Singapore's love affair with mordern Japanese food shows no sign of abating as this vibey hidden gem inspired by Osaka's yakitori-ya (traditional grilling stalls) attests. The transformation of a traditional, 70-year old kopitiam (coffee shop) makes for an urban-chic setting that incorporates knockabout wooden chairs, an old school mee pok (noodle) stall and marble tables. We prefer sitting at the modern yakitori bar where the chefs work their magic – perfect for enjoying a cocktail (or something from the Japanese whisky, sake and shochu list) while you wait.
Set menus keeps things simple, though they change frequently according to what's fresh. Play it safe with chicken done every which way or be brave, as we would advise, and explore deep into the menu – anglerfish liver sashimi with ponzu, grilled lamb rack with tomato checca and yuzu or the miso cod. The grilled Japanese seasonal vegetable platter is so much more than the standard offering, bursting with flavour and excitingly contrastive textures. Finish with the cleansing berry yoghurt with berry sauce.
Check out the sister restaurant in Dempsey.