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 
Facebook | Instagram | Website
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

The post Popular Japanese Sakura Matsuri food fair returns to NEX with wagyu hamburg bento, red snow crab stick sushi, taiyaki and more for a limited time only appeared first on Confirm Good.

Sakura Matsuri has been a recurring event. With our local floral conservatory adorned in soft-blushing Sakura blossom, it’s no wonder that Singaporeans flock to visit Sakura Matsuri year after year.

Hello Kitty at Sakura Matsuri 2021

Expect a kawaii special appearance this year. Globally-raved character, Hello Kitty, will be coming to Sakura Matsuri for the first time ever. There’s no photo release on how the Hello Kitty display will look like in the coming exhibition so far. However, seeing her dressed in a traditional kimono amongst lush pink Sakura blossoms in the teaser has got us all excited for her arrival.

Fans of Hello Kitty will be getting plenty of photo opportunities, as she lines up an optimised itinerary for floral viewing experience. Activities range from posing beside a rickshaw to locating the best spot for nodate—an outdoor tea ceremony at Sakura Matsuri.

Sakura Matsuri 2021 highlights

As part of yearly tradition, walk through Japanese’s traditional torii gates. These are Japanese gates commonly found at Shintō shrines in Kyoto. Walking through them brings us fond memories of overseas trips.

Traditional art of fabric wrapping

Sakura Matsuri 2021 also introduces the arts of furoshiki (traditional art of fabric wrapping) completed with a picnic spread out. Be inspired and amazed by the impeccable artistry of these performers—this may provide some creative gift wrapping ideas for your friends.

Sakura blooms at Flower Dome

This annual event brings us sakura blossoms that are hard to find in Singapore. Whether you’re a wanderlust, a Hello Kitty fan, or just a nature lover—this event is perfect for your bucket list.

Due to COVID restrictions, pre-booking of tickets is required. We are expecting a crowd at this annual event, so be sure you book your tickets in advance here. Tickets are SingapoRediscover voucher friendly. If you’re looking for someplace to go, this will be a good option to consider.

Flower Dome
???? Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr
????️ 9am — 9pm (From 1 March)

For more places that bring you the ‘travel vibes’, check out Wan Wan Thai Café is one for those who miss BKK café hops.

Also check out our article on 8 things you can use SingapoRediscover Vouchers for that are not staycations if you’re looking for more alternatives.

The post Sakura Matsuri 2021 and Hello Kitty arrives at Flower Dome appeared first on Confirm Good.