Torikizoku @ Vivocity - Japan's #1 Yakitori Chian Opens Its Biggest-Ever Outlet in Singapore

Japan’s popular yakitori chain Torikizoku has officially made its Singapore debut at VivoCity, opening its largest outlet worldwide on 29 May 2026. Spanning an impressive 174 seats across both indoor and al fresco dining areas overlooking the promenade, the space is designed to deliver a lively yet relaxed izakaya experience.

Built on its philosophy of offering quality Japanese fare at accessible prices, Torikizoku keeps things refreshingly simple. All food and non-alcoholic beverages are priced at $3.90++, while kids’ meals and alcoholic drinks are priced at $9.90++. The menu features a mix of grilled skewers, comforting sides, and casual bites, making it an easy spot for gatherings with friends or family.

Chicken Nanban 3.8/5

Starting with the Chicken Nanban ($3.90++), this classic Japanese favourite of karaage paired with tartar sauce delivered a satisfying balance of textures. The chicken was crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy within. The creamy tartar sauce helped to cut through the richness, adding a tangy contrast that lifted the overall flavour profile.

Potato Salad 4/5

The Potato Salad ($3.90++) was a pleasant surprise. Creamy yet not overly heavy, it featured chunks of potato that added a more rustic texture. The addition of bonito flakes added a subtle umami note, elevating what would otherwise be a simple side dish.

Grilled Fluffy Grated Yam 3/5

One of the more unique items on the menu is the Grilled Fluffy Grated Yam ($3.90++). Light and airy with a soft, almost soufflé-like texture, it carried a delicate savoury flavour. While it is meant to complement the skewers as a comforting side, its texture and flavour profile may not appeal to everyone and can be an acquired taste.

Chicken Liver 3/5, Stuffed Bell Pepper Ponzi 3/5, Signature Kizokuyaki Thigh & Leek 3.5/5

Yakitori remains the highlight here, with each plate comprising two skewers priced at $3.90++. Among the selections, the Chicken Liver and Stuffed Bell Pepper with Ponzu were decent, though not particularly outstanding. The liver had a slightly grainy texture, while the stuffed pepper offered a refreshing tang from the ponzu but lacked a stronger flavour punch.

Chicken Liver 3/5, Stuffed Bell Pepper Ponzi 3/5, Signature Kizokuyaki Thigh & Leek 3.5/5

The standout was the Signature Kizokuyaki Thigh & Leek (Sauce), part of the brand’s signature jumbo skewer range. Glazed in Torikizoku’s iconic tare sauce — a recipe refined over more than 40 years — the chicken thigh was juicy and flavourful, with a good balance of sweetness and savouriness. The leek added a mild sweetness without overpowering the meat. Notably, the Kizokuyaki skewers are larger than typical yakitori skewers, making them feel more substantial and better value for money.

Wings 3.8/5

Moving on to the Wings ($3.90++), these were grilled with the bone in, which helped retain moisture and enhance flavour. The meat was tender and juicy, with a lightly crisp exterior. While slightly greasy, it delivered the kind of satisfying richness that makes grilled wings so enjoyable.

Chicken Kamameshi 3.5/5

For something more filling, the Chicken Kamameshi ($3.90++) is a comforting option. Served in a traditional pot and cooked fresh at the table, the dish combines rice, chicken, and vegetables into a hearty one-pot meal. The rice absorbs the flavours of the ingredients as it cooks, resulting in a fragrant and savoury dish. Do note that it requires about 30 minutes of cooking time, so it is best to order this early.

Overall, Torikizoku brings a casual and approachable izakaya concept to Singapore. While the food may not be the most refined or top-tier, the consistent pricing and generous portions make it incredibly accessible. At $3.90++ per dish, it offers a fuss-free dining option where you can sample a variety of items without worrying about the bill. In short, Torikizoku may not serve the best yakitori in town. Still, it delivers solid flavours, a lively atmosphere, and unbeatable value — making it a place you’ll return to for easy, wallet-friendly Japanese dining.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Torikizoku
Vivocity
1 HarbourFront Walk
#01-104, 105
Singapore 098585
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Moutarde @ Resorts World Sentosa - Live Carvery, Wood-Fired Roasts & French Bistro Classics

Moutarde by Paul Pairet, located at WEAVE, Resorts World Sentosa, marks the much-anticipated arrival of the much-acclaimed French chef, opened in November 2025. Chef Pairet is best known for his celebrated restaurants, including Ultraviolet, Mr & Mrs Bund, Polux, and Nonos & Comestibles. In Singapore, Moutarde is positioned as a relaxed yet refined bistro, offering diners an approachable way to experience the chef's signature flair. It is a place where quality ingredients meet easygoing charm, making it ideal for casual get-togethers, weekday dinners, or long weekend lunches.

Moutarde brings an easy, unpretentious French charm with warm lighting, clinking glasses, and tables meant for gathering. Inspired by the convivial spirit of modern Parisian bistros, the restaurant celebrates generous flavours and simple pleasures, where whole cuts, comforting sides, and classic French favourites come together in a relaxed, lively setting. Guests are encouraged to linger a little longer, share generously, and savour simple pleasures done exceptionally well. It is French dining at its most relaxed and heartfelt, where the mood is lively, the plates comforting, and the experience unmistakably Pairet.

We began our meal with warm bread accompanied by butter infused with soy sauce. It had an interesting flavour profile that is buttery, creamy, and savoury. I found it somewhat reminiscent of mentaiko.

Tarama - Za'atar 4.2/5

Tarama - Za'atar ($14) is a smooth, briny emulsion made from smoked cod fish roe blended with a Middle Eastern spice mix, served with focaccia toast. The spread delivers a creamy, smoky, and salty base from the roe, balanced by the earthy and citrusy notes of za'atar, with a gentle lift from sumac. It is best enjoyed generously spread over warm focaccia.

La Salade Parisienne 4.2/5

The La Salade Parisienne is a beautiful composition, bursting with vibrant colours from butter lettuce, white ham, eggs, potatoes, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Visually appetising, the dish comes together in a harmonious play of flavours and textures, offering both freshness and comforting familiarity.

Smoked Salmon Essential 4.2/5

Smoked Salmon Essential ($20) features salmon smoked in-house using aromatic jasmine tea, served alongside lightly toasted sourdough. I particularly enjoyed eating it bruschetta-style, spreading the soy lemon cream onto the toast before layering it with slices of the delicately smoked salmon.

Cheese Soufflé 4.2/5

The Cheese Soufflé ($20) is a Gruyère-based soufflé made with extra-soft cheese, making it a haven for cheese lovers. A distinctive feature is that the servers inject a rich cheese emulsion directly into the centre of the soufflé after it is served, ensuring a molten, flavourful core. Due to its delicate nature, it typically requires 15 to 20 minutes of preparation time. A small side salad accompanies the dish, helping to cut through the richness.

Undeniably, the centrepiece and beating heart of Moutarde's dining experience is its live carvery station, a mouth-watering and captivating spectacle where whole wood-fired roasted cuts are sliced with precision and flair. Drawing from a formative early-1990s London memory of the classic British carving trolley, Chef Paul composes his own unique version of this quintessential dining concept, debuting it here in Singapore.

Wood-Oven Roasted Prime Rib 4.5/5

The highlight has to be the Wood-Oven Roasted Prime Rib, Australian Angus Signature Black, served with au jus and lemon cream. The meat was fatty, tender, and juicy, slow-cooked as a whole large cut in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a beautifully pink and tender, marbled hunk of beef. It is paired with a selection of mustards. As the carvery items rotate daily, the prime rib is subject to availability and may not be offered every day.

Singapore Pepper Short Ribs 4.5/5

Another standout from the carvery is the Singapore Pepper Short Ribs ($38 for 180g). The ribs are coated in a fragrant pepper blend and slow-cooked until tender, developing caramelised edges and a subtle peppery lift reminiscent of char siew. The smoky exterior gives way to a juicy, melt-in-the-mouth interior, finished with a glossy black pepper sauce that carries hints of sweetness, akin to kicap manis. This dish was originally introduced by Chef de Cuisine Glen Tay at Ultraviolet before being brought to Moutarde.

Scallop Truffle New Meuniere 4.2/5

The Scallop Truffle New Meunière features plump Hokkaido scallops gently pan-seared until golden, retaining a tender, translucent centre that highlights their natural sweetness. They are paired with silky mashed potatoes, providing a smooth, buttery base. Finished with a truffle-infused modern meunière, the sauce balances nutty, browned-butter notes with subtle citrus brightness. Luxurious yet restrained, the dish allows the pristine quality of the scallops to remain the star.

Mushroom Garlic 4.5/5

To complement the mains and roasted meats, we ordered several side dishes. One of my favourites was the Mushroom Garlic ($10), a comforting mixed mushroom fricassée gently sautéed to preserve its natural earthiness and finished with fragrant garlic. Cooked slowly to release their juices, the mushrooms form a light, velvety sauce that coats each bite without overpowering. Rich yet restrained, with deep umami notes and a smooth, creamy finish.

French Fries Allumettes 4.2/5

The French Fries Allumettes ($8) are hand-cut, extra-thin fries fried until golden and crisp. Delicate yet crunchy on the outside with a light, fluffy interior, these slim fries deliver a clean potato flavour. Simple, but very addictive.

Charred Asparagus Skewer 4/5

Fresh Green Asparagus is threaded onto skewers and konro-grilled over intense heat, creating a lightly charred exterior while keeping the stalks tender and juicy. The grilling imparts a subtle smokiness that enhances the asparagus's natural sweetness, resulting in a dish that is simple, aromatic, and deeply savoury.

Charred Leeks Essential 3.8/5

Whole Leeks are gently charred until smoky and tender, revealing their natural sweetness beneath the caramelised exterior. Finished with a vibrant sauce ravigote for freshness and acidity, and a drizzle of hazelnut oil for warm, nutty depth, this minimalist dish highlights purity, balance, and technique.

 

Mango - Earl Granite 4/5

Mango - Earl Granite ($14) is a refreshing earl grey granita delicately perfumed with bergamot, served alongside ripe mango. Finished with tangy passion fruit syrup and fresh raspberries, the dessert delivers a bright interplay of citrus, floral tea notes, and tropical sweetness.

The Real French Toast 4.2/5

The Real French Toast ($14) features soft, fluffy brioche on the inside, with a golden, crisp exterior, paired with smooth ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold creates a delightful interplay of flavours and textures. This is certainly not your average brunch fare, a thick slice of brioche that remains pillowy inside while perfectly caramelised outside.

Raspberry Chantilly 4/5

To round off the meal, we had the Raspberry Chantilly. As someone who is not fond of overly sweet desserts, this was a refreshing change. The raspberry sorbet was the highlight, vividly red and packed with a tart, zippy tang that really whets the appetite. Topped with airy vanilla Chantilly, the fragrant cream helped balance the acidity of the berries. Simple yet well-executed, the ratio of cream to sorbet was spot on, making each spoonful a harmonious blend of creamy sweetness and fruit tartness.

Moutarde is a welcome addition to Singapore's dining landscape, a restaurant that carries the weight of Chef Paul Pairet's celebrated legacy without any of the stuffiness. Whether you are drawn in by the live carvery spectacle, the convivial bistro atmosphere, or simply the promise of well-executed French cooking in a relaxed setting, Moutarde delivers on all fronts. Do make your reservations early.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Moutarde
Weave
Resorts World Sentosa
26 Sentosa Gateway
#B1-219 to 221
Singapore 098138
Tel: +65 65776256
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Vivocity Level 3 to Vivocity Monorail Station. Take the Monorail to Sentosa. Alight at Resorts World Station. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

Cendra Tapas Bar and Grill @ Gemmill Lane - Modern Catalan Flavours in a Cosy Hideout

Tucked away along Gemmill Lane, Cendra Tapas Bar and Grill is a cosy, modern Spanish-Catalan restaurant helmed by Chef-Owner Xavi Palau. Hailing from Barcelona, Chef Xavi brings a thoughtful mix of tradition and innovation, backed by his experience as former Executive Sous Chef at FOC. At Cendra, his personal interpretation of Catalan cuisine shines through in comforting, flavour-driven plates.

Crystal Bread with Tomatoes 4.8/5

We kick-started the meal with the Crystal Bread with Tomatoes ($12), further elevated with Iberico Ham ($36 for 50g). The sweet tomato spread layered over the crisp toast combined beautifully with the intensely flavoured Iberico ham. Each bite brought back fond memories of Barcelona, in which simple ingredients were treated with respect and allowed to shine.

Canadian Oysters N2 4/5

The Canadian Oysters N2 with Gin Fizz Foam ($8) offered a refreshing counterpoint. Briny and creamy, the oyster was lifted by the bright, zesty gin fizz foam, giving the classic raw oyster a playful twist.

"Ensaladilla Rusa", Smoked Mackerel on Crisp Toast 4.8/5

The Ensaladilla Rusa with Smoked Mackerel on Crisp Toast ($22 for 2pc) was one of the standout tapas. The classic, creamy Spanish potato salad paired harmoniously with smoked mackerel. It was simple yet incredibly satisfying. This dish is a reminder of how straightforward components can come together to create something truly memorable.

Cod Fish Fritters 4.2/5

The Cod Fish Fritter ($10 for 2pc) is another Spanish classic done well. Encased in a paper-thin, golden crust that gently shatters, the interior reveals a light, airy, mousse-like texture brought about by the whipped batter. The flavours unfold gradually, from the crisp, lightly toasted exterior to the tender, mildly briny cod within. A squeeze of lemon or a swipe of aioli brightens and completes this comforting bite.

Roasted Leek, Romesco, Hazelnuts 4.2/5

The Roasted Leek ($16) is grilled just enough to achieve a slight char, imparting a hint of smokiness while preserving its sweetness. Paired with romesco (a traditional Catalan sauce celebrated for its nutty, smoky richness) and hazelnuts, the dish offers a lovely balance of textures and flavours.

Spanish Octopus with Iberico Chorizo Foam 4.5/5

Another highlight was the Spanish Octopus with Iberico Chorizo Foam ($30). The octopus was cooked to a beautifully tender consistency, complemented by the rich, savoury Iberico chorizo foam that added depth and umami to every bite.

Pork Butifarra Rice "a la Llauna" 4.5/5

Unlike typical Spanish restaurants, Cendra does not serve paella. Instead, it introduces diners to A La Llauna, a traditional Catalan technique where rice is baked in a shallow metal tray. The Pork Butifarra Rice "a la Llauna" ($40) comes laden with a tomato-based sauce infused with butifarra sausage, pork ribs, and mushrooms. Smoky, savoury, and deeply comforting, each spoonful evokes the warmth of home-style Catalan cooking, refined just enough for the modern table.

Chocolate Soufflé with Stracciatella Ice Cream 4.2/5

We ended the meal with the Chocolate Soufflé with Stracciatella Ice Cream ($18), a flourless soufflé made with Costa Rica 70% chocolate. Soft, fluffy, and intensely chocolatey, it's a dessert that will undoubtedly delight chocolate lovers.

Cendra Tapas Bar and Grill stands out for its honest, flavour-driven approach to Catalan cuisine. While the menu keeps things tight and focused, each dish reflects Chef Xavi's depth of experience and personal connection to his heritage. Whether you're here for small plates, comforting baked rice, or simply to explore Catalan flavours beyond the usual paella, Cendra offers a warm and satisfying dining experience worth seeking out on Gemmill Lane.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Cendra Tapas Bar and Grill
5 Gemmill Lane
#01-01
Singapore 069261
Tel: +65 96634084
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Mon, Wed-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 11pm
Sat: 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Summer Hill @ Claymore Connect - A French Bistro Restaurant’s Unlimited Weekend Brunch Trolley

Summer Hill is a charming French bistro tucked away on the second floor of Claymore Connect, just a short stroll from Orchard MRT. While their regular menu features French staples like Wagyu Beef Bourguignon, Mussels Normandy, and French Fried Chicken, weekends bring a creative twist with their Brunch Trolley - a roaming service inspired by the "dim sum" cart, with menus that rotate every few months according to a new theme.

We dropped by on a rainy day and were greeted with a warmly lit, cosy space. The thoughtful decor and mix-and-match tableware added to the inviting atmosphere.

Brunch Trolley - Savouring Stories 3.8/5

From now until the end of May, the Brunch Trolley is themed 'Savouring Stories', with each dish inspired by iconic women writers. Priced at $79++ per person, the brunch includes unlimited servings of iced tea and all featured dishes during the dining session. Diners can opt for free-flow prosecco and wines with a top-up of $55++. The trolley service is available on specific sessions: Fridays at 12pm and Weekends at 11am and 1.30pm. During these sessions, the regular a la carte menu is paused.

Bread & Sides

Our experience started with a Bread Basket and three small side dishes: chicken liver pâté, gruyère eggs with onions, and a tomato-based ratatouille. Our server recommended that a touch of mustard brighten the overall flavours.

White Bean, Potato & Leek Soup with Olives

The White Bean, Potato & Leek Soup was next. It was warm and subtly briny due to the addition of chopped olives and olive oil drizzle.

White Clams

Then came the White Clams, served in a vibrant, spiced sauce with chilli and kaffir lime. It was a pity that the clams were relatively tiny.

Grilled Skate Wing

The Grilled Skate Wing was one of our preferred dishes. It was dressed in a slather of fragrant brown butter and lemon. We ordered seconds, and it fared better when served warm.

Charcoal-grilled Bangalow Pork Collar

We also enjoyed the tender Charcoal-grilled Bangalow Pork Collar, served with a creamy mustard-based sauce and crunchy hazelnuts. It paired nicely with the bread and the next dish, Aligot.

Aligot

Both my dining companion and I love mashed potatoes, so we were excited to dig into the Aligot, a stretchy and thick dish enriched with cheese and butter.

Red Wine Chicken, Spinach & Garlic Gratin

The savoury portions included Red Wine Chicken, Spinach, and Garlic Gratin. Though unassuming, the latter, mixed with onions, breadcrumbs, and butter, had us ordering seconds. Before dessert, the staff checked in to see if we wanted refills. All dishes are available for unlimited servings.

Snow Cone Bar

For dessert, we started at the Snow Cone Bar, where diners could customise their own icy treat with various syrups, such as peach, rose, watermelon, and toppings.

Valrhona Chocolate Almond Cake

Tarte Aux Pommes

We finished with two warm desserts: a Valrhona Chocolate Almond Cake with whipped cream and a Tarte Aux Pommes, an apple-frangipane tart with a crisp crust and custard-like centre. While the dishes were a mix of hits and misses, the attentive service and welcoming space made the experience better. It's a great way to sample the restaurant's menu in small portions, and it's best enjoyed with a group for sharing.

Make sure to make your reservations ahead of time.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Summer Hill
Claymore Connect
442 Orchard Road
#02-17
Singapore 238879
Tel:+65 8690 5907
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Sun: 1130am, 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk to Orchard Road towards the junction of Orchard Road and Claymore Road. Cross the road and turn right. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]