Damansara Utama's Best: Japanese Eats

If you love truffle (how could you not?), this small but classy Japanese joint is for you. At the top of the truffle-meets-Japanese food list sits the Wakon Egg (RM15). While it resembles a creme brulee, the egg dish is actually a beautifully browned runny egg embellished with truffle and tobiko (flying fish roe). Other truffle-laced dishes include a generously topped Truffle Udon (RM39.90) and Truffle Tamago (RM19.90). Truffle may be the star at this restaurant, but the distinctive Handmade Udon in Tonkotsu Soup (RM9) can certainly compete — especially to warm the belly on rainy nights. Bring a truffle-loving friend.
Avg Price: RM40
Photo by Burpple Tastemaker Sok Chien Lim

Translating to 'tea house', the modern-looking Tsujiri in Damansara Uptown is not famed for tea (although it is available), but rather, for its Uji tea-derived desserts. If you have a soft spot for green tea desserts, grab late night (bitter)sweets here with a few friends. The good-for-sharing Chiffon Parfait with Matcha Ice Cream (RM16) layers silky smooth ice cream with red bean paste, cornflakes and a warm chiffon cake. For those who prefer a slightly toasty flavour, switch out matcha for hojicha (roasted green tea) at the same price. Tsujiri's other offerings like the O-Matcha with Yuzu (RM12) — a cold, refreshing yuzu-laced green tea drink, and O-Matcha Soft Serve (RM6.50) are also worth the drive down.
Avg Price: RM20
Photo by Burppler Priska Rafel

Not to be confused with the popular shabu-shabu franchise, Damansara Utama's Sukiya specialises in Japanese donburis. The fairly priced set menu will attract lunchtime office crowds but if you're the type who prefers to grab a quick bite alone, the frill-free individual counter seats are perfect. Go for the value-for-money Gyudon Seaweed Salad Set (from RM11.90) — rice simmered in soy sauce and topped with flavourful beef and onion, served with seaweed salad, miso soup and a drink. Alternatively, the Tokyo Oyakodon Set (from RM15.40) should satisfy your hunger with tender chicken and a runny soft-boiled egg on rice.
Avg Price: RM15
Photo by Burppler Trisha Toh

Tea Press serves to introduce the love of Japanese tea craft to locals, hence the inviting vibes at the bar where tea is made. Come alone to rejuvenate your soul with first class seats to watch the soothing process of tea-brewing. The classic Hoji Tea (RM10) is incredibly fragrant and naturally low in caffeine, so you can drink up for a good night's sleep. Tea alone is all good but there's nothing a little sugar can't make better, so order something from their authentic Japanese dessert selections. We recommend a tart, refreshing Strawberry Daifuku (RM5) — frozen chocolate-covered strawberry, or the yummy Warabimochi (RM7), which is bracken starch jelly coated in soybean flour.
Avg Price: RM15
Photo by Burpple Tastemaker Alyssia Yu

Drop by Iku Yama along Jalan SS21/60 when you're feeling adventurous for Japanese food with a twist — think New York-inspired sushi and makis with mango sauce. Best suited for grab-and-go diners, Iku Yama's fusion fare ranges from sushi to bento boxes and salads. Get the Salmon Belly Osaka Sushi (RM20.80) — fresh salmon belly elevated with the robust flavours of garlic and onion. The Fuji Volcano Roll (from RM12.80) also hits all the right notes with its medley of spicy seafood. For something more wholesome, go for the Chicken Teriyaki Bento (RM13.80) that boosts the salty goodness of teriyaki flavours with fried chicken.
Avg Price: RM35
Photo by Burppler Emily C

Enjoy a Zen lunch date at Udon Kobo Min Min in the privacy of wooden booth seats and Chef Hideaki Nakajima's daily made udon. Expect the thick, firm noodles presented in all manners, including a Curry Udon (RM18.50) that bears the trademark flavours of sweet Japanese curry. Those who enjoy the noodles cold can seek succour with the delightfully pink Mentaiko Udon (RM17.90), dressed in a creamy roe mayonnaise. The udon restaurant also pleases with their fresh cuts of irresistible Salmon Sashimi (RM18.90 for five slices).
Avg Price: RM30
Photo by Burppler SY Ho

Located on the first floor along Jalan SS21/37, the quiet Hokano's suited for those looking to lunch within walking distance of the busy street. Bring a few colleagues to indulge in their affordable set lunches and get away from work stress. The Sashimi with Zaru Soba set (RM23.50) seems to be a favourite, pairing healthy yet oh-so-delicious soba with fresh sashimi. To share, get the value for money Salmon Avocado Roll (RM9). Albeit its humble appearances, the winning combo of salmon and avocado is sure to satisfy. Also have a glass of Green Tea (RM2.50) to aid digestion after the substantial meal!
Avg Price: RM30
Photo by Burppler Rueann Dass

Recognisable by its white walls, Miru makes a wonderful locale to take the girls for delightful Shibuya toasts and long conversations. Don't miss the classic Shibuya Honey Toast (RM16). Much like a Japanese reincarnation of pancakes, the thick, fluffy toast is drizzled with honey and topped with vanilla ice cream. Perfectly portioned in ready-to-eat pieces, the toast is good shared between two to three people, be it for teatime or sweet supper cravings. The Chocolate Strawberry Shibuya Toast (RM18) also tempts with lots of strawberries atop a lavish Belgian chocolate-coated toast.
Avg Price: RM25
Photo by Burpple Tastemaker Tracey Wong