Kokoro Izakaya @ Lau Pa Sat Festival Market - Day-to-Night Izakaya Experience in a Historic Landmark

Kokoro Izakaya has made its debut at Lau Pa Sat, bringing the convivial charm of Japanese izakaya culture into one of Singapore’s most iconic dining landmarks. Set beneath the striking Victorian cast-iron structure of the gazetted national monument, the concept offers a refreshing dual experience — affordable Japanese set meals for the CBD lunch crowd by day, and a lively izakaya atmosphere with charcoal-grilled skewers, oden and drinks by night.

Tori Katsu Don Set (Weekday Set Lunch) 4/5

Catering to the busy office crowd, Kokoro Izakaya rolls out wallet-friendly weekday lunch sets from just $9.90 nett (11am to 4pm). The Tori Katsu Don Set ($9.90) is a satisfying and fuss-free option, comprising a crispy chicken cutlet gently simmered with egg in a savoury, bonito-based sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. The combination delivers comforting, homely flavours with a good balance of savoury depth and subtle sweetness. Each set comes complete with a side of creamy potato salad and a choice of hot or cold green tea, making it a well-rounded and value-for-money meal in the heart of the CBD. Other lunch options include the Pork Katsu Kare Set ($10.90) and Salmon Teriyaki Don Set ($11.90), offering variety without stretching the wallet.

Salmon Teriyaki Don 4/5

Wagyu Beef Don 4/5

For those seeking something more indulgent, the Wagyu Beef Don ($23.90) offers a more premium experience. The bowl features tender slices of beef paired with a luscious egg yolk, crispy fried garlic, and seaweed, creating a rich, umami-packed combination. The Salmon Teriyaki Don is another crowd-pleaser, with glazed salmon that is lightly caramelised, delivering a balance of sweetness and savoury notes that pairs well with the rice beneath.

Black Garlic Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen 4.2/5

Beyond rice bowls, Kokoro Izakaya also serves a selection of noodle dishes. The Black Garlic Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen ($14.90) stands out for its robust, comforting profile. The broth is thick, creamy and full-bodied, coating each strand of noodle with rich porky goodness. The addition of black garlic lends an extra layer of depth and aroma, elevating the overall flavour. The noodles have a pleasant bite, while the bowl is generously topped with two sizeable slices of tender chashu and a perfectly marinated ajitsuke tamago.

Sauteed Udon with Japanese Asari Clam 4.2/5

Another noteworthy noodle dish is the Sauteed Udon with Japanese Asari Clam ($14.90). The udon boasts a delightful chewy texture, tossed in a flavourful sauce with a hint of chilli heat. The sweetness of the plump and juicy asari clams adds a natural briny depth, resulting in a well-balanced dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Skewers 3.5/5

As evening sets in and Lau Pa Sat transforms into a bustling nightlife spot, Kokoro Izakaya shifts gears into a lively izakaya destination. The spotlight falls on its Charcoal-grilled Skewers, with more than 15 varieties grilled over premium binchotan charcoal. This imparts a distinctive smoky aroma that defines the izakaya experience. Highlights include Tebasaki (chicken wing), Hotate Scallop, Tori Tsukune (chicken and potato), Uzura Tamago (quail egg), Sunagimo (chicken gizzard), Buta Bara (pork belly) and Shiitake mushroom. While the selection is extensive, the skewers are best enjoyed alongside drinks for a casual, communal experience.

Yaki Surume Ika 4/5

Seafood lovers should not miss the Yaki Surume Ika ($22.90). Grilled over charcoal and brushed with teriyaki sauce, the squid develops a beautifully caramelised exterior. It remains firm and bouncy in texture, with a subtle sweetness and smoky aroma that make it an excellent accompaniment to drinks.

Salmon Cheese Harumaki 3.8/5

Tori Shippo Karaage 3.8/5

Complementing the drinks menu is a selection of bar bites ideal for sharing. The Salmon Cheese Harumaki ($5.90) features flaky salmon and melted cheese encased in a crisp spring roll skin, offering a satisfying contrast of textures. The Tori Shippo Karaage ($8.90), a lesser-seen Japanese delicacy made from chicken tail, delivers a tender, slightly fatty bite that is both rich and flavourful.

Oden 4/5

For a comforting option, the traditional Japanese Oden is a highlight. Simmered in a light yet flavourful dashi broth, the selection includes a variety of ingredients that absorb the delicate umami essence. Diners can opt for individual items from $3 per piece or go for curated sets such as the three-item combination ($7.90) or the seven-item assortment ($17.90), making it an ideal companion to a relaxed evening over drinks.

Kokoro Izakaya brings a refreshing concept to Lau Pa Sat, seamlessly transitioning from an affordable lunch destination to a vibrant izakaya hangout after dark. Whether you are looking for a quick and satisfying midday meal or a casual spot to unwind with skewers and drinks in the evening, it offers a versatile dining experience set against the charm of a historic landmark.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kokoro Izakaya
Lau Pa Sat Festival Market
18 Raffles Quay
Unit MR20
Singapore 048582
Tel: +65 8758 7024
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Cross Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit I. Walk to Robinson Road. Turn left onto Robinson Road. Walk down Robinson Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Kaya @ The Standard - Weekend Brunch Showcasing Its Signature Japanese-Fusion Flair Every Saturday

Every Saturday, Kaya at The Standard presents a Weekend Brunch that reflects the restaurant’s signature Japanese-fusion flair. The menu features an à la carte free-flow selection of hot and cold appetisers, small bites, mains, and desserts. The brunch experience includes a free flow of non-alcoholic beverages, with the option to upgrade to premium packages that include alcoholic drinks.

The Standard Tray

To start, we were first served The Standard Tray, alongside our drink orders. This was perfect for tempering the usual morning hunger while waiting for the rest of the food to arrive. The tray comprises four items from the menu across the cold, hot bites, and sando categories, prepping our appetite with Chicken Karaage, Tamago Sando, Apple Sesame Salad, and Assorted Sashimi.

Chicken Karaage 4.8/5

The hot morsels of Chicken Karaage were juicy and moreish with a golden crust. I appreciated the bite-sized portions, which worked better than the usual large and chunky pieces.

Sashimi 4/5

Apple Salad 4.5/5

Balancing the tray were the fresh chilled Sashimi and the refreshing Apple Sesame Salad.

Daikon Slaw 5/5

From the cold selection, I was also delighted to find Daikon Slaw, one of my favourite items from their regular menu during my last visit.

Tamago Sando 3/5

Unagi Sando 3.5/5

As for the sando, while the tamago filling was delectable, softer white sandwich bread might have improved the overall texture and taste. There is also an Unagi Sando option, which delivers a much more savoury, meatier bite.

Tacos 3.5/5

The tacos were visually exciting with their colourful presentation. Among the three options — Teriyaki Cured Salmon Taco, Spicy Beef Taco, and Salada Taco, the Spicy Beef Taco was the most satisfying, with hearty beef slices delivering a punch of flavour. The salmon taco, however, turned out a little bland, while the Salada Taco, though enjoyable with avocado, felt slightly underwhelming as a taco.

Konabe Udon 4/5

For mains, the Konabe Udon was simple yet comforting.

Kamo Katsu with Curry Hollandaise Don 3/5

Pork Belly Char Siu Don 3/5

The Kamo Katsu with Curry Hollandaise Don featured a crispy duck cutlet, and the curry hollandaise was rich with umami, flavouring the dish beautifully. It was a pity that the duck itself was a tad dry. The same could be said for the Pork Belly Char Siu Don, where the char siu was not as unctuous as I had expected.

Desserts 3.8/5

Desserts were delightful. The Sakura & Coconut Panna Cotta and Coffee Jelly Shooter were both pleasing, with the latter delivering a pleasant bittersweet note. The Matcha Lemon Tart impressed with its thin, buttery crust, which complemented the tart’s bright, lemony, and earthy matcha flavours.

While there were hits and misses, the cosy ambience of Kaya at The Standard nonetheless makes the brunch format well-suited for a relaxed weekend catch-up with friends and loved ones. The Weekend Brunch is available only on Saturdays from 12 noon to 3pm, with options starting at $78 per person.

Photos and words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Kaya
The Standard, Singapore
12 Orange Grove Rd
#02-00
Singapore 258353
Tel: 6040 1888
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 630am - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 630am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. EWheelocklock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down Orchard Road to the end. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 23 minutes. [Map]

Umami 10 @ Telok Ayer Street - A Refined Japanese-European Fusion, Tapas-Style Experience

Located in the vibrant Telok Ayer district, Umami 10 delivers an elevated dining experience, blending the artistry of Japanese cuisine with refined European influences. Designed around a tapas-style concept, it offers a curated menu of inventive small plates, all served in an inviting setting perfect for savouring fine food, wine, and sake.

Premium Hyogo Oysters 4.2/5

The Premium Hyogo Oysters ($36) set the tone for the meal. Plump, juicy, and boasting a clean, briny flavour. The creamy oysters are elevated with uni and ikura toppings, delivering an exquisite taste of the sea in every bite.

Truffle Pitan Tofu 4.2/5

A standout dish was the Truffle Pitan Tofu ($20). This luxurious creation combines silky tofu with a rich, creamy century egg sauce, delivering a bold and savoury depth. Snow crab meat adds a delicate sweetness, while ikura pearls provide bursts of umami flavour. A subtle hint of truffle oil ties everything together with its earthy aroma, making it a must-try.

Cod Fish Shirako 4/5

The Cod Fish Shirako ($28) is a seasonal delicacy that should not be missed. The creamy texture and mild sweetness of the shirako are perfectly complemented by the house-made sauce, creating a delicate yet indulgent dish.

Gold Charcoal Karaage 4.2/5

The visually striking Gold Charcoal Karaage ($19) is as delicious as it is eye-catching. The chicken is coated in charcoal powder and finished with edible gold, delivering a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. It's a perfect balance of flavour and texture, making it a treat for both the eyes and the palate.

Wagyu Boneless Short Ribs 4.2/5

The Wagyu Boneless Short Ribs ($35) are braised for 12 hours in a red wine blend, resulting in an incredibly tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture. The buttery flavour of the wagyu is enhanced by the richness of the braising liquid, offering a luxurious bite that's worth savouring.

Garlic Fried Rice 4.2/5

The Garlic Fried Rice ($20) is comfort food at its finest. Fluffy Japanese rice is cooked to perfection, with prawns adding a touch of sweetness. The garlicky and eggy fragrance is well-balanced, making it an irresistibly satisfying dish that complements the richer items on the menu.

Three Liqueur Tiramisu 4.2/5

To end on a sweet note, the Three Liqueur Tiramisu ($18) is a bold twist on the classic Italian dessert. The blend of three distinct liqueurs brings depth and complexity to the dish, striking the perfect balance between sweetness and subtle warmth from the alcohol. It's a decadent and satisfying finale to the meal.

Umami 10 impresses diners with its innovative Japanese-European fusion dishes, offering them an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Telok Ayer. From indulgent small plates to exquisite seasonal offerings, each dish reflects a perfect harmony of flavours and textures. Pair it with their curated selection of sake or wine, and you have a dining destination that's perfect for both intimate meals and celebratory occasions.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Umami 10
163 Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068616
Tel: +65 65135789
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sat: 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes.  [Map]

Café Natsu @ Joo Chiat - Unveils New Menu Featuring Japanese Staples with Local Sensibilities

Café Natsu is excited to launch its new menus at both its Joo Chiat and Orchard outlets, featuring a fusion of Japanese and local flavours. These menus offer a warm and comforting dining experience, with carefully crafted dishes incorporating traditional Japanese cuisine and familiar local touches. Furthermore, Café Natsu's commitment to exceptional quality extends to sourcing fresh ingredients and the finest produce from Japan.

Kaarage 3.8/5

The Kaarage ($14) features a thin, crispy coating on the outside that gives way to a tender and juicy interior. What sets it apart is the unique coating of Dong Bei spices, which adds a delightful burst of flavour. The spices infuse the dish with a savoury and aromatic profile that perfectly complements the succulent chicken. While the Kaarage is a treat on its own, it is worth noting that the combination can be a tad salty for some palates when paired with the mayo on the side.

Chawanmushi 4/5

The Chawanmushi ($8) consists of a savoury steamed egg custard that is elevated with a delightful combination of ingredients, including clams, snow fungus, and ikura. The clams impart a subtle brininess that mingles beautifully with the delicate flavours of the custard. In contrast, the ikura imparts a pleasant pop and a delightful saltiness that perfectly balances the dish's overall taste.

Wagyu Hamburg Bowl Set 4.2/5

Café Natsu Joo Chiat introduces a hearty lunch set that will capture your hearts with its exquisite flavours and carefully curated ingredients. Diners can choose between the Wagyu Hamburg Bowl Set ($36), featuring a house-made Wagyu patty, or the Teishoku Set ($32). We opted for the Wagyu Hamburg Bowl Set ($36), which features a tender and succulent patty, refreshing oroshi and a yolk atop. To complement the wagyu hamburg, a side of sauce is provided, adding an additional layer of depth and richness. The meal is accompanied by appetisers and chestnut rice cooked with house-made dashi.

Pork Katsu Sando 4/5

The Pork Katsu Sando ($26) features a generous portion of crispy and tender pork katsu, complemented by the delightful crunch of the tamanegi and the refreshing crispness of the lettuce, providing a delightful contrast to the succulent pork. What sets this sandwich apart is the doubanjiang aioli, a sauce that brings the flavours to a whole new level. The doubanjiang, a fermented chilli bean paste, infuses the aioli with an intensely umami-rich taste and a subtle sweet touch. The Pork Katsu Sando is also served with a side of Togarashi fries. These crispy fries, sprinkled with Togarashi seasoning, provide a delightful kick of heat and spice.

Uji Matcha Kakigori 4.2/5

Moving on to the desserts, the Uji Matcha Kakigori ($14) features a slightly different ice texture, characterised by a rougher shaved ice consistency. The matcha-infused ice in the Uji Matcha Kakigori exudes a distinct and robust flavour profile. Accompanying the ice is a heavenly soft coconut foam that adds a creamy and luxurious touch to the dessert. It is adorned with a drizzle of gula melaka that adds a delightful hint of sweetness and depth, balancing the earthy bitterness of the Uji Matcha.

Zenzai 4/5

The Zenzai ($12) features a velvety and comforting azuki red bean soup. The sweetness of the red bean soup is perfectly balanced, allowing the natural flavours of the azuki beans to shine through. I love the chewy and soft kiri mochi tangyuan embedded within the soup, which added a delightful textural element to the dessert. Overall, it is a traditional dessert that embodies the essence of Japanese culinary traditions and is perfect for those seeking a soothing and indulgent treat.

In conclusion, my experience at Café Natsu was a positive one. The food offered at the café was undeniably good, with a range of dishes that delighted the taste buds. From the delightful Wagyu Hamburg Bowl Set to the delectable Pork Katsu Sando and the flavourful Chawanmushi, the menu showcased a fusion of Japanese and local flavours that left a lasting impression. The attention to detail in ingredient sourcing and the thoughtfulness of crafting each dish were evident, ensuring a satisfying and memorable dining experience. Café Natsu truly delivered on its commitment to providing exceptional quality and flavours that pleased the palate.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Café Natsu
283 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427537
Tel: +65 8886 4697
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 830am - 530pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 33. Alight 4 stops later. Walk to Koon Seng Road. Turn right onto Koon Seng Road. Walk towards Joo Chiat Road. Turn right on Joo Chiat Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 33. Alight 4 stops later. Walk down Joo Chiat Road towards Koon Seng Road direction. Walk down Joo Chiat Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes.  [Map]

WOKE Ramen @ Changi Airport Terminal 1 - Singapore's First Wok Hei Ramen

WOKE Ramen, located at Changi Airport Terminal 1 viewing mall central, is Singapore's first wok hei ramen. It is a cultural crossover between Japanese ramen broth and Chinese lamian noodles. The noodles are stir-fried in a seasoned wok that singes them for the smokey aroma (wok hei).

Seafood Mix Prawn Ramen 3.8/5

There are two broth bases - prawn and chicken for the enjoyment of the wok hei ramen. I had the Seafood Mix Prawn Ramen ($18.90), which comprises a treasure trove of prawn paste balls, tiger prawns and scallops served atop wok hei ramen, onsen egg, black fungus and spring onions in the savoury prawn broth. The prawn broth gets the tick for its umami seafood richness. The noodle's texture is on the soft side, which is not my preference. The prawn paste ball is the paste type, while I preferred the crunchy version. Overall, it is still a decent bowl of ramen.

Chicken Chashu Collagen Ramen 3.8/5

For a lighter option, go for the Chicken Chashu Collagen Ramen ($13.90). The flavourful and creamy broth allows a fuller appreciation of the wok hei ramen than the prawn broth. It is topped with grilled chicken chashu, onsen egg, black fungus and spring onions for a slurping bowl of goodness.

Onion Oil Ramen 3/5

Go for the Onion Oil Ramen ($8.90), a dry version tossed in aromatic onion oil and garnished simply with spring onions for the unadulterated appreciation of the noodle's wok hel smokiness.

Chicken Karaage 4/5

There is a number of sides to go along with the noodles, making it a complete meal. The Chicken Karaage ($4.50) was chunky and juicy with a delectable coat of crispiness and crunchiness.

Golden Beancurd Skin 3.8/5

The other sides I had were the Golden Beancurd Skin ($3.50) and WOKE Gyoza ($4.50). The golden beancurd is not only crispy on the exterior, but the meaty fish paste interior made me enjoy it more. A delightful choice is the gyoza deep-fried to crisp with juicy filling.

WOKE Gyoza 3.5/5

For an additional $5.50, you can complete your meal with a choice of side and drink.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


WOKE Ramen
Changi Airport Terminal 1
Viewing Mall Central
80 Airport Boulevard
#03-19
Singapore 819642
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1030am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Changi Airport MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to the skytrain platform. Take the skytrain to Terminal 1. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]