Set high above the city on the 46th floor of The Plaza Office Tower, Yugen Shabu & Sukiyaki approaches Japanese dining with a sense of quiet precision. The focus is clear from the outset: carefully sourced ingredients, handled with restraint, in a setting that balances contemporary design with subtle nods to tradition.
The experience centres on shabu shabu and sukiyaki, where the act of cooking becomes part of the meal itself. Premium wagyu, imported from boutique farms in Japan, takes the lead. Each slice is presented with an attention to detail that reflects its origin, inviting diners to engage with both texture and flavour. The choice of four broths shapes the direction of the meal. The house special offers depth, konbu keeps things clean and understated, while sukiyaki and chicken collagen lean towards something more rounded and comforting.
During the day, the menu shifts to accommodate a more relaxed pace without losing its focus. Kagoshima beef appears with its characteristic fine marbling, while the Satsuma Gyu Nikomi Donabe Gohan brings a more layered richness, finished with black truffle that adds depth without excess. To close, taiyaki filled with azuki red bean and paired with ice cream offers a gentle contrast, light yet satisfying.
The setting completes the experience. Floor-to-ceiling views stretch across Jakarta, yet the interiors remain composed, allowing the food to hold attention. Service moves with quiet efficiency, never interrupting the rhythm of the meal. Here, the appeal lies in its balance. It is not about spectacle, but about control, where each element is given space to be appreciated on its own terms.
