'Simply Japanese' @ Utara Coffee House Armada Hotel PJ

From 1st May until 30th June 2014, Utara Coffee house in Armada Hotel PJ will be showcasing an array of Japanese delicacies to tempt Japanese food lovers to try them out. Aptly named 'Simply Japanese', I had the opportunity to try out some of their dishes the other day. Read on for my review below. 

'Simply Japanese' @ Utara Coffee House Armada Hotel PJ - Maguro Tempura RM25++

Priced from RM22++ onwards, Japanese food isn't all about sushi. Themed 'Simply Japanese', the menu is designed to cater to all types of Japanese Palates. The dishes were prepared by Armada's very own Japanese-skilled Chef who has over 10 years of experience in preparing Japanese cuisine. Chef Syed promises guests a satisfying meal from the Land of the Rising Sun. 

Shown above is a firm favourite in any Japanese cuisine, the Maguro Tempura. Served on a platter with generous slicing of tuna battered in an airy and light batter, deep-fried into a crispy golden brown, layered with my favourite sweet teriyaki sauce. The tuna itself absorbed the sauce nicely, giving the dish a sweet savoury taste. 

Gindara Misoyaki (Cod fish) - RM28++

The Gindara Misoyaki came served fresh from the kitchen, a succulent cod fish marinated in miso paste, and grilled to perfection. I always love the smooth texture of cod fish, especially when done right. The serving was a tad small though, both pieces disappearing into my mouth as soon as it was served. 

Namagaki Moriawase (Baked Oysters) - RM22++

Up next was the Namagaki Moriawase, fresh oysters baked on the half shelf and drizzled with either Nomoshi or Motoyaki sauce. Oyster and seafood lovers would love this dish, as it was baked very nicely with nary a hint of burnt taste. The accompanying lime and sauces goes well with the oysters. 

Kijidon Domburi - RM26++

Never failing to make it on any Japanese menu, the Kijidon Domburi, also knows as chicken teriyaki was served next. A classic simple chicken dish grilled and glazed with a sticky sweet brown sauce served with rice and a side of pickles. 

Seafood Maki Roll - RM24++

Even the seafood maki roll served had a different twist to the normal maki roll, in which these were deep fried if I'm not mistaken resulting in a very crispy outer roll and yummy seafood and unagi inside. I like this dish.

Shogayaki - RM26++

The Shogayaki, fried beef with ginger sauce dish reminded me of some of the stir-fried chinese dish. Served with a bowl of steaming hot rice, this dish is best taken on a rainy day, or when you need some comfort food to heal the soul. I do like how the beef retained its softness and was succulent to the bite. If you're in the vicinity of Petaling Jaya, do drop by Utara Coffee House Armada Hotel PJ and try out their 'Simply Japanese' menu soon.