Francesca Tay
With some people giving a wide berth to Japanese food for fear of contamination in the wake of the Fukushima nuclear reactor incident, the 10,000 sq ft. seafood buffet restaurant Fisherman’s Market, that has recently opened up in The Central @ Clarke Quay , may not have been the best timing.
But the crowds spread over the 2 floors of the premium Japanese-Western restaurant that’s the first to open outside of Japan, didn’t seem the least bothered. In addition to the novelty, and the view (of the Singapore River), patrons are drawn by a delish spread of over 90 dishes offered on the buffet menu, preferring it over the ala carte one.
Priced at $39.90++ for adults and $22.90++ for children below 12-years-old from Monday to Thursdays for dinner, the all-you-can-eat option’s a great choice for families on weekdays. Weekend prices are a tad more pricey, $49.90++ for adults and $27.90++ for children.
As guests step into the second floor, warmly welcomed by the service-friendly staff, the first thing they notice is the full bar in the center of the restaurant, serving cocktails, wine and beer menu. Free flow of drinks from a variety of soft drinks and juices are available, inclusive in the buffet.
From fresh delights (sushi by native Itamae (Sushi chefs), sashimi, fresh oysters) to sautéed dishes and even their specialty, the famous chilli crab done in local style, get ready to experience a journey of seafood wonders here.
Chilli Crab, is cooked to perfection, with a consistent eggy sauce that was lip-smackingly good. Best of all, unlike many restaurants where the favourite dish is often emptied within 2 minutes of it being replenished, here it’s constantly being topped up, so you don’t have to wait. An alternative Black Pepper Crab is also available for those with less fiery tastes., but you’re missing out big time.
The oyster bar is under the watchful eye of a chef who shucks fresh oysters one after another before your eyes, reassuring customers that the shellfish is indeed fresh.
If you rather something that doesn’t swim, child-friendly items such as pasta, pizza, Teppanyaki pork and beef balance out the gastronomical treats.
A personal favourite out of the seafood selection was the Cheese Fondue served with broccolis, small chunks of bread and potatoes. A generous serving of warm salsa cheese is served to the table in a fondue pot for customers to enjoy. In case you didn’t know, broccoli and cheese is one of the best combinations. What was disappointing was that despite being in a seafood restaurant, this was not served with shrimps, as is traditional.
Another section to look out for is the Teppanyaki grill, where selections of salmon, pork and beef are cooked upon ordering. Hot from the grill, it is one of the most common dishes in Japan, and one that many locals are familiar with. Tempura prawns and soft shell crabs are also available with a light dipping chopped radish-infused sauce.
Be sure to also check out the dessert section with offerings such as crème brulee, tiramisu and Macedonia that give a sweet ending to the sumptuous dinner. Sadly, being a Japanese restaurant, traditional Japanese desserts such as mochi, matcha ice cream, yuzu sorbet and dango were not served.
Fisherman’s Market is open at 6 Eu Tong Sen St #01-15 & #02-17 at The Central.
Opening hours: 11 am – 11 pm daily
Rating: 2/5