I had the chance to attend a special chef’s Masterclass yesterday at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur, and it was truly an eye-opener into the refined world of Japanese cuisine. Chef Koji Fukuda, a culinary veteran with over 30 years of experience, walked us through his techniques, stories behind each dish, and his deep respect for ingredients. Watching him work up-close — calm, precise, and deeply passionate — was an experience that made me appreciate Japanese food even more. Now, the good news is, you don’t need to be in that masterclass to enjoy his creations. From 20 to 25 May 2025, the hotel is hosting A Taste of Japan, a week-long showcase of Chef Koji’s culinary mastery, open to all food lovers.
Japanese-Themed Buffet Dinners at Thyme
Held at Thyme, their elegant all-day dining spot, and Pacific Lounge at Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Kuala Lumpur, the event is done in collaboration with Meat & Livestock Australia and Aussie Beef & Lamb — so expect quality meats and flavours that blend Japanese techniques with premium Aussie produce.
From 20 to 22 May 2025, don’t miss the Weekday Buffet Dinners priced at MYR185 nett, where Chef Koji brings Japan to life through a beautifully curated spread. Then on 23 and 24 May 2025, the Fabulous Meat and Seafood Buffet (MYR238 nett) takes centre stage, featuring top-grade Australian beef and lamb alongside fresh seafood delights.
Live stations to look out for:
- Sushi & Onigiri Station – torched beef sushi, mackerel rolls, and Australian lamb onigiri with savoury lamb miso.
- Sashimi Station – fresh cuts of tuna, salmon, and white fish.
- Teppanyaki Station – Osaka-style seafood okonomiyaki.
- Tempura Station – golden-fried beef strips, prawns, and seasonal veggies.
- Noodle Station – Kyoto-style kitsune udon.
Signature dishes include:
- Hokkaido-style zangi karaage with shibazuke tartar sauce
- Sumo-style chanko nabe steam pods
- Australian lamb dumplings with shiso dressing
- Genghis Khan-style yakisoba
- Plus favourites like teriyaki salmon, beef gyudon, and fluffy dashi maki tamago.
One-Night-Only: 5-Course Wine Dinner with a View
On 25 May 2025, wrap up the week with an exclusive 5-course wine dinner at the Pacific Lounge (MYR368 nett). Held high above the city skyline, this elegant evening pairs Chef Koji’s beautifully plated courses with handpicked wines.
The menu includes:
- Dashi Maki Sandwich (with yuzu aioli and caviar) – paired with Veuve du Vernay Brut and Chardonnay
- Australian Beef Tataki – paired with Merlot
- Miso-Glazed White Fish in Chanko Broth – paired with Chenin Blanc
- Teriyaki Australian Lamb with agedashi tofu and shishito pepper – paired with Spanish Reserva
- Mitarashi Parfait – paired with Italian Moscato
Early Bird Deals & Booking Info
Planning to go? Book in advance via their eShop and enjoy 10% off the wine dinner and 20% off the buffet dinners. All prices include government taxes.
To reserve your seats, WhatsApp +6010 229 7156 or email dining.prckul@panpacific.com
If you love Japanese food or simply enjoy trying something new and exquisite, don’t miss this one-week-only culinary affair.
About Chef Koji Fukuda
Chef Koji brings his passion and enthusiasm for curating, introducing, and inspiring unique lamb recipes with Japanese ingredients to Japan, a country whose cuisine generally consists mainly of beef and seafood. He found this inspiration after joining the Lambassador culinary journey in Victoria, Australia,
where he embraced all the knowledge and experience about Aussie lamb. Chef Koji became more adventurous after beginning his career as a chef in Osaka. He then pursued opportunities in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, where he created unique dishes that honoured Japanese cuisine.
In 2011, he stepped into an executive chef role, opened a restaurant, and went on to lead several dining establishments to success. In 2019, Chef Koji took on another executive chef position at a prominent hotel in Tokyo.
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