Uoharu Singapore: Tokyo’s Kaizen Izakaya Now at Central Boulevard

When it comes to authentic Japanese dining experiences, izakayas are often at the top of the list for many food enthusiasts. In Singapore, the recent opening of Uoharu, a renowned kaizen izakaya from Tokyo, has created quite a buzz. Nestled in the heart of the Central Business District (CBD) at Central Boulevard Towers, this new dining spot promises to offer a slice of Tokyo’s vibrant food scene right here in Singapore.

Introduction to Uoharu Singapore

A Tokyo Culinary Gem in Singapore

Uoharu has made its mark in Japan and beyond as a celebrated izakaya, particularly noted for its unique approach to utilising less-than-perfect produce from the famous Toyosu Market. Known for its exceptional dishes crafted with slightly blemished ingredients that might otherwise go to waste, Uoharu has become a beloved spot for both locals and tourists in Tokyo and Hong Kong. Now, with its latest outpost in Singapore, Uoharu is bringing its distinct culinary philosophy to a new audience.

Central Boulevard: The Perfect Location

Located at Central Boulevard Towers, Uoharu’s new Singapore outlet is ideally situated to attract the bustling working crowd of the CBD. The restaurant’s central location makes it a convenient choice for those looking to unwind after a long day at the office or enjoy a mid-week treat. The accessibility of the location also ensures that Uoharu will become a go-to spot for anyone seeking an authentic izakaya experience without having to hop on a plane to Tokyo.

The Uoharu Experience

Authentic Izakaya Ambience

The moment you step into Uoharu Singapore, you’re transported to a traditional Japanese izakaya. The interior design draws heavily from the original Tokyo establishment, featuring elements such as wooden flooring, low tables, and chairs that are typical of the izakaya style. The restaurant also boasts rustic hand-drawn posters, which add to the cosy, communal atmosphere that izakayas are famous for.

One of the standout features of Uoharu is its focus on community dining. The restaurant is designed to foster a sense of togetherness, encouraging diners to gather around shared tables to enjoy their meals and drinks. Whether you’re catching up with friends or meeting new people, the convivial environment at Uoharu makes it a perfect spot for socialising.

Nightly Katsuo Warayaki Show

For those looking for a dining experience that goes beyond just good food, Uoharu offers the nightly Katsuo Warayaki Show. This traditional Japanese cooking technique involves straw-roasting and grilling bonito fish over an open flame, creating a spectacular visual display that’s sure to captivate diners. As the flames rise and the fish sizzles, the chefs demonstrate their skill and precision, turning cooking into a form of art.

After the show, guests are treated to complimentary sampling portions of the grilled bonito, allowing them to savour the smoky, umami-rich flavours that make this dish so special. This unique experience adds an extra layer of authenticity to dining at Uoharu, making it a memorable outing for anyone who appreciates Japanese cuisine.

Signature Dishes at Uoharu Singapore

Flame-Kissed Appetisers

Uoharu’s menu is a treasure trove of Japanese delights, starting with its selection of flame-kissed appetisers. One of the highlights is the Seared Miso Sashimi Tartare. This dish features a blend of fresh sashimi, which is mixed with a miso-based sauce before being lightly grilled aburi-style. The result is a perfect balance of smoky, charred top and tender, flavourful sashimi underneath. Served with a side of runny egg yolk and crispy nori seaweed, this tartare offers a multi-layered experience that is both rich and satisfying.

Another must-try is the Potato Salad with Smoked Mackerel and Egg. This dish, made using a traditional Tokyo recipe, combines hand-mashed potatoes with smoked saba fish, topped with a gooey onsen egg. The combination of textures—from the creamy potatoes to the smoky mackerel and the soft egg—makes this salad a hearty and comforting starter.

Unique and Hearty Mains

When it comes to the main courses, Uoharu does not disappoint. The Homemade Snow Crab Croquette Rice is a standout dish that has quickly become a favourite among diners. Served in a piping-hot stone bowl, this dish features crispy snow crab croquettes atop a bed of fluffy Japanese rice, all mixed together with ikura (salmon roe). The heat from the bowl creates a delightful crispy layer at the bottom, adding an extra dimension of texture to the dish. The combination of sweet crab meat, savoury rice, and briny ikura makes every bite a burst of flavour.

For noodle lovers, the Soba with Karasumi is a must-order. This dish pairs chewy soba noodles with karasumi, a type of dried mullet roe, resulting in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The briny, umami-rich karasumi adds a delightful crunch to the smooth, slightly dense soba, making it a dish that’s both satisfying and addictive.

Sushi aficionados will appreciate the Manzoku Tuna and Sea Urchin Sushi Roll, which is another signature offering at Uoharu. This indulgent roll is layered with negitoro (minced tuna), maguro (tuna), ikura, uni (sea urchin), and crab meat, all wrapped in nori (seaweed). Despite the luxurious ingredients, the sushi roll is priced reasonably, making it accessible to a wide range of diners.

Meat lovers are also well catered to at Uoharu. The U.S. Beef Short Rib with Bone, grilled over hot charcoal, is a must-try for those who enjoy rich, smoky flavours. Another excellent choice is the Grilled Hokkaido Pork Collar with Miso and Hoba, which is cooked to perfection and seasoned with a fragrant miso sauce. These dishes are a testament to Uoharu’s ability to deliver high-quality fare without the hefty price tag often associated with such premium ingredients.

The Uoharu Menu: A Celebration of Flavour

Drinks Selection

No izakaya experience is complete without a good drink to accompany the food, and Uoharu does not disappoint in this regard. The restaurant boasts an extensive drinks menu, featuring over 100 kinds of Japanese sake, beer, highballs, and other beverages. All drinks are directly imported from Japan, ensuring authenticity and quality.

One of the highlights of the drinks menu is the selection of draft sake, a specialty brew that is made without preservatives. For those looking to indulge in something special, Uoharu also offers award-winning labels such as Dassai Junmai 23 Daiginjo and Seiryu Junmai Daiginjo. Whether you’re a sake connoisseur or just looking to try something new, Uoharu’s drinks menu has something for everyone.

Otoshi: A Traditional Izakaya Starter

In keeping with izakaya tradition, every meal at Uoharu begins with an otoshi—a small dish served as a starter before the main meal. At Uoharu, this takes the form of Bagna Cauda, a dish of fresh seasonal vegetables served with a garlic and anchovy-based sauce. The vegetables are crisp and refreshing, providing a light and healthy start to the meal. The Bagna Cauda, though simple, is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality, with each ingredient carefully selected for its freshness and flavour.

Sweet Endings

While Uoharu is primarily known for its savoury offerings, its dessert menu is worth exploring as well. One of the standout options is the Homemade Japanese Pumpkin Creme Brulee, a delightful twist on the classic French dessert. The rich, creamy custard is infused with the natural sweetness of Japanese pumpkin, making it a comforting and satisfying end to the meal.

Another popular choice is the Baguette Ice Cream Sandwich, which features creamy ice cream sandwiched between slices of toasted baguette. The contrast between the cold, smooth ice cream and the warm, crispy baguette creates a delightful textural experience that’s sure to leave diners with a smile on their face.

What Sets Uoharu Apart?

Sourcing from Toyosu Market

One of the key elements that sets Uoharu apart from other izakayas is its dedication to using produce from Toyosu Market. However, instead of selecting picture-perfect ingredients, Uoharu embraces the imperfections, choosing undersized fish, scratched scallops, and crabs with missing legs. This approach not only reduces waste but also highlights the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability.

Despite working with less-than-perfect produce, the quality of the dishes at Uoharu is never compromised. The chefs skilfully transform these ingredients into dishes that are both visually appealing and incredibly flavourful, proving that beauty is more than skin deep when it comes to food.

Accessibility in Singapore

With its location in Singapore’s CBD, Uoharu makes it easy for diners to experience a slice of Tokyo’s izakaya culture without having to travel far. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely lunch, an after-work drink, or a full-fledged dinner, Uoharu offers a range of options to suit any occasion. The central location also means that reservations are highly recommended, as the restaurant is likely to fill up quickly, especially during peak hours.

Set Lunch Options for the Working Crowd

For those looking for a quick yet satisfying meal during the workday, Uoharu offers a variety of set lunch options. These sets are thoughtfully curated to provide a balanced meal, featuring dishes such as the Premium Sashimi Boat Set and the Uoharu Executive Set. Each set comes with complimentary hot or cold green tea, making it a convenient and enjoyable option for busy professionals.

Final Thoughts

A Must-Visit for Izakaya Lovers

Uoharu Singapore is a welcome addition to the city’s culinary landscape, offering an authentic izakaya experience that’s hard to find outside of Japan. With its carefully crafted menu, lively atmosphere, and commitment to quality, Uoharu is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned izakaya-goer or new to the concept, Uoharu promises a dining experience that’s both memorable and satisfying.

How to Make Reservations

Given Uoharu’s popularity and its central location, it’s advisable to make reservations ahead of time to secure a table. You can book online through their official website or by calling the restaurant directly. For those planning to visit during peak hours, especially in the evening or on weekends, booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.