As I walked through the lobby of Sofitel Phokheetra Phnom Penh, I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity with this city - I've been in Cambodia for 14 years now. But tonight's destination was not just any restaurant - it was Hachi, where I was invited to experience a 17-course degustation menu curated by their new Japanese Cuisine’s Head Chef, Chef Louiz. 

At Hachi Restaurant, Chef Louiz's contemporary Japanese cuisine and cooking styles are set to elevate the dining experience for guests. His dedication to using the freshest and highest quality ingredients, combined with his expertise in traditional Japanese cooking techniques, ensures that every dish served at Hachi Restaurant is a true masterpiece.

As I was greeted with a sake cocktail, I couldn't help but feel intrigued by this specially crafted welcome drink. Little did I know that this was just the beginning of an unforgettable culinary journey. Chef Louiz's Japanese Fusion experience was something new for Hachi, and I was eager to see what he had in store for us.

The first dish, Jagaimo Sarada, was a simple yet delicious potato salad with a twist. The onsen egg added a rich and creamy texture, while the truffle sauce gave it a luxurious flavor. The freshness of the Ikura (salmon roe) added a subtle pop of flavor that left me wanting more.

As the courses continued to unfold, I found myself completely immersed in the culinary experience. The Toro’s Sushi, which consisted of different parts of toro (fatty tuna), was a standout dish. The kama-toro (the fattiest part of the tuna), o-toro (the second fattiest part), and chu-toro (the third fattiest part) were all expertly sliced and presented in a way that showcased their unique textures and flavors. The fresh wasabi root infused soy sauce added a zesty kick that perfectly complemented the richness of the toro.

Another standout dish was the Wagyu Sushi Fiesta. The semi-torched A5 Wagyu sushi was melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and the uni (sea urchin) and Ikura (salmon roe) added a subtle richness with the sweet taste of the sea.

But it wasn't just the seafood and meat dishes that impressed me - the Crispy Banana Tempura with Truffle infused ice cream was a dessert that left me speechless. The crispy banana tempura was perfectly fried, and the truffle infused ice cream added a rich and earthy flavor that perfectly complemented the sweetness of the banana.

Throughout the evening, the attentive and knowledgeable staff provided impeccable service, with Chef Louiz explaining the origins of the ingredients. His expertise added an extra layer of sophistication to the dining experience. As the night drew to a close, I reflected on the Hachi Degustation Night experience. Chef Louiz had masterfully crafted a menu that showcased the best of Japanese cuisine, leaving a lasting impression on my palate. The combination of flavors, the attention to detail, and the impeccable service all contributed to a truly memorable evening.

In conclusion, the Hachi Japanese Restaurant at Sofitel Phokheetra Phnom Penh is a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience. Whether you are a connoisseur of Japanese cuisine or simply looking to indulge in an extraordinary culinary adventure, Chef Louiz and his team at Hachi will undoubtedly exceed your expectations.

Location: Hachi 日本料理 @ Sofitel Phokheetra Phnom Penh

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