Introducing Reif Othman, the acclaimed Singaporean culinary talent who has achieved culinary success in bustling Dubai, recognized with the Michelin award.
In the bustling city of Singapore, renowned Singaporean chef Reif Othman is set to captivate local food enthusiasts with his latest culinary venture, Reif Japanese Kushiyaki. This premium casual eatery is making its debut in the Lion City, thanks to a collaboration between Othman and Toshiji Goto.
Othman's fascination with food began in his childhood, growing up watching his mother run a nasi padang stall. Every Sunday, he would accompany his mother to the wet market, where he developed a deep appreciation for fresh ingredients and the transformative power of cooking. This early exposure to the food industry has left a lasting impact on Othman, shaping his unique culinary approach.
One of the techniques that Othman has carried forward from his mother's kitchen is the ability to transform a single ingredient into multiple meals. A simple mackerel, for instance, would be used to create two distinct dishes for lunch and dinner in the Othman household. This skillful approach to cooking is evident in the offerings at Reif Japanese Kushiyaki.
After moving to Dubai in 2005, Othman continued to make waves in the culinary world. He worked at the Burj Al Arab's Al Mahara and the acclaimed fine dining restaurant Zuma, before venturing out on his own. Now, he is bringing his innovative take on Japanese cuisine to Singapore for the first time.
The Reif Japanese Kushiyaki pop-up, held at Conrad Singapore Marina Bay, offers guests the opportunity to savour Othman's unconventional dishes. The event, which runs for a month, promises an exciting exploration of Japanese flavours, infused with Othman's personal touch.
The atmosphere at the pop-up is lively, reminiscent of the vibrant energy that Othman experienced at his mother's stall. Ladies chat happily, and there are no grumpy faces in sight. The pop-up has already earned a spot in the prestigious Michelin Guide, a testament to the quality of Othman's culinary creations.
Reif Japanese Kushiyaki's success is a testament to Othman's passion for food and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional Japanese cuisine. His journey from helping out at his mother's nasi padang stall to earning a spot in the Michelin Guide is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. For food lovers in Singapore, the Reif Japanese Kushiyaki pop-up is an opportunity not to be missed.
