Despite a year of seemingly insurmountable challenges, looking back there is much to rejoice over – a resilient hospitality industry once again open to diners, the advent of the festive season, and milestones to acknowledge. With two remarkable years of offering guests an all-encompassing experience, FYN chefs Peter Tempelhoff, Ashley Moss and their team are marking the occasion with a one-off lunch series – at birthday prices – that celebrates the journey thus far.
Inspired by Tempelhoff’s longstanding affinity for Japanese food and culture, and his first ever experience of the cuisine – the ‘quick kaiseki’ traditional Japanese lunch – the series will draw on the format and spirit of this type of dining, while remaining true to FYN’s signature style. Typically fish, tempura or meat served simply with a starter, soup and sides, it’s a simple and satisfying way to eat. ‘This is one of my favourite ways to eat Japanese food and it stuck with me – how complete and delicious it always was, and how good it made me feel. It means a lot to me,’ says Tempelhoff of the inspiration behind the concept.
The Japanese say ‘itadakimasu’ before the meal, which can loosely translate to giving thanks, ‘I humbly receive’ or ‘bon appetit’. ‘That’s what we want to do with this lunch experience – give thanks to all our guests who’ve made it possible to still be doing this two years on,’ says Tempelhoff.
Using locally sourced, sustainable meat and fish (wherever possible organic), rice imported from Japan and homemade pickles and tofu, the FYN Itadakimasu limited-edition lunch will immerse guests in a traditional kaiseki meal, taking them on a cultural, as well as culinary journey. ‘We’ve put a lot of effort into the authenticity and quality of the dishes,’ he adds.
Diners will have the choice of three carefully crafted menus, priced at R295p/p and served with a complimentary glass of wine. Traditional sake is available at R180 per caraf.
Option one: Sushi Set; soba noodles, pickles and ferments, miso soup with homemade tofu, tempura with chorizo
Option two: Grilled Fish Set; sustainable fish with citrus, Japanese rice, pickles and ferments, miso soup, tempura with chorizo
Option three: Meat Set; robata tare grilled pork, Japanese rice, pickles and ferments, miso soup, tempura with chorizo
‘In line with FYN’s absolute commitment to a seamless service experience and our dedication to customer comfort, we have incorporated all necessary and appropriate safety procedures into our service protocol, and you can expect the highest levels of cleanliness and convenience while you dine with us,’ says Peter. ‘This includes the use of digital menus and wine lists – accessible on your own devices – as well as contact tracing for your peace of mind.’
The FYN ‘Itadakimasu’ limited-edition experience will run from November 24 to December 15.
For restaurant reservations go to info@fynrestaurant.com
For telephone orders or reservations call 021 286 2733
