Best Japanese Restaurants In Singapore: From Omakase To Affordable Don

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Singapore’s Japanese dining runs from a $30 lunch set at Sushi to Sumi, according to Time Out Singapore, to a one-Michelin-starred Edo-style counter where lunch starts at $150 and dinner at $250, according to Honeycombers. In between, Eatbook lists an 11-course lunch omakase at AN Omakase from $38++ and a ten-nigiri lunch set at Sushi Murasaki from $48++. Lunch is almost always cheaper than dinner.

This guide groups Japanese restaurants by price and explains how to book.

Where Can I Eat Japanese Food Under $50?

Start with lunch. Time Out Singapore says Sushi to Sumi, at 20 Cecil Street, is Singapore’s first authentic standing sushi restaurant, and its Ume set, with eight pieces of sushi, a grilled seafood dish and miso soup, costs $30 at lunch and $50 at dinner. Eatbook says AN Omakase, near Outram Park MRT, serves an 11-course Ume at lunch for $38++, with a chawanmushi, nine nigiri, a wagyu uni rice roll and a mini maze don.

Another option sits in the Marina Bay area. Eatbook says Sushi Murasaki along Millenia Walk offers a Fuji lunch set from $48++ with an appetiser, ten pieces of nigiri, miso soup and dessert. Honeycombers lists Teppei at 9 Penang Road with a weekday lunch set from $30.

A short answer to “where can I try omakase cheaply?” is a weekday lunch at Sushi to Sumi, AN Omakase or Teppei, all listed from $30 to $38.

What Should I Pay For A Mid-Range Or Special Meal?

Prices rise at dinner. Honeycombers lists Teppei’s omakase set from $98, and Eatbook says Miraku, a classically Japanese omakase and kaiseki bar with 15 seats, starts at $108++ for its lunch sushi course with nine types of nigiri. Honeycombers also lists a sushi omakase at $128 per person that includes handrolls, nigiri, tempura and Ohmi wagyu across 13 to 17 courses.

At the top end, Eatbook says Shinji by Kanesaka’s Singapore outpost has earned a Michelin star. Honeycombers lists the St. Regis counter with lunch from $150 and dinner from $250. For eel, Eatbook and Lady Iron Chef both describe Man Man Unagi in Keong Saik as a Michelin Bib Gourmand eatery.

Here is a quick comparison.

If you prefer casual Japanese chains, our guide to Punggol Coast Mall lists everyday names such as Sushi-GO and Sushi Tei among its tenants.

How Do I Book And What Should I Know?

Book early for counters. Most omakase restaurants have small counters, and Eatbook notes Miraku has just 15 seats. Booking a few days ahead for lunch and a week or more for dinner is sensible. Check the cancellation policy and any deposit.

Understand the “++”. Eatbook lists many prices as “++”, which means service charge and tax are added on top, so a $38++ lunch costs more at the till. Ask whether drinks are included, since sake and wine pairings can raise the bill a lot. Honeycombers lists a premium sushi omakase with sake and wine pairing at $328 per person at one restaurant, against $128 for the base course.

Look for limited promotions. Eatbook reported that Sushi Michi offered a 1-for-1 deal on its 11-course omakase, bringing it from $64++ per person, but notes it was for a limited time. Check dates before you plan around a deal.

Is Omakase Among The Best Restaurants Singapore Offers?

I think a lunch omakase is worth trying once. It shows how a chef sequences a meal, and the lunch price makes it low-risk. If you prefer to order your own dishes, a good don or lunch set gives you much of the same freshness.

Here is the blunt limitation. Prices, menus and promotions change, and several lists give different prices for the same restaurant. Check each restaurant’s own page before you book. Also tell staff about allergies and dietary needs early, because omakase menus are set by the chef.

For more places to eat across the island, browse our Food section for more of the best restaurants Singapore has for every budget.

Why Is Lunch The Best Time To Try?

Lunch menus offer the best value. One omakase guide says lunch menus usually offer the best value, with many priced below S$100 per person, and the prices above bear that out. Book a weekday slot, arrive on time and mention allergies when you reserve, since counter menus are set in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch really cheaper than dinner? Usually. Sushi to Sumi’s Ume set costs $30 at lunch and $50 at dinner, according to Time Out, and Miraku and the St. Regis counter list lower lunch prices too.

Do I need to reserve? For counters, yes. Seats are limited, and Time Out says Sushi to Sumi takes reservations online.

Is omakase halal? Many Japanese kitchens use ingredients such as sake or mirin, so ask the restaurant directly if you need halal options.

What if I do not eat raw fish? Many restaurants offer cooked courses, but you must ask in advance. Inform the restaurant when booking.

If you know a Japanese restaurant we should add, email us at admin@dei.com.sg.