Gold-leaf covered lobster roll priced at nearly 2 million VND

The lobster roll, priced at 1.8 million VND, features butter, pickled daikon radish, and Canadian lobster, topped with gold leaf, sturgeon caviar, premium wagyu beef, and French foie gras.

This culinary fusion creation comes from Filipino chef James Paul Valdes Loreno of Kumihimo restaurant, located within the JW Marriott. The roll features Canadian lobster meat, complemented by pickled daikon radish and butter for balance.

Thinly sliced Wagyu A5 beef tops the roll. This prized beef comes from the tenderloin of Japan's renowned Tajima black cattle, known for its rich marbling that melts in the mouth. "Sturgeon caviar, decadent French foie gras, and delicate gold leaf complete the dish," said chef James.

Served hot with a signature eel sauce, the roll's flavors are best enjoyed immediately. One order consists of 8 pieces, enough for two people.

The nearly 2 million VND lobster roll includes Canadian lobster, sturgeon caviar, French foie gras, and Wagyu A5 beef. Photo: Giang Huy

The nearly 2 million VND lobster roll includes Canadian lobster, sturgeon caviar, French foie gras, and Wagyu A5 beef. Photo: Giang Huy

Chef James explained that while it takes only 10 minutes to finalize and serve, each roll represents meticulous preparation. Every ingredient is individually treated to achieve peak flavor. The lobster is slow-cooked sous vide to retain its sweetness and tenderness. The Wagyu beef is quickly seared for 30 seconds, just enough to release its characteristic aroma while maintaining a perfect rare, juicy interior. Even the pan-seared foie gras is carefully diced and balanced atop the caviar. The dish is a collaborative creation between chef James and sushi chef Takanori Tanaka.

"It's one of our best sellers. We sell about 10 portions daily," said restaurant manager Lien Pham.

Filipino chef James, a 7-year resident of Vietnam, prepares dishes for guests. Photo: Giang Huy

Filipino chef James, a 7-year resident of Vietnam, prepares dishes for guests. Photo: Giang Huy

Nguyen Hoang, a diner trying the lobster roll, said he'd enjoyed various Japanese rice dishes before, but this was the best roll he'd ever tasted. "Rich and delicious" was his verdict. While expensive, he felt the price was "justified" for the novel, delightful experience.

Beyond the lobster roll, other recommended dishes include the wagyu beef hot pot, priced at nearly 4.5 million VND for 2-3 people. Uniquely, the food is cooked in boiling water within a paper pot instead of a conventional metal one. Other dishes start at 200,000 VND. The restaurant is open from 5:30 PM to 9 PM, with the outdoor bar area open until 11 PM.