The tuna, weighing 234kg, surpassed the previous record of 190kg for a tuna introduced in Vietnam. The singer was the guest of honor, performing the first cut in the traditional Japanese tuna carving ritual. Before diners, he used a specialized knife to complete the head separation, a step requiring precise technique and steady hand strength.

Singer Phan Dinh Tung makes the first cuts. Photo: *Hatoyama Japanese Restaurant*

Sharing insights during the event, Phan Dinh Tung mentioned he had enjoyed tuna in various countries. However, this was his first time witnessing and touching such a large bluefin tuna in Vietnam. He noted the fish's firm flesh and distinct elasticity, which differed from common fish varieties.

According to Kyo Nguyen, Hatoyama's executive chef, the fish was directly imported from Japan and transported to Hanoi within 24 hours. Strict preservation protocols maintained the fish's color, elasticity, and characteristic marbling of premium bluefin tuna.

Experts note that bluefin tuna exceeding 200kg are rare, typically appearing only during specific fishing seasons. Globally, tuna of comparable weight often fetch high prices at seafood auctions in Japan. Previously, a bluefin tuna auction at Tokyo's Toyosu Fish Market recorded a 243 kg bluefin tuna sold for USD 3.2 million (over 80 billion VND).

Chefs prepare the 234kg Japanese bluefin tuna. Photo: *Hatoyama Japanese Restaurant*

A Hatoyama restaurant representative stated that the carving ritual aimed to introduce this premium ingredient and bring Japanese culinary culture closer to Vietnamese diners. Following the event, sashimi-grade portions from the 234kg tuna were served on a limited basis to pre-registered guests.

Hatoyama Japanese restaurant also explained that choosing the beginning of the year for the carving held significance for a prosperous start. The number 234 is viewed as a progressive sequence, symbolizing continuous growth, a message the restaurant wished to convey to its guests for the new year.

Lan Anh