Interview With 鮓煋 Sushi Sei’s Kaiseki Master Chef Saito Manabu On Sushi Kaiseki And His Culinary Journey

Source: Sushi Sei

Chef Saito Manabu is a sushi kaiseki expert hailing from Hokkaido, Japan, currently helming 鮓煋 Sushi Sei- a cosy sushi kaiseki restaurant nestled in Holiday Inn Hotel Singapore Orchard City Centre.

We had the privilege of getting up, close and personal with Kaiseki Master Chef Saito Manabu, explored his world of Japanese fine dining- kaiseki and even learnt how to eat sushi the right way!

About Chef Saito and His Culinary Journey

It all began in Hokkaido, Japan, Chef Saito’s hometown. He put his heart and soul into perfecting his craft of washoku Japanese cuisine. In Hokkaido, he worked at several Japanese restaurants and was even engaged as the head chef of Sapporo Grand Hotel for 18 years, an long-established hotel frequented by VIPs from all over the world.

The grand master of Japanese cuisine later spent 2 years showcasing his culinary skills at Sydney before deciding to settle in Singapore, and share the appeals of traditional Japanese cuisine through his very own creations.

Source: Sushi Sei

Over the years, you have worked on all types of Japanese cuisine but you are the most passionate about kaiseki cuisine. What fuelled your passion for kaiseki cuisine?
”First of all, I would like to bring Japanese cuisine to its pinnacle of being the best in the world, particularly sharing the culture of kaiseki- Japanese traditional dining to everyone. My craftsmanship earned a Governor’s Award as the Grand Master of Japanese Cuisine. I always strive to honour my roots and hence started my own restaurant.”

If you did not become a chef, what would you be doing instead?
”A musician, perhaps? To be honest, I haven’t thought about this. Since primary school, I had dreamt of becoming a chef and never considered other professions.”

Omakase VS Kaiseki

Singaporeans and all fans of Japanese cuisine, you must not be new to おまかせ Omakase dining. Omakase is short for omakase shimasu, which translates to, "I trust you [the chef]." The omakase style of dining is widely available at several types of Japanese restaurants especially sushi restaurants in Singapore. The chef may adjust menu courses to suit the diner, depending on his reaction to the food.

Kaiseki on the other hand, is a specific set of courses that is dependent on the seasonal produce. “Kaiseki cuisine is part of Japan’s traditional fine dining, and I want to conquer Japanese cuisine by starting my own restaurant- Sushi Sei ”, said Chef Saito.

What do you think about the growing popularity of Japanese Omakase in Singapore?
”When it comes to kaiseki cuisine, kaiseki sushi is the most established and popular in Singapore, as well globally. Particularly, Japanese liquor and sushi are especially popular here in Singapore.“

Source: Sushi Sei

What makes Sushi Sei unique?
”At Sushi Sei, we use the fresh produce from all over Japan, especially Hokkaido. We also bring in seasonal produce to wow the local palates. Most importantly, I strive to deliver the best of Japanese cuisine and pay homage to my Hokkaido roots through my food. “

About Sushi Sei

Source: Sushi Sei

Sushi Sei opened on 10 October 2022 and celebrates its 7-month anniversary this May 2023.

Can you tell us the story behind the name 鮓煋 Sushi Sei?
”鮓 is a traditional Japanese character which stands for sushi, while the character 煋 is made up of two sub characters namely 火 (fire) and 星(star). Fire signifies burning, to keep going while 星 is actually the kanji character representing Singapore. Furthermore, there are stars on the Singapore flag.”

What is the most memorable compliment which you have received from guests?
”When customers visit Sushi Sei for the first time, they would comment ‘Oishi’. They would even make their next reservation on the same day of visit. And when they visited for the second time, they told me that they will come again! Well, some guests also complimented me for being “handsome” and I would thank them by adding a generous topping of uni!”

What is your wish and vision for Sushi Sei?
I hope for Sushi Sei to be awarded Michelin star 1 star someday. Also, if business here is doing well, I would like to open a 2nd outlet at Marina Bay Sands.

About Sushi and Chef’s Favourite Local Dish

Can you give us a few pointers on eating sushi properly?
You can either use your hands or chopsticks to eat sushi. If you are using your hands, simply hold the sushi and dip it in soy sauce. If you are using chopsticks, tilt the sushi slightly and dip both the rice and topping briefly in the soy sauce and eat it promptly. However, if you are not careful, the rice may end up falling off from the sushi. 

What is your favourite local dish in Singapore?
I like chilli crab, I enjoy eating it with champagne, especially at lunch time. 

Sushi Sei May Promotions

May Birthday Promotion
May babies, celebrate your birthday at Sushi Sei with a whopping 50% discount on Food Bill.
*Only applicable for birthday person, not applicable for accompanying diners.
*Please provide proof of identification during your visit.

May Beer & Drinks Promotion
Throughout the month of May, all diners can enjoy a 50% discount on Beer and selected drinks.

Business Lunch ($300 for 2 pax)
A sumptuous set lunch to enjoy with your date, colleague and VIP guest.
1st seating: 11.45am - 1.15pm
2nd seating: 1.30pm - 3pm

Couple Dinner ($800 for 2 pax)
Enjoy a bottle of complimentary sparkling sake with your special someone.
Dinner service starts from 6pm to 9.30pm.

Sushi Sei
Address: 11 Cavenagh Road #01-13/14 Holiday Inn Singapore Orchard City Centre, Singapore 229616
Opening Hours: Tue/Thu 6pm - 9.30pm | Wed/Fri/Sat/Sun 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 9.30pm | Closed on Mon
Reservation: Chope | Oddle | Toreta
Reservation Number: +65 8139 9600
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