Although I would love to hop on a plane to Japan right now and witness the lavish cherry blossoms for myself, I’m afraid that that isn’t going to happen anytime soon.
For those facing the same dilemma, fret not because this highly anticipated Japanese food festival is making its comeback after a year.
Sakura Matsuri by ISETAN will be running from now until 24 March 2024 at NEX Atrium to usher in the Spring season.
With over 30 renowned Japanese brands on board, you can expect to find an array of spring specialties, including your favourite Japanese comfort food, delectable sweet treats and even new menu items.
You won’t have any trouble finding Sakura Matsuri as the stalls are completely adorned with signature pink paper lanterns and sakura blossoms (very on theme).
Not to mention, Stone River’s exquisite display of their Fruit Candy (from S$5) makes it hard to miss, especially since it’s nearest to the entrance.
I’ve always wanted to try tanghulu and this stall was the closest thing to the real deal.
We went with the red apple which was surprisingly not too sweet. Even though it was my first time trying it, the tartness helped to balance the flavours out.
As someone who doesn’t actively crave seafood, the Tako Senbei (S$8) AKA octopus cracker Meijuya was delightful and got me wanting more.
The cracker is first seasoned with soy sauce before being pressed with a hot iron plate to achieve its iconic flat look. It was crunchy and bursting with umami — you can even see the whole octopus!
Alternatively, if you find the Tako Senbei a little too cumbersome to eat, you can always get the Senbei Small (S$5) for an on-the-go snack.
Want something hearty for lunch or dinner? Sakura Matsuri got you sorted with the new Champion Chicken Burger (S$11) from Marunoya.
The lightly toasted bun comes with a chunky slab of chicken, melted slice cheese and slathered in sauce. Trust me, this makes for a satisfying meal after a hard day of work.
And you know the food is fresh when it is cooked right before your eyes.
They also have Karaage (from S$7.80) featuring flavours like yangnyeom and sweet and sour — just look at the glistening sauce and crispy golden batter.
Another reason I tend to avoid seafood fare is because peeling the shells just takes too much time, but Shibazushi from Ishikawa Prefecture does the work for you.
The Red Snow Crab Stick Sushi (S$25) comes in this aesthetic bento box and tasted fresh with a subtle sweetness. Otherwise, opt for other flavours like unagi and salmon.
Hakusuino Kura is a new vendor amongst the others, selling the Wagyu Hamburg and Steak Bento (S$30). Although it’s slightly pricier, the smoky hamburger steak is made from premium beef raised in Aso Mountain and it literally melts in your mouth.
I just wished the patty was slightly less salty, but still enjoyable nevertheless.
Don’t forget to visit Takata Kamaboko that has a new menu item, Deep Fried Fish Cake (S$3.50) that is crispy on the outside yet tender and moist on the inside.
As a massive fan of Japanese desserts, of course you know we had to hit up a few of the dessert stores and what better than to start with the beloved fish-shaped pastry, Amane’s Taiyaki (S$5).
Choose from red bean, custard or chocolate. Our favourite was the smooth red bean made with Hokkaido azuki beans paired with the crispy crust and soft and fluffy interior.
Another crowd favourite has to be Monario’s Kumamon Ningyo Yaki (S$5) that comes in the shape of an adorable Kumamon, featuring four different flavours.
The Honzukuri Warabimochi (from S$12) at Bashodo had a squishy soft texture and was dusted in soybean powder, matcha, black sesame or cocoa respectively.
It was decent amongst the other desserts but I thoroughly enjoyed the black sesame for its roasty and nutty aroma.
What I didn’t expect to enjoy so much was the Earl Grey Apple Pie (S$7.50) at Feal (fun fact: this shop was named 100 Best Cuisine Kingdom in Japan).
Despite looking rather unassuming, the pie’s crust was buttery and flaky and infused with aromatic Earl Grey tea, alongside tender, sweetened apple filling — definitely a must-try snack.
Wash it all down with a huge range of alcohol including Kitoka’s Sakura Kirakira Liquer (S$47.50) or Makoto-Ya, Sapporo Draft Beer (S$6).
Pro tip: if you’re planning to check out ISETAN Sakura Matsuri, we highly recommend that you takeaway the food and enjoy them in the comfort of your home as the fair does get pretty crowded and there are limited high tables available.
If I were you, I’d hurry down right now for some authentic Japanese fare!
ISETAN Sakura Matsuri
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📍Serangoon Central, 23, Nex Atrium, Level 1, Singapore 556083
🕐 10.30am–9pm (Sun to Thu), 10.30am–9.30pm (Fri & Sat), 10.30am–8pm (24 March)
🗓️ now till 24 Mar 2024
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Photos by Jermina Peh
Sugar, spice, and everything nice 😼