Perched on the 52nd floor of Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur, UMI Japanese Restaurant recently unveiled an Omakase experience that redefined fine Japanese dining in the city. The exclusive media preview brought together culinary tastemakers and media members for an evening where tradition, innovation, and artistry converged against the shimmering backdrop of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline.
UMI – aptly in tribute to the Japanese connotations of the “sea” – profoundly celebrates the bountiful oceanic dwellings, through an immersive epicurean journey, inviting guests to savour, taste, and reflect upon the visual precision and savoir-faire of Japanese haute cuisine.
Explore The Pursuit of Japanese Artistry
The evening commenced with the Oh Toro Tartare—luxuriously marbled tuna belly infused with yuzu zest, ponzu, and wasabi soy, elegantly curated atop crisp, house-made nori crackers. This bold yet nuanced opener proceeds to set the tone for a dining experience that was as playful, as it was sophisticated, and most definitely ushered in an atmosphere of thoughtful fellowship.
Next, the Golden Samurai Oyster, captivating to the curious eye, captured all attention, assembled with premium Japanese oysters, bathed in Shine Muscat essence, and adorned with yuzu pearls and edible gold leaf—a decadent perennial of sweet brininess and sublime allure.
Building on this, UMI’s innovative approach continues with the Sashimi Saikoro Sushi, a whimsical take on traditional sashimi. Here, the chef had artfully plated skewers of cubed, ultra-fresh fish, seamlessly transforming each bite into a feast for both eyes and palate.
On the other hand, the Hirame Chawanmushi, a silky steamed egg custard layered with delicate flounder slices, showcased the subtle sophistication of umami, inviting diners to savour the ocean’s purest flavours in every spoonful.
For those seeking indulgence, the Wagyu Lover Trio offered three imaginative preparations—crispy fried, seared tataki, and sukiyaki simmer—highlighting the impeccable richness and depth of Japan’s famed beef.
The journey continued with the Ebi Ebi Kani Ramen, a hearty bowl of springy noodles, succulent prawn, and sweet crab, where comforting textures met layered, oceanic flavours.
As for the finale, Momo Peach Matcha Tiramisu, reinterpreted from an Italian classic, bodes a monumental Japanese finesse, balancing mascarpone cream, fresh white peach, and a delicate matcha dusting for a refreshing close.
A Epicurean Panoramic Credo
UMI Japanese Restaurant – effortless by design and tucked within the sumptuous architecture of Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur, mirrors a culinary philosophy: a modern, serene space inspired by Japanese minimalism. It unanimously features timber accents, ambient lighting, and a layout that accommodates up to 100 guests. And this is adjacent to a private room for 30, offering a wondrously panoramic view of the Petronas Twin Towers and KL Tower, setting an elegant stage for intimate gatherings, with a minimum spend of RM 5,000.
The restaurant, however, transcends being merely a fine dining destination; it is, at once, an ode to craftsmanship, a soirée of seasonal ingredients, and a testament to the artistry of Japanese cuisine. And in perfect accord, it is a lifestyle to savour and commemorate, high above the city it proudly calls home.
(Images from Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur)
