Japanese cuisine is a burgeoning scene in Singapore, but you can be sure Z’en isn't your run-of-the-mill dining affair. True to its name, this restaurant pays close attention to how space, form and function offer a calming environment that makes you want to deliberately savour every mouthful. Think minimalism combined with modernistic beauty.
The abundance of space and deep earthen tones creates a perfect location for business lunches. Take your time to host, discuss, and build relationships in the private room overlooking the restaurant’s tatami space. The menu also emphasises light flavours that inspire tranquility, which makes Z’en ideal for those who tire of rich, heavy spices so commonly found in local cuisine.
A culinary experience that caters to more than just that rumbling in your tummy, it’s easy to see why so many flock to Z’en to soothe those frayed nerves after a hectic day at work. (Jul 2012)
"The swankier sibling to En Dining Bar and En Grill & Bar round the corner, Z'en is where to take a date or treat yourself. Serving up good-quality traditional Japanese fare, take a seat outside to watch the world pass by or book the VIP room for special events." -Time Out Singapore
"Four hefty slices of beef were wrapped in rice and seaweed—sushi style. The beef was decidedly juicy and tender, and we later declared this the highlight of the meal." -I-S Asia-City
"Among many of the delights found at Z’en are creations like grilled asparagus with blue cheese dressing, kani (crab) cream croquette and tori kousou yaki, a roasted herb chicken wrapped in bamboo leaf." -Appetite Asia
Anyone who isn’t allergic to seafood should definitely go for the Kaisen Chawan Mushi. The large portion of steamed egg packs a punch with generous portions of crab leg meat, oyster, and scallops, garnished with salmon roe. The egg is so smooth it practically melts in your mouth, which worked perfectly fine for us because then we could concentrate on the sweetness of fresh seafood. But that also meant we were soon left yearning for more.
Beef is a must-try at Z’en. Whether you choose to have your beef as a salad or a main, the dish will definitely do more than meat your expectations. The delicately sliced rare beef in the Gyu Shabu Salad is so tender it melts in your mouth, leaving behind the sweet lingering taste of wafu sauce – a unique blend of sesame, peanut and soy sauce. If you prefer something more well done, the Saikoro Steak Cube serves tenderloin steak with sliced fried lotus root that adds a subtle crunch to your meal.
We won’t judge if you went overboard and ordered too much food off the menu – it’s perfectly understandable. But, as we always believe, there’s always room for dessert. Go ahead and indulge yourself a little more with the light yet creamy Japanese tofu cheesecake. It’ll pamper your palate without adding strain to your stomach! (Jul 2012)

"The swankier sibling to En Dining Bar and En Grill & Bar round the corner, Z'en is where to take a date or treat yourself. Serving up good-quality traditional Japanese fare, take a seat outside to watch the world pass by or book the VIP room for special events."
-Time Out Singapore