Gullible Travels

Gan Yakitori

POSTED ON Sunday, November 23, 2014 AT 4:57 PM \ leave a comment (0)

someone commented recently that it has been awhile since we last went for Japanese food. so it felt very timely that we came across this new concept at The Star Vista recently. Gan Yakitori is opened by the folks that brought you Itacho Sushi; as the name suggests, the focus is on Yakitori sticks and several other Japanese 'tapas-like' dishes. as usual, we'd say that whenever there are native Japanese both serving and eating at a restaurant, the place should be selling pretty authentic stuff..

tucked at the end of the top floor of The Star Vista, the setup includes a bar counter where the masters showcase their craft on the grill. the wide selection of sakae and beers around the bar suggests that patrons here know how to have a good time. an old school chalk-board tells you the catch of the day. we tried a grilled Aji fish marinated overnight in shio (salt). the seafood is not bad, though we felt that a similar dish at Langkawi's Unkaizan was much better.

the main specialty at this place would be their Yakitori sticks of course, and there is such a delectable spread to choose from. we came in a big group and practically tried everything, from chicken balls, to liver, to skewers and potatoes wrapped in bacon. the meat were all well-marinated, and grilled to perfection. apparently, they are flamed over traditional bincho charcoal that enhances the flavours of the sauce. they don't come in large quantities though, and we found ourselves ordering a few servings of the same things.

other side dishes that are popular include Japanese cabbage, grilled corn and mixed Oden (Japanese bean curds and fish cake served in soup). while the cabbage was addictive and went well with the meat, we found the Oden a tad too plain and disappointing. probably, having the skewers with rice could be a viable option the next time we come. go for what they do best, have the tried and tested.

Sapporo beer would make a good accompaniment to the food, the draught is smooth and unlike the rougher version of Asahi. we think that in all, Gan Yakitori would be the place to visit if you are craving for quality Japanese skewers and some drinks. You pay for what you get, and this place is certainly pricier than other Yakitori food kiosks that you'd see around. but i guess this works for an occasional treat or a celebration, where you'd like your food served fresh and to have a good time.

Gan Yakitori
1 Vista Exchange Green #02-20
The Star Vista
Singapore 138817

Opening Hours
10 am to 10 pm (daily)

Happy hour from 6 pm to 8 pm!