Japanese cuisine, known as “washoku,” has captivated the world with its impeccable presentation, clean flavors, and emphasis on fresh ingredients. From the cult classic sushi to other favourites like donburi, ramen, oden, tsukemen, soba, and much more, it offers a culinary journey like no other. Japanese restaurants worldwide provide the quickest way to savour these culinary delights, allowing food enthusiasts to experience the gastronomic wonders of Japan without travelling to the Land of the Rising Sun. Should you ever find yourself in the mood for such exotic cuisine, these are the go-to places for the best Japanese food in SG.
Note: This list is strictly not in order.
1. Tora Tora Tora
Tora Tora Tora is a modern Japanese restaurant in Singapore renowned for its seafood, sake bar, and authentic Izakaya experience. Here, you’ll be spoiled for choice with their large variety of incredibly fresh seasonal sushi and sashimi, charcoal-grilled signatures, and Izakaya classics that go down well with their premium selection of Japanese sake and whiskeys. For those interested in celebrating special occasions at Tora Tora Tora, the restaurant also accommodates private dining and event reservations. Whether you’re simply looking to unwind and celebrate with a few friends away from the crowd or host bigger corporate functions or parties, Tora Tora Tora is sure to meet all your needs and then some.
Customer Reviews:
윤혜민
Came to celebrate my husband’s birthday and had a highly recommended experience here. The food and service are top-notch, and the music adds a fantastic vibe to the atmosphere. Caleb was incredibly friendly and made sure our dinner was exceptional 👍. I highly recommend trying their plum highball; it’s crafted with their in-house recipe and tastes amazing!
Caleb Soh
Amazing hidden rooftop bar/restaurant. Caleb was very accommodating and the service he provided which contributed to our experience here made the difference. In house alcohol and dishes were really good!
Sandra Chua
Went there for a celebratory dinner. Glad that this place was chosen. Ambience and food was great! Sashimi was really fresh. Love the white corn and fried rice. Didn’t managed to get much pictures as food was pretty quickly savoured as soon as it was served to us.
Website: https://www.toratoratora.sg/
Contact: 9852 9148
Location: 62 Ubi Rd 1, #11-19, Singapore 408734
Opening Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 6 PM–11:30 PM | Friday-Saturday 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 6 PM–1 AM
2. Shinzo Japanese Cuisine
Sushi. Omakase. Sake. These are the specialties of which Shinzo Japanese Cuisine is best known for, and the restaurant is dedicated to bringing these high-quality offerings to those with discerning tastes at an affordable price. Shinzo is led by Chef Kevin Ho, a seasoned and incredibly passionate sushi shokunin (sushi artisan) who knows that the best sushi are those made from the heart. With his unparalleled expertise and fresh ingredients flown straight from Japan combined, guests are treated to gourmet sushi and other seasonal menu offerings topped off with warm hospitality that makes each visit unforgettable.
Customer Reviews:
Aust Bowy
An amazing omakase where one would feel welcomed like family. The chef was friendly and very open to conversations while dishing out delicious dishes left and right. The price was about $140 per person for lunch for a multiple course meal. The chef ensured that one would be full before leaving which is rare in fine dining. The waitresses ensured if one was allergic before informing the chef which was a nice touch in my opinion. The food had multiple textures, tastes and mouth feels that brought one on a journey. Overall, a person should treat themselves once in a while and this is a place that I guarantee where one would look forward to.
ada koh
Food is very good. Tried a few jap food places but this place always stands out in terms of taste and quality. Chef Kevin is friendly and entertaining. Kudos to them.
Jayon See
What an amazing omakase experience. Omakase Nigiri set is reasonably priced compared to other places. Nigiri is treated with light Wasabii, Lemon Zest & Shoyu, the combo is just perfect. Fatty Part (Otoro) is my favourite, and Chef Kevin is truly a master in omakase field. He is a good cook and an entertainer.
Website: http://www.shinzo.com.sg/
Contact: 6438 2921
Location: 17 Carpenter St, Singapore 059906
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 12 PM–3 PM, 6 PM–10:30 PM | Closed on Sundays
3. Shoukouwa Restaurant
Shoukouwa Restaurant is a multi-award winning Japanese restaurant in SG serving world-class fine-dining edomae sushi. Settling for nothing less than the best when it comes to freshness and authenticity, the restaurant imports all of its ingredients directly from Ginza in Tokyo, ensuring only the best seasonal seafood with the purest flavours for its esteemed guests. Of course, good ingredients are only one part of the equation, which is why Shoukouwa has some of the best Japanese chefs in the industry well-versed in edomae sushi traditions and boast years of experience at prestigious Ginza establishments. With only eight seats right in front of their table, guests will get to directly interact with and enjoy personalised attention from these chefs for the entirety of their meal.
Customer Reviews:
Will Li
One of best omakase that I have ever tried. The abalone dish was a highlight with it soft texture and you can taste the sweetness. All the ingredients were top notch along with the attentive service. They provide you with a menu and card detailing the seafood used in each dish.
The Caviar King
If budget is no objection , then this Michelin ⭐️⭐️ Japanese restaurant is the one to go to . The skill level of the head chef and the best ingredients that he uses and at the same time very generous make this Japanese restaurant to be one of my favorite . There are many Japanese that charges a lot but under delivered . However , Shoukouwa is different although I still prefer the liver sauce in the Awabi from Sushi Sakuta as well as the Nodoguro . Definitely will be back again. 👍
Jie Lu
This is my first itamae sushi experience, and it was great. Before I went I did not understand why people pay so much and make such effort for this experience, but I do understand now, and wanted to go again. Somehow like how I felt about Disney. 😂
Website: http://www.shoukouwa.com.sg/
Contact: 6423 9939
Location: 1 Fullerton Rd, #02-02A One Fullerton, Singapore 049213
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 12:30–3 PM, 6 PM–10:30 PM | Closed on Sundays & Mondays
4. Hachi Restaurant
Hachi Restaurant is a premier Japanese food restaurant in Singapore recognised for pioneering the concept of omakase (お任せ) dining in the island. This gastronomic experience involves entrusting the chef to decide what to serve for their meal, foregoing the traditional fixed menus. This concept that has long been popular among the Japanese is now also gaining traction among Singaporeans looking to be relieved of the decision-making process over their meal, opting instead for the chef to surprise them with something new and exciting. With Hachi’s unrelenting passion towards elevating each and every ingredient to its greatest potential, guests can expect each meal to leave a long lasting impression that’ll have them coming back for more.
Customer Reviews:
Loh Jiahui
Weekday Lunch hour/ Omakase set. Atmosphere: Tranquill. Service staff: kind and pays attention to detail. They offered a box to place my bag, a shawl if i were cold, and even re-adjusted my cutlery when they noticed I was left handed!! Amazing! 1st restaurant staff to have ever done so. 👏 Food: Fine attention to detail and flavour. Food displays were amazing and the flavours all came together beautifully. Food were all SO fresh, made my mouth feel like i was on cloud 9. Loved my experience there, thank you all so much. 💗
La Madame NomNom
Money we’ll spent. Exquisitely plated and absolutely delicious dishes. Service folks were all very attentive and professional. Nice ambience too.
David Wong
Had an amazing and delightful experience all due to the whole team at Hachi. The ingredients were fresh and the chefs explained in detail the courses we were having. Service was attentive without being in your face which made the whole experience so pleasant, the small little touches and attention to detail by all the staff shows that they take pride in what they are doing. The quality and presentation of the food was excellent and beats out some other establishments that are Michelin starred. Really appreciate the effort put in to make it a memorable celebration for us, kudos to the whole team at Hachi!
Website: http://www.hachirestaurant.com/
Contact: 6734 9622
Location: 1 St Andrew’s Rd, #01-02/03 National Gallery Singapore, Singapore 178957
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 12 PM–2:30 PM, 6 PM–11 PM | Closed on Sundays
5. Ki-sho 葵匠
Ki-sho 葵匠 is a leading Japanese restaurant in Singapore that offers a culinary showcase of Japanese artisanship not found anywhere else on the island. From the establishment’s architecture and the vessels that house each dish to the very ingredients and refreshments served, this value of uncompromising craftsmanship is deeply ingrained in every aspect of the dining journey they provide. Ki-sho 葵匠 mainly specialises in serving Kappou Omakase for lunch and dinner consisting of seasonal dishes along with a curated selection of premium sake such as Kokuryu Fuku Daiginjo, Juyondai Choutokusen, Kokuryu Ishidaya, and many more.
Customer Reviews:
Alex Tiong
One of the best Omakase that I have tasted in Singapore, and I opted for the lunch menu. Do not underestimate the portion of this omakase. I am quite an eater, and I am quite full when I reach the unagi set. The flavours of each dishes are amazing, the ottoro sashimi is really good. For A5 wagyu, you will need to top up an additional SGD50, which I did, and it is so worth it.
Wen Huang
Ki-sho has been on our to-try list for awhile, while each course was well composed, the overall experience lacked any real moments of delight or surprises. Service was spot-on, friendly staff and chef. Location is just away enough from the orchard traffic to feel like an intimate getaway. At this price point, there are many other more memorable options, making it hard to justify a return visit above other similar kappo-styled restaurants. 4.5 stars overall, though not a repeat venue for me.
Jenn Jenn
This place is a true hidden gem and true Kaiseki cuisine. Incredible food and delightful service indeed. This place is truly special.
Website: http://www.ki-sho.com.sg/
Contact: 9061 6109
Location: 29 Scotts Rd, Singapore 228224
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 12 PM–3 PM, 6:30 PM–11 PM | Saturday 6:30 PM–11 PM | Closed on Sundays
6. Hakumai
Hakumai Sushi & Omakase is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Singapore known for its exquisite sashimi omakase and sushi. The restaurant exclusively imports its ingredients directly from some of the best sources in Japan, such as Tsukiji Market which is best known for its seasonal catches and Niigata Prefecture where one can get some of the best koshi rice in the world. This means that Hakumai’s unique menu of modern dishes and traditional sushi use only the freshest in season picks. So, whether you’re in the mood for some unajyu, sushi gozen, hotate mentai, or wagyu don, you’re sure to get nothing short of excellence with every bite.
Customer Reviews:
Sakthi Balan
Taishō Gary takes amazing pride in his works and honestly we are very satisfied and thankful for the lunch omakase ! The attention to detail was really impressive – he immediately noticed my friend was left handed and served the sushi accordingly to that orientation. And the portions per sushi were generous and deserving for the quality of seafood presented. Would be greatly appreciated if the service staff were not talking across the counter where we were seated at. Nevertheless – I feel this establishment deserves and will always be 5/5. Will come back for sure !
Heng Heng
Chef Gary Ng is the best Japanese chef who will take care of you at Hakumai. Awesome food. Awesome bar chat with a chef who have been in the Japanese restaurant circuit in Singapore for decades.
Kevin Lee
Had the signature omakase set and I can’t wait to be back. Chef Gary delivered a delectable dinner and didn’t rely heavily on strong flavours like truffle, uni and foie gras; unlike other omakases I’ve been to. Every course was delicious and transitioned well to the next. My favourites were his sashimi spread (THICK cuts) and the mentaiko crab, which I scooped up like ice cream. 10/10 would return.
Website: http://www.hakumai.com.sg/
Contact: 6224 4790
Location: 10 Anson Rd, #01-50A International Plaza, Singapore 079903
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 12 PM–2 PM, 6:15 PM–9 PM | Closed on Sundays
7. Tatsuya
Tatsuya is a top of the line dining establishment that has been offering some of the best Japanese food in Singapore since 1998. Built from its owner’s desire to share the joy of enjoying authentic Japanese cuisine in a comforting atmosphere, Tatsuya is now the place to be for such a warm and unique experience. The restaurant offers a diverse menu of mouth-wateringly tantalising dishes that include the likes of donburi, omakase dinner sets, makizushi, and traditional sushi all prepared by a team of master chefs with years of experience. Besides their regular staples that are always available all year round, they also offer exclusive seasonal items that are only available for several weeks at most every year. These include rare delicacies like chocolate with mochi, puffer fish salad, smelt fish tempura, simmered monk fish with miso, and many others.
Customer Reviews:
Cheong Yew Ng
Definitely one of the best Japanese restaurants in Singapore. Sitting at the bar counter and watching the chefs preparing food is like watching artists skillfully creating masterpieces. The Chef’s Omakase featuring seasonal items was mindblowingly amazing. The sashimi, fried fish, and sushi were indescribably delicious. The ingredients, sauces, preparation, and presentation made every mouthful a ballet orchestra of flavours bursting into the universe and beyond. You will know how amazing the food is after you have tried it.
WL Lee
Exquisitely plated, delicious Japanese cuisine prepared by professional chefs at the counter and served by thoughtful and friendly service staff. Pricey but the entire experience was well worth it!
Vanese Ng
My husband surprised me with this special dinner set from Tatsuya for my birthday. The food was amazing! The various sashimi were all really fresh. Also, I love uni so they made sure there were a few dishes consisting of uni. They even gave a slice of cake to celebrate the occasion. How thoughtful. Cannot wait to dine in person next time!
Website: https://www.tatsuya.com.sg/
Contact: 6737 1160
Location: 22 Scotts Rd, Singapore 228221
Opening Hours: Open Daily 12 PM–3 PM, 6:30 PM–10 PM Daily
8. Maetomo Japanese Cuisine Kaiseki & Sushi
Maetomo is an established restaurant that serves to reconceptualise the concept of traditional Japanese dining or washoku through innovative and state-of-the-art dishes that come with a modern twist. It is led by Chef Maetomo who draws inspiration from the beauty of Japan’s seasonal transitions and uses it to bring out some of the finest flavours and the ever-tantalising umami taste in every dish. The restaurant is best known for its kaiseki and sushi cuisine, which follow a rotating menu according to the seasons as the ingredients that thrive during these periods are said to hold the greatest flavour potential than any other.
Customer Reviews:
Chun Wui Tan
Excellent hospitality and a very flavourful and filling selection presented in the omakase. The style and flavours present a very comforting homely palate with many brothy / gravied options. Uni sashimi was out of this world and perhaps amongst the freshest I’ve had not just in Singapore but even in Japan.
Yumi Lee
Had the Omakase Sushi set (15 pieces of Nigiri sushi) and it was so fulfiling! Seafood were definitely fresh and I especially love the prawn and uni! Thank you Chef Felix and team for the awesome service and experience!
Mei Yong
Delicious and luxurious yet reasonably priced compared to some of the other omakase options in Singapore. Fresh ingredients with balanced flavours. The dish that surprised and delighted me the most was the crispy deep fried fugu cheek. A highlight of my holiday. 💜
Website: https://maetomo-restaurant.sg/
Contact: 6219 3990
Location: 39 Scotts Rd, #01-01 Sheraton Towers Hotel, Singapore 228230
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 12 PM–2:30 PM, 6 PM–10:30 PM | Saturday-Sunday 6 PM–10:30 PM
Conclusion
Japanese cuisine’s international acclaim is a testament to its unique flavours, artistic presentation, and culinary excellence. From the familiar tastes of sushi and ramen to rare delicacies like fugu and uni, Japanese food offers a diverse and delightful dining experience unlike any other. Japanese restaurants in Singapore bring these wonders to our doorstep, allowing us to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of Japan without the need to travel. This accessibility ensures that the enchanting flavours of Japanese cuisine continue to captivate and inspire food lovers everywhere.
Next time, if you feel like exploring even more global flavours, consider visiting some of the best international buffets in SG, where you can indulge in a wide variety of cuisines, including Japanese favourites, all in one satisfying dining experience.