[ PRESS RELEASE ]
A Culinary Extravaganza Showcasing Japan’s Regional Delights
SINGAPORE 1 JUNE 2023 – ISETAN is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated Hanabi Matsuri, a captivating celebration of Japanese cuisine that will transport visitors on a delectable journey through the diverse flavours of different regions in Japan. From 13 – 25 June, Singpost Centre will be transformed into a culinary haven, immersing attendees in an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Prepare your taste buds for an epicurean odyssey at the Isetan Hanabi Matsuri, located in the vibrant heart of Singpost Centre. This extraordinary event invites food enthusiasts and culture aficionados to savour the popular and iconic dishes representative of various regions in Japan, indulging in an unparalleled culinary adventure that captures the essence of each region’s gastronomic traditions.
Here are some of the highlights of this year’s fair to keep an eye out for.
New Brands to Watch
Making their debut this year at the fair are renowned brands such as Kompton, Kyoto Café Momiji, Kyoto Arashiyama Hourando, Imoya Benten and Bon Toraya.
If you are looking for an edible piece of art, Kompton‘s Hiroshima Okonomiyaki (S$14) is a culinary masterpiece that showcases a unique style of cooking. Layers of carefully piled ingredients, without mixing, create a visually stunning dish. The dough, made with a special flour/water ratio using only water, ensures a fluffy texture. Seasoned simply with salt, pepper, fishmeal, and dashi broth, the noodles add depth and balance to the overall finish, making this okonomiyaki a true delight for the senses.
Savour the delectable flavours of Kyoto at Kyoto Cafe Momiji, the Kyoto-themed café founded by renowned chef Teppei Yamashita from the esteemed Teppei Group. Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with their irresistible Pork Cutlet Sandwich (S$10), where a perfectly breaded and golden-fried pork cutlet is nestled between slices of freshly baked bread. With each bite, experience a harmonious blend of textures and flavours. From the crispiness of the cutlet to the delightful accompaniments.
Another highlight to look out for is the irresistible charm of Kyoto Arashiyama Hourando‘s Kyoto Small Bean Mix (S$13), the most popular bean snack at Arashiyama, Heian Shrine, and Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto. This beloved blend of adzuki beans, black soybeans, and mung beans captures the essence of Kyoto’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re exploring the enchanting streets or seeking a flavourful souvenir, this exquisite snack is a must-try for every visitor, providing a delightful taste of Kyoto’s rich traditions and flavours in every bite.
After all the delicious savoury snacks, end your trip to the fair with sweet treats like the delightful creations of Imoya Benten from Osaka, featuring their irresistible Chocolate Coated Bananas (S$4). These delectable treats combine the natural sweetness of chunky bananas with a luscious chocolate coating, resulting in a heavenly flavour combination. If you are looking for a heartier dessert, try Bon Toraya‘s exquisite range of treats. Their Anpan Manju (Red Bean Steamed Buns) (S$5.30) are a true delight for the senses, featuring a soft and pillowy exterior filled with a velvety red bean paste and creamy custard that melts in your mouth. For a taste of traditional Japanese confections, indulge in the Dorayaki Torazou (S$5.30), where two fluffy pancakes embrace a heavenly red bean filling. And for a touch of elegance, the Pyraene France Cake (S$5.30) steals the show. A popular dessert from Toyohashi, Aichi prefecture. Handcrafted with care, this sponge cake features a delightful fresh Chocolate, Vanilla or Matcha cream filling that will leave you wanting more.
Hanabi Matsuri Fare Not to be Missed
Enjoy Takoyaki by Nakayama Shokuhin (1 pkt of 6 pcs for S$9) — delicious grilled octopus balls made of wheat flour-based batter and filled with diced octopus, from Kyushu. Topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, green laver and dried bonito flakes, this is one of Japan’s best-known street foods that you don’t want to miss out on.
Tsukiji Unagi Shokudo is an unagi specialty store from Tsukiji, Tokyo most famous for their use of the highest quality unagi. Without much surprise, their Unagi skewers are very popular. They will also be serving beautifully grilled scallop skewers which are sourced from Mutsu city, Aomori. Their scallops are known for their sweet, rich flavour and plump texture. The skewers go for S$4 each or 3 for S$10.
For desserts, indulge in the exquisite Mont Blanc (S$9/pc) from Whitetree, a delightful Japanese twist on the classic French dessert. This delectable creation combines the best of both worlds, featuring a luscious soft sponge cake base that perfectly complements the rich and flavourful cream topping. If you fancy a refreshing end, delight your tastebuds with Itoshima Farm‘s Strawberry Shaved Ice (S$12). This icy treat is a symphony of flavours, combining the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with the cool, velvety texture of finely shaved ice. Experience the true taste of summer, capturing the essence of sun-ripened strawberries in a delightful dessert that will leave you craving for more.
Make sure to head down to Singpost Centre Atrium, L1 from 13 June to 25 June for a mouthwatering good time at this year’s fair!
Hanabi Matsuri Information
Dates: 13 June to 25 June 2023
Address: Singpost Centre Atrium, L1
Timing: 13 June: 12pm – 9pm
14 – 24 June: 11am – 9pm
25 June: 11am – 7pm
日本語 
English (UK)