Umami — Restaurant in Hong Kong Island

Interesting. I just googled etiquette at JAPANESE restaurants to make sure my expectations were valid. I was curious why I sat for at least 30 min after finishing dinner without being checked on, asked if I would care for anything else, etc. When I was first seated, the server was very friendly, even brought me a sample of saki to see if I liked it. But I never saw her again. There were 3 or 4 other people who brought the food, refilled tea, and removed the plates. I was intending to order sorbet and an after dinner drink, but no one ever returned. There were very few customers, only 3 besides myself, and at least 4 employees walking or standing around. After 30 minutes of sipping on my drink, I finally got up to ask for my check. I was really disappointed. The food I ordered all came ala carte, not by choice, but rice wasn’t served with a meal, and if I ordered tofu, it was served alone... so I had to order vegetables separately. I had to order 3 separate things to complete a meal that is very common in all other restaurants. The food was very plain, not at all like JAPANESE restaurants I frequent in Washington DC, Los Angeles and New York. I asked for teriyaki on the side and the portion was appx 1 tablespoon! I had to ask for a second side of it, and again, it was a spoon full! Kind of funny since I had 2 entrees AND rice. I would have not even bothered to write this review, but I googled the restaurant to see if there was something I was missing, and I saw all these positive reviews, so I am really confused! The atmosphere was very nice..., the table, lighting, view, etc etc. But I am astounded I paid $40 USD for tasteless tofu, vegetables and a side of rice, without any regard to checking if I would like anything else, at the very least, come to the table to leave my check. I am not exaggerating I sat for 30 min, thinking my server would return. I was seated facing toward the window, my back to the restaurant, so I could not make eye contact without completely turning around in my chair. I could see the reflections of the employees in the window glass, so I knew they were there. I stay in SPG hotels often, around the world, but this is my first time to Hong Kong. Can anyone shed light on my...

Pleasantly surprised by the lovely dining experience at Umami. As you can see in the picture we were actually having afternoon tea instead of Japanese food at the place. We booked for afternoon tea at the coffee shop Southside bistro at the hotel but were told that afternoon tea would be served at Umami instead. The staff at both restaurants were helpful, sensible and friendly (honestly rare nowadays) and helped with the change of venue. Although it took quite a long while for the 3-tier set to come, it was not a problem to us. The food was nice, not great, price ($500+ for 2 oax) was reasonable, but the ambience was the champion. It was very chilled at the restaurant with its high ceiling and simple decor. Highly recommended to anyone who would like to beat the crowd in the...

A Hidden Jewel of Japanese Delight 🍣✨

Surprisingly good, this Japanese resto, With a vibe like a resort, where calm waters flow. 🌊🏯 Tall ceilings and huge windows frame a lovely scene, A garden with turtles and fishes, peaceful and serene. 🐢🐟

Outdoor seats beckon in a charming garden space, Where nature surrounds you, offering a cozy embrace. 🌿🌸 Good quality food awaits, each dish a delight, Especially the snacks, which are simply just right! 🍤😊

Drinks with character, flavors that intrigue, Yuzu, lychee, pandan, with a bubble to intake. 🍹🌿 Menu sets are reasonable, a pleasant surprise, Perfect for a nice meal that satisfies. 💰👌

AJ suggests to the restaurant, a gentle nudge, Promote more photos of interesting drinks...