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As the year 2012 comes to an end, here’s a review of Senjyu’s Spring Splendour Menu for 2013, which I had the privilege of sampling not too long ago. Senjyu in Bangsar Village is definitely my most visited Japanese restaurant of 2012 because the food has been consistently good and reasonably priced. Plus, service is pleasant. :)

Senjyu practices a ‘Four Seasons’ menu concept, where customers can enjoy spring, summer, autumn and winter creations on top of the existing menu. To start, we has the Hana Sashimi Salad (RM25.90); a pretty assortment of salmon sashimi, lettuce, carrots, Japanese cucumber and cherry tomatoes, topped with wasabi dressing.

The salmon was fresh and smooth, while the wasabi dressing gave the salad a sharp accent. A refreshing change from the usual Salmon Salad I often order from Senjyu’s regular menu.

I found the Twin Harmony Bento (RM 38) good value for money. For that price tag, you get a bento box comprising a sushi trio, tempura, rolled sushi, chawanmushi, miso soup and an appetizer. The sushi trio comprised salmon, maguro and squid; each lightly grilled to give a smoky-sweet flavour to the rice.

Instead of the usual prawn tempura, the chef used unagi and shimeji , which I really enjoyed. Unagi is already yummy, but unagi tempura is uber yummy.

I tucked into the Shimi Saba (RM78.90 for sashimi and sushi), which I rather enjoyed. Saba has a stronger flavour and aroma, which not everyone can take but I liked it. It was tender, slightly savoury and went well with a light smear of wasabi. I also liked the sushi version as the rice added a different flavour and texture to the fish.

The sushi is available in two preparation styles – sashimi or aburi mentai grilled. I didn’t try the latter style as I was happy with the sashimi. For the budget conscious, you can get the sushi version along for RM38.90.

We also sampled the Specialty Yu Tofu (RM16.90), a signature dish from the Kansai region. The broth is made from fish stock and comes with smooth konbu beancurd, assorted mushrooms and fresh vegetables.

I found the broth light in flavour, which allowed the sweetness of the vegetables to stand out. If you like clear soups, you’ll enjoy this. I however, prefer stronger flavours.

The Haru Yaki Soba (RM 18.90) was cooked al dente and rather delicious. I’ve never tried soba prepared this way – fried with flavourful tonkatsu sauce and sweet omelette – and found it quite creative.

Like all the other seasonal menus, the Spring Menu ended with a sweet note – Blueberry Cheese Blossoms (RM8). This was a composition of blueberry cheese cake, cornflakes, whipped cream and strawberries. It can be a bit rich for some, so order one to share.

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Ambiance: 7/10
Price: 6/10
Food: 7/10 (pork free)
Verdict: Creative dishes and good quality ingredients at a reasonable price.

Senjyu
Bangsar Village II
2F-27 & 28, 2nd Floor,
Bangsar Village II
Tel: 03-2287 1535
Business Hours: 12pm – 10.30pm
Senjyu’s Facebook Page