Established in Karuizawa in the Nagono Prefecture of Japan, Suju Masayuki is a cosy and homely Japanese restaurant which offers traditional Japanese cuisine. They currently have 6 restaurants in Japan and 1 outlet in Singapore at Mandarin Gallery.

Suju Masayuki will be opening a new outlet at Ngee Ann City taking over the unit vacated by JTSH Cafe (formerly known as DC Super Heroes Cafe) next to the taxi stand.

Suju Masayuki is a spot in town that we frequent for excellent teishoku at reasonable prices.

Their Shoga Yaki is, hands down, the best stir-fried Japanese pork with ginger and soy sauce that we’ve had in Singapore. Remember to top up S$5 for their Tonjiru!

Other dishes on the menu include Tonkatsu, Chicken Teriyaki, Gindara Misozuke Yaki, Chirashi-don and the juicy Chicken Nanban.

It is still business as usual at Suju Masayuki’s original outlet at Mandarin Gallery, while the new location at Ngee Ann City will be opening in early 2023.

Suju Masayuki Ngee Ann City
391A Orchard Road #02-13
Ngee Ann City Takashimaya
Singapore 238873

Popular modern Japanese fusion restaurant, Omoté is opening a new outlet at Raffles City in Nov 2022.

Formerly known as Sushiro, Omoté is famous for their value-for-money Bara Chirashi Don.

Stacked high, and generously with thick cubes of raw fish, there is no reason why you should give this a miss if you truly love sashimi—or Japanese food for that matter.

Photo credit: Omoté

Do not be fooled by its unbelievably affordable price tag because what you get are insanely thick cubes of fish and a generous amount of Japanese rice.

Photo credit: Omoté

Other than the signature Bara Chirashi Don, Omoté also offers a selection of modern Japanese dishes with an Asian influence and you can find items such as sushi rolls, sashimi, and donburi on the menu.

Omoté
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 179103

Established in 2021, Takeshi-San rose to fame in Singapore’s dining scene with its iconic Sushi Kaidan staircase, modern sushi rolls and an extensive selection of Japanese dishes at reasonable prices.

Into its second year, Takeshi-San has expanded its menu to introduce Izakaya-style sharing dishes that are perfect to go with drinks. The beer lovers will love the Kirin Beer Garden, too!

From 1 to 30 July 2022 (Monday to Thursday), flash the post on ladyironchef to the friendly staff at Takeshi-San to enjoy their Seafood Platter/Yakimono Platter at S$48 (UP $68).

Here are the dishes that you must order when you are dining at Takeshi-San.

Located at the buzzing Lorong Mambong in Holland Village, Takeshi-San is a cosy and casual sushi bar/izakaya where you can have a good Japanese meal and drinks without breaking the bank.

From modern sushi rolls, to chirashi don, seafood sashimi platters, and yakitori, Takeshi-San offers a wide array of dishes for everyone and there is always something new to look forward to. Be it for sharing or solo dining, you’d be able to find something to your liking from its menu, we’re very sure of this.

Don’t miss out on Takeshi-San’s innovative take on modern sushi rolls. The signature rolls include the Ebi Tempura with cream cheese and baked eel, Salmon Aburi Mentai roll, as well as the Mexican Roll which features panko shrimp, cream cheese and boiled shrimp.

Pssst. The snobs won’t like these but we were so addicted to the Mexican Roll! The flavours went so well together, and the panko made everything even better.

Another highlight is the incredibly value-for-money Seafood Platter (S$68) which comes with half a dozen freshly-shucked jumbo oysters, salmon, salmon belly, scallops and tuna sashimi.

Yes, you read that right. This giant platter of goodness for only S$68. Scroll up and read the inclusion again; we guarantee it’ll make you want to go to Takeshi-San pronto.

The carnivores can go for the Wagyu & Yakitori Platter (S$48) which includes wagyu slices, chicken yakitori, Saikoro steak, with salad and fries on the side. Best enjoyed with Kirin Frozen Beer, you guys.

If you are having drinks at Takeshi-San with your friends after dinner, go for the Party Platter (S$48)!

We love fried food and we cannot lie. From Tori Karaage, to Ehire, Kawa Ebi, Fried Salmon Skin and French Fries, the Party Platter has a bit of all our favourite fried food.

We are always on the lookout for awesome Happy Hour promotions in Singapore and we are thrilled to report that Takeshi-San has really attractive Happy Hour deals which are available from 11.30am to 8pm daily. Look forward to S$8 wines, S$10 sake and full pint Kirin beers.

Takeshi-San has recently been announced as the first Kirin Beer Garden in Singapore, offering the beloved and sought-after Kirin Frozen Beer and Beer Cocktails.

The next time you are looking for a watering hole in Holland Village to have a great time with your squad, check out Takeshi-San for its modern Japanese dishes, value-for-money platters and affordable drinks.

Yakimono Platter S$48 (U.P. S$68)

1. Surume Ika grilled with Kosher Salt
2. Wagyu Saikoro Steak
3 Tori Yaki
4. Chicken Ball Skewers
5. Mid-Wing Skewers
6. Mini Scallops Skewers
7. Japanese Green Peppers Skewers
8. Black Mushroom Skewers

From 1 to 30 July 2022 (Monday to Thursday), flash the post on ladyironchef to the friendly staff at Takeshi-San to enjoy their Seafood Platter/Yakimono Platter at S$48 (UP $68).

T&C
1. Not valid on Public Holidays or eve of Public Holidays
2. Valid from 1 July 2022 to 30 July 2022
3. Not valid with other vouchers or promotions
4. Special price is limited to one platter per table

Takeshi-San
38 Lor Mambong
Singapore 277694

This post was brought to you by Takeshi-San.

We were pretty bored of the ramen choices in Singapore for a while, until Shinsho Ramen opened in mid-2020 and disrupted the scene. Very soon after, they became our favourite ramen shop in Singapore and we are hopelessly hooked to those marvellous bowls of ramen.

Founded by Chef Raymond Tan—the Chef Owner of renown omakase restaurant, Hiryu—Shinsho Ramen is an affordable ramen joint with a carefully-thought menu of interesting appetizers and side dishes, and a very stellar ramen selection that will leave even the connoisseurs mind-boggled.

Ever passionate about serving his customers with nothing but the best, Chef Owner Raymond Tan and Executive Chef Liang Neo spent months working on Shinsho Ramen’s menu, and with their expertise and connections to the best suppliers, you can be assured that you will only be eating premium, superior ingredients.

Shinsho Ramen has 2 outlets in Singapore currently at GR.ID and SingPost Centre.

But let’s first talk about the star of Shinsho—which is the paitan ramen. The broth is standardized and they are all paitan-tonkotsu. Boiled for more than 24hrs with chicken carcasses and pork bones, look forward to a full-bodied milky white broth that is creamy, sweet and extremely satisfying. We’ve always been more drawn to pork bone broth, but Shinsho’s version is a really impressive balance of chicken and pork, with neither being overpowering; it’s a really smooth flavour that will please anyone.

The ramen menu consists of the regular options such as the Aged Soy Sauce (S$14.90), Spicy Red Miso (S$16.90), Homemade Black Garlic (S$15.90) and Special Black Truffle (S$17.90). All are very affordable and comes in a reasonable portion for one, with an assortment of toppings such as cha siu, bamboo shoots, grilled baby corn, spring onion and hanjuku egg.

Shinsho Ramen also has other unique and fusion flavours such as Mala Ramen and Chashu Curry Tsukemen. Be warned, though. The Mala Ramen is super spicy and it is not for the faint-hearted.

Want a more leveled-up version? There is a special ramen menu which comprises some pretty lavish versions: Half Rock Lobster (S$48), Pork Ribs with Teriyaki (S$19.90, and our favourite Kuroge Wagyu A4 (S$54).

The wagyu ramen was the highlight of our meal and it deserves another trip down. 2 slices of A4 wagyu (~110g) are added to the bowl raw, and the boiling broth will cook the wagyu slices lightly, giving it a tender texture with every bite melting in your mouth.

The marriage of paitan-tonkotsu broth and premium wagyu slices is brilliant, and this Kuroge Wagyu A4 ramen is definitely the best bowl of ramen we’ve had in Singapore.

Who needs cha siu in your ramen when you can have wagyu slices?! Trust Chef Raymond and his team to always take things up a notch.

Instead of your usual tortilla wrap, Chef Raymond sourced for good seaweed slices, coated them with a housemade batter, then deep-fried the seaweed which will then become the shells for the taco.

And the fillings are nothing you would expect: mala crayfish, crab tobiko, salmon avocado, wagyu cheese curry, torched mentaiko prawn and scallop with caviar. They are nothing like your usual tacos; these modern fusion tacos both photogenic and unbelievably delicious. Extra points for creativity!

Also on Shinsho Ramen’s menu is a small selection of buns. Mantou is being deep-fried, and tucked with a choice of fried pork loin, sliced roasted pork belly and fried bread crumbs chicken—all at only S$4.90 each. If ramen isn’t for you, perhaps you can go for one of each buns. The kids will love this too!

Shinsho Ramen has plans to open more outlets in 2022 and we are definitely keeping our fingers crossed that they will open an outlet nearer to our home. Until then, you can find them at SingPost Centre or GR.ID Mall.

Shinsho Ramen

SingPost Centre
10 Eunos Rd 8, #01-136,
Singapore 408600
+65 6980 5596

GR.ID Mall
1 Selegie road, #02-02,
Singapore 188306
+65 98792928

This post was brought to you by Shinsho Ramen.

Japan VTL isn’t happening soon and we are so deprived of a holiday to the Land of The Rising Sun, but the closest we can get to Japan now would be a damn good Japanese meal. We are pretty blessed to have a whole array of Japanese restaurants in Singapore, and the selection is a comprehensive one.

You can travel to different prefectures of Japan to satisfy the different cravings you have. We’ve rounded up 13 Japanese concepts in Singapore that are offering over 50 seasonal winter items – available for dine-in and takeaway at a special offering.

Think Hokkaido Hotate from S$14.90, A5 Miyazaki Wagyu from S$13.90, Zuwaigani (premium snow crab) from S$7.80, Hokkaido Hairy Crab from S$88, Hiroshima Kaki (oysters) from S$9.90. Salivating already? Read on for the whole list.

Ichiban Boshi & Ichiban Sushi

More than just a convenient option, Ichiban Boshi and Ichiban Sushi are welcoming spaces which are perfect for families to spend some quality time together over the holidays.

Both Ichiban brands will be offering the prestigious A5 Miyazaki Wagyu at very reasonable prices from now until 15 Feb 2022.

• Miyazaki A5 Shabu Shabu (S$35.90)
• Miyazaki A5 Sukiyaki (S$35.90)
• Miyazaki A5 Saikoro Steak (S$32.90)
• Miyazaki A5 Aburi Nigiri (S$13.90)

Idaten Udon

An udon speciality concept restaurant, Idaten Udon will be offering seasonal specials from 21 Dec 2021 until 18 Apr 2022.

• Kanitama Ankake Udon (S$13.90)
• Beef Kanitama Ankake Udon (S$10.90)

Gokoku Japanese Bakery

This bakery concept from Kobe has been serving buns made with high-quality ingredients and hearty grains since 1961. Another exciting offering is the citrusy Yummy Yuzu series:

• Yuzu Walnut Komeko (S$2.40)
• Yuzu Tuna Potato (S$2)
• Yuzu Jam (S$12)

Kuriya Japanese Market

Kuriya Japanese Market is a great destination where you can get an array of Japanese food items including sushi and sashimi, sake, sauces and condiments.

It will be holding A World of Winter fair with seasonal items and the highlights are definitely a variety of Zuwaigani (Snow Crab) sushi offerings, as well as Kanpachi (Amberjack) which are specially imported and air-flown from Japan.

• Zuwaigani Maru (S$7.80)
• Zuwaigani Hana Sushi (S$9.80)
• Zuwaigani Kaisen Box (S$15.80)
• Kanpachi Sashimi ($7.80)
• Kanpachi Carpaccio ($8.80)
• Kanpachi Donburi ($13.80)

Get a S$5 Voucher with a minimum spend of S$10 and any purchase of Winter Fair items at Kuriya Japanese Market.

Enjoy 20% off the Hokkaido Hairy Crab this season, at $14.90/100g! A dine-in exclusive at Great World offers the Charcoal-grilled Hokkaido Hairy Crab for $88 until 31 January 2022. The creamy roe packs an umami punch, and is best enjoyed with a refreshing zest of ponzu sauce.

My Gohan

At My Gohan, you can look forward to comforting Japanese home-style meals which comes with a main, soup, rice, pickles and a selection of souzai (side dishes).

They will be offering two specials featuring plump oysters imported from Hiroshima:

• Hiroshima Kaki Fry (Breaded Oyster) 5pcs (S$9.90)
• Hiroshima Kaki Fry (Breaded Oyster) Curry Rice (S$13.50)

Pittarino

Pittarino at Great World’s &JOY Dining Food Hall is a casual dining concept which offers hand-stretched, freshly-baked Neapolitan pizza and pasta which are inspired by Japanese flavours.

They will be featuring Zuwaigani (Snow Crab) in two new seasonal dishes which are available from 1 Dec 2021 to 28 Feb 2022.

• Zuwaigani Tomato Cream Spaghetti (S$17.80)
• 12” Creamy Zuwaigani Pizza (S$17.80)

RAMEN KIOU

Established in 1995, this popular Osaka ramen shop has over 20 stores in Japan and it will be launching the Hokkaido Scallop series in Singapore from 1 Dec 2021 to 28 Feb 2022.

• Hokkaido Hotate Chashu Ramen (S$17.90)
• Hokkaido Hotate Ramen (S$15.90)
• Hokkaido Hotate Chashu Abura Soba (S$16.90)
• Hokkaido Hotate Abura Soba (S$14.90)
• Hokkaido Hotate Ankake Chahan (S$12.90)

ROMAN.TEI

This meat specialist from Osaka will be serving the luxurious A5 Miyazaki Wagyu on its menu from 1 Dec 2021 to 28 Feb 2022.

• Miyazaki A5 Steak Jyu / Zen (S$35.90 / S$39.90)
• Miyazaki A5 Steak A la Carte (S$32.90)
• Miyazaki A5 Yakiniku Jyu / Zen ($32.90/$36.90)
• Miyazaki A5 Yakiniku A la Carte ($29.90)

Shabu-GO

Known for its affordable Japanese-style hotpot set meals in soup bases such as Sukiyaki, Yuzu Dashi, and the collagen-rich Paitan, Shabu-GO is adding A5 Miyazaki Wagyu (S$32.00) to its lineup from 1 Dec 2021 to 28 Feb 2022.

Sushi-GO

This holiday season, treat yourself to Hokkaido scallops and Zuwaigani sushi at Sushi-GO, a fast casual Japanese restaurant which serves the dishes via a mini Shinkansen Bullet Train. The Winter Wonders are available from 1 Dec 2021 to 4 Jan 2022.

• Hokkaido Hotate Miso Butter Corn Ramen (S$6.80)
• Aburi Shoyu Butter Jumbo Hotate Sushi (S$2.80)
• Zuwaigani Gunkan (S$3.80)
• Zuwaigani Ankake Chawanmushi (S$3.50)

Wadori

Offering a variety of yakitori that is grilled over Japanese binchotan, Wadori will serve two types of Inari Cheese Kushi from 1 Dec 2021 until 28 Feb 2022.

• Chilli Pepper Inari Cheese Kushi ($2.70)
• Brown Sugar Inari Cheese Kushi ($2.70)

Yaki Yaki Bo

Craving for teppanyaki? Yaki Yaki Bo at NEX is offering A5 Miyazaki Wagyu (S$38.80) as part of its offering from 1 December 2021 until 28 February 2022.

This post was brought to you by RE&S Enterprises.

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Taste of Japan group—the company behind Itacho Sushi—is opening a new concept in Singapore.

Sushi Raku is a sushi chain with 4 outlets in Hong Kong and it is opening its first overseas outlet in Singapore at Raffles City on this Sunday 12 Sep 2021.

Located at Raffles City #B1-63/64, Sushi Raku is a Sushi & Sake dining restaurant which offers Izakaya dishes, as well as sake & draft beer.

Some of the dishes that you can order at the Izakaya:

• Sushi
• Sashimi
• Yakitori
• Tempura
• Grilled seafood and meat

Photos credit: Sushi Raku

Sushi Raku also has a selection of seasonal specials that are air-flown from Tokyosu Market in Japan.

Sushi Raku
Raffles City #B1-63/64
252 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 179103

In the more popular areas of our bustling city, finding a place to eat alone and away from the constant stream of people can be quite a challenge. While going solo is not uncommon elsewhere in the world, in a collectivistic society like ours, there is an innate social pressure associated with eating by yourself.

Even though there are a multitude of places to choose from, here is the catch: in a country where dining alone tends to be frowned upon, life is that much harder when looking for a meal option away from the judging eyes of fellow diners. To help our fellow hermits out there, here are 11 food places in Singapore for solo diners.

GANGSTA RAMEN

In the land of solo eating, the quintessential food icon for lone diners is ramen. If you want to experience eating at a ramen booth in Singapore, drop by Gangsta Ramen! Aptly located in the CBD, this ramen place boasts the first local private booth dining experience à la Ichiran Ramen of Japan fame.

Working professionals who crave a little solitude can enjoy their ramen away from social pressure with the company of none other than the cubicle walls and a blackout curtain. With only twelve such seats available, the restaurant retains its original ambience of seclusion even at maximum capacity

The menu is sparse, but on the flipside, the portions are sizable with a healthy serving of ingredients. Prices start at S$10 for their Original Ramen, and go up to S$16 for the more deluxe Black Truffle Ramen. For the more voracious diners, get ready to enjoy the thick slices of tender pork belly, and a generous helping of bamboo shoots and fungus.

1 Tanjong Pagar Plaza
#02-10
Singapore 082001
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 8.30pm
Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

KANDA SOBA

Looking for a quick place to grab a bite without the fuss of dining at a full-fledged establishment? Head down to the first Singapore branch of Kanda Soba at Don Don Donki’s food court in Clake Quay Central! As a bonus for lone eaters, you can indulge in the mazesoba true noodle bar style – in a self-contained and fuss-free manner.

This popular Japanese and South Korean chain brought with them their famed Original Mazesoba with Chashu (S$12) to our shores. Said to contain a whooping 62 ingredients, diners can expect wonderfully al dente noodles mixed with an assortment of customizable toppings. For those dining alone, this means you can indulge in a few extra pieces of chashu without feeling too guilty!

6 Eu Tong Sen Street
Clarke Quay Central
Don Don Donki #B1-11
Singapore 059817
Daily: 11pm – 3pm, 5pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

KOGANE YAMA

Specializing in modern premium Japanese tendon, the distinct silhouette of these tendon bowls is eclipsed only by the flavors of the ingredients within. The extensive offerings here are generous in portions yet affordable in prices, and for the solo customer, perfectly sized for one.

A favourite is the classically sinful mixed bowl tendon (S$13.80) featuring protein and vegetables alike. For those looking for alternatives to tempura, their Unagi chahan (S$14.90) is a treat in itself, and the Seafood Miso Ramen (S$14.90) is a taste explosion of its own.

Whether you are an office worker or a student, Kagone Yama has a casual atmosphere that encourages both groups and single diners alike to share the space comfortably. At the end of the day, with bowls that enticing on the tables, it is no surprise that all attention is drawn to the food instead!

200 Victoria Street
Bugis Junction #02-50
Singapore 188021
Sun to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri to Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Bugis
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

ORIOLE COFFEE + BAR

Located next to 313@Somerset, Oriole Coffee + Bar has the perfect camouflage of being yet another café in an area saturated with many others. Lone diners who have ventured in, however, will find themselves getting the best of both worlds: residing in the heart of the Somerset area while basking in the relative quiet of the café.

For those looking for a bite, keep an eye out for bar favourites like Ginger Ale Fish & Chips (S$22), or their all-day breakfast options like the scrumptious Fully Loaded (S$24). To wash your food down, don’t forget to try their handcrafted pour-overs (S$6), or opt for their cold brew (S$7) instead if you want a more special taste profile.

96 Somerset Road
Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard #01-01
Singapore 238163
Tel: +65 6238 8348
Sun to Thu: 8am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 8am – 12am
Nearest Station: Somerset

SORA BORU

For the more self-conscious lone eaters, ordering in Sora Boru is done via a self-order kiosk, thereby minimizing any anxiety-inducing human interaction. Moreover, the open space allows for customers to enjoy their meals in relative exclusivity, while still basking in the remote companionship of other tables at the same time. A win-win solution!

The selection of bowls includes everything from pick-your-own chirashi bowls to noodle bowls. The highlights however, are their Volcano Beef Don and its counterpart Snow Beef Don. At the price of S$7.50 for the mini, and S$11.90 for the regular, you can either get the spicy flame-grilled variant, or the savoury-sweet mix of parmesan and whipped cream respectively. Or if you are undecided, go for both!

313 Orchard Road
313@Somerset #B3-19/20
Singapore 238895
Sun to Thu: 11am – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

SPICY ROCK

If it seems like spice-lovers have been left out of the list, fear not – Spicy Rock joins the ranks as another Japanese fusion place, but with a spicy twist! The vibrant colours of the interior may seem counterintuitive for the solitary diner, but worry not, as the restaurant’s unique food creations are sure to draw everyone’s attention instead!

There are multiple menu options to satisfy the single customer, from the milder Spicy Rock Chicken Curry Rice (S$16.80) to the red hot Super Spicy Rock Tori-Katsu Ramen (S$15.80). More adventurous foodies on the other hand, can try the spectacle that is the Beef Steak with Cotton Candy (S$XX) for a truly unique taste experience!

13 Stamford Road
Capitol Piazza #B2-51
Singapore 178905
Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

THE BURNING OAK

Unlike its counterparts, The Burning Oak is located in the renovated hipster Bedok Marketplace in Simpang. So, instead of feeling self-conscious when requesting a table for one amidst multiple groups, you get the luxury of having quality donburi in an environment where eating alone is commonplace.

For beef lovers, the S$16 Wagyu and Truffle Mince is a definite steal. Besides the juicy medium-rare slices of wagyu, it doubles that beef goodness with truffle-infused minced beef as well! Those who prefer pork can go for our favourite of Black Vinegar Pork Cheeks (S$12) instead; the caramelized tender goodness of the pork slices will have you returning for more!

348 Bedok Road
The Bedok Marketplace #02-16
Singapore 469560
Tel: +65 9873 6093
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 9pm
(Closed on Mondays)
Nearest Station: Tanah Merah

THE PROVIDORE

Nestled in the quieter corner of the shopping stretch within Mandarin Gallery, Providore provides a private respite for the lone adventurer without leaving the convenience of town. The café features cosy 2-person seaters perfect for the single customer as a default, and has a generally non-intrusive service staff.

The menu mainly offers single-dish options; the fragrant Lobster Mac & Cheese (S$27.50) is a crowd favorite, as is more substantial Club Sandwich (S$18.50). If you are a coffee lover, Providore does excellent blends (S$5++) using beans brought in from Melbourne. For a more luxurious option, you can enquire about their wine selection! Don’t worry about drinking in the day; no one is going to tell on you!

333A Orchard Road
Mandarin Gallery #02-05
Singapore 238897
Tel: +65 6732 1565
Daily: 9am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Somerset
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/therefinerysg

THE REFINERY

The Refinery has a forgiving menu for the sole foodie, offering affordable bowls and yakitori perfect for one. The food is simple and unpretentious; modern twists on traditional favorites made palatable in today’s society. Furthermore, its quiet location and grill-bar-workspace concept ensure a constant chill vibe. Everyone moves to their own rhythm here: as a lone diner, what more can you ask for?

The house special and customer favorite is the Refinery Gyudon (S$14). The fragrant mix of tender beef slices on truffle-infused mushrooms delivers a flavor kick that reaffirms the bowl’s status as a must-try dish. For those looking for an alternative to beef, Mr Unagi Don (S$14 nett) is similarly tasty with its charred skin and sweet interior.

115 King George’s Avenue
#01-02
Singapore 208561
Tel: +65 6293 1204
Mon to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 1am
Sat: 11am – 4pm, 6pm – 11pm
Sun: 11am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Lavender

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/thesushibar.sg/

THE SUSHI BAR

This next place is more popular than you might expect: The Sushi Bar. However, it is said crowd that creates a buffer. With a constant stream of customers vying for seats, not only will parties of one beat the queue before waiting groups, taking up one seat – especially at the bar – reduces the pressure of savoring one’s food leisurely.

Famous for their decadent sashimi spreads, the Kaisen Chirashi Don (S$22.90 for small, S$26.90 for regular), or the Aburi Kaisen Chirashi Don (S$26.90) are must-tries here. Those who prefer sushi can substitute their bowls with the brand’s famed Salmon Aburi Roll (S$16.90), turning a dish typically saved for sharing into an ample meal for one instead!

14 Scotts Road
Far East Plaza #04-28
Singapore 228213
Tel: +65 9653 6464 (SMS reservation only)
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 3.30pm, 5pm – 9.45pm
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 9.45pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Orchard
** Multiple outlets islandwide.

TUNGLOK TEAHOUSE

Many may think that it is impossible to have dim sum alone, but the newly renovated TungLok Teahouse is here to break that mould! Adding a bunch of automation via iPad ordering and a tray delivery system, the socially adverse among us can enjoy having freshly steamed dim sum baskets delivered to their tables with minimal human interaction.

As with typical dim sum items, the baskets come with three to four items. To reduce potential choice paralysis, here are some of our choices for the sole customer. Go with TungLok Teahouse’s signature Steamed Siew Mai with Quail Egg and Truffle (S$5.80 nett – 4 pieces) for a new twist on a classic dim sum staple. To substantiate on carbs, the Baked BBQ Pork Buns (S$4.80 nett – 3 pieces) are sweet flaky treats that leave you craving for more!

10 Sinaran Drive
Square 2 #01-73
Singapore 307506
Tel: +65 6893 1123
Mon to Fri: 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 3pm, 3pm – 5pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Novena

From the uncountable Japanese restaurant options we have in Singapore, one thing is for sure—Singaporeans can never get enough of Japanese cuisine. From sashimi to sushi and donburi, there is surely no lack of decent ones to be found in Singapore and the only concern is the price tag that comes along with it.

While many people would assume that Japanese cuisine in Singapore is generally heavy on the wallet, there are actually some dining establishments that aim to offer reasonably-priced Japanese dishes for the mass market.

Although the furnishings are simpler and there is no top-notch service to speak of at these places, you can expect value-for-money when it comes to these 17 no-frills Japanese eateries in Singapore.

Photo Credit: Char Sticks & Grill

CHAR STICKS & GRILL

As a kushiyaki bar concept, Char Sticks & Grill is a hangout spot for the young who are able to indulge in Japanese skewered meats that are grilled over an open charcoal fire.

Their impressive menu comprises no less than 50 items to choose from—poultry, seafood and vegetables included—you name it, they have it! For the hardcore carnivores, the Japanese eatery also offers a range of ribs so you leave with a satisfied tummy.

2 Jalan Lokam #01-54
Kensington square,
Singapore 537846
Tel: +65 8188 2902
(Closed on Mondays)
Tue to Sun: 12pm – 3.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bartley

DISTRICT SUSHI

District Sushi is a Japanese joint that serves up delicious Japanese fare at wallet-friendly prices. Their stellar Bara Chirashi Don, which is priced affordably sans GST and service charge, is stacked high with generous cubes of fresh marinated fish and is one of their most frequently ordered items.

Besides that, the casual eatery also has a range of sashimi, nigiri sushi and a la carte sides that are mostly below S$15.

91 Bencoolen Street
#01-15, Sunshine Plaza
Singapore 189652
(Closed on Sundays)
Daily: 11.30pm – 2pm, 5.30pm – 8.30pm
Nearest Station: Bencoolen

DONYA JAPANESE CUISINE

Donya is known for their super affordable Salmon Mentai Don (S$8.80) that comes with generous portions of mentaiko sauce. Located within a HDB coffeeshop in Toa Payoh, this stall also offers other pocket-friendly donburi and sushi rolls available there.

126 Lor 1 Toa Payoh
Singapore 310126
Daily: 11am – 2:30pm, 5pm – 8:30pm
Nearest Station: Braddell

Photo Credit: En Sushi

EN SUSHI

Named after the Japanese character for gratitude, En Sushi pays homage to the treasures of the ocean in the form of sashimi and sushi. They craft each and every dish with Japanese perfectionism in their work and authentic ‘omotenashi’ hospitality to each customer they serve.

With their new relocation to Middle Road, co-founders Mr Kenneth Koh and ex-Nogawa chef, Mr Kenneth Tan hope to bring an elevated Japanese cuisine and experience at reasonable prices to every diner.

112 Middle Road, #01-00B
Midland House,
Singapore 188970
Tel: +65 6259 8548
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut

ICHI-TEI

This low-key Japanese eatery is where one can find affordable Japanese food in town. If you are on a budget, Ichi Tei serves simple and flavourful meals below S$14. We thoroughly enjoyed the Chicken Teriyaki Rice Set which comes with a small portion of potato salad and miso soup.

Otherwise, Ichi Tei also has other options such as Curry Rice, Udon, Udon Curry and some of the basic side dishes.

91 Bencoolen Street
#01-52 Sunshine Plaza
Singapore 189652
Tel: +65 9139 1746
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 8pm
Nearest Station: Bras Basah

Photo Credit: Maki Alcarde

IDATEN UDON

Idaten Udon is a budget-friendly option for some slurp-worthy, customisable udon! From just S$5.80, you can enjoy their Zaru Udon or Kake Udon with various sides available at the counter. For S$1 more, you can upgrade your udon to their special flavours such as Matcha, Yuzu, Tomato and Carrot for a colourful bowl of noodles.

Aside from soup and dry udon, you can also opt for their Curry Udon (S$6.90) that comes with chunks of carrots and potatoes. Idaten Udon also serves rice bowls, such as the Beef Curry Rice (S$9) and Beef Sukiyaki Rice (S$9), for those who are not feeling udon.

1 Raffles Link
#B1-21 CityLink Mall
Singapore 039393
Tel: +65 6238 7490
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: City Hall/Esplanade

IZAKAYA NIJUMARU

Izakaya Nijumaru is one hidden gem in Cuppage Plaza.

It is tucked at a corner on the second level of Cuppage Plaza and the nondescript outlet features a comprehensive menu that comes at reasonable prices. Its traditional setting—complete with dim lights, counter seats, seasonal menu handwritten in Japanese will have you reminiscing your times in Japan.

5 Koek Road
#02-10/12 Cuppage Plaza
Singapore 228796
Tel: +65 6235 6693
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sun: 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

JAPANESE EXPRESS CURRY

Situated within Fortune Centre, Japanese Curry Express is one of our favourite places to get affordable Japanese fare. They do mentai dishes well, with a balance of savouriness and creaminess; Their signature Salmon Mentai Don (S$11 Small, S$14 Large) is a hit amongst the crowd!

We recommend you guys to get their sushi rolls as well, especially the Ebi Mango Maki and Spider Maki, that costs below S$10 each. This eatery gets extremely packed during lunch time, so be sure to drop by early.

190 Middle Rd
#03-04 Fortune Centre
Singapore 188979
Tel: +65 9689 6314
Mon to Sat: 11:30am – 2:30pm, 5:30pm – 8:30pm
(Closed on Sundays)
Nearest Station: Bugis/Rochor

KAZOKU JAPANESE CUISINE

Kazoku Japanese Cuisine is a humble family Japanese eatery that serves up quality Japanese fare at affordable prices.

Kazoku Japanese Cusine’s Salmon Don met all expectations. A whopping 10 pieces of fresh, thinly-sliced salmon sashimi sits atop a bed of rice and is topped off with a spoonful of wasabi and fish roe.

1 Goldhill Plaza #01-05
Singapore 308899
Tel: +65 9687 3782
Mon, Wed to Sat: 12pm – 10pm
Tue: 11am – 11pm
Sun: 12pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Novena

OMOTÉ

Now re-branded as Omoté, this humble donburi-speciality restaurant serves up awesome value-for-money Bara Chirashi Don. But do not be fooled by its unbelievably affordable price tag because what you get are insanely thick cubes of fish and a generous amount of Japanese rice.

No doubt the queues might be off-putting, but we assure you that it is definitely worth the wait!

#03-24A, , 301 Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 574408
Tel: +65 9450 1020
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Mon to Sun: 11.45am – 2.15pm, 5.45pm – 9.15pm
Nearest Station: Marymount

SORA BORU

Conveniently located in 313@Somerset, you can find affordable donburis at Sora Boru. From meat to seafood options, there’s a plethora of dishes to choose from. Their signature Flaming Beef Don (S$11.90) is stacked with slices of mountainous-looking flame-grilled beef then drizzled with their made-in-house spicy gochujang sauce.

They offer customisable chirashi dons ranging from S$6.50 to S$16.90, depending on the size chosen. For Japanese curry lovers, you can indulge in a rich and robust bowl of curry don at Sora Boru as well.

313 Orchard Road
#B3-19/20 313@Somerset
Singapore 238895
Sun to Thu: 11am – 9:30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

SUPARAKKI RAMEN

Ramen is our guilty-pleasure, even more so on rainy days. Suparakki’s Dry Truffle Ramen (S$6.90) is deeply-infused with truffle oil and topped with a concoction of pulled pork, hanjuku egg and other condiments. An absolute treat for the fungi-loving people. The Spicy Original Tonkotsu Ramen (S$7.90) was soaked in a rich pork broth with springy noodles, and was well-complemented with the melt-in-your-mouth chashu.

1 NorthPoint Dr
#B2-154 Northpoint City
Singapore 768098
Daily: 10:30am – 9:30pm
Nearest Station: Yishun

TACHINOMIYA

Tachinomiya is a quaint Japanese bar that serves up Japanese street food and a variety of Japanese sakes and beers. From yakitori to sashimi, you will be surprised at how much this little hole in the wall can conjure up.

Tachinomiya opens until late on most days which is always great for an evening tipple.

211 Hougang Street 21
#01-285
Tel: +65 6286 0738
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 12am
Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 1am
Sat: 11.30am – 2am
Sun: 11.30am – 12am
Nearest Station: Kovan

TAKAGI RAMEN

Who would think that it is possible to get a lip smacking bowl of authentic Japanese ramen at  for less than S$10? From their first outlet in 2015 at Ang Mo Kio, they have now expanded with three other outlets in Pasir Ris, Jurong West and NUS.

You can savour quality ramen such as their popular Karata-men (S$7.50) that is, a spicy tonkotsu soup topped with tender sliced chashu and handmade thin ramen. There are donburis and dry ramen options available too!

51 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3
#01-01C 51@AMK
Singapore 569922
Tel: +65 9138 8017
Daily: 11am – 12am
Nearest Station: Ang Mo Kio

THE SUSHI BAR

Originally a small sushi place at Far East Plaza, The Sushi Bar has seen tremendous success amongst Singaporeans and currently has two outlets, with the other one located at Ngee Ann City.

They serve the standard dishes like sushi, sashimi, and donburi bowls, but if you only have room for one dish, you must try the famous Salmon Aburi Sushi.

14 Scotts Road
#04-28 Far East Plaza
Singapore 228213
Tel: +65 9653 6464 (SMS reservation only)
Daily: 11.30am – 9.45pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

WASABI TEI

Nestled within Far East Plaza, Wasabi Tei is a humble Japanese eatery that offers affordable Japanese cuisine. There is nothing fancy about its interior and diners huddle around a counter that comes with limited seats. The standards have dropped over the years and we will not go to Far East Plaza just to have a meal. But if you happen to be in the area, go for their lunch sets (S$12 onwards) which include as Teriyaki Chicken Set, Unagi Kabayaki Set and Salmon Chirashi Set.

14 Scotts Road
#05-68/70, Far East Plaza
Singapore 228213
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 3pm, 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Sat: 12pm – 4pm, 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

YAKINIKU LIKE

This Yakiniku chain in PLQ Mall attracted queues that never seem to end ever since their opening in Feb 2020. Aside from being an affordable choice, this is also a place perfect for solo diners who are seeking to enjoy yakiniku without feeling awkward.

You can get a Karubi Set for just S$8.80! This is probably one of the cheapest yakiniku set you can ever find in a restaurant setting, or in Singapore even. If you’re feeling more premium, opt for the Wagyu Steak Set at just S$19.80 for 120g. All sets come with rice, soup and kimchi or salad, it’s definitely gonna fill you up.

10 Paya Lebar Road
#B1-28 Paya Lebar Quarter
Singapore 409057
Daily: 11am – 10m
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar

Japan’s renowned Kushikatsu chain with over 160 outlets, Kushikatsu Tanaka, is now in Singapore. Located right smack in the middle of bustling Clarke Quay, this less-than-a-year-old eatery is famous for its Kushikatsu (fried cutlet skewers) and signature dipping sauce.

Kushikatsu is a Japanese delicacy comprising an assortment of lightly breaded and deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables. In Japanese, kushi translates to skewers while katsu refers to a deep-fried meat cutlet.

A step into Kushikatsu Tanaka will transport you to a traditional izakaya in Japan, with its dim-hued interior and a rustic decor that sets does well to mimic a similar mood. Offering a range of wallet-friendly Japanese bar grub and alcohol, this is definitely the go-to spot for some after-work drinks and gathering.

First up on our table was the lightly steamed and perfectly salted appetiser, Edamame (S$5++). These protein-rich soybeans are fresh and sweet, making for a good pre-meal snack.

Moving on to something that required a little elbow grease, was the DIY Potato Salad Mentaiko ($10++)!

It came with a generous portion of potatoes, an ajitsuke tamago (Japanese marinated soft-boiled egg) and crunchy bacon bits seasoned with black pepper and mayonnaise, topped with a decent portion of savoury mentaiko chunks—all of which required grinding and mixing using a pastel. 

By grinding everything together yourself, you can adjust the texture of the salad to suit your taste. We liked ours to be slightly chunky so that we can taste a bit of everything.

The star of the night was definitely the legendary Kushikatsu (Assorted Skewers). We got ourselves the Recommended 5 (S$8.20++), which came with Asparagus, Lotus Root, Beef, Pork and Onion.

Coated in Panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried till golden brown, the skewers were insanely crispy without being greasy at all. What made this dish even better was the special dipping sauce that was tangy and extremely addictive.

Kushikatsu Tanaka
3A River Valley Road, Merchant Court
Clarke Quay Block A #01-01B
Singapore 179020
Tel: +65 6258 3789
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5pm – 12am
Sat: 12pm – 1am
Sun: 12pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay

In Singapore, many of us love a good bowl of Japanese ramen soup and udon. However, there aren’t many places here that serve up Maze-soba.

Maze-soba, when directly translated to English, literally means “mixed noodles”. It is essentially dry, broth-less ramen topped with an abundance of goodies. When mixed together, it creates a unique blend of flavours that you’ll keep craving for even after you’ve polished off the entire bowl.

Sounds great, doesn’t it? And that is why we were so excited to hear that Japan’s most popular Maze-soba chain, Menya Kokoro, has finally landed in Singapore, and they have opened their first outlet at Suntec City Level 3.

The Singapore outlet is helmed by the founder of Menya Kororo’s, Chef Takuma Ishikawa, who trained under the original creators of Maze-soba. This means you can expect some legit bowls of mouthwatering Japanese-quality maze-soba without even having to make a trip down to Japan itself.

Photo Credit: Brandcellar 

Menya Kokoro has five main types of maze-soba on their menu, namely Original Tokyo Maze-Soba, Cheese Maze-Soba, Curry Maze-Soba, Spicy Maze-Soba as well as Vegan-Mazesoba. Aside from those, they also have some Singapore-exclusive creations such as Curry Maze-Don and Maze-Don.

Menya Kokoro
#03-313 Eat At Seven,
Suntec City Mall Tower,
3 Temasek Blvd, 1&2,
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 6235 3386
Mon to Thu: 11am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10pm
Sun: 11am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Promenade

There have been more and more halal eateries popping up all around Singapore in recent months, which is great because that means more places to eat out with our Muslim friends!

A relatively new addition to that list, a must-try if you’re a fan of beef and Japanese food, is Gyunion. This humble hole-in-the-wall Japanese eatery sells authentic, Halal-Certified Japanese cuisine with ingredients that are directly sourced from Japan. So, if you’re looking for somewhere new to feast on some hearty Japanese food, this is definitely a place to consider.

Gyunion is the brainchild of 3 good friends who wanted to provide Halal Japanese food for the Muslim community.

This tiny restaurant was almost impossible to spot given its small size and there are literally only a few seats available, making it not the most ideal for big groups.

The first thing that we tried was their Gyu-men (S$8.90), which featured thinly sliced beef and onions with thin noodles soaked in a warm beef broth. We absolutely love the beef here! The beef slices were nice and thin, which helped it to soak up all the sauce as well as made it easier to chew. 

We were also advised to dress up the noodles with condiments such as shoyu sauce and Japanese chilli flakes according to our taste preference. Upon first taste, we understood why we were asked to do so because the noodles were a tad bit bland. 

We also tried their Gyu-don (S$7.90), which is a beef rice bowl. The portions were generous and we loved how the onsen egg gave the don a much creamier consistency.

For lunch, you can also pay $9.90 for a meal that comes with a drink as well as an onsen egg.

Gyunion is definitely a must-try recommendation from us if you’re looking for a no-frills, minimalistic place that serves up solid, authentic Japanese food. They are however only available on weekdays, so don’t go down on a weekend to avoid disappointment!

Gyunion
91 Bencoolen Street, #01-23
Bencoolen Plaza
Singapore 189652
(Closed on Saturdays & Sundays)
Mon – Fri: 12pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Bencoolen

Hardly do we ever hear the words ‘affordable’ and ‘beef’ in the same sentence—especially in Singapore, to chance upon pocket-friendly beef that doesn’t skimp on quality is uncommon.

Brought to you by the same folks behind sake gastrobar Kabuke, Tokidon is a relatively new concept that recently opened in Hong Leong Building. Priding themselves as the ‘Purveyor of Gourmet Wagyu Bowls’, their menu focuses on a selective but tantalizing range of beef bowls—all at a price that will not burn a hole in your wallet.

With prices starting from just S$11.90, Tokidon is where all beef-lovers should keep their eyes peeled for.

Hidden in the corner of the basement in Hong Leong Building, this 80′s Disco-inspired Japanese eatery is hard to miss—decked out in quirky multi-coloured neon lights, this 20-seater eatery in the heart of Raffles Place may just be the next hit amongst those working in the area.

We opted for a serving of Tokidon’s most basic bowl—the Gyudon (S$11.90 nett). Fluffy white Japanese rice is topped with furikake and a light garlic soy dressing, as well as slices of striploin and an onsen egg—the hallmark of a classic Japanese beef bowl.

Served medium rare, we found some inconsistency in the doneness of the striploin but nonetheless, each piece impressed us. While it wasn’t melt-in-your-mouth tender, the striploin was extremely well-seasoned and paired well with the fried garlic chips and oozy onsen egg which gave the dish an added dimension of flavours.

Considering its price, this was one pretty darn good bowl of gyudon we’d see ourselves returning for.

Should you find yourself hankering for something fancier that encompasses an added oomph of flavours, the Truffle Wagyu Don (S$23.90 nett) would go highly recommended.

As one of Tokidon’s signature items, what you can expect is a sizeable portion of wagyu striploin with a dash of their house-blend truffle soy sauce drizzled over it.

Served medium-rare with a pink centre in the middle, barely any effort is needed to chew into the tender and juicy wagyu striploin slices. Although we thought that the meat itself was already good on its own, the truffle soy sauce—though extremely light on the palates—only served to bring out the best flavours of the beef bowl.

Other options include Truffle Tenderloin Don (S$15.90), Wagyu Sukiyaki Don (S$17.90) and Wagyu Misozuke Don (S$23.90).

16 Raffles Quay
Hong Leong Building #B1-33
Singapore 048581
Tel: +65 9151 9572
Daily: 11am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

There’s no shortage of Japanese ramen restaurants in Singapore, and joining the lineup over at South Beach Avenue is Ebi-Tori Menzo.

Hailing from Osaka, Ebi-Tori Menzo, as per namesake, specialises in both chicken ramen and shrimp tsukemen. For the uninitiated, tsukemen is a form of dipping noodles, and the sauce it’s served with is a thicker and richer version of the usual ramen soup broths that we are used to.

Their signature ramen offering may not rank as high as compared to many others out there but here’s why you should pay this humble ramen restaurant a visit anyway.

We ordered both their signature dishes—their Signature Ebi Tsukemen (S$17.90) and their Shio Chicken Ramen (S$15.90).

Their Signature Ebi Tsukemen was served with a mix of fresh salad leaves, tomatoes, sweet potatoes cubes, a slice of baguette and a thick slice of Chashao.

They use over 15 ingredients—all of which are on display on their wall mural—in just their shrimp based dipping sauce and broth alone. The result is reminiscent of both mee rebus and lobster bisque.

To be completely honest, in spite of the hype of the sauce itself being intensely flavoured with shrimp and other seafood items, our taste buds felt differently. Granted that the sauce was rich (as it’s meant to be), the flavours of prawn did not really come through as prominently as we would have liked.

We actually preferred the Shio Chicken Ramen. It was topped with two slices of the same thick-cut Chashao, bamboo shoots and shards of sweet potato crisps.

What caught our attention was not the noodles or broth, but surprisingly, the sweet potato crisps. The flavour of the long crisps melded well with the flavour of the Shio broth, unlikely to be found anywhere else.

Both bowls of noodles were served with Chashao. We found them neither too fatty nor too dry, and it provided an adequate chew before melting away in our mouths. However, for some, it might be considered too salty.

Ebi-Tori Menzo
South Beach Tower
26 Beach Road
#B1-18 South Beach Avenue
Singapore 189767
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Sat: 11am – 3pm, 5pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

With 5 different Japanese food concepts under one roof, Tsukiji Fish Market is quite a paradise for Japanese food lovers. They offer a wide range of Japanese cuisine at fairly affordable price points.

From hearty ramen to fresh sashimi air-flown directly from Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market twice a week, this is one Japanese restaurant in the heart of Orchard Road to love if you don’t already know.

You’d be glad to hear that Tsukiji Fish Market is set to enthral with brand new additions to their vast variety of Japanese fare that they have to offer. From 9th July 2018 until 31st August 2018, you can quote ‘ladyironchef‘ to enjoy 20% off the total bill on the à la carte menu*.

Here is what you can expect on your next visit to Tsukiji Fish Market, in accordance to the concepts that they offer.

TSUKIJI FISH MARKET RESTAURANT

Sashimi lovers will rejoice at the multitudinous options that Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurant has to offer for fresh seafood. They are one of the concepts available at Tsukiji Fish Market.

The Bara Chirashi Don (S$21.80) is the ultimate go-to if you want a sashimi-centric meal and it is one value-for-money dish at that—topped with generous portions of diced salmon, tuna, swordfish, crab, salmon roe and tamago. And there is also tobiko and a small portion of uni!

Have a hankering for sashimi? Go for the 7 Kinds of Sashimi on a Ship (S$41.80) which is gloriously presented with fresh cuts of sashimi in accordance to the season. Otherwise, the fresh Oysters is a great option for sharing too—creamy and easy on the salinity, these are oysters we would find ourselves returning for.

EBIZO TEMPURA RESTAURANT

The Ebizo Tendon (S$22.80) from the Ebizo Tempura Restaurant is one hearty bowl that will definitely fill you up. The golden-brown batter which coated the tempura impressed us with its crispiness despite being doused in a sweet soy dressing.

Generously topped with fresh ebi, sea eel, snow crab leg, squid, a tempura egg, and assorted vegetables, this bowl of goodness is sure to leave you satisfied especially if you are a sucker for such deep-fried goodness.

TORI-SHO CHICKEN

Tori-Sho is yet another concept within Tsukiji Fish Market specialising in an extensive range of chicken-centric dishes. Look forward to new offerings by Tori-Sho Chicken such as the Chiritori Nabe, or opt for their classic smoky, charcoal-grilled Yakitori.

Bearing an uncanny resemblance to that of Korean Army Stew, the Chiritori Nabe (S$36.80) is a dish that stands out amongst the rest. Think of it as a massive steamboat with overflowing ingredients such as mushrooms, prawns, squids, chicken dices as well as kimchi—all soaked in a pot of slightly spicy soup.

From the mild spiciness of the robust broth to the plenteous ingredients that the dish constituted, we were sold by the complex harmony of flavours from this dish.

The Tori-Sho Chicken menu also includes an extensive variety of yakitori, such as the usual chicken thigh, wing and fillet section, as well as the more acquired innards and soft bone.

Each yakitori skewer is grilled to perfection—we particularly loved those that were slathered with their in-house tare sauce that well complemented the intense smokiness of the grilled meats.

With prices starting from just S$2.20 per skewer, we’d understand why it is so difficult to say no to these delightful sticks of goodness.

TAKUMEN RAMEN GALLERY

Ramen is undoubtedly one of the most, if not the most, comforting Japanese food. Takumen Ramen Gallery serves a limited but tantalizing range of ramen so delectable it would make you go back for more.

Ramen fanatics will be pleased to hear that Takumen Ramen Gallery has come up with new offerings—Mentaiko Ramen (S$16.80) and Wabisuke Ramen (S$16.80).

For something more unconventional, albeit alluring, opt for the Mentaiko Ramen which features a sweeter-than-average broth.

IKEZAKI STEAKHOUSE

As its name suggests, Ikezaki Steakhouse has a wide range of beef-centric fare which serves as a good alternative if you are not a fan of the usual ramen and sashimi.

Served with cherry tomatoes, avocados, an onsen egg and a huge, thick beef patty is the Loco Moco Don (S$19.80)—the newest addition to Ikezaki’s menu. For those who believe in the notion that thick beef patties will always turn out dry and hard, the one featured in the Loco Moco Don will prove you wrong with its juicy and succulent meat.

The Wagyu Roast Beef Don (S$20.80) is another option to look forward to.

If you are one that gets excited over the sizzling sounds of barbecue and watching fresh seafood grill under your nose, the Hamayaki Grill at Tsukiji Fish Market is one that will win you over. Let the chef in you shine and grill your seafood as you like!

Their à la carte menu features options such as the Grilled Scallop with Mentaiko (S$13.80/ 3pcs), Grilled Oysters with Garlic Butter Sauce (S$12.80/ 3pcs) and the Grilled Sazae with Garlic Herb Butter Sauce (S$9.80/ 6pcs) which you wouldn’t want to miss out on. The Hamayaki Grill is available for à la carte during both lunch and dinner.

Here’s a gentle reminder to quote ‘ladyironchef’ upon making reservations to enjoy 20% off your total bill.

*Do note that this offer is only valid from Mondays to Thursdays, excluding public holidays and eve of public holidays, from 9th July 2018 until 31st August 2018. This promotion cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions, vouchers or offers.

Tsujiki Fish Market Restaurant
181 Orchard Road, #12-02
Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6634 2803
Daily : 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun High Tea: 3pm – 5pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

This post is brought to you by Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurant.

Among the slew of cafes, supper spots and restaurants scattered all over bustling Upper Thomson Road, Japanese fare is perhaps one of the few rarities to find there unless you consider Tomoe Japanese Cuisine or even Sushi Tei in Thomson Plaza which is both a tad pricier in comparison.

New to the bustling food enclave, taking over what used to be Nunsongyee Korean Dessert Cafe, Maneko Japanese Restaurant is a cosy, 30-seater eatery that serves quick, fuss-free Japanese delights ranging from sashimi, sushi, donburi, soba, udon and a huge selection of sides.

They have a decent selection of sushi and sashimi options to choose from as well as a huge range of rice bowls—great for quick workday lunches.

All their items are priced as is with no GST & service charge and patrons can also opt to order their mains with a drink and a small side dish as a set for a top-up of S$6.

Feeling an itch for some fresh raw fish, we opted for their Assorted Sushi (S$15.90) that saw pairs of thickly sliced salmon, maguro (tuna) and yellowtail, nestled atop sushi rice.

While the texture and appearance of the fishes themselves did not boast the same immaculate quality one would associate with expertly crafted sushi, the individual varieties were fresh and flavourful nonetheless and did well to keep our sushi cravings in check.

For bold flavours and meaty goodness, we recommend getting the Truffle Yakiniku Don (S$14.90). Seared thoroughly to produce a beautiful caramelised crust whilst remaining pink in the middle, the beef was tender and tasty from start to finish.

The onsen egg provided a heightened richness and the truffle oil, while light, gave a dish a subtle aromatic lift. But in spite of it being a fairly fatty-flavoured bowl, the addition of the ripe cherry tomatoes and diced scallions helped to cut through all of that.

One of Maneko’s signatures and hands down one of the best mentaiko dishes we have ever tried is their Mentaiko Udon (S$11.90). For what it’s worth, we were completely blown away by how simple yet addictive this dish was.

Tossed in a light, creamy sauce with salted cod roe and served chilled, the dish hit all the right notes of savoury, umami and refreshing. The udon possessed a nice chewy texture and formed the perfect vessel for all that sauce to latch on. The onsen egg gave the dish a creamier consistency and the scallions cut through everything perfectly.

All in all, a brilliant dish and one we will surely return for!

Maneko Japanese Restaurant
227 Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 574359
Tel: +65 6909 5401
Daily: 11am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Marymount

Photo credit: Japan Foods Holding

Konjiki Hototogisu—famous ramen shop from Tokyo—is opening in Singapore at Chijmes on 20 June 2018. Founded by Head Chef Atsushi Yamamoto in 1996, Konjiki Hototogisu started with humble origins in Shibuya, Tokyo.

Konjiki Hototogisu’s signature clam-flavoured broth ramen has won numerous awards and it has been listed on Tokyo’s Michelin Bib Gourmand list 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018.

This famous ramen shop from Tokyo will be having its soft opening on 20 June from 6pm to 8pm. The official opening is on 21 June.

Konjiki Hototogisu Singapore
#01-17 Chijmes
30 Victoria Street, Singapore 187996
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 5pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

It is hard to pass up on Japanese food—let alone Japanese buffets where you are free to indulge in endless fresh sashimi, maki and other Japanese delicacies. While we can never get enough of Japanese buffets, it is sometimes hard to decide which Japanese restaurant  we should patronise in Singapore (not that we are complaining).

On days when you want to treat yourself to value-for-money Japanese cuisine that will not break the bank, Shin Minori is an affordable option you should consider. Best known for its a la carte buffet offering, the restaurant caters to all sorts of cravings for Japanese food—offering anything from sushi to sashimi, tempura and even heavier alternatives such as soba and udon.

Drop by either one of their outlets at UE Square or Katong Square for lunch or dinner and you will be greeted by the likes of pretty hand rolls, gorgeous slices of sashimi, maki rolls, tempura and more.

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No meal at a Japanese dining establishment is complete unless you have tried their sashimi. Diners can either go for the Sashimi Moriwase, whereby you get a platter of assorted seafood or individual raw fish options including Maguro (Tuna) Sashimi, Hamachi (Yellow Tail) Sashimi and Ika (Cuttlefish) Sashimi.

For the buffet’s price point, we were impressed by the freshness of the sashimi, which came in the ideal thickness that was kept consistent for all the sashimi slices.

For the sushi lovers, there are more than 20 different choices that will please your taste buds.

From chef recommendations such as Karashi Maguro Sushi (Spicy Tuna with Avocado & Tobikko) and Aburi shake Sushi (Seared Salmon) to crowd favourites that include Ebiko Sushi (Prawn Roe) and Crunchy Kani Sushi (Crabmeat with Tempura bits), there is something on the menu no matter what your preferences are!

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Moving on to the Yakimono section, this is where you will find all the scrumptious grilled dishes that taste as appetising as they look. We highly recommend the Saba Shioyaki (Grilled Mackerel with Salt) and Tori Teriyaki (Grilled Chicken with Sweet Soy Sauce) which was aromatic and covered with charred bits, just the way we enjoy grilled meat.

Shin Minori A La Carte Buffet Pricing
Lunch – Sun & PH
Dinner – Mon to Sun, Eve of PH & PH
Adult (S$41.90++), Child (S$31.90++)

Shin Minori
88 East Coast Road
#02-08 Katong Square
Singapore 423371
Tel: +65 6386 7337
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Paya Lebar

Whenever we talk about Japanese food whether it’s your humble conveyor belt sushi or a full-on gastronomic omakase experience, the same question never fails to pop up—is it worth the splurge?

Well, while a 500-dollar omakase meal may not qualify for a typical weekday dinner, there are in fact, plenty of Japanese restaurants of varying price points that allow even the most thrifty of individuals to have a pretty solid Japanese meal whenever they are craving for Japanese cuisine—even if they are on a budget constraint.

From top-of-the-line Japanese dining establishments to humble hole-in-the-walls, here is our list of Japanese restaurants in Singapore for every budget.

AFFORDABLE JAPANESE RESTAURANTS IN SINGAPORE

DISTRICT SUSHI

District Sushi is a cosy little shop located inside Sunshine Plaza that serves up delicious Japanese fare at wallet-friendly prices.

Their stellar Bara Chirashi Don, which is priced at an unbelievable S$13 per bowl (no GST and service charge), is stacked high with generous cubes of fresh marinated fish and is one of their most frequently ordered items. Besides that, the casual eatery also has a range of sashimi, nigiri sushi and a la carte sides that are mostly below S$15.

91 Bencoolen Street, #01-15
Sunshine Plaza
Singapore 189652
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2pm, 6pm – 8.30pm
Nearest Station: Bencoolen

FISH MART SAKURAYA

Fish Mart SAKURAYA is a Japanese supermarket-cum-eatery that has three branches in Singapore. You can find all kinds of Japanese food-related items in their mart ranging from fresh sashimi to Japanese snacks and frozen ingredients to buy home—think Don Don Donki without the jungle.

Once you’re done shopping, proceed to SAKURAYA Dining at the back of the supermarket to enjoy Japanese mains and side dishes. If you are there for the sashimi, choose your preferred fish over at the display chiller before heading to your table.

370 Alexandra Road
#01-32 Anchorpoint
Singapore 159953
Tel: +65 6474 2495
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Queenstown

IZAKAYA NIJUMARU

Izakaya Nijumaru is one hidden gem (literally) tucked at a corner on the second level of Cuppage Plaza.

The nondescript outlet has been around for three decades. We actually only discovered it about seven years ago but it has since remained as a favourite of ours whenever we want a simple, affordable Japanese meal in Orchard Road.

5 Koek Rd, #02- 228796,
10 Cuppage Road
Tel: +65 6235 6693
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Sun: 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

KOH GRILL & SUSHI BAR

Nestled in the centre of a bustling food court in Wisma Atria, yet serving up restaurant-quality maki rolls, yakitori and sushi is Koh Grill & Sushi Bar. The Japanese restaurant is extremely popular so reservations are recommended.

Must-try’s include their stellar Shiok Maki as well as their various grilled skewer offerings that just ooze smoky deliciousness—if you’re ballsy, go for the chicken heart.

435 Orchard Road #04-21
Wisma Atria Singapore
Tel: +65 9180 3805
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

OMOTE

Omote—formerly known as Sushiro—is a haven for anyone who’s a sucker for raw fish and lots of it. Snaking queues form from as early as before the eatery opens, all just to get their hands on their famous Bara Chirashi Don.

Stacked high, and generously with thick cubes of raw fish and at such an affordable price point too, there is no reason why you should give this a miss if you truly love sashimi—or Japanese food for that matter.

301 Upper Thomson Road
#01-22/30 Thomson Plaza
Singapore 574408
(Closed on Tuesdays)
Mon to Sun: 11.45am – 2.15pm, 5.45pm – 9.15pm
Nearest Station: Marymount

SUMO BAR HAPPY

If you are looking for a casual ramen restaurant which does not compromise on service or quality of food, Sumo Bar Happy is the place to check out. This casual dining concept is brought to you by the team behind Standing Sushi Bar, Tanuki Raw, Shinkansen and The Secret Mermaid.

What makes the ramen bowls there better than average is its collagen-rich tonkotsu ramen broth which can only be achieved through 48 hours of simmer. Every bowl of ramen comes with bean sprouts, toasted seaweed, black fungus and free-flow soft-boiled eggs.

261 Waterloo Street
01-24 Waterloo Centre
Singapore 180261
(Closed on Mondays)
Tue & Wed: 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Thu & Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 10.30pm
Sat: 12pm – 10.30pm
Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bras Basah

THE SUSHI BAR

Hankering for a quality Japanese meal without the over-exorbitant price tag? Then The Sushi Bar is just the place you need to visit—preferably in a group of 3 or more so you can order more dishes for sharing.

This hole-in-a-wall delights with an impressive array of Japanese food such as sushi, sashimi, Japanese-style pasta and donburi but if you only have room for one dish, you must try the much-lauded Salmon Aburi Sushi.

14 Scotts Road
#04-28 Far East Plaza
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Thu: 11.30am – 3.30pm, 5pm – 9.45pm
Fri & Sat: 11.30am – 9.45pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

TSUKIJI FISH MARKET

Located on the rooftop garden of Orchard Central is Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurant! It houses 5 different restaurant concepts in one, serving up flavourful Japanese fare in generous portions at fairly affordable prices.

Tsukiji Fish Market Restaurant takes pride in providing diners with a variety of fresh seasonal fish and you’d be happy to know that most of their seafood products are all air-flown from Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji Fish Market twice a week.

181 Orchard Road, #12-02
Orchard Central
Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6634 2803
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

MID-RANGE JAPANESE RESTAURANTS IN SINGAPORE

EN SAKABA

En Sakaba at Capital Tower enthrals with their stellar shabu shabu offerings, visually stunning à la carte items as well as a selection of curated Japanese whiskies and sake for your after-work tippling pleasure.

At the heart of their food offerings, their highly prized A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Beef is something that warrants a visit. From top-notch farms in Japan to the waiting mouths of hungry patrons, this elite offering is one that promises sheer, melt-in-your-mouth decadence in every bite—whether in the form of shabu shabu or even as a nigiri sushi.

168 Robinson Road #01-10
Capital Tower
Singapore 068912
Tel: +65 6423 0110
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Sat: 11am – 11pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Photo Credit: Tatsu

TATSU

Boasting a 28-seater restaurant with sushi bar and a teppanyaki counter, Tatsu is the ideal venue if you are after a gastronomical Japanese experience.

To get more bang for one’s buck, order the Teppanyaki Course instead where you get to indulge in a plethora of Japanese delights such as codfish, wagyu steak, king prawn, scallop and lobster.

#01-08 CHIJMES, 30 Victoria Street
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 6332 5868
Daily: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

UNI GALLERY

Nestled in the basement of The Plaza (which is just behind PARKROYAL on Beach Road) is this sea urchin-oriented dining concept that specialises in a wide array of uni-centric dishes. Uni Gallery is where your senses take flight with premium uni that originates from Japan and countries such as L.A’s Santa Barbara and British Columbia in Canada.

Standouts include their Uni Sampler Set that allows you to savour the sheer majesty that is uni of different varieties, as well as the Uni Oyster Shot that sees both ikura and uni atop a massive oyster.

7500A Beach Road
#B1-310 The Plaza
Singapore 199591
Tel: +65 9838 8209
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Nicoll Highway

JAPANESE FINE DINING RESTAURANTS IN SINGAPORE

FAT COW

A place where terrific food, culinary finesse and Japanese hospitality all come together, Fat Cow is one of those restaurants that bears timeless appeal.

Helmed by Chef Shigeru Kasajima—a seasoned Japanese chef with many decades of French culinary skills under his belt—every course in his Chef’s Table Omakase menu takes you on a gastronomic trip from the first course right to the very last.

Camden Medical Centre #01-01/02,
1 Orchard Boulevard,
Singapore 248649
Tel: +65 6735 0308
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: Keyaki

KEYAKI

Located on the 4th floor of Pan Pacific Singapore, Keyaki is an elegant Japanese restaurant that is perfect if you’re looking to impress a date. Masters at their craft, the chefs here at Keyaki serve up a culinary experience that is as fresh and vibrant as the quality seasonal ingredients that they use.

Here, diners can look forward to a myriad of freshly-sourced sashimi, teppanyaki and lots more, making this restaurant great for any occasion.

7 Raffles Boulevard,
Level 4 Pan Pacific Hotel,
Singapore 039595
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

MIKUNI

Captivating in both its stylish, somewhat seductive interiors and top-notch food, Mikuni is one place that takes the values of presentation, produce and culinary technique seriously. The restaurant features 3 live stations—Sushi, Robatayaki, and Teppanyaki—and depending on what you’re craving, will promise you a truly memorable dining experience nonetheless.

Exercising Japanese precision and modern technique into preparing only the highest quality of produce, what you can expect is nothing short of sheer perfection.

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2 Stamford Road,
Swissotel The Stamford,
Singapore 178882
Tel: +65 6431 6156
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: City Hall

SHINJI BY KANESAKA

Boasting an exquisite selection of fine sake, food and impeccable service, Michelin-starred Shinji By Kanesaka over at Carlton Hotel Singapore promises a dining experience like no other.

An extension of 1 Michelin star Chef Shinji Kanesaka’s Edo-style sushi restaurant in Tokyo’s exclusive Ginza district, the restaurant promises nothing but the finest Japanese cuisine around.

76 Bras Basah Road
Carlton Hotel Singapore
Singapore 189558
Tel: +65 6338 6131
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Bras Basah / City Hall

SUSHI JIRO

As far as Japanese fine dining goes, Sushi Jiro still remains one of our top few picks for the very simple reason that top quality ingredients remain at the heart of their food.

Their lunch donburi options are stellar and come packed with premium ingredients such as wagyu beef, fatty tuna and more but what you must definitely go for is their omakase. Armed with culinary skills gleaned from his 2-decades-long experience preparing sushi and cooking Japanese food, Chef Kenji astounds with his repertoire of dishes that make use of only the finest produce.

6 Raffles Boulevard
#04-600 Marina Mandarin Singapore
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 6445 3055
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6pm – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Esplanade

TATSUYA

A stalwart of the local dining scene, Tatsuya is where in-the-know locals go for top quality Japanese food. The set lunches are extremely value-for-money, and it explains their evergreen popularity.

Their menu changes every fortnight and comprises fresh seasonal produce directly imported from Japan. Go for the Bara Chirashi and you will not be disappointed.

22 Scotts Road,
Goodwood Park Hotel,
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 6737 7411
Daily: 12pm – 3pm, 6.30pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

For more recommendations, read our guide on the 10 best Omakase restaurants in Singapore.

Located in Oxley Bizhub—just a short walk from Tai Seng MRT Station—Yamato Izakaya is a melting pot of three Japanese dining concepts under one roof! Featuring the likes of famous unagi restaurant, Man Man, Ramen Hitoyoshi and Tora Tora, this restaurant is on its way to becoming a stalwart for local Japanese dining in Singapore.

Beloved for their fresh and modern renditions (and generous portions) of grilled Japanese eel, Man Man’s unagi dishes is a definite must-try. But be sure to save room for Ramen Hitoyoshi’s signature ramen as well as the vast array of sushi and donburi options courtesy of Tora Tora.

Yamato Izakaya is no doubt one spot to visit should you find yourself hankering for authentic, rock-solid Japanese food. On Saturdays, parking on site is free so that’s another plus point if you’re thinking of paying this restaurant a visit for a hearty family lunch.

It’s pretty difficult to miss this restaurant because whether you are driving past, in or around Oxley Bizhub, chances are you’ll catch a glimpse of their massive signboard out front.

The restaurant itself can easily accommodate more than a hundred patrons given its huge space and the 3 kitchens all take on an open concept, meaning that you get to see the chefs at work while you wait for your food.

Man Man offers its famous unagi in three portions—Unatama (S$20.50++), medium (S$28.40++) and large (S$36.10++)

The Unatama (S$20.50++) is substantial enough to allow one to savour their prized dish without getting sick of it as well as to leave room to try the other offerings from Ramen Hitoyoshi and Tora Tora.

Tastewise, it was probably one of the best unagi dishes we have ever had in Singapore. Sweet, oily with a deeply charred flavour and texturally one of the most delicate pieces of fish around, take our word for it and order a bigger portion of this.

The rice bowl comes with 2 thick slices of tamago which do well to bolster the richness of the unagi as well.

Hitoyoshi Ramen delights diners with their wide array of ramen dishes that are all customisable depending on how distinct your palate is. We opted for the most basic, Tonkotsu Ramen (S$10.90) which came with a generous portion of ramen noodles, slices of pork and a beautifully seasoned egg.

The Tonkotsu broth was rich in flavour and brimming with porky goodness. The infusion of the black fungus really does give it a heightened umami taste and we particularly loved just how thick and concentrated the broth was.

If you’re ever unsure of what to order, especially given Tora Tora’s extensive range donburi offerings, consider their Futago Don which essentially is a pair of dons in one!

We got the Kaisen Don (S$7) along with the Ikura Don (S$7) which comprised a generous serving of diced up salmon, tuna, scallops, geoduck and a huge dollop of ikura over top. Salty, fresh and jam-packed with umami goodness, this is definitely something to opt for if you’re a sashimi fanatic.

Yamato Izakaya
65 Ubi Road 1, #01-92 Oxley Bizhub,
Singapore 408729
Tel: +65 6385 5273
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 3pm, 5.30pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Tai Seng

For the love of all things, breaded, fried and golden, few come close to the taste and textural satisfaction we get from Japanese tonkatsu. What’s to hate? It’s everything you could ever want on a plate from the crispiness of its breaded exterior to the moist, meaty flavour that hides within.

While East Coast Road may seem a tad far off for tonkatsu—given that you can easily find it everywhere nowadays—Katsuya is one tonkatsu-focused restaurant worth making a trip down for.

The restaurant—helmed by Chef Kervin who has several years of experience cooking Japanese cuisine and even a Japan-issued chef license to boot—ensures that everything is done properly. They do not use MSG and lard in their cooking and the sheer deliciousness of their food is solely dependant on the technique and freshness of each individual ingredient.

On their menu, diners can expect to find a wide range of katsu offerings spanning the classic pork katsu, beef katsu and even lamb katsu. Sashimi, sake and other small plates are also available for those looking for a quick snack and tipple after work.

As far as pork is concerned, having a good amount of fat almost always guarantees exceptional flavour, which is why we did not hesitate to opt for the Rosu (pork with fat) Tonkatsu (S$23++).

The layer of fat was moist, full of porky flavour and provided a somewhat buttery element to the dish. Having gotten the set, we were also treated to refillable cabbage and rice!

While there was nothing wrong with the Chicken Katsu Curry (S$23++), we felt that it lacked a certain flair to it. The chicken was succulent and deep-fried to golden perfection, however, the curry sauce—as flavourful as it was—seemed like any other Japanese curry sauce.

The dish was well balanced from the pickles and the shredded cabbage that do well to cut through the intense richness of the curry and is, without a doubt, a good option to consider if you ever find yourself craving Japanese curry—our only gripe was that it seemed a tad too ordinary considering its price point.

Katsuya
85 East Coast Road,
Singapore 428787
Tel: +65 6344 8183
(Closed on Mondays)
Tue to Fri: 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Eunos