Just returned from Japan and missing the culinary bounties of the land; clearly suffering from food withdrawal symptoms? Here are 5 places to satisfy that sense of nostalgia.

1. Marutama Ra-men 

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Marutama Ra-men Malaysia

No trip to Japan would be complete without indulging in a bowl of ramen. Hwere most common ramen broth choices are either shio (salt), shoyu (soy sauce), tonkotsu (pork bone) or misoMarutama Ra-men switches up this typical selection with chicken. This results in a slurp-worthy bowls of noodles, where the broth is rich in flavour (no MSG is used) and the springy noodles work wonders to compliment the slices of chasyu (Japanese char siew), seaweed and spring onion. Checkout their Facebook page here to start planning how to get your bowl.

2. Tea Press - The Japanese Tea Roasters 

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Tea Press Malaysia

Green tea is another common sight in Japan, drinking a hot cup can cleanse the body, the palate and soothe the mind. Japanese purveyor of fine green tea and sweets Tea Press have two outlets here in Malaysia – one in Damansara Uptown and one in Da Men Mall. The next time you find yourself craving for that taste of Japan, head over to Tea Press with a good book or friend in tow to relive that zen feel when you need to escape the noise of city life.

3. Ginza Sushimasa

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Above Photo: Steven Sum/Malaysia Tatler

Sushi is one of the pinnacles of Japanese cuisine. For many Japanese youths, dining in Ginza (the most expensive district in Tokyo) is a dream come true and as such many sushi restaurants have set up shop in the area. Ginza Sushimasa in Le Meridien KL is one such restaurant, offering a superb omakase experience with fresh fish air-flown from Japan. If you are craving for a slice of Japanese fine dining, this will definitely hit home. The restaurant's Facebook page can be found here.

4. Gindaco

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Gindaco Malaysia

Street snacks in Japan are just as tasty. Takoyaki, fried doughy balls with a sliver of octopus in the centre, is a signature Japanese snack and having a few can evoke sensations of wandering the metropolitan streets of Tokyo or Osaka. Gindaco, famed in Japan for their takoyaki, opened in Malaysia last year. Click here to find out where to get your hands on this yummy snack.

5. Washu-seki, Isetan The Japan Store KL

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Above Photo: Tien Chew/Malaysia Tatler

Sake and shochu are two different yet slighlty similar takes on wine in Japan. Many Japanese folks enjoy drinking, and clinking glasses with your mates is a common occurence in many bars across Nippon. For that authentic Japanese drinking experience, head down to Washu-seki in The Market section of Isetan The Japan Store in Lot 10 for a genuine sake tasting experience. Click here for more info.

Looking for classy place to drink? This iconic lounge comes with great drinks and a stunning view

 

 

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