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The flavors of fall awaken your taste buds

A La Carte Columns

October 4, 2015

Story By: Lynsey Beth Futa |

When it comes to food, the Japanese are known as much for their refined flavors as they are for their presentation. Featuring The Flavors of Autumn ($28) this October, Sakura Terrace Japanese Cafe on King Street executes a kaiseki meal with all of the above, and then some. Under chef Takayuki Sekine’s expert touch, be prepared to experience the perfect fall repast one elegant dish at a time.

On The Flavors of Autumn tray, there is a delicate teapot concealing traditional fall food items. These bites include gingko nut, mitsuba greens, the prized matsutake mushroom and much more, all served in a clear broth. Matsutake Dobin Mushi is a staple dish to serve during fall, and uniquely utilizes the dobin teapot in order to pour the soup into a little bowl for slurping, once its contents are devoured.

The Flavors of Autumn ($28)

The Flavors of Autumn ($28)

Next, there is a helping of Grilled Miso Saba and Yuzu-Spiced Chicken (Yuzushoko). The chicken portion includes tender strips of poultry, draped in a green yuzu sauce that delightfully zaps your taste buds with citrus and mild peppery notes. Yellow blocks of tamago (grilled egg) also make the plate.

Agedashi Eggplant also is featured, without the familiar thick batter, but rather with slices of local eggplant directly dropped into the fryer for a crisp and light taste. It is served with bonito flakes, grated ginger, green onion and left to wade in a simple shoyu-based sauce.

Lastly, there is Salmon Donburi in all its bright, colorful splendor. Generous cuts of salmon sashimi and a dollop of ikura (salmon roe) are laid upon a mound of sushi rice. The Flavors of Autumn also includes Sakura Terrace’s house salad with homemade dressing.

The monthly special only will be offered from Oct. 6 to Nov. 4 and must be ordered in advance. Only a limited number of trays will be available daily, so don’t wait to reserve yours.

Sakura Terrace Japanese Cafe

1240 S. King St.
591-1181
Tuesday-Sunday, Lunch: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Dinner: 5-9:30 p.m.

Windsor, NC 27983

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