Hinching

Top left Previously seen in the kitchen usually adding the finishing touches to the food before it is served, it was a fresh change to see her (one of two owners [the other is her brother] if not mistaken) on the front desk that night. Top right The attention to details (both food and atmosphere) has garnered my respect as a fellow customer who appreciates a superb dining experience. Honestly, it shows. Bottom left To the ones not accustomed to the term ‘fine dining’ or perhaps the statement ‘Please allow up to 40 minutes for the food to be served’ should realize that Umai isn’t a fast food establishment. Ideally, always order an appetizer, it helps build your appetite and make the 40 minutes go a bit quicker. Bottom right Ninjas serve here as waiters where chopsticks become their only choice of weapon.

Taking advantage of the long weekend and the festive season, Umai took this opportunity to officially launch hence a 25% discount off all meals from the 30th May to 5th June 2008. Having reserved a table for three earlier that day, we were ushered to our seats upon arrival. Or else join one of the many walk-in customers who were turned down because of a fully-booked night. Seated close to the entrance, my sister and Stephen (Michelle’s brother) kept ourselves entertained guessing whether the next walk-in customers had made a reservation or not.

Despite the pre-warning that mains might take slightly longer to be served, we had food starting to trickle in on to our tables after 20 minutes. My black cod was delicious. It was only when the maki mono (hand rolls) started to arrive then we realized that it (gluttony) unknowingly has taken over us. We left RM118.70 poorer and a bit fatter.

I’m thinking of doing a proper review or perhaps an interview with the owner(s) of the restaurant if the opportunity arises in the future. Well, just as soon I receive my Royal Umai card. Just a bit of 411, umai means delicious/appetizing in Japanese.