Seasonal & Ingredient Highlights – The Flavours of Japanese Omakase Singapore

In Japan, the seasons aren’t just a measure of time — they are the foundation upon which the country’s cuisine is built. From the delicate blossoms of spring to the deep, earthy tones of autumn, each season brings a distinct palette of ingredients. At Sushi Masa by Ki-setsu, this philosophy is at the heart of every menu we create.

The Rhythm of the Seasons

Spring, known as haru in Japan, is a season of renewal. It brings with it tender bamboo shoots (takenoko), sweet sea bream (tai), and fresh mountain vegetables. Dishes are lighter, fresher, and designed to awaken the palate after the richness of winter.

Summer, or natsu, is bright and bold. Fatty tuna (toro), sweet corn, and vibrant shellfish take centre stage. The warmer months also inspire Chef Masa to experiment with refreshing pairings, such as seasonal fruits with raw fish, offering a burst of unexpected harmony.

Autumn, aki, is a celebration of umami. This is when matsutake mushrooms, prized for their aromatic depth, appear alongside Pacific saury (sanma) and rich root vegetables. The dishes are comforting and satisfying, mirroring the changing leaves and cooler air.

Winter, fuyu, is indulgent. The menu turns to snow crab (kani), monkfish liver (ankimo), and the highest grade otoro. Each bite feels luxurious, a fitting close to the culinary year.

Sourcing at the Peak of Freshness

At Sushi Masa, seasonality is not a concept — it’s a discipline. Ingredients are often sourced directly from Toyosu Market in Tokyo, ensuring they are at their peak in flavour, texture, and nutritional value. By aligning with the seasons, Chef Masa is able to highlight each ingredient’s natural qualities, rather than overpowering them with unnecessary complexity.

This commitment means that no two menus are ever the same. A guest visiting in April will have a completely different experience from one visiting in October. This unpredictability keeps our regulars coming back, eager to see what the next season will bring.

Ingredient Spotlights

This category also focuses on individual ingredients, revealing their origins, preparation, and role within the omakase experience. From the creamy indulgence of uni to the clean sweetness of anago (sea eel), each spotlight offers a deeper appreciation for the subtleties of Japanese cuisine.

We’ll explore the stories behind these ingredients — the fishermen who bring in the day’s catch, the regions that are famed for certain produce, and the cultural significance of serving them in a particular season.

A Seasonal Invitation

Through Seasonal & Ingredient Highlights, we invite you to taste the year as it unfolds. This is the essence of Japanese omakase Singapore dining — to savour not just a dish, but a moment in time that cannot be replicated.