For the most recent MakanVenture, nine OpenRice members gathered at Bonbori Japanese Cuisine, the newest Japanese sensation at Puchong’s chic, new shopping strips. In Japanese bonbori simply refers to traditional lantern festival. And in naming the restaurant so it is hoped that the bright glow from a lit lantern will guide persistent through to happiness and success. It was a thrill to be seated in the V.I.P. room and waiting to be served a Japanese-inspired banquet. The members had so much fun chatting that they had decided to forego the game session we had planned for the evening! And how could the folk not have something to quench their thirst — Bonbori Fruit Tea in this case! Finally, it was dinnertime! Among the dishes served were some of the restaurant’s signature creations: (clockwise, from top left) Hanami Sashimi Moriawase (hanami sashimi platter); Special Soft-Shell Crab Maki; Katsu Curry Udon (udon and deep-fried pork chop in curry); as well as Ebi Cheese with Mentai Sauce (rice roll with cheese, served with a sauce of marinated pollack roe). Delicious food. Flashing cameras. Great company. Couldn’t beat an evening like this. The members jumped with joy when these surprise dishes — which weren’t on the menu, in case you didn’t know — showed up on the table! Then, restaurant owner Catherine chimed in for one-on-one conversations. She emphasized that she and her crew, which consists of an experienced head chef who specializes in Japanese cuisine, strives to serve some of the best Japanese fare in town as well as make a difference in youths’ lives through creating jobs for them. She was always eager to share the restaurant’s story and to get feedback. A big thank-you to Catherine and her team for the amazing meal and hospitality. We hope that she liked the OpenRice bowl and Cutlery we had given her! It had been a blast at Bonbori Japanese Cuisine. We look forward to hosting you again at the next MakanVenture. Sign yourself up now!