I recently had the pleasure of dining at Yakiniku Botan Plus, located at The Exchange TRX in the Seibu Department Store, and it was an experience worth sharing. As part of Hanareya Hospitality Group’s latest culinary venture, this restaurant stands out with its promise of high-quality, authentic Japanese flavors. While the group offers a trio of dining experiences, including Hanareya Suisan and Sushi Kita, my focus was purely on Yakiniku Botan Plus—and it did not disappoint.
First Impressions of Yakiniku Botan Plus
Walking into Yakiniku Botan Plus, I was immediately struck by its sleek, modern design. The interior is tastefully decorated with dark tones and subtle lighting, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Each table is equipped with a built-in grill, setting the stage for an authentic yakiniku experience where guests can cook their meat to their liking. The minimalist design of the space felt both elegant and comfortable, making it a perfect setting for a meal that’s as much about the experience as it is about the food.
Signature Dish: A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Beef
Yakiniku Botan Plus’s signature offering is its A5 Miyazaki Wagyu beef, a delicacy that truly defines luxury. The restaurant imports the whole cow, which means you get to enjoy a variety of cuts that showcase the rich and diverse flavors of this premium Wagyu. From the first bite, I was captivated by the natural sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture of the beef. It’s no exaggeration to say that each piece was incredibly tender, offering a juicy and elegant balance that lingered on the palate.
One of the unique aspects of Yakiniku Botan Plus is the choice between buffet and à la carte styles. Whether you’re looking to sample a variety of cuts or indulge in your favorites, there’s an option for everyone. I opted for the buffet menu to explore all the cuts in order to determine my favorite part. Personally, I quite like the chuck roll has the fat ratio is on the higher side. The beef was so flavorful on its own that I found myself enjoying it with minimal seasoning. It’s been a while since I’ve indulged in the natural sweetness of Wagyu.
A Seafood Feast
While Wagyu beef takes center stage, Yakiniku Botan Plus also offers an impressive selection of seafood. Diners can indulge in salmon slices, prawns, scallops, and fresh oysters, each prepared to highlight the natural flavors of the sea. The seafood options are perfect for those looking to complement their meal with lighter, fresh-tasting dishes or for those who want a break from the richness of the Wagyu. The prawns and scallops, in particular, were fresh and perfectly succulent, providing a delightful contrast to the hearty beef.
Exploring the Menu: Beyond Grilled Meats
Our meal didn’t stop at just grilled meat and seafood. We also tried several other dishes that showcased the creativity and range of the kitchen:
Inari Wagyu Sushi: A delightful twist on traditional sushi, this dish features tender slices of Wagyu atop sweet and savory inari (tofu pockets). The combination of the rich beef and the slightly sweet tofu created a unique and satisfying bite.
Beef Gyoza: These pan-fried dumplings were filled with juicy Wagyu beef, offering a crispy exterior that gave way to a flavorful, tender filling. Each bite was packed with umami, making it a perfect appetizer to start the meal.
Botan+ Wagyu Curry: This comforting dish features slow-cooked Wagyu beef in a rich, aromatic curry sauce. The beef was tender and infused with the deep flavors of the curry, making it a hearty and warming choice.
Botan+ Gyu Don: A traditional Japanese rice bowl topped with thinly sliced Wagyu beef, onions, and a savory-sweet sauce. The tender beef and perfectly cooked rice made this dish both simple and satisfying, highlighting the quality of the ingredients.
Cold Noodle: A refreshing dish that’s perfect for balancing the richer flavors on the menu. The cold noodles were served with a light, tangy dipping sauce that offered a great contrast to the hearty meats and seafood, providing a clean, crisp taste with every bite.
A Sauce for Every Taste
For those who prefer to enhance their meat with a little extra flavor, Yakiniku Botan+ offers 12 different sauce options. From tangy to spicy, each sauce is crafted to complement the rich taste of the Wagyu. Personally, I was content with just two: the Botan+ Sweet and Botan+ Spicy sauces. Both added a perfect balance without overpowering the natural sweetness of the meat. However, the beef is so delicious on its own that even the simplest seasoning is more than enough.
Beyond Yakiniku: Sushi Kita and Hanareya Suisan
While I haven’t gotten a chance to dine at Sushi Kita yet, it’s worth noting that this Edomae-style sushi omakase restaurant is renowned for its dedication to traditional techniques and high-quality seafood. Led by Chef Haruka Hokune, co-founder of Hanareya Hospitality Group, Sushi Kita offers a personalized dining experience that reflects her deep understanding of Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re a sushi enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, Sushi Kita promises an unforgettable journey through the authentic flavors of Japan.
On the other hand, Hanareya Suisan is a retail destination offering a wide selection of fresh seafood imported directly from Japan. From succulent fish and plump oysters to quick bites like roasted beef sandwiches, donburi, and bento boxes, Hanareya Suisan caters to those who appreciate fine, ready-to-eat Japanese delicacies.
My experience at Yakiniku Botan+ was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of premium Miyazaki Wagyu, fresh seafood options, an inviting atmosphere, and a variety of dishes to suit every palate makes this restaurant a standout choice for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Japanese BBQ in the heart of KL. Whether you’re a seasoned yakiniku enthusiast or new to the concept, Yakiniku Botan Plus offers a dining experience that’s both satisfying and memorable. If you’re ever at The Exchange TRX, make sure to stop by—you won’t regret it.
Address:
Yakiniku Botan+
Lot C13, SEIBU Department Store,
C.AT.01, Persiaran TRX, Tun Razak Exchange,
55188 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +6014-900 8434
Opening Hours: Daily 11am – 10pm
Yakiniku Botan+ Menu: Yakiniku Botan Plus Menu Link
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