Inspired by traditional Kyoto cuisine, Sagano Head Chef Chris Chan joins forces with restauranteur and Exotica Umami (Ex M) sauce creator Dan Gan, and JW Marriot Executive Chef Tony Wong to offer this distinctive dining experience. This decadent showcase celebrates the remarkable capabilities of Ex M sauce and its incredible flavour and texture enhancing ability.
The dishes explore the interplay between the “fifth and sixth tastes” beyond sweet, salty, bitter, and sour — umami (rich, savoury, and satisfying) and kokumi (lingering intensity and complexity). Each course is unified by the infusion of Ex M sauce, which serves as the cohesive element showcasing Japanese culinary traditions.
The luxurious 10-dish set features a variety of plates to appeal to both casual diners and dedicated food lovers. Diners will find themselves mesmerised by the flavour magnifying capabilities of the Ex M sauce as it marries with the ingredients in each skilfully composed dish.
Inspired by a 2000-year-old Roman recipe for a marination sauce known as Garum, Ex M sauce has been recognised for its enhancing ability to complement a wide range of cuisines. At Sagano, it is at the heart of this mouthwatering menu, adding remarkable complexity and a memorable finish to each dish.
Highlights include Ex M Sauce Marinated Sushi, Grilled Hokkaido King Crab Leg with Ex M Butter, Ex M Yakitori and Deep-fried Ex M Marinated Pork Chop. Other tempting creations include Kyoto-style Pan-seared Duck Breast, Grilled Silver Cod, Sautéed A5 Wagyu Beef and Grilled Sea Bream Clay Pot Rice, all expertly prepared with Ex M sauce. The menu concludes with green tea ice cream paired with Ex M yuzu chocolate syrup.
The Ex M Imperial Tastes of Umami and Kokumi set is available from now to 31 August 2026 at Sagano. The set is priced at HKD1200 per person and all prices are subject to 10% service charge. Reservation is recommended by calling +852 2313 4222.”
About Sagano
Inspired by a famous suburb of Kyoto, Sagano offers a wide range of authentic Japanese specialties, from sushi and tempura to teppanyaki and kaiseki, using the freshest seasonal ingredients. Six VIP rooms are available, one of which is a tatami room with traditional bamboo flooring. Here, dining is no longer just about food, but a complete cultural experience.
