Thursday 10th July will go down as a landmark evening at KIBOU Cambridge, and likely a first for the city. As part of Cambridge Food and Drink Week, we presented our debut Bluefin Tuna Carving Ceremony, in partnership with Kirin Ichiban.
Led by our Senior Head Chef, Jay Manglicmot, and his skilled sushi team, the event centred around a dramatic carving of a sustainably sourced bluefin tuna. Guests were guided through the art of Maguro Kaitai, a revered culinary performance showcasing the skill, respect, and technique behind Japanese tuna preparation.
Sourced from Balfegó in southern Spain, celebrated for its responsible, traceable tuna farming, the fish provided a rare opportunity to taste premium cuts like Akami, Chu-toro, and O-toro, each offering unique textures and flavours. The carving session was followed by an exquisite 8-course tasting menu, reflecting the depth and versatility of bluefin tuna through dishes that blended traditional craft, creativity and pure flavour!
Guests enjoyed sake, wines, Japanese teas, and a refreshing Kirin Ichiban welcome pour.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the depth of flavour, attention to detail, and the intimate theatre of the evening
Key highlights:
- First-ever maguro kaitai in Cambridge
- Intimate, 30-seat setting
- Exceptional sustainability and provenance with Balfegó tuna
- Seamless pairing with Kirin Ichiban and Japanese-inspired drinks
If you missed this sold-out event — or want to experience something similar at your local KIBOU — we’d love to hear from you. Let us know which location you’d visit, and maybe we’ll bring the next ceremony to you next.
Menu highlights included:
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Tuna sashimi trio – Akami, Chu-toro, O-toro
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Nigiri selection – including truffle-topped O-toro
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Yuzu miso tuna taco with Exmoor caviar
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Negitoro maki, tuna tartare, and crispy tonkatsu
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Hōjicha crème brûlée to finish
With each course paired with a matched drinks package, including sake, wines, and a welcome Kirin Ichiban, Japan’s premium lager brewed using a first-press method for a clean, balanced taste.
View the evening’s programme including full menu below and event video.
