You may have heard of the name Mugendai and its frequent association with being the Japanese restaurant that tears your wallet apart. Muteki, on the other hand, is like the newborn son of Mugendai — he’s younger and relatively cheaper. Situated on Sathon Road, the restaurant naturally attracts businesspeople and office workers within the area. Since we’re talking about the CBD/financial district here, it comes as no surprise that you won’t find basic ramen or prawn tempura as you would a couple of roads down in Silom. The casual-like cafe setting is less intimidating than its Thong Lor counterpart. But of course the standard here is still set high with opulence emanating from the plush interior and the long marble counters where the sushi masters prepare your meal.
Muteki by Mugendai
Japanese
G/F, Empire Tower, 1 Sathon Tai Road
10am-10pm
02-670-2888
www.fb.com/mutekibkk
THE MENU
Move aside salmon and tuna rolls. It’s time to meet Empire kani (B670), two pieces of delectable-looking grilled snow crab topped with spicy mayonnaise sauce. Opulent and luxurious, it’s perfect for sushi fans and even those who can’t stomach raw fish. Beef-lovers should not miss Shiawase roll (B660), which combines two delicacies from France and Japan — foie gras and Kobe beef. Although this particular dish has been overplayed for some time (as evident in numerous Japanese restaurants across the city), we couldn’t help but give in to the lip-smacking flavours and aroma of seared beef. If you’re in for a quick lunch, Bara chirashi (B340) is healthy yet substantial enough to keep your tummy full for the rest of the day. The fresh assorted raw fish is chopped with precision, laid on a bed of rice and topped with spicy mayonnaise. Fluffy souffle pancake (B135) sounds and tastes a little confusing; as if they couldn’t find the middle ground between the two so opted for an undercooked souffle and a liquidy pancake. The truffle butter adds an interesting savoury dimension but unfortunately, the vanilla sauce on the side couldn’t help carry the dish through. It’s an established fact that you can’t go wrong with ice cream and cookies, but it’s also hard to get them right. Muteki cookie cream (B190) is every child and adult’s dessert dream come true and the restaurant, without a doubt, has got this one down to a tee. The bake-to-order soft-baked chocolate chip cookies come out warm and crusty on top. Hokkaido milk soft cream is then added and as it starts to melt and trickle down, grab a spoon and start digging in. The portion is perfect for sharing but, truth be told, we would much prefer to indulge in this little slice of heaven alone. There’s nothing traditional about having a fusion-style dessert in a Japanese restaurant, but who’s to say a little mix and match isn’t good for the soul (or taste buds). Cocktails, mocktails, juice, beer, wine, coffee and tea are also available.
INSIDER TIP
The restaurant opens from 10am and a breakfast menu is available. Although you may not crave raw fish with your morning coffee, their selections of Western breakfast options like Hotcake French toast should get you up and running.
SOCIAL MEDIA MOMENTS
The presentation of each dish deserves to be shared on Instagram and Facebook multiple times. Be sure to make use of the natural light coming through the large windows and use the hashtag #nofilter.
VALUE & VERDICT
Muteki doesn’t fall short of our expectations — the menu is extensive and most dishes are on point, from the traditional sushi to the luxurious French-inspired desserts. Although you may hear the cries and whimpers of first-jobbers when they pay the bill, we think it’s a great choice for a monthly splurge.
