The latest foray of the highly successful En Holdings into Japanese cuisine after En Japanese Dining Bar in 2001 and En Lounge in 2003, Z'en Japanese Cuisine is strategically located at UE Square, adjoining the vibrant Mohamed Sultan stretch of chill out joints where the young, hip and party-savvy gather. Z'en is the ideal restaurant for business dinners as well as casual gatherings for young working professionals, loving couples, both locals and expatriates.

• The Vibe
  The main dining area has its table layout generously set up and the high ceilings cleverly emphasize this luxury to the guests, resulting in a cozy and comfortable place for them. Gentle warm lighting against the sleek sophistication of dark and black furnishings infuses class with simplicity in artful ingenuity. A private area at the mezzanine level allows guests to experience dining in the unique Tatami style, an area most suitable for private celebrations or business dinners which necessitate a more intimate space. The VIP area at the very top level behind the majestic display of an extensive collection of wines makes for a good hosting of company gatherings or large private dinners. Both these areas could comfortably accommodate 24 guests each. Guests may also dine alfresco in the quixotic atmosphere created by the warm glow of the Kyoto Japanese lanterns and the silky flowing drapes against the ceilings. The restaurant stands out from its contemporaries by successfully incorporating cosmopolitan modernism with the minimalist ways of Zen which emphasizes balances and tranquility.

• The Food
  Executive Chef Yasui Masashi with more than 15 years of experience under his belt, combines cosmopolitan influences with the traditional Kyoto style of culinary in his creations, giving traditional Japanese food with a boost of vim and vigor. The menu is thorough and diverse, with the availability of traditional Japanese staples and favourites such as fresh Sashimi, sushi, grilled (Yakimono) to deep fried (Agemono) dishes. The Zen course ($48+++) which is a selection of signature dishes will be a fine choice. For a light start, try the Vegetable and Shredded Chicken wrapped in Rice Paper, a novelty of a crepe salad. The Assorted 3 Kinds of Sashimi (Yellowtail, Salmon and Sweet Prawn) are incredibly fresh. Eat it raw without wasabi or soy sauce to thoroughly enjoy its freshness and savour the pleasure of the sweet prawn melt on your pampered palate. The Prawn Dumpling Soup in a Claypot is less colourful but no less delicious because the soup is served piping hot and sweet: think dinner in a ryokan in winter. The Roasted Minced Chicken on a Skewer laced with egg yolk has a sweet aroma which lingers in the air even after that satisfying bite. However, some may find the texture of questionable due to the bits of tendons within the minced meat. After the slight imperfection, the Assorted Tempuras, crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, will bring your taste buds to a new high. Particularly enjoyable is the Enoki mushrooms whose mildly sweet flavour and crunchy texture is further enhanced after being deep fried. The succulent Grilled Beef Tenderloin Cubes with its rich gravy and mashed potato receives the thumbs-up. The range of desserts is limited and both the Coconut Cream Brule and Green Tea Ice-cream are just ordinary. Some recommended favourites on the ala-carte menu but not in the Zen's Course include the refreshing Shabushabu salad ($20+++) and the Beef Sirloin Steak Seared Rare in Ponzu Sauce ($30+++). The Shabushabu salad is a healthy refreshing choice with its fresh mix of greens and tender lean strips of boiled top grade Wagyu beef with sesame dressing. The Beef Sirloin Steak is well marinated and grilled to perfection for its essence and taste. It is little wonder why both are among the most popular items on the menu.

• The Service
  The service staff at Z'en is dressed in black and very well groomed. They were well mannered and their service prompt and quick. The restaurant also took special care to assign a waiter or waitress to the private and VIP rooms to ensure the guests would never be neglected despite of the busy dinner hours.

SD Food Advisor's take on Z'en Japanese Cuisine
Z'en aims to reflect in their food culture, the Zen spirit of tranquility and calmness. It is one stylish Japanese restaurant and while the quality of food is credible, the ambience and service are factors which will stand out more as they were indeed impeccable. It is ideal for special occasions such as a romantic date or a meeting of business associates over dinner.