Hanare (Feb 2, 2011): Restaurant Review

It’s been awhile since a new Japanese restaurant possessed the potential to beguile our sushi-satiated city. But thanks to Hanare, the long wait is finally over.

The highlight here is “chinmi” _ hard-to-find seafood delicacies that are an acquired taste.

Bakurai

One perfect example: “bakurai,” the pickled innards of sea squirts (oceanic filter feeders). Pungently savory and pulpy, this causes customers to either swoon or sprint away screaming.

Shirako

Shirako (cod sperm sacs). Rather reminiscent of pig brains in both taste and texture, but with a creamier, milkier feel. Always a treat to taste this in KL (so far, we’ve only had it at Cilantro, Kampachi and the now-defunct Seki Tei at Holiday Villa Subang).

Nama Karasumi

Nama karasumi. This salted fish roe is tasty, but not extraordinarily memorable. Nevertheless, all these items are ideal for whetting the appetite before a full dinner.