2164-2133/ 2164-2633