Rakuzen

Been here a couple of times. The food is great, however the prices aren't. The service is good, the atmosphere is great . Whether you're a group of 10, 4 or even 2 there is a perfect nook area for you guys. The food always tastes fresh and clean. The only negative comment I have for rakuzen would be it's difficult to communicate with some of the waiters and the prices are pretty high . But overall it's always a pleasant experience, but I'd prefer to stick to sushi zanmai for good and well priced sushi 😉

I would compare Rakuzen to Mc Donald's, not to its food quality, rather its ubiquitousness. Trust me Rakuzen is nothing like Mc Donald's in quality or price- Rakuzen serves some bomb ass traditional Japanese food that's sort of affordable (still expensive- I mean which Japanese food isn't, but they ain't sucking the money out of you). 

There are 13 locations across the Klang Valley- probably one location in every major KL mall, but this particular location at plaza Damas/Hartamas shopping centre remains my personal favorite, for its consistency of quality and exceptional service staff. Ideal time to come is "lunch time" since its menu is priced cheaper for lunch, and the restaurant is not as busy, but dinner is alright too, just plan to thin your wallets a little more. Parking might be a little difficult, especially during lunch time at this shopping center, nevertheless there is plenty of parking in the parking garage, so don't fret. Just be prepared to pay of course- its a paid parking.  

My personal recommendation: order the set lunches; the Salmon Sashimi Zen Rm 38, or Teppanyaki Zen RM 42 is my pick. The Salmon Zen is the perfect healthy meal in my opinion, with just the right amount of food. It is generously served with 8 thick cuts of salmon sashimi, that's so tender and would really just melt as you bite into it. The set meal is also served with a side of fruit, appetizer, vegetable dish (seasonal), miso soup and chawanmushi. While the teppanyaki Zen, a little naughtier for the diet freak, has tender pieces of steak cut into cubes and then grilled with a light sauce served with a delicious garlic fried rice that would create a dance party in your mouth- the fried rice is just so flavorful, coupled with that tender delicious beef- seriously heavenly.

If you are feeling adventures I would also recommend the agedashi tofu for appetizers, their grilled BBQ skewers and also their hot pots ( really refreshing). Also for fish lovers their Saba yak (grilled mackerel) is the bomb. 

The decor itself is very classical Japanese, with its odd shaped tiles, random rock work, wood paneling and atrium, creates a romantic and traditional japanese dining experience. The service is impeccable, Ive not been dissipated as far. Always refilled drinks and made sure my orders has been delivered within 10-20 minutes of ordering. They do take reservations, so calling ahead to reserve table is highly recommended.