The heart of KL Midtown came alive on 2 October 2025 with the spectacular grand opening of ENSŌ Izakaya & Bar, the city’s latest culinary and social hotspot perched on the 4th floor of Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur.
More than just a restaurant, ENSŌ is a bold expression of modern Japanese dining reimagined — where food, cocktails, music, and culture intertwine to create a multisensory experience unlike any other in the capital.
A Spectacular Opening to Remember
The night began with a breathtaking “Flying Tuna Cutting Ceremony”, where an 82-kilogram bluefin tuna descended dramatically from above, captivating guests in awe. The event was followed by a Kagami Biraki sake barrel breaking ceremony, symbolising prosperity and new beginnings. The resounding cheer and shared toast set the tone for an evening filled with good fortune and connection.
Present at the celebration were key figures from Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur: Linges Warren (Hotel Manager), Till Martin (General Manager), Jonas Juchli (Executive Chef), Sujin Kim (Director of F&B), Masami Okamoto (Executive Japanese Chef), Ivon Soon (Head Mixologist) and Sharon Wong (Restaurant Manager) — a powerhouse team that embodies ENSŌ’s passion for excellence.
The Meaning Behind ENSŌ
Derived from the Zen art of the hand-drawn circle, ENSŌ represents “the beauty of imperfection.” In the spirit of this philosophy, the restaurant celebrates individuality and spontaneity — where no two nights are ever the same.
Designed as a 200-seat social sanctuary, ENSŌ features three distinct areas: a modern indoor dining hall inspired by traditional Japanese farmhouses, a breezy alfresco terrace overlooking the city skyline, and a tranquil courtyard adorned with a 30-year-old bonsai tree and calming water features. As the night evolves, live DJ sets infuse rhythm into the air, transforming ENSŌ from a serene dining retreat into a buzzing nightlife destination.
Culinary Artistry by Chef Masami Okamoto
Helmed by Executive Chef Masami Okamoto, a Michelin-starred chef with an illustrious global career spanning Japan, Paris, Singapore, Germany, and Zurich, ENSŌ’s menu blends timeless Japanese technique with refined innovation.
Signature highlights include:
🦪 Kaki no Uni Ikura Nose – Japanese oyster topped with sea urchin, salmon roe, and lemon jelly.
🍣 Crispy Sushi Rice with T’LUR Caviar – a luxurious starter that defines indulgence.
🐟 Torched Mackerel and ENSŌ Miso Cod – smoky, buttery perfection.
🍲 Asari Adadashi – clear clam miso soup brimming with umami.
🍢 Yakitori Kushiyaki ‘Binchotan’ Skewers – featuring chicken with leek and Wagyu beef grilled over white charcoal.
🍨 Asa No Ha Dessert – matcha ice cream and berry compote, beautifully symbolising growth and good fortune.
Every dish is a testament to Okamoto-san’s meticulous artistry — where traditional Japanese craftsmanship meets contemporary flair.
Craft Cocktails and Japanese Spirits by Ivon Soon
ENSŌ’s bar program is a masterpiece in its own right, led by Ivon Soon, Malaysia’s 2025 Monkey Shoulder Ultimate Bartender Champion and national representative at the Tokyo regional finals.
Her cocktails tell stories — blending Japanese spirits, local influences, and creative presentation. Must-try experiences include:
🍸 Chu-Hai Experience – shochu highballs reinvented for Malaysian palates.
🥃 ENSŌ Highball & Signature Cocktails – bespoke blends that balance freshness, spice, and umami.
🍶 Exclusive ENSŌ Sake – Kimoto Junmai Daiginjo – a rare sake brewed over three years using Aramasa Yeast No.6, offering elegant fruity and floral notes.
The bar also houses an extensive “alcohol library”, spanning Japanese whiskies, premium gin, vodka, cognac, and plum wine — each curated to complement the menu’s bold flavours.
The Perfect Night, Every Night
ENSŌ Izakaya & Bar is more than a place to dine — it’s an immersive journey into Japanese culture, elevated through world-class food, artful drinks, and an atmosphere that evolves from sunset calm to midnight celebration.
📍 ENSŌ Izakaya & Bar
4th Floor, Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur @ KL Midtown
🕔 Open Wednesday – Sunday from 5:00 PM onwards
📞 +603 3093 1234 | 🌐 www.hyattregencyklmidtown.com