Popular Japanese Cuisine in Singapore

Singapore is a food paradise, and Japanese cuisine has become a staple in the city-state’s vibrant food scene. From sushi and sashimi to ramen and yakiniku, Singaporeans have developed a strong appreciation for authentic and innovative Japanese dishes. Whether dining at high-end omakase restaurants or enjoying a quick meal at a casual izakaya, Japanese cuisine in Singapore offers a diverse and exciting culinary experience. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular Japanese dishes in Singapore.

1. Sushi and Sashimi

Sushi and sashimi are among the most beloved Japanese dishes in Singapore. Sushi consists of vinegared rice combined with fresh seafood, while sashimi is simply thinly sliced raw fish served with soy sauce and wasabi.

Popular Types of Sushi:

• Nigiri – A slice of raw fish atop a small mound of rice.
• Maki – Rolled sushi wrapped in seaweed, often filled with fish, vegetables, and rice.
• Temaki – Hand-rolled sushi cones filled with various ingredients.
• Gunkan – A cup-shaped sushi filled with ingredients like sea urchin (uni) or salmon roe (ikura).

Popular sushi restaurants in Singapore include Teppei Sushi, Shinji by Kanesaka, and Sushi Jiro, where diners can enjoy high-quality sushi prepared by skilled chefs.

2. Ramen

Ramen has gained a cult following in Singapore, with many restaurants offering rich, flavorful broths paired with chewy noodles. Each region in Japan has its own version of ramen, and Singapore’s ramen scene features a wide variety of styles.

Popular Ramen Styles in Singapore:

• Tonkotsu Ramen – A creamy pork bone broth that is thick and flavorful. Popular places: Ippudo, Keisuke Ramen, Ramen Nagi.
• Shoyu Ramen – A soy sauce-based broth that has a light yet umami-packed flavor.
• Miso Ramen – A rich and slightly tangy miso-based broth, originating from Hokkaido.
• Shio Ramen – A salt-based broth, known for its lighter and more delicate taste.

Many ramen chains in Singapore, such as Sanpoutei Ramen and Marutama Ramen, offer a variety of options to cater to different taste preferences.

3. Donburi (Rice Bowls)

Donburi, or rice bowls topped with various ingredients, is another popular Japanese dish in Singapore. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at both casual eateries and high-end restaurants.

Popular Donburi Varieties:

• Gyudon – Sliced beef simmered with onions and served over rice.
• Katsudon – A breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet (tonkatsu) cooked with egg and served over rice.
• Unadon – Grilled eel glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce, served over rice.
• Chirashi Don – A colorful bowl of assorted sashimi over sushi rice.

Restaurants like Tendon Kohaku and Yayoi serve some of the best donburi bowls in Singapore, offering a balance of flavors and textures.

4. Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ)

Japanese BBQ, or yakiniku, has become increasingly popular in Singapore, offering diners the chance to grill high-quality meats at their table.

Popular Yakiniku Cuts:

• Wagyu Beef – Known for its intense marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Karubi (Short Rib) – A flavorful cut with a good balance of fat and meat.
• Harami (Skirt Steak) – A leaner cut with a rich beefy flavor.
• Pork Belly and Chicken Thigh – Options for non-beef eaters.

Popular yakiniku restaurants in Singapore include Tengoku Yakiniku, Gyu-Kaku, and Yakiniku Like, which serve premium cuts with authentic Japanese sauces and seasonings.

5. Tempura

Tempura, a deep-fried dish featuring lightly battered seafood and vegetables, is a favorite among Singaporeans. The key to good tempura is a light, crispy batter that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Popular Tempura Ingredients:

• Ebi (Prawn) – A classic and beloved choice.
• Kakiage (Mixed Vegetable Fritter) – A crunchy medley of vegetables.
• Fish and Squid – Offering a delicate and crispy texture.
• Sweet Potato and Pumpkin – A balance of sweetness and crispiness.

Popular places for tempura in Singapore include Tempura Tendon Tenya and Tempura Tsukiji, where diners can enjoy high-quality tempura dishes.

6. Shabu-Shabu and Sukiyaki

Hot pot dishes such as shabu-shabu and sukiyaki have a strong following in Singapore. These dishes involve dipping thin slices of meat and vegetables into a flavorful broth.

• Shabu-Shabu – A lighter and clearer broth where diners quickly cook thin slices of meat.
• Sukiyaki – A sweeter and more umami-rich broth made with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar.

Popular restaurants for these dishes include Suki-Ya, Shabu Sai, and Omakase Shabu Shabu, offering premium meat selections and a great communal dining experience.

7. Izakaya Dishes

Izakayas, Japanese-style gastropubs, are popular in Singapore for their casual dining atmosphere and small plates meant for sharing.

Popular Izakaya Dishes:

• Yakitori – Grilled skewers of chicken, including thigh, liver, and skin.
• Takoyaki – Octopus-filled batter balls topped with bonito flakes and mayonnaise.
• Edamame – Steamed and salted green soybeans.
• Gyoza – Japanese dumplings filled with meat and vegetables.

Popular izakayas in Singapore include Neon Pigeon, Toritama Yakitori, and Jibiru Craft Beer Bar, where customers can enjoy a variety of Japanese tapas with sake and beer.

8. Japanese Desserts

No Japanese meal is complete without a delicious dessert. Japanese sweets in Singapore range from traditional to modern creations.

Popular Japanese Desserts:

• Mochi – Chewy rice cakes filled with sweet bean paste or ice cream.
• Matcha Desserts – Green tea-flavored sweets, such as matcha ice cream and matcha lava cakes.
• Dorayaki – Pancake-like treats filled with red bean paste.
• Japanese Cheesecake – Light and fluffy cheesecake with a subtle sweetness.

Cafes like Hvala, Tsujiri, and FLIPPER’S serve some of the best Japanese desserts in Singapore.

Conclusion

Japanese cuisine has become an integral part of Singapore’s dining culture, offering a wide array of flavors and textures that appeal to all palates. Whether it’s a comforting bowl of ramen, fresh sushi, or sizzling yakiniku, there is always something to satisfy your cravings. With the growing number of Japanese restaurants, Singapore continues to be a hotspot for authentic and innovative Japanese culinary experiences