EAST meets WEST

Italian and Japanese cuisines are renowned for being both steeped in tradition and executed with precision. Both, too, can be characterised by their commitment to quality, seasonality and simplicity. But each are unique when it comes to technique and flavour. Italian cooking prides itself on generosity with big dishes like pastas that feed entire families, while Japanese is typically minimalist with a focus on precise flavour combinations and delicate, individual serves. But what happens when these two cuisines intersect?

Enter wafu pasta. “Wafu” means “Japanese-style”, so wafu pasta literally translates to Japanese-style pasta. It sees the Italian pantry staple of dried pasta shaken up with the addition of Japanese ingredients. Spaghetti might