Review

Tucked within the prestigious InterContinental Kamala, Tengoku is where traditional Japanese flavours meet quiet sophistication. With private banquettes, the space is softly lit to create a relaxed, almost cocoon-like atmosphere. The menu focuses on quality ingredients and the thoughtful techniques of Osaka’s culinary tradition. Tonkotsu ramen broth is collagen-rich and gently opaque, simmered for hours to create a deep, silky flavour and topped with tender chashu pork, bamboo shoots and wood ear mushrooms. Delicately cured bluefin tuna is matched with a tangy pickled tomato, seared spring onions and a subtle touch of sesame oil. Rare Anago, Japanese sea eel is chargrilled and balanced with delicate steamed egg custard, shiitake mushrooms, dried bonito stock and crunchy ginkgo nuts. An ode to Osaka, okonomiyaki’s humble roots are elevated here with a soft melting base, golden crispy edges, crowned with fine slices of succulent A4 Kagoshima wagyu, sweet Chinese yam and a hit of fine green onion. For a gentle close, Kyoto matcha ice cream, crumbled with bitter cacao, hints a sweeter note with poached red beans. The outstanding saké selection deserves its own spotlight, offering a pre-tasting saké corner encouraging exploration and discovery for seasoned connoisseurs or the saké-curious. The drinks list is thoughtful spanning Japanese craft cocktails, small-batch Japanese spirits, single malts, ending with a vast selection of premium Japanese teas.