Rakuzen Tampines

Somehow I’m disappointed with the meal after some good reviews received from other Unilocalers.
We’ve ordered a salmon sashimi set ($ 20), an assorted fatty sashimi set ($ 25) and a sushi udon set ($ 19). The fish we had was fresh and meaty, that’s a plus point; but for some of the sushi, the rice just collapsed at the slightly squeeze from the chopsticks, which was not up to standard.
The condiments on the side (ie those shredded radish, cucumber slides, seaweed and ginger) were dried and some what non-​appetizing, which showed that they pre-​plated most of those.
Only the freshness of the fish justified the price tag, but overall I feel that it’s not value for money as the prices are on par with restaurants like Sushi-​tei but with a better ambiance.

I’ve often lamented on the lack of good sushi places in the east. Rakuzen provides a perfect solution for me! While the pricing isn’t exactly the cheapest, it is certainly well worth the money spent. Some highlights;
The flame mackerel: the searing allow the fat to rise to the top, allowing for a much fuller, richer taste. The sweetness of the seasoning and the Fish itself complemented each other. A tad salty for
Some but just nice for me.
Moeyo beef roll: same concept of searing with a crunchy centre to the roll.
Mame Aji Tsumami — tiny fried fish! An absolute delight to eat as a starter
The rest of the dishes, including the sashimi, were good and fresh but nothing to shout about.
In conclusion, a good quiet place (at the moment) for very decent japanese food in the east.

I love to go to this branch in Tampines because it is much quieter and less crowded. Most of the ingredients were flown in straight from Japan about twice weekly, ensuring freshness and also keeping prices down as it eliminates the need for a middleman.
Another unique point about Rakuzen is that they fly in their own brown rice and mill it into white rice. (Interesting fact: there are only 4 milling machines in Singapore. The other three are owned by Isetan). You can thus have the healthier option of brown rice with your beef and it tastes very good!

This outlet is similar to the Millenia Walk, except that on fridays, you get much better service as it is no where as crazy crowded. I paid them a visit yesterday and found that most of the patrons where families and young people. Me and my friend ordered the Sukiyaki set, Yakiniku the Aburi beef roll. All were very nicely done. Did not fall short of the high expectations i had of Rakuzen. Also had the Yuzu and Goma Ice cream. Aslo very good stuff. Yuzu is a good end to the meal, a very good palet cleanser.