Review

Bangkok welcomes a refined Japanese dining experience at Ginza Shabu-Shabu Koubai, opening at Dusit Central Park. Signature Koseigyu Kumamoto Akaushi beef, known as phantom wagyu, forms heart of the menu. Sourced directly from Kosei Ranch in Aso City, Kumamoto, meat is lean yet tender, offering mellow richness and umami, with each bite reflecting meticulous care. Rarity of Akaushi makes it a culinary treasure, representing only 0.6 percent of beef in Japan. Aka-ushi cold roast beef starts meal with gentle softness. Bottarga and grilled mochi wrapped in nori presents smoky aftertaste balanced by chewy mochi and slight saltiness of bot- targa. Yukiyagi somen noodles arrive with delicate dipping sauce, clean and light on palate, serving as a calm, uncomplicated interlude between richer courses. Thin, soft noodles offer gentle texture, cooling and refreshing, letting subtle flavour of sauce shine without overwhelming. Aka-ushi sukiyaki impresses with three cuts of meat: spencer roll, inside round and sirloin. Spencer roll carries perfect fat, melting in mouth when briefly simmered and dipped in raw egg. Sweet suki sauce complements natural meat flavour. Aka-ushi shabu-shabu offers more relaxed style. Sirloin and inside round cook in kombu dashi, with vegetables, rice, miso soup, pickles and condiments completing set, providing gentle and aromatic taste. Homemade white wasabi mochi completes meal with soft sweetness, offering clean finish.