On the 26th of February, I met a few mates at Wabi Sabi, St. Kilda, for a special sake and sushi degustation. A week on, and I’m still thinking and talking about that night – Each dish and drink was an absolute delight!
We were welcomed into a cosy corner with Kirara Kikusui Sparkling, a champagne- like sake with a sweet aroma and gold leaf. We sipped this light, fresh wonder and took in the charming mood of the place.
Relaxed under the canopy of paper lanterns, we nibbled on lotus root chips and mused over the myriad of teeny trinkets, illustrations and wonderful wooden furniture.
Our charming waitress, wrapped in traditional summer yukata, sailed back with a stunning platter of sashimi and vegetable wraps. She poured our next sake, Junmai Daiginjo shu (Kirara Kikusui); a fruity, dry drop perfectly complimenting the fresh seafood.
Another colourful platter arrived, with the freshest tuna and scorched scallop and mackerel nigiri. Next, tender Wagyu beef sashimi arrived, with a white asparagus and walnut-fig sauce. A beautiful balance!
Soft shell crab tempura soon appeared, with green curry mayo and a yuzu ponzu (a zingy citrus dip). Time for the succulent duck, thinly sliced and served with fresh wasabi leaves. Followed by grilled black cod, marinated in miso – an outstanding dish!
A true cascade of delicacies – each course tantalized our eyes and pampered our palettes… and the dessert was no exception. Green tea brulee, with shiny, seasonal berries. Our table suddenly fell silent, captivated by this sweet luxury – crispy and creamy, a gratifying end to a delectable dinner.
A midweek wonder, and a fun way to learn more about sake. I’m going to grab a bottle of the Sparkling Sake for our upcoming beach getaway.
For more information about WABI SABI GARDEN,
check out: http://www.japaninmelbourne.com/artice52/
