DOMO Modern Japanese @ Fairmont Hotel - Refined Japanese Cuisine with a Contemporary Twist

DOMO Modern Japanese may be just over a year old, but it’s already making its mark on Singapore’s dining scene with its contemporary take on Japanese cuisine. Named after the Japanese expression “Domo Arigatou” (“thank you”), the restaurant combines Japanese techniques with subtle European influences in a refined yet approachable setting.

Leading the kitchen is Chef Rose Ang, whose 29 years of culinary experience include working with Nobu Hospitality across Europe. Her global experience is reflected throughout the menu, where Japanese flavours are thoughtfully complemented by European touches, resulting in dishes that are balanced, elegant and never overcomplicated.

Salmon Tataki 4/5

We started with the Salmon Tataki ($22), lightly seared and served with Dijon miso sauce and a balsamic glaze. The gentle smokiness from the aburi edges complements the rich salmon beautifully. At the same time, the Dijon miso adds a savoury depth before the balsamic cuts through with just enough acidity to keep every bite balanced. It’s a great introduction to Chef Rose’s signature approach of marrying Japanese techniques with European influences.

Chawanmushi 3.8/5

The Chawanmushi ($18) arrives generously filled with prawn, crab meat and ikura. Seafood lovers will appreciate its natural sweetness, though diners more sensitive to stronger seafood flavours may find it slightly fish-forward. The silky steamed egg provides a comforting base that lets the fresh seafood shine.

Sashimi Salad with Nashi Pear Dressing 5/5

Instead of the usual sashimi platter, we opted for the Sashimi Salad with Nashi Pear Dressing ($24), and it turned out to be one of our favourite dishes. The combination of fresh sashimi, crisp greens and crunchy nashi pear created a refreshing contrast of textures, while the dressing was light and well-balanced without being overly sweet.

Sashimi Taco 5/5

The Sashimi Taco ($18 for 2 pieces) comes in different variations, and we tried both the salmon and tuna versions. The Salmon Taco, paired with tomato shiso salsa, was pleasant and approachable, though the flavours leaned toward the milder side. We thought a spicy variation would give it a little more excitement.

Tuna Taco 5/5

The Tuna version, on the other hand, was outstanding. The combination of tuna, avocado and feta created a richer and more balanced flavour profile, making this our preferred choice between the two.

Snow Crab & Tobiko Baked Rice 4.8/5

For mains, we had the Snow Crab & Tobiko Baked Rice ($48), which was generously topped with sweet snow crab, while the rice carried a subtle ginger fragrance that complemented the seafood without overpowering it. Comforting, satisfying and perfect for sharing, this is a dish we’d happily order again.

Domo Sour 4/5

The drinks menu offers a surprisingly good selection at reasonable prices. We tried the Domo Sour ($16), a whisky-based cocktail with bitters and yuzu. Smooth, citrusy and refreshing, it paired well with the seafood dishes throughout the meal.

Sticky Ginger Date Pudding 5/5

Chef Rose recommended her signature Sticky Ginger Date Pudding ($16), served with soy toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream. Replacing salt with soy sauce was an interesting touch, adding subtle savouriness to the dessert. The pudding itself reminded us of a Chinese red date and ginger steamed cake, while the vanilla ice cream made it richer and more indulgent.

Chilled Mango Gazpacho 4/5

For something lighter, we also tried the Chilled Mango Gazpacho with Yuzu Shiso Pomelo ($22). Think of it as a refined take on the classic Hong Kong mango pomelo dessert, elevated with fragrant shiso and yuzu. Refreshing and not overly sweet, it was a lovely way to end the meal.

Beyond the food, we were pleasantly surprised by the restaurant’s spacious layout. DOMO features four private dining rooms with minimum spend starting at just $80 per person, making it a great option for celebrations, corporate gatherings, or intimate dinners. Combined with its elegant ambience and thoughtfully curated menu, DOMO delivers a dining experience that feels polished yet welcoming.

Beyond the signature dishes we tried, DOMO offers an extensive à la carte menu featuring sashimi, sushi, robata-grilled seafood and meats, noodles and rice, giving diners plenty of reasons to return and explore more of the menu. For those seeking a more curated experience, Chef Rose also offers a Signature Tasting Menu from $88++, with bespoke omakase experiences starting at $300++.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


DOMO
Fairmont Singapore
252 North Bridge Road
#03-00
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 89108835
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Sushi Dorobo @ Bugis Cube - An Intimate 10-Seater Omakase Worth Discovering

Sushi Dorobo, a cosy 10-seater at Bugis Cube level 3, offers a quietly intimate omakase experience - the kind where the chefs interact, observe and occasionally surprise you with off-menu touches. Opened just a few months ago and run by two chefs, the restaurant keeps things simple and focused. We went for the Sushi Kage Omakase ($139) for dinner. There is also a more affordable Sushi Shiobi menu at $99.

Appetizer

The meal begins light but thoughtful, with a trio of Soramame (broad beans), Amela Tomato and Hotaru Ika (firefly squid). It’s a well-balanced opener that is refreshing, slightly briny and texturally interesting. Nothing overly complex, but a good way to ease into the meal.

Cold Dish

The Hokkaido Oyster with Yuzu Ponzu is a highlight early on. Creamy and fresh, the oyster is lifted by the citrusy dressing, while the ikura adds little bursts of salinity. Simple, clean flavours done right.

Seasonal Sashimi

We were served Kampachi, Scallop and Akami. The kampachi stood out, lightly aburi-ed for added depth and aroma. It’s a small touch, but one that shows attention to detail that elevates what could have been a standard sashimi course.

At one point, the chef brought out what looked like a long white fish, which was actually octopus. Sliced and served complimentary, the different cuts offered contrasting textures - one more tender, the other slightly crunchy. No sauce needed; the natural flavour was enough.

Chawanmushi

A comforting, familiar dish done well. The Chawanmushi is silky and light, with chunks of white fish hidden within, adding both texture and flavour. It’s simple but satisfying, the kind of dish that quietly anchors the meal.

Hirame – Flounder Sushi

Madai – Seabream

Kinmedai - Golden Eye Snapper

Engawa - Flounder Fin

Aji - Horse Mackerel

Aka Ebi + Foie Gras - Red Prawn + Foie Gras

Chutoro - Medium Fatty Tuna

Otoro + Caviar

The omakase continues with 8 pieces of Nigiri made fresh right in front of us, featuring a mix of classic and premium selections. The progression is well-paced, moving from lighter to richer flavours. Standouts include the Engawa for its smoky, fatty depth and the Aka Ebi topped with Foie Gras, which is indulgent, slightly over-the-top, but undeniably satisfying.

Temaki – Uni Handroll

A fun, slightly theatrical moment where the Uni Handroll is finished with edible gold, making it very much a “phone eats first” course. It’s rich, creamy and indulgent!

Tuna Negroni Sushi Roll

Just when we thought the meal was wrapping up, the chef served a Tuna Negroni Sushi Roll that was generously filled and more than a mouthful. Unexpected, but a satisfying addition to our already full stomachs.

Soup – Miso Soup

By this point, a hot bowl of Miso Soup feels very necessary. Warm, comforting and a good reset before dessert.

Seasalt Ice Cream, Red Meat Melon

Dessert was a pleasant surprise - Seasalt Ice Cream sandwiched in a Monaka, finished with a drop of truffle oil. It’s an unusual combination, but it works! Sweet, savoury and aromatic all at once. Paired with a slice of very sweet Red Meat Melon, it ends the meal on a clean, balanced note.

Sushi Dorobo is less about theatrics and more about delivering a quietly enjoyable omakase experience. The intimate 10-seater setting, paired with friendly and attentive chefs, creates a relaxed atmosphere that feels personal rather than formal.

While the menu leans on solid fundamentals, it’s the small surprises and thoughtful touches throughout the meal that make it memorable. It may not aim to be the most refined omakase in town, but it strikes a good balance between quality, creativity and comfort. It is a spot you’d return to for an easy, satisfying dining experience.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sushi Dorobo
Bugis Cube
470 North Bridge Road
#03-17
Singapore 188735
Tel: +65 8344 2811
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1130am - 2pm, 6pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to North Bridge Road. Cross the road. Turn right onto North Bridge Road. Walk down North Bridge Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to North Bridge Road. Turn left onto North Bridge Road. Walk down North Bridge Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

SukiyakiJIN @ Shaw Centre - A Tangy and Fiery, Modern Take on Japanese Sukiyaki with a Local Twist

Opening its doors on 2 May 2026, SukiyakiJIN debuts at the first level of Shaw Centre with a fresh, contemporary take on the traditional Japanese sukiyaki experience. Designed as a vibrant and approachable concept, the restaurant injects bold, local flavours into a classic communal hotpot format, headlined by its eye-catching A5 Wagyu Spicy Tomato ‘Mountain’ Sukiyaki.

A5 Wagyu Spicy Tomato ‘Mountain’ Sukiyaki 4.5/5

At the heart of the menu is the theatrical A5 Wagyu Spicy Tomato ‘Mountain’ Sukiyaki, where a dramatic mound of thinly sliced premium Japanese A5 wagyu is layered into a towering formation over a generous assortment of sukiyaki staples. Beneath the cascade of marbled beef lies a colourful medley of napa cabbage, Japanese leek, chrysanthemum greens, onions, shimeji and enoki mushrooms, alongside silken tofu and springy konjac noodles. As the pot simmers, the wagyu gently collapses into the broth, its rich fat melting into the soup and coating each ingredient with luxurious flavour. Staying true to sukiyaki customs, the A5 wagyu is best enjoyed dipped into a creamy, pasteurised Japanese raw egg ($2++). This classic pairing tempers the broth’s heat while adding a silky, luscious texture that elevates each bite of beef.

The Signature Tomato Sukiyaki ($48++ per person, minimum two diners) offers a refreshing departure from tradition. Its base is crafted from a proprietary blend of four different shoyu varieties, resulting in a layered umami profile that is both deep and nuanced. This is lifted by the natural acidity and sweetness of tomatoes, creating a broth that feels lighter yet no less satisfying. A thoughtful nod to local preferences comes in the form of freshly chopped chilli padi served on the side, allowing diners to tailor the heat level to their liking. The subtle spice cuts through the richness of the wagyu, enhancing the overall balance of the dish.

For purists, the Original Sukiyaki ($45++ per person, minimum two diners) delivers a more traditional experience. Made with Tamari shoyu from Nagoya, the broth leans into a darker, more robust flavour profile. It is deeply savoury, with a gentle sweetness that complements the natural richness of the wagyu, allowing the beef’s quality to take centre stage without distraction.

As the meal draws to a close, the remaining broth becomes the final highlight. By this point, it has transformed into a thick, flavour-packed elixir enriched with rendered wagyu fat and the sweetness of slow-cooked vegetables. Diners can choose to savour it in two indulgent ways. The Cheese Risotto incorporates Hokkaido Yumepirika rice and shredded cheese, resulting in a creamy, umami-laden finish that feels both comforting and decadent. Alternatively, the addition of Inaniwa udon offers a lighter option, with its silky, smooth texture soaking up the concentrated sauce beautifully.

SukiyakiJIN brings a refreshing perspective to Singapore’s hotpot scene, combining the elegance of Japanese sukiyaki with playful, locally inspired elements. Whether you are drawn by the indulgence of A5 wagyu or intrigued by the spicy tomato broth, this new opening offers a memorable communal dining experience that is both hearty and flavour-forward.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


SukiyakiJIN
Shaw Centre
1 Scotts Road
#01-11
Singapore 228208
Tel: +65 96631365
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Take the underpass to Shaw House. Walk to ground level. Walk to Shaw Centre next door. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Fat Cow @ Camden Medical Centre - Welcomes Spring with a Refined 2026 Spring Shiki Omakase

Embracing the gentle vitality of the season, Fat Cow at Camden Medical Centre introduces its 2026 Spring Shiki Omakase, a thoughtful expression of “shiki,” or the four seasons, where ingredients are showcased at their peak through precision and restraint. Curated by Head Chef Shingo Iijima, the menu reflects a quiet confidence in its progression, allowing each course to unfold with clarity and balance.

Available until 20 June 2026, the Spring Shiki Omakase is offered across three formats: $88++ (lunch), $98++ (dinner), and a more elevated $118++ menu available for both lunch and dinner. For this visit, we experienced the $118++ menu, which presents a more luxurious interplay of premium seafood and Wagyu.

Appetiser 4/5

The meal opens on a soothing note with a seasonal Appetiser designed to gently awaken the palate. A delicate Fish Soup, enriched with sake, offers a clean yet comforting profile, complemented by a quartet of condiments — salted plum, sea salt, seaweed, and spring onions — allowing diners to subtly adjust the flavour to their preference. Alongside, the Kyoto-origin Sweet Chilli, deep-fried before being lightly simmered in soy sauce and bonito flakes, delivers a nuanced balance of sweetness and umami, setting the tone for the courses ahead.

Madai 4.5/5

The Madai (Sea Bream) is a study in simplicity and finesse. Lightly brushed with a house-made white soy sauce — blending soybeans, sake, plum, and salt — the fish’s natural sweetness is gently lifted. Resting atop akasu red vinegar rice, the piece is finished with finely shaved yuzu skin, adding a bright citrus note that lingers elegantly.

Engawa 4.2/5

Next is Engawa, featuring hirame flounder prized for its supple texture and rich mouthfeel. Marinated in soy sauce, sake, and mirin, the fish carries a subtle depth, further enhanced by the aromatic lift of shiso leaves.

Sawara 4.5/5

The Sawara (Spanish Mackerel) continues the seafood-forward progression. Paired with shiro ita kombu (thin strips of kelp) and lightly marinated in white vinegar, the dish carries a gentle acidity that accentuates the fish’s natural oils without overwhelming it.

Hotate 4.2/5

Hotate showcases Hokkaido Scallop marinated in aged tamari soy sauce. The result is a deeper, more savoury profile that still preserves the scallop’s inherent sweetness, creating a harmonious balance between richness and delicacy.

Aka Ebi 4.2/5

Aka Ebi introduces a subtle shift with its Saikyo miso marinade. The fermentation lends a gentle complexity to the sweet red shrimp, while a delicate touch of gold dust adds a sense of occasion without being ostentatious.

Buri 4.2/5

The Buri (Yellowtail) brings warmth into the sequence. Finished with a drizzle of hot sesame oil and topped with fresh leek, it offers a comforting contrast, where fragrance and richness are carefully balanced to avoid overpowering the fish.

Aji 4.2/5

Aji, or Horse Mackerel, is lightly smoked with applewood, imparting a restrained smokiness that complements rather than dominates. Finished with spring onion, the dish retains a clean and refreshing profile, in keeping with the season.

Otoro 4.2/5

A highlight of the menu, the Otoro (Fatty Tuna) is luxuriously rich yet thoughtfully presented. Gently warmed over Himalayan salt, the tuna’s marbling becomes even more pronounced. Served atop bamboo charcoal sushi rice, the earthy undertone provides a subtle counterbalance to the richness, while adding visual intrigue.

Yakiniku Handroll 4.5/5

The $118++ menu elevates the Wagyu course with a Yakiniku Wagyu Handroll. Featuring Kagoshima Akune Gold A5 Wagyu, the beef is prepared simply to highlight its natural depth and buttery fat. Finished with a touch of yuzu kosho, the handroll gains a bright, peppery lift that beautifully cuts through the richness.

Mini Chirashi Sushi 4.8/5

As a final savoury flourish, the Mini Chirashi Sushi arrives elegantly presented in a tin. A luxurious medley of Kagoshima A5 Wagyu, chopped tuna, Hokkaido uni, ikura, and caviar sits atop sushi rice, finished with shiso flower. Despite its indulgent components, the dish remains composed, with each element contributing to a layered yet balanced expression of umami and texture.

Daily Selection of Ice Cream 4.2/5

Dessert concludes on a lighter note with a daily selection of ice cream. For our visit, the Soy Sauce-based Ice Cream offered an intriguing balance of sweet and savoury, echoing the Japanese culinary philosophy of harmony. Diners can also opt for a Japanese-style shaved ice (+$12++) for a more refreshing finish.

With its Spring 2026 Shiki Omakase, Fat Cow once again demonstrates its mastery in expressing seasonality through refined technique and thoughtful sourcing. The experience is neither ostentatious nor overly complex, but quietly confident — allowing the quality of the ingredients and the precision of execution to take centre stage. Whether for a leisurely lunch or an intimate dinner, this omakase offers an elegant and measured journey through the flavours of spring.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Fat Cow
Camden Medical Centre
1 Orchard Boulevard
#01-01/02
Singapore 248649
Tel: +65 6735 0308
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT Station. Take Exit 1. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]