Singapore’s love affair with Japanese cuisine is undeniable. From bustling sushi bars to intimate omakase counters, the city’s culinary landscape is bursting with authentic flavors from the Land of the Rising Sun. But for those seeking the pinnacle of Japanese dining—a true sensory experience that is equal parts art and gastronomy—there’s nothing quite like Kaiseki.
What is Kaiseki?
Kaiseki (懐石) is not just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors, textures, and visual elegance meticulously crafted to showcase the season’s best ingredients. The term originated from the humble traditions of 16th-century Kyoto, where Zen monks would serve a simple yet refined meal to accompany tea ceremonies. Over time, this evolved into a haute cuisine experience reserved for the aristocracy, emphasising balance, harmony, and the natural essence of ingredients. Today, Kaiseki is revered as the highest form of Japanese fine dining, embodying the country’s cultural philosophy of ‘shun’—eating what’s in season at its peak.
Why is Kaiseki Popular in Singapore?
Singaporeans have an insatiable appetite for culinary excellence, and Kaiseki fits perfectly into the city’s appreciation for meticulous craftsmanship, fresh ingredients, and immersive dining experiences. The growing affluence of diners and their willingness to explore refined, multi-course meals have led to Kaiseki’s rise in popularity. Additionally, with a significant Japanese expatriate community and travelers seeking a taste of home, Japanese restaurants have found a welcoming audience in Singapore’s vibrant food scene.
Now, let’s dive into the crème de la crème of Kaiseki restaurants in Singapore—each offering an exquisite journey through Japan’s seasonal delights.
Note: This list is strictly not in order.
1. Maetomo Japanese Cuisine Kaiseki & Sushi
Elegance meets authenticity at Maetomo, where precision and artistry take center stage. Helmed by Chef Maetomo himself, this restaurant masterfully combines traditional Kaiseki with an exquisite sushi selection. Expect beautifully plated dishes that pay homage to Japan’s four seasons, with ingredients sourced directly from renowned markets in Tokyo and Hokkaido.
Customer reviews:
Shiro Tan
Stellar service! Excellent kaiseki by Chef Maetomo who served us every course personally, meal preparation assisted by his efficient assistants.
Joy KC
Excellent service and hospitality. Had the omakase sushi dinner. Every course was satisfying. Freshness, texture was awesome. Had anago eel, black throat fish, tile fish which is seasonal. Thanks to Chef Shige & Chef Felix for a wonderful dinner.
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.
Website: https://maetomo-restaurant.sg/
Contact: 6219 3990
Location: 39 Scotts Rd, #01-01 Sheraton Towers Hotel, Singapore 228230
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday 6 PM-10:30 PM
2. Ikkoten Omakase
Tucked away in an intimate setting, Ikkoten Omakase offers a Kaiseki-style experience infused with modern creativity. The menu changes frequently to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients, and each dish is crafted with an eye for harmony and aesthetics. Whether it’s a delicately torched piece of fish or a richly flavored dashi broth, every bite is a testament to Japanese culinary precision.
Customer reviews:
Shereen Pang
Head Chef Brandon was very engaging throughout the dinner. He clearly described each course and share about his past work experiences. We had 5 Kaiseki and 1 Wagyu Omakase. The Kaiseki menu was good and my favourite was their Signature Negotoro Ubi Sushi as well as the Signature Sakura Ebi Donabe. I would rate overall experience as 4:5/5. Room for improvement: the toilet area as well as chef being mindful not to use his hand to swipe his fringe while handling our food 😅.
Alch
This was one of the best dinners I have had this year, incredible flavours accompanied by a very nice and engaging chef. It is almost worth flying into singapore every year for the Kaiseki course.
Jasper Koh
Definitely a 5/5 experience dining here. What an incredible dining experience. Each dish in this omakase is elevated, well thought off and it taste SO GOOD. I got their Uni course and I simply loved it. From starters with Uni, to chawamushi with Uni, to fried fish with Uni, to Uni fish cake dumpling with dashi stock to their signature donabe.
Website: http://ikkoten.com.sg/
Contact: 8666 9924
Location: 86 Telok Ayer St, Singapore 048469
Operating Hours: Monday 6:30 PM-10 PM | Tuesday-Saturday: Lunch: 12 PM-12:30 PM, Dinner: 6:30 PM-10 PM | Closed on Sundays
3. Ushidoki Wagyu Kaiseki
If Wagyu is your love language, then Ushidoki is your temple. Specialising in Wagyu Kaiseki, this restaurant takes the marbled, melt-in-your-mouth beef to a whole new level. The multi-course experience highlights different cuts and cooking techniques, from lightly seared to slow-cooked perfection, ensuring that every dish is an ode to umami.
Customer reviews:
Aziz Hamdan
Best kept secret. Finally an omakase that is worth trying. Every dish is rich with flavor and the chief aged stew is a jewel to steel. Love it that ur try different types of cuts of meat and enjoy the journy with the cheif. Only worth with great company.
Sonia Gan
Ushidoki is probably the best place for Japanese wagyu beef. While it is heavily focused on beef, the menu is also well balanced with sushi and other umami packed dishes prepared with the highest quality ingredients.
Eros Zeus Lomboy
Ushidoki offers an exceptional Wagyu omakase experience featuring the rare and exquisite Ozaki Beef, straight from the farm of Mr. Muneharu Ozaki in Miyazaki Prefecture. What sets Ozaki Beef apart is the meticulous care and unique approach Mr. Ozaki takes in raising his cattle. Unlike typical Wagyu, which is usually slaughtered around 28 months, Mr. Ozaki allows his cattle to mature up to 32-36 months, enhancing the beef’s depth and complexity.
Website: http://www.ushidoki.com/
Contact: 9643 5564
Location: 57 Tras St, #01-01, Singapore 078996
Operating Hours: Monday 6 PM-10:30 PM | Tuesday-Friday: Lunch: 12 PM-12:30 PM, Dinner: 6 PM-10:30 PM | Saturday 6 PM-10:30 PM | Closed on Sundays
4. Hazuki
Hazuki is where modern sophistication meets time-honored Kaiseki traditions. With a minimalist yet luxurious ambiance, this kaiseki restaurant in Singapore focuses on premium seasonal ingredients flown in from Japan. The chef’s dedication to authenticity is evident in every dish, from delicate sashimi platters to intricately prepared tempura and simmered delicacies.
Customer reviews:
Ciboysg W
Great kappo restaurant in town. Very fresh ingredients and skillfully executed dishes. Enjoyed every dishes and the amount is plenty. Chefs are very chatty and overall services are excellent. A bit pricy but worth the price.
Andrew Tan
A lovely experience dining at Hazuki. The atmosphere, food and service are impeccable. Looking forward to more in the next visit.
Jonathan Tan
We made a last minute reservation for dinner and the restaurant was kind enough to accommodate us. As part of their service, they would show us the raw ingredients and they also offered to turn the rice into onigiri for us to take home.
Website: http://hazuki.sg/
Contact: 6893 1555
Location: 391 Orchard Rd, #04-18A, Singapore 238872
Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: Lunch: 12:30 PM-2:30 PM, Dinner: 6:30 PM-11 PM | Closed on Mondays
5. Kiten
Kiten Singapore stands out as one of the best kaiseki restaurants in Singapore, offering an exquisite multi-course dining experience that embodies the essence of Japanese culinary artistry. With a strong commitment to authenticity, Kiten carefully curates each dish using premium seasonal ingredients, ensuring a harmonious balance of flavours, textures, and presentation. Every course is meticulously crafted by skilled chefs who bring the rich traditions of kaiseki dining to life, making each meal an immersive journey through Japan’s culinary heritage.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or indulging in an elegant dining experience, Kiten provides an intimate and refined atmosphere that enhances the enjoyment of its beautifully plated dishes. For those seeking an authentic taste of Japan, Kiten Singapore promises a gastronomic adventure that showcases the true essence of kaiseki cuisine.
Customer reviews:
foodtimesroll
Really enjoyed our kaiseki dinner here. Their menu rotates regularly to feature seasonal ingredients. Quality of food was great, presentation was meticulous and the service was so warm. I should also add that this is a great place to celebrate special occasions 🙂 you’ll get what I mean when you’re here
WengLog Yee
A restaurant filled with craving surprises! Went for dinner with family and was so impressed with the food served and the quality was top-notched! It’s simple and aesthetically appealing to me, really enjoyed the food there. Definitely going back for more!! Must try kaiseki!!
C K Leong (Ah Leong San)
Kiten is a small but very good Japanese Kaiseki restaurant. Chef Alpha and his team make very yummy food. Best of it is different items for the Kaiseki meals. From the appetiser to dessert it’s really good.
Website: https://www.kiten.sg/
Contact: 6518 9329
Location:181 South Bridge Road Cross Street Exchange, #01-04, #01-K3, Singapore 058743
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM | Closed on Sunday
6. Zeniya Singapore
Zeniya Singapore is a premier destination for those seeking an authentic kaiseki dining experience in the heart of Singapore. As one of the best kaiseki restaurants in Singapore, Zeniya takes pride in offering an exquisite multi-course meal that showcases the artistry and precision of Japanese cuisine. Each dish is carefully crafted using premium seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every bite reflects the delicate balance of flavours and textures that define traditional kaiseki.
With its elegant and intimate setting, Zeniya provides the perfect ambience for a refined dining experience, whether for a special celebration or a sophisticated evening out. The restaurant’s skilled chefs bring the essence of Japanese culinary heritage to life, delivering a meal that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. For those looking to savour the true taste of Japan, Zeniya Singapore promises a journey of flavours that captivates the senses.
Customer reviews:
Eiji Ogata
I celebrated my wife’s birthday at Zeniya Singapore, which offers exceptional Japanese Kaiseki cuisine. The food exceeded all expectations, providing a delightful sensory experience encompassing visual appeal, aroma, and exquisite taste.
bimo ariobuwono
All ingridients came from japan. I love the food, its kaiseki restaurant. One of my favorite restaurant in singapore.
Sean Nicholson
What a special place. The attentiveness from the reservation through to the actual dining experience was amazing. To our dinner, perfection. This was our first Kaiseki experience in Singapore and it equaled our others in Kyoto and Tokyo. Watching each dish being prepared so precisely and each of the ingredients explained made this such a memorable evening. Thank you!
Website: https://www.zeniya.com.sg/
Contact: 6213 4571
Location: 22 Orange Grove Rd, Level 24 Shangri-La Singapore, Singapore 258350
Operating Hours: Tuesday-Sunday: 12 PM – 1:30 PM, 6:30 PM – 8 PM | Closed on Mondays
7. Shoukouwa Shinjidai
A Michelin-starred gem, Shoukouwa Shinjidai elevates Kaiseki dining in Singapore to an unparalleled level. This exclusive establishment offers an intimate counter seating arrangement, where diners can witness the chef’s deft knife skills and masterful plating. The experience is nothing short of a culinary performance, featuring rare seasonal ingredients and an unwavering commitment to traditional Japanese techniques.
Customer reviews:
Martin
If I could give this place an extra star, I absolutely would. The experience was a perfect example of how looks can be deceiving. Take the menu item “Like a Virgin”—what appears subtle at first delivers a punch that hits the back of your tongue with hint of spiciness, awakening your palate. Then there’s “Sweet Dreams,” a seemingly innocent lobster dish that, once tasted, bursts with the unexpected flavor of seafood paella. I was genuinely blown away by how the flavors completely defied my expectations and played tricks on my senses. The entire experience was incredibly comfortable and enjoyable. Huge kudos to the team for making this dinner truly gastronomical. The service was exceptional, the flavours unforgettable, and the nostalgic backdrop music made the evening even more memorable.
Angel Tan
Verdict? The food was really fantastic (I can’t even decide what my favourite item was), and service was also top-notch. The chef also gave us a complimentary upgrade and served us an additional slice of musk melon each 🥲 Prices are steep, but you’re paying for what you get. Recommend!
Mr. J
It’s been a few months since my last visit but I just had to leave a review. Amazing experience at this restaurant, I was not expecting such good quality Japanese food. Food presentation is unique and the ingredients were all very very fresh. It’s nice that it’s an intimate space, you get to chat with the chefs behind the counter to understand more about what you’re having. I had the Yume menu for dinner and it was just too good. Definitely great for celebrations or to treat your family to a good meal. Service was impeccable as well. Knowledgable on sake. Thanks Chefs and the team for this 5-star experience. It’s a wonder how other places got their Michelin stars and this place didn’t. Long story short, you’ve got to try this at least once. You’ll understand my review after 🙂↕️
Website: http://www.shoukouwa.shinjidai.com.sg/
Contact: 8010 9939
Location: 1 Cuscaden Rd, #01-03/04 Conrad Singapore, Singapore 249715
Operating Hours: Reservations only.
Conclusion:
Dining at a Kaiseki restaurant isn’t just about indulging in an exquisite meal—it’s about embracing the philosophy of Japanese culinary artistry. Each dish tells a story of seasonality, craftsmanship, and tradition, making every bite an experience to savor. In a city as dynamic as Singapore, where food is more than sustenance—it’s a passion—Kaiseki has carved a niche among discerning diners who appreciate the finer things in life.
So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious dining experience, these seven Kaiseki restaurants in Singapore promise to take you on an unforgettable gastronomic journey. Get ready to be transported to Japan, one meticulously crafted dish at a time.