Tsubaki, the flower symbolises a simple yet elegant beauty. Native to forests in China and Japan, these blossoms can still be found in Sanur, Bali, albeit as woven-wood decorations adorning the ceilings of Tsune Japanese Restaurant Sanur.
Beyond visual cues, the restaurant integrates the symbolism of the Japanese camellia flower into its foundational essence, drawing from the wabi-sabi philosophy of finding beauty in simplicity and imperfection. It is translated through a practice of transforming locally sourced ingredients through traditional Japanese techniques to create dishes that are uncomplicated yet carry a sense of refined sophistication.
Take the Caramelized Watermelon Maki as an example. This humble creation drapes thinly sliced and pickled watermelon strips over each sushi roll, offering a burst of freshness that pairs well with the caramelised onion, kyuri, and edamame hummus filling. Even luxurious ingredients aren’t encumbered by complicated accoutrements or experimental cooking methods. One of the restaurant’s signatures, Tsune Flathead Lobster, simply grills the plate’s main star, slipper lobster. It is then finished with nothing more than the umami lift of miso mayo, aonori, and ito togarashi.
Complementing the food menu is a diverse lineup of drinks. Highlights include the signature Tsune Highball, the restaurant’s twist on the classic cocktail infused with gari (pickled ginger root), ginger, and lemon. For diners wishing to scratch their matcha itch, opt for any one of the trios of latte creations, paired with either strawberries, salted cream, or butterscotch.
Beyond what’s on the plate, part of Tsune’s charm lies in the dining experience. It flows with an undeniable ease, an ambience echoing its centrepiece. From afar, one might spot the rows of sushi rolls going around the circular bar seating, expecting a typical revolving sushi bar. But grab a seat and discover that the conveyor belt has been replaced with a gurgling stream, carrying brightly coloured rolls on delicate wooden boats instead. It’s a simple twist that completely diverges the atmosphere into something more than the sum of its parts, which is Tsune’s true distinction.
