Acclaimed chef Hideaki Sato generated quite some buzz when he announced he was to leave the ICC's two Michelin-starred Tenku Ryugin. As it turns out, his departure was less of a farewell and more of a graduation with the opening of his restaurant, Ta Vie.
Ta Vie means 'your life' in French, but the use of the informal possessive pronoun 'ta' is surprising for a Japanese chef – its usage implies the client isn't held in formal regard. However, on the signage is the Japanese character for journey – 'tabi'. Its echo of 'Ta Vie' doesn't escape us. In it, Sato's culinary offerings are centred on melding French techniques and Asian ingredients.
Residing in the former Holytan Grill space at the ultra-chic Pottinger Hotel, the location has undergone a complete redesign since morphing into Ta Vie. Only the craning lampshades remain of the old décor. The seats are compartmentalised into cocoon-like booths, with the interiors darkened to provide a more dramatic impact.
There's only a single tasting menu on offer, and it's presented in an envelope on the table. Expect a gustatory journey that chef Sato has perfected into an art form. Ta Vie is about sampling a fantastic harmony of flavours that have the power to whisk you away to nostalgic childhood memories. Whether it's a walk in the countryside or the perfect Sunday roast, this is a personal journey you absolutely must take at this brilliant establishment.