The name Sho-U is derived from Sho-yu, an essential ingredient in most Japanese food. Barely two months ago, Sho-U displayed an unprecedented boldness in terms of food and ambience, transporting unsuspecting patrons into a splendid paradise where a spread of innovative, gastronomic Japanese cuisines awaits.

• The Vibe  
  It seems as if Sho-U is determined to make an impression. Fronting the restaurant is a bold and striking red panel embellished with exquisite hand-embroidered sakura flowers that is sure to catch your attention. As patrons make their way into the interiors, the dramatic intensity and vivid hues of red, black and white, distinctly divides the restaurant into 3 separate areas – the winebar, the sake salon and the love cove respectively.

  The white area, in particular, the love cove steals the limelight. Designed specially for couples, this private little space is adorably decorated with white fluffy fur and overlooks the mesmerizing view of Clarke Quay. The love birds would have to sit cross-legged, Japanese style, as they indulge in delectable Japanese delicacies in each other's company. To avoid disappointment, make a reservation in advance for the love cove and surprise your loved one with a memorable dining experience.

• The Food  
  Wind down your night with a glass of Sho-U Sake Cocktail ($11.80). Made using Japanese liquor and egg-white, this mildly-alcoholic drink in a pretty magenta hue best complements the ladies. An alternative would be the Sho-U Mocktail ($10.80). Elegantly embellished with a slice of orange, this tangy fizzy strawberry-flavored chiller is perfect for cooling the throat.

  If your impression of a healthy diet is an unappetizing plate of greens, Sho-U proves you wrong. Cruise into your meal with the Classic Sho-U Salad ($10) which is made using crunchy garden-fresh vegetables drizzled in a special savory dressing concocted by the chef and then topped off with some grinded fried pumpkin.

  Highly recommended is the Unagi Tofu Steak ($16) which is a combination of river eel and silken tofu cooked in sweet teriyaki sauce with grated Japanese yam poured over it. The taste is divine and the smooth tofu instantly melts in your mouth, surely a dish that showcases the masterful culinary skills of the chef. For something more filling, you may try the Yakionigiri Zosui with Asari ($15), a soup-based dish made using grilled rice and clams. Served in a hot-pot, the tasty and heartwarming dish is worthy of praise.

  A meat-lover will appreciate the Amiyaki Beef Steak ($28). Despite being slightly charred to create a smoky taste, the tenderloin steak is succulent and still retains its effervescence in the inside. The Steamed Duck Breast ($20) continues to showcase the culinary prowess of the chef. The remarkably tender duck breast meat went well with the unique zesty yuzu pepper dip which had a subtle herb taste which is spicy and slightly salty at the same time. Something light for your palate would be the Ika Onsen Tempura ($12) which is squid rings stuffed with a delicate half-boiled egg, wrapped in seaweed and then fried with tempura flour. The firm squid rings and the wispy, crisp texture of the tempura batter will definitely delight your senses.

  Round off your gratifying meal with the Chef Plate of Specialty Desserts ($15). Depending on the mood of the chef, he will design desserts to satisfy your craving for some sweet delicacies. You may request for the chocolate moose cake which is rich in flavor and contains raisins and melted chocolate fudge which instantly trickles out when you cut into it.

• The Service  
  Even the uniform of the service staff is specially designed to match the red, black and white theme of the restaurant. Addressed as service consultants in the restaurant, they are patient in explaining to diners about the various cuisines and take pride in attending to the needs of the diners.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Sho-U

In terms of ambience, food and service, Sho-U almost aced it all. A pity is that the lack of crowds at The Central does not give Sho-U the opportunity to showcase what it has to offer. Nonetheless, if Sho-U continues to delight its patrons, there is no doubt that the crowds will soon be drawn to its impeccable combination of visual and gastronomic experience.