Likely a seasonal special - this wasn’t on the regular/ standard menu but was listed only on the chalkboard. Had thought this sounded unique and was half expecting marinated grilled squid but… no! Imagine the surprise when it was served.. cold. I’m not sure - and I didn’t ask - if it was raw or just, half-cooked. Texture wise, it wasn’t like any of the squids that I’ve eaten before - a tad more chewy and hard. The marinade was a lil’ too salty for my liking. It resembles the typical marinade in chuka idako/baby octopus served in Japanese restaurants, but with a dash of sesame seeds. My husband was quick to point out that I might not like it. He was kinda right…. It does take a while to get used to the taste and flavour profile.

Note: Hidden hole-in-the-hut, fuss-free Jap fare at Midpoint Orchard. The space is small and reservations are accepted only at a min. spend of $180/pax. Well.. if you’re in for a full Izakaya experience with much booze and food, I guess it’s not that difficult to hit the min. spend requirement. We’re not big drinkers and hence walked-in. The wait wasn’t too bad at 8.15pm ++. Payment by Cash/Paynow/Nets only