Uokatsu in Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur, is a true hidden gem for Japanese food lovers—especially those who can’t resist a good mentai rice bowl. Known for its air-dried saba, comforting Japanese set meals, and unwavering focus on freshness, this small eatery has built a cult following in KL’s bustling food scene.
About Uokatsu (Sri Hartamas)
Located in Plaza Damas, Uokatsu is a Japanese family-run restaurant serving authentic Japanese comfort food. While the ambiance is minimalist and cozy, the food packs bold, umami-rich flavors that consistently impress.
The restaurant’s philosophy is simple: fresh ingredients, traditional methods, and heartfelt cooking. It may not look flashy, but the taste and quality are undeniably top-tier.
Highlights and Dining Experience
Mentai Don – Their Signature Star
The mentai don (torched cod roe rice bowl) is the undeniable star of Uokatsu. The mentaiko is flame-grilled to bring out its smoky richness, layered over perfectly steamed Japanese rice. Every bite bursts with savory, creamy goodness—making it one of the best mentai bowls in KL.
Air-Dried Saba – House Specialty
Uokatsu is one of the few places in KL that serves air-dried saba (mackerel) prepared in-house. The fish is cured and air-dried to concentrate the flavor before being grilled. The result? Crispy skin, moist flesh, and a deep umami profile.
Home-Style Japanese Dishes
Beyond the crowd-favorites, the menu includes simple yet satisfying items like:
- Grilled salmon sets
- Japanese curry rice
- Chawanmushi (steamed egg custard)
- Tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet)
- Miso soup made from scratch
Though portions lean toward the modest side, the food quality and authenticity more than make up for it.
Must-Try Dishes at Uokatsu
- Mentai Don (Cod Roe Rice Bowl)
- Air-Dried Saba Set
- Salmon Mentai Don
- Tamagoyaki (Japanese Omelet)
- Chawanmushi (Steamed Egg Custard)
- Japanese Rice Sets with Grilled Fish
These dishes reflect the restaurant’s commitment to traditional preparation techniques and premium ingredients.
Uokatsu Sri Hartamas Menu
| Category | Dish | Price (RM) |
|---|---|---|
| Donburi & Rice | Mentai Rice | 24.50 |
| Mentai Rice (No Rice) | 19.50 | |
| Uokatsu Don (Sashimi Bowl) | 34.50 | |
| Trout Ikura Don | 38.50 | |
| Maguro Don (Tuna) | 32.50 | |
| Shirasu Don (Baby Sardines) | 33.50 | |
| Sanma Kabayaki Don | 26.50 | |
| Choco Saba Curry Rice | 24.50 | |
| Trout Chazuke | 24.50 | |
| Grilled Specials | Air-Dry Saba | 33.50 |
| Grilled Whole Japan Squid (Surumeika) | 40.50 | |
| Grilled Hamachi Cheek (per 100g) | 30.50 | |
| Grilled Ocean Trout Belly | 33.00 | |
| Salt-Grilled Saba / Teriyaki Saba | 8.50 / 10.50 | |
| Salt-Grilled Sanma | 14.50 | |
| Teriyaki Cod / Steamed Cod | 40+ | |
| Sashimi | House Sashimi Platter (5 kinds) | 138.50 |
| Hamachi / Maguro | 46.50 / 48.50 | |
| Engawa / Tai Kombu-Jime | 78.50 / 42.50 | |
| Katsuo Tataki / Kanpachi | 45.50 / 58.50 | |
| Ocean Trout / Ocean Trout Belly | 23.00 / 33.00 | |
| Sets & Sides | Dashimaki Tamago Set | 34.50 |
| Uokatsu Kid’s Meal | 17.50 | |
| Miso Soup / Onsen Tamago | 2.50 – 6.50 | |
| Satsuma Age (Fish Cake) | 14.00 | |
| Edamame / House Salads | 10.50 – 22.50 | |
| Various Pickles & Appetizers | 8.00 – 13.50 | |
| Desserts | Panna Cotta | 14.50 |
| Ice Cream (Sesame / Wasabi / Vanilla) | 12.50 | |
| Drinks | Green Tea, Soymilk, Soda, Kirin Beer | 2.00 – 27.50 |
How to Get to Uokatsu
Address: G-4A, Plaza Damas, Jalan Sri Hartamas 1, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
By Car: Located within Plaza Damas, parking is available in the basement or surrounding area.
By MRT: Take the MRT to Semantan Station, followed by a 10-minute Grab or taxi ride to Plaza Damas.
By Bus: Various RapidKL routes connect nearby areas to Sri Hartamas.
Best Time to Visit
- Weekdays (Lunch or Early Dinner): Quieter and easier to get a table
- Weekends: Can get busy, especially during peak dinner hours—come early or call ahead
The restaurant is small and intimate, so reservations or early arrivals are recommended.
Contact Information & Opening Hours
Phone: +603-6211 1391
Instagram: @uokatsukl
Opening Hours:
Mon–Sun: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Closed on Tuesdays
Why Uokatsu Is a Must-Visit for Mentai Fans
Whether you’re craving comfort in a bowl or exploring new Japanese flavours, Uokatsu delivers authentic, satisfying meals every time. From their famous mentai don to perfectly grilled air-dried saba, this small restaurant in Sri Hartamas proves that passion and precision are the keys to great food.
