Clarke Quay's Hidden Japanese Tapas and Sake Bar

Boruto – a Japanese tapas and sake bar tucked in Golden Castle Building on South Bridge Road is most definitely a hidden gem. The dimly-lit two-storey bar boasts modern interior design whilst retaining some of the old school shop house flair in their sake vault. Diners can choose from a wide selection of alcohol, ranging from Asahi on tap, Hibiki whisky to premium sakes.

During our visit with eight OpenRice members, we got to try five of their signature dishes, starting with Saga Gyu Tataki ($28.80). The 500-day grain-fed beef is seared to perfection and certainly whetted our appetites for more.

Moving on to Ahi Tataki ($12.80), where the yellowfin tuna is served with black olives, Japanese leek, salsa and wasabi yuzu dressing. The latter, a surprisingly well-balanced combination!

Presenting the most popular dish of the night – Crispy Rice Cracker Tacos ($12.80), which looks nothing like the usual tacos we know of. The dish features cubes of rice cracker puffs topped with tender pulled pork, guacamole and chili salsa.

If you’re still hungry, go for the Tori-Take Roll ($15.80). The tender chicken roulade is stuffed with juicy shiitake jam and drizzled with a sesame and black vinegar sauce.

Looking for some carbs? The Uni Pasta v1.1 ($35.80) consists of capellini in a creamy sea urchin (uni) and yuzu broth, topped with fresh sea urchin roe and grated Hokkaido white wasabi, which compliments the sweetness of the uni. A go-to choice if you’re a huge uni fan.

No meal is complete without desserts! We were presented with a delightful round of desserts that are all made in-house. Warabi Mochi ($6.80) is a jelly-like confection made from bracken starch and coated with kinako. Chocolate Surprise ($12.80) is a cake and soufflé combination with a liquid center, served with vanilla ice cream and crushed peanuts. The most unique dessert that got our attention however, was the Truffle Crème Brûlée ($8.80). This milk custard dessert comes infused with an earthy aroma of truffle, so it might be an acquired taste for some, but nevertheless a must-try.

Click here to read our OpenRice members’ reviews. Boruto Golden Castle Building, 80 South Bridge Road #01-01, Singapore 058710

Written by Fiona Phoon Images: Fiona Phoon