Kaiseki is a quintessential Japanese dining experience, though it can sometimes seem daunting to those experiencing it for the first time. Through a kaiseki meal at Unkai, the ANA InterContinental’s signature Japanese restaurant, guests can savour Japan’s traditional culinary culture while enjoying the season’s finest ingredients prepared with artistry and care.
The English-friendly experience begins with a dashi tasting, offering a chance to sample three varieties of broth that form the foundation of Japanese cuisine and are incorporated throughout the course. Enjoying them on their own allows guests to appreciate their distinct characteristics and discover how they enhance the flavours of different ingredients. The friendly staff will explain each dish as it is served, including how the dashi has been incorporated into each course. Depending on when you visit, you’ll be able to enjoy not only the cuisine but also the beautiful presentation, with seasonal tableware carefully selected to complement the experience.
Three Japanese teas are also served throughout the meal, including cold-brewed green tea, hojicha and Japanese black tea, each selected to highlight and enhance the flavours of the dishes. Guests can compare the distinct characteristics of each tea, from more umami-rich and savoury varieties to milder options with a gentle roasted aroma.
The kaiseki experience concludes on a playful note with a DIY monaka, where guests can craft their own dessert by filling delicate monaka wafers with a selection of red bean, mochi, seasonal fruit and ice cream.
