Hello Arigato is a spot that I have been wanting to drop by for a while — made a walk-in attempt previously but they were unfortunately fully-reserved for the night so had to end up elsewhere; so we made a reservation the second time round to avoid any disappointments. Run by the folks behind The Refinery at King George’s Avenue, they have taken over the former premises of the short-lived Gentle Roast — whilst the interior did go through much changes, one can still find traces of Gentle Roast still living on especially in the tableware and cutlery that Hello Arigato uses; some part being used as decor, while others still being used for the orders served up at the table. The menu comprises of items such as Japanese Sando, Donburi and Pasta, while they also do offer a variety of sides as well as bakes such as the cruffins which are making their rounds on social media. Beverage options include specialty coffee (only available during lunch service), hot/cold brew tea, soft drinks and a variety of non-alcoholic spirits and alcoholic beverages.

The main star here might be the Gyu Sando, but we found ourselves wanting to go for something slightly more adventurous with a fusion touch — and that is how we found ourselves going for the Otah Sando instead, which features elements such as Breaded Muar Otah, Kaffir Lime Sambal, Coconut Mayo, Cucumber in between Japanese Milk Bread. First impression based on the name does reminds me of something mum will suggest to prepare if we do ever have a slab of Muar Otah in the fridge with some leftover bread in the loaf, though the descriptions do suggest a more artisanal creation. In true blue Japanese style, the Muar Otah comes coated in Panko — the flaky breadcrumbs that form the golden brown exterior of the Otah suggests influences from the usual Katsu Sando that features a fried fillet of pork in between bread. The exterior is undoubtedly crisp, while the Otah itself is rather generous in portion — a thick slab that carried the slight hint of spiciness and chunky fish meat typical of the slabs of frozen Muar Otah offered in supermarkets; liked how the Otah still managed to retain its soft and moist texture without being all dried-up from the frying. The other elements such as the Kaffir Lime Sambal, Coconut Mayo felt less obvious, though the hint of zesty lime and lightness of the creamy coconut mayo helps to bind the Otah with the other elements in the dish, and gave a rather refreshing undertone against the crunchy sliced cucumbers and soft, yet crusted, toasted Japanese Milk Bread.

Given how Hello Arigato is still on its soft launch phase and the menu offered is in-line with its soft opening, Hello Arigato does seem like they are off a good start — the zen vibes do make for a relaxing spot for some conducive catch-ups over some Japanese-inspired cafe fare. Upper Thomson may be a spot that is already filled with some pretty established names in the cafe scene, such as the likes of One Man Coffee and Colombus Coffee Co., but I guess there is still space for Hello Arigato — pretty stoked on what else they have to offer once they kick into full launch mode!