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

Helmed by Chef Teppei Yamashita, the mastermind behind the renowned Teppei brand, Fu-Men Japanese Udon & Donburi is a relatively new halal-certified Japanese restaurant nestled in the basement of Hong Leong Building.

He has been constantly expanding his empire of Japanese restaurants be it in Singapore or overseas and this time, his venture aims to cater to those working in the CBD looking for affordable halal food.

Specialising in authentic Hakata-style udon and donburi bowls—the first of its kind in Singapore, guests can expect Fu-Men Japanese Udon & Donburi Restaurant to deliver in terms of quality and authenticity.

Possibly the most popular item on the menu, their Gobo Udon (S$12+) is a rather unique item you’d rarely find in typical Japanese restaurants and eateries. For the uninitiated, gobo is essentially the root of a burdock plant that has a crunchy texture and natural sweetness.

Topped with a generous helping of Japanese burdock tempura, the Gobo Udon is one that is set to impress. Deep-fried in a light and thin tempura batter, we appreciate how the gobo provides an extra crunchy texture to the dish despite being soaked in the broth.

While the tempura was impressive on its own, what truly sealed the deal for us was the thinner-than-usual, silky smooth udon that is satisfyingly chewy, giving a pleasant bite.

Besides udon, Fu-Men also serves a variety of donburi bowls. We opted for the Ebi Ten Don (S$17+) which sees two pieces of huge prawn tempura nestled on a bed of egg and Japanese rice.

Aptly crisp, the tempura batter that coats the prawn beneath is light and remains crispy even after having been left out for a while. Biting in, you’d find huge prawns that are plump and fresh.

While there really isn’t much to nitpick about this dish, we thought that it was quite pricey considering its portion. Other donburi items on the menu include Oyako (S$13+) and Beef Egg (S$15+).

Fu-Men Japanese Udon & Donburi Restaurant
16 Raffles Quay
Hong Leong Building #B1-17/18
Singapore 048581
Tel: +65 6224 1134
Mon to Fri: 10am – 8pm
Sat: 10am – 2.30pm
(Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays)
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

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

With the ubiquity of Japanese restaurants and kiosks all around the island, it is pretty easy to suss out a decent spot to get your urgent ramen and sushi fix. Even though Japanese food tends to lean more on the use of seafood as its ingredients, the use of pork is just as prevalent—notably in ramen broths (yes, Tonkotsu ramen being a classic example).

In Singapore, there is a growing number of Japanese eateries that are catering to the expansive Muslim market. Just as delicious, these eateries dole out sushi, sashimi, udon, donburi, ramen and other Japanese gastronomical delights that are halal-certified.

Do not wait until that next trip to the Land of the Rising Sun, nosh to your heart’s content now! Here are 9 Halal-Certified Japanese Eateries In Singapore That Are Simply Oishii.

Photo Credit: Hei Sushi

#1 HEI SUSHI

Hei Sushi is Singapore’s first kaiten sushi restaurant which gives you easy access to the mind-boggling array of sushi choices as they go round and round.

The plates are colour-coded according to price so that you can roughly keep track of the damage done. Some must-try signatures at this full-scale Japanese eatery include Hei Dragon Makimono (S$8.90), Gyu Ramen (S$17.90) and Shake Tobimayo (S$5.40/2 pcs).

Market Square @ Downtown East
E!Avenue, #02-334
1 Pasir Ris Close
Singapore 519599
Tel: +65 6386 7141
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Pasir Ris
*Multiple outlets islandwide

Photo Credit: Inari-ku

#2 INARI-KU

Top-notch Japanese delights from a home-based masterchef? Do not underestimate the quality of Mdm Marhamah’s sushi platters. Having graduated from the esteemed Tokyo Sushi Academy, Mdm Marhamah decided to use her skills and knowledge to open a home business.

Although there is no physical store, her massive loyal following ascertains that all her sushi platters get sold out super quickly. Gyuniku Don, Duo Inari Sushi Platter, Spicy Miso Ramen and Salmon Teriyaki Bento are just some of the main highlights you can look forward to.

Pasir Ris Street 13
Singapore 510155
Tel: +65 9699 9592
Nearest Station: Pasir Ris

Photo Credit: Isuramuya Japanese Restaurant & Marketplace

#3 ISURAMUYA JAPANESE RESTAURANT & MARKETPLACE

Freshness is guaranteed here at Isuramyu as ingredients are flown in directly from Japan. The exhaustive menu features sashimi, nigiri, donburi, ramen, tempura, agemono and yakimono.

Something to take note about this restaurant is its novel on-premise marketplace. If you wish to test your culinary skills at re-creating these mouth-watering sushi or do some grocery shopping, this is the place to do so.

2 Jurong East Central 1 #04-19
JCube Jurong
Singapore 609731
Tel: +65 6262 3008
Daily: 11.30am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Jurong East

Photo Credit: Junshin Express

#4 JUNSHIN EXPRESS

Pining for some cheap takeaway sushi to enjoy in the comfort of your home? Jushin Express can easily settle that for you with sushi that is just 50 cents a piece.

There are even healthy mixed sushi platters that feature veggie sushi (Yellow Bell Peppers Sushi) and fruit sushi (Red Apple Salad Sushi) for you to sample. Be sure to try the Aburi Black Pepper Salmon sushi and the Teriyaki Salmon Sushi too.

311 New Upper Changi Rd
Singapore 467360
Tel: +65 6844 9448
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Bedok

Photo Credit: Lean Bento

#5 LEAN BENTO

For a guilt-free Japanese meal, Lean Bento does it right with healthy and nutritious meals that look absolutely splendid. Choose from their delicious set bentos which you can even have delivered right to your doorstep.

If you are having trouble deciding on what is best from their ‘eat clean’ menu, perhaps you can try the Miso Salmon and Mediterranean Chicken Premium Bento (S$17.95) or the Honey Chicken Bento (S$11.95). Desserts are pretty unique here too as seen from the Matcha Tea Ninja Protein Muffin (S$3.95).

43 Holland Drive, #01-49
Singapore 270043
Tel: +65 6750 4504
Mon to Fri: 10am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Buona Vista

#6 MAKI-SAN

Maki-san is a brilliant concept that allows you to DIY your sushi just the way you like them. From traditional Nori wrap to the unique Crepe wrap, you also decide which rice you prefer (brown rice or Japanese white rice).

The customisation then begins. You select the main ingredients, sprinkles and sauces, depending on the sushi roll size (S$7.90 onwards). They also have a fixed menu for those who are unsure of what to get.

8 Grange Road
#01-04 Cathay Cineleisure Orchard
Singapore 239695
Tel: +65 6737 8772
Mon to Thu, Sun: 11.30am – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut
*Multiple outlets islandwide

Photo Credit: Santaro By Gion

#7 SANTARO BY GION

Helmed by renowned chef Santaro Li, this fine Japanese restaurant is nothing short of outstanding. Delight in special seasonal sets or choose from the extensive a la carte menu. The specialty here is none other than the Omakase dishes, courtesy of Chef Santaro Li’s niche.

The contemporary open-concept dining area is very welcoming indeed. To indulge in a quintessentially Japanese meal, you may even want to consider reserving one out of the three tatami rooms. The impeccable service coupled with the scrumptious food makes this restaurant a big hit amongst many.

Amara Singapore Hotel, #02-26
165 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088539
Tel: +65 6444 9989
Daily: 11.30pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Photo Credit: Shin Tokyo Sushi

#8 SHIN TOKYO SUSHI

Another sushi conveyor concept, under the Ramen Ten brand, Shin Tokyo Sushi  is another conveyor belt sushi restaurant in Singapore. The popular choices here are the mixed sushi and sashimi platter which gives you the chance to sample a bit of everything.

If you want to satisfy your palate with something out of the norm, go for the Maguro Avocado Rice Paper Roll.

14 Scotts Road, #01-22
Far East Plaza
Singapore 228213
Tel: +65 6238 7983
Daily: 11.30am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Photo Credit: The Ramen Stall

#9 THE RAMEN STALL

The Ramen Stall’s opening hours caters especially to those dying for some late-night munchies. Tucked away at North Bridge Road, ramen options here differ on two ends of the spectrum from soup-based ones to dry ramen. The level of spiciness is also varied according to preference (and pain threshold).

For those who have a predilection for all things fiery, you have to try the Volcano Ramen. The broth is boiled for a whopping 30 hours and most definitely packs a great punch. Game for a challenge?

787 North Bridge Road
Singapore 198755
Tel: +65 6655 0800
Mon to Fri: 5pm – 5am
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 5am
Nearest Station: Bugis

For more recommendations, read our guide on halal cafes in Singapore.