Sunday Japanese Buffet Lunch – KAMPACHI @ EQKL

When I first moved to Kuala Lumpur back in the early 1980’s, there weren’t that many Japanese restaurants in the city. But one name stood out whenever good Japanese food was sought: KAMPACHI. Back then, this well-established was housed at the Equatorial Hotel Kuala Lumpur and it’s always a special treat for me whenever I got to dine there. I remember their Weekend Buffet was immensely popular and one had to book many weeks in advance for a table. This flagship restaurant ceased operation when the Equatorial Hotel Kuala Lumpur closed for re-development in March 2012. Of course, by that time, standalone Kampachi restaurants have opened in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and Plaza 33 Petaling Jaya.

So, here’s the good news: Kampachi has reopened its flagship outlet in the newly remade Equatorial KL. It’s back – bright and spacious, spotting a comfortable modern decor. There’s plenty of natural light flowing in from the glass walls, bringing out the natural colours of the light wood paneling and Japanese art hangings. I like how the interior design is cleverly structured to portray a casual and cheery dining experience during the day and transforms into a classy and intimate ambience at dinnertime.

And here’s even better news: the legendary Kampachi Sunday Buffet Lunch at EQKL is now available! The contemporary layout of the restaurant is such that the food counters and stations are well spread out to avoid over-crowding at any one spot.

My favourite is the Sashimi & Sushi counter, of course. I piled my plate with glistening cuts of premium maguro, amberjack, salmon, snapper, octopus, squids and shrimps. On top of that, there are at least 12 varieties of sushi and hand rolls and other mouth-watering starters. Cheerful chefs are in attendance to make fresh maki and hand rolls for diners.

 

At the next chamber, there rows of baine maries with tantalizing freshly-fried tempura, all kinds of grilled seafood, crabmeat chawanmushi, oden, sukiyaki and yosenabe. There’s also a divine roast beef on the board, so tender and gorgeous with sweet jus.

Last but not least, there’s the desserts counter with lots of fresh fruits and Japanese sweets. My favourites are the cooked-on-the-spot mochi and creamy matcha ice cream!

Kampachi maintains its policy of serving contemporary Japanese dining that is authentic, prepared using the highest quality ingredients and characterized by bold flavors and simple but exquisite presentation.

The Sunday buffet is available every Sunday from 12.00pm – 2.30pm, at RM168 nett per adult, and RM78 nett for children (6-12 years old). Reservations can be made via TableApp or by calling +603-2789 7722.

Here’s a special treat for sushi lovers…

 

KAMPACHI
Ground Floor, Equatorial Plaza
Jalan Sultan Ismail
50250 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603-2789-7723
*Pork-free
Open daily 12.00pm-3.00pm; 6.00pm-10.30pm