Tucked away in the Raffles Hotel Shopping arcade, is a small Japanese restaurant, not immediately noticeable. Kaisan does however get its share of loyal regulars who flock back to this tiny little fine-dining gem for fresh sashimi, quality sushi, and its generous serving of seasonal items shipped all the way from Japan . Japanese chef Yamaguchi has spent 28 years in Singapore perfectly his culinary skills and whipping up an assortment of gastronomic delights to tickle the palate of many. His experience and expertise has translated itself into a wonderful walk into the world of fine Japanese dining, exciting and intriguing.

• The Vibe
  Small and modest, this Japanese gem immediately makes one feel comfortable and well at ease. The furnishings and décor are kept minimalist and simple, as the place allows the food to take the centre stage. The interior is not typical of a fine dining restaurant; with none of the frills, neither is it supercilious nor pretentious. Like an old friend, Kaisan has an air of familiarity. However it does exude a quiet charm which is completely essential to the experience of fine dining. The huge sushi counter takes precedence in the restaurant and one can watch the deft hands of the chefs work their culinary magic into gorgeous little sushi rolls!

• The Food
  Seafood lovers will may deem this seafood paradise as they will find great gratification in the fine selection. The fresh snapper head is steamed to perfection with salt and sake. Sample this dish with the lush and moist slice of seaweed for a wonderful combustion of textures, soft and chewy at once. The ostentatious Kinki fish is a prized delicacy. Be prepared to fork out a substantial amount to enjoy the feeling of the soft, white folds of meat melting on your tongue. Steamed with sake and soya sauce, this Hokkaido premium fish is a rare treat as it is seasonal, and only served mostly in December. Sushi lovers will revel in delight at the delectable selection of sushi. The seared toro sushi (tuna belly) is one of Kaisan's specialties. The ever popular sushi, with its springy texture, has a nice, punchy bite. Equally note-worthy is the Ebi Shingo , deeply fried golden-brown prawns and minced scallop. The prawns are so crisp you can literally hear the crackle and crunchy, like cereals, as your teeth sink into them. Seasonal items include the angelfish liver , delightfully velvety, with the texture of soft avocado. Topped with seaweed and a tangy sauce, the angelfish liver has a nice smooth texture, and it glides perfectly down the throat. Wash your food down with a hearty glass of sake or a simmering cup of green tea while enjoying good conversation with some friends.

The SD Food advisor's take on Kaisan
Though Kaisan does not immediately look like your typical fine-dining restaurant, its fresh, premium delicacies spell-bound. Authentic ingredients and the freshest seasonal items are specially sourced from Japan , and lend their flavors to the sumptuous spread of delicacies…hearty and tasty. The food here finds resonance even in the most fastidious diner. Be forewarned though, good food comes with a price, and literally so. The prices here are on the steep side, so be prepared to spend. A fine investment and a small price to pay for such luxurious food. Simplicity is the keyword at this modern restaurant that does away all of the overbearing rules of fine-dining, but simply lets its food do all the talking.