Best Japanese Restaurants in Singapore
When it comes to elegant simplicity, Japanese food is undoubtedly among the most outstanding in the world. It’s a skill of brightly coloured fresh fish cuts, skilfully mixed sauces, and an itamae’s showmanship. Thanks to the many outstanding Japanese chefs who have visited our country, here are the best Japanese restaurants in Singapore.
Read also: 15 Best Ice Cream in Singapore (As Well As Gelato) to Beat the Heat
1. Ki-Sho
Ki-Sho means “aristocratic craftsmanship” in English, hence, it is not unexpected that this is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Singapore. The local chef Nakatake Shinichi brings a flavorful variation of kappou to Singapore that stands out from the competitors.
A lunch here is simply divine with first class service and excellent food. If you’re a fan of truffle or uni, we highly recommend you to come here and try it for yourself! Although the price is on the higher side, it is definitely worth it.
Address: 29 Scotts Rd, Singapore 228224
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 12:00pm – 3:00pm, 6:30pm – 11:00pm
Saturday, 6:30pm – 11:00pm
Closed: Sunday
Halal: Non-Halal
Website | Instagram | Facebook
2. Black Cow
In keeping with its name, this restaurant only uses kuroge wagyu which is sourced from a network of reliable farms that the owners have personally inspected. It is such a cosy spot, perfect for you and your besties to catch up and unwind.
All the staff here is also very welcoming, letting you immerse yourself in the best Japanese food in Singapore, which has the freshest ingredients, flavours, and spirits. This will undoubtedly be one of your favourite Singapore experiences!
Address: 26 Beach Rd, #B1-20 South Beach Avenue, Singapore 189768
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, 12:00pm – 2:00pm, 6:00pm – 8:30pm
Friday, 12:00pm – 2:00pm, 6:00pm – 10:00pm
Saturday, 12:00pm – 2:30pm, 6:00pm – 10:00pm
Sunday, 12:00pm – 2:30pm
Closed: Monday
Halal Status: Non-Halal
Website | Instagram | Facebook
3. Kagayaki
Teppanyaki is a whole new level at Kagayaki by Ishigaki Yoshida. It is led by chef Junichi Yoshida, whose Tokyo restaurant was the first to receive a Michelin star for teppanyaki. Along with serving delicious experiences in the Omakase style, they also offer seasonal ingredients that correspond to the seasons in Japan.
If you want to experience true teppanyaki, this is the place to go. There are no tricks or gimmicks here, only the finest ingredients prepared using the highest respect and care by an expert chef.
Address: 27 Keong Saik Rd., Singapore 089134
Opening Hours: Monday, 7:00pm – 11:00pm
Tuesday to Saturday, 6:00pm – 11:00pm
Closed: Sunday
Halal Status: N/A
4. Sen of Japan
Sen of Japan takes pride in being a modest Japanese restaurant and bar with a dash of class. Executive Chef Nakano Hiromi, formerly in charge of the renowned NOBU at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, has meticulously selected the cuisine. As one of the best Japanese restaurants in Singapore, it serves a variety of dishes that capture the flavour of Japanese cuisine with a touch of modernisation. Every mouthful is a symphony of flavours and freshness.
Address: 2 Bayfront Ave, #01 – 86, Singapore 018972
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:30am – 10:00pm
Halal Status: N/A
Website | Instagram | Facebook
5. Akira Back
Chef Akira Back has 20 years of culinary expertise, 16 restaurants in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and America, and a Michelin Star to his toque blanche so you can be 100% sure you’ve made the right decisions to dine here. Chef Akira’s cultural influences are reflected in the food at the luxurious Akira Back. It incorporates elements of its American upbringing, Korean heritage, and intense love of Japanese flavours.
The Tuna Pizza, which is a chef’s kiss, is one of his most well-known dishes so don’t miss that out! Drizzle with aromatic truffle oil, you’ll dream of it.
Address: 30 Beach Road, Level B1M, Singapore 189763
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12:00pm – 2:30pm, 6:00pm – 10:30pm
Halal Status: Non-Halal
Website | Instagram | Facebook
6. Nantsuttei
When someone says Japanese food, ramen is likely to come to mind. Nantsuttei is the place to go if you want the best Japanese food in Singapore. Expect flavorful, strong, creamy pork broths and hearty ramen noodles to tickle your taste buds. To enhance the flavour of the bowls at Nantsuttei, add some black roasted garlic oil and you’ll thank us.
Address: 181 Orchard Rd, #07-12/13, Singapore 238896
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11:00am – 9:30pm
Sunday, 11:00am – 2:45pm, 5:30pm – 9:00pm
Halal Status: Non-Halal
Website | Instagram | Facebook
7. Hanare
Takayama focuses on kamameshi rather than serving standard donburi bowls. This is a straightforward translation for “kettle rice,” a meal of mixed rice that is slowly cooked in a kama, an ancestral iron pot. You know where to go if you’re looking for Singapore’s best kamameshi. The food here is beautifully presented and the taste is just the chef’s kiss!
Address: 391 Orchard Road #03-07, Takashimaya Shopping Centre Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238872
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:30am – 10:00pm
Halal Status: Non-Halal (Vegetarian options available)
Website | Instagram | Facebook
8. Waku Ghin
The newly renovated Waku Ghin, which has two Michelin stars, is also one of the best Japanese restaurants in Singapore as it combines locally obtained fresh seasonal ingredients with Japanese culinary expertise. You will be treated to immaculate seasonal treats prepared with all the Japanese skill and attention to detail. It’s more than simply a meal; it’s a gastronomic journey through the complexities of Japanese cuisine, with a modern twist.
Address: Level 2 Dining, L2-03 The Shoppes at, 2 Bayfront Ave, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 018956
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 5:00pm – 11:00pm
Halal Status: Non-Halal (Vegetarian options available)
Website | Instagram | Facebook
9. Nanbantei Japanese Restaurant
As a true representation of the rich culture of Yakitori, which originated in Japan, Nanbantei Japanese Restaurant stands as a premier destination for Yakitori dining in Singapore. The Nanbantei restaurant has been providing top-notch yakitori since it opened in 1983.
The best Japanese food in Singapore may be found on its extensive menu especially the yakitori dishes (you’re missing out if you didn’t try them). Besides, the welcoming Japanese atmosphere and excellent service in the restaurant create the perfect dining experience.
Locations: Click here to see all locations
Halal Status: Non-Halal
Website | Instagram | Facebook
10. Mikuni
A modern spin on the classic kaiseki experience, Mikuni at Fairmont Singapore calls for pride in its menu, which is expertly crafted to showcase seasonal premium food and create ‘oishi’ dishes. As the fishes are brought in specifically from Japan’s Tsukiji fish market, the restaurant is renowned for its excellent sashimi. Mikuni’s entire menu is a must-try. They provide amazing food as well as attentive and polite service!
Address: 80 Bras Basah Rd, Level 3 Fairmont, Singapore 189560
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 12:00pm – 2:30pm, 6:00pm – 10:00pm
Closed: Sunday
Halal Status: Not Halal-Certified
11. Torikin
If you’re craving soup, Torikin delivers what you need. The mizutaki is what you need to try while you’re here. It is a Hakata-born hotpot dish that is served in Japanese restaurants. The chicken and collagen broth used in Torikin’s rendition is incredibly thick, flavorful, and soothing. If you haven’t known, collagen is fantastic for your skin so what’s not to love about this bowl of soup? Not only is it delicious, but also good for your health!
Address: 205 River Valley Rd, #01-75 UE Square, Singapore 238274
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 5:00pm – 10:30pm
Saturday & Sunday, 12:00pm – 3:00pm, 5:00pm – 10:30pm
Halal Status: Non-Halal
12. Tamashii Robataya
In keeping with their restaurant’s name, Chef-Owners Patrick Tan and Max See devote themselves to ensuring that every detail they produce at Tamashii is performed with love and an awful lot of soul. The Tamashii culinary team walks a careful path between both tradition and creativity. This is the best Japanese restaurant in Singapore, drawing influence from historic recipes and frequent journeys to Japan.
Their menu just hits the spot and although the price is on the higher end, you’ll not regret a single penny spent here.
Address: 12 N Canal Rd, #02-01 The Offshore building, Singapore 048825
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 11:30am – 2:00pm, 6:30pm – 9:30pm
Saturday, 6:30pm – 9:30pm
Closed: Sunday
Halal Status: N/A
Website | Instagram | Facebook
13. Wakuda
Wakuda, the sister establishment of Waku Ghin, presents a more contemporary interpretation of Japanese food that simultaneously honours and subverts tradition. Enjoy a variety of experiences, such as à la carte eating in the elegant main dining hall and artistic bar of the Japanese mixology.
Many might think the dish we’re about to recommend is basic, but the Chawanmushi is out of this world. It makes the perfect appetiser before you dig into the main dishes. Keep in mind that they do not offer a kids’ menu!
Address: Lobby, Hotel, Bayfront Ave, Tower 2, Singapore 018972
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12:00pm – 2:00pm, 5:00pm – 12:00am
Halal Status: N/A
Website | Instagram | Facebook
14. Hamamoto
Those who enjoy excellent Japanese cuisine will never be disappointed by Hamamoto’s outstanding omakase experience. This 12-seater sanctuary from Singapore’s bustle serves up dish after dish that is exceptional, created by chef-owner Kazu Hamamoto in a wonderfully appointed setting. This is also a restaurant that fans of unis must visit! The portions of the uni served here are always generous and vary in a wide range of forms.
Address: 58 Tras St, Singapore 078997
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:00pm – 3:00pm, 6:30pm – 11:00pm
Halal Status: Non-Halal
Website | Instagram | Facebook
15. Shinji by Kanesaka
The authentic Edo-style sushi served at the upscale Japanese restaurant Shinji by Kanesaka is among the best Japanese food in Singapore. The omakase menu is served to diners; it is a choice carefully left in the hands of the chef and is prepared by a group of local Japanese skilled chefs. The dedication of an Okami-san, who is committed to looking after the customers, makes the restaurant the pinnacle of the Japanese fine dining experience.
Locations: Click here to see all locations
Halal Status: Non-Halal
Website | Instagram | Facebook
