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]

Akashi Japanese Restaurant @ Paragon - Buy 1 Get 2 Temaki Deal

Akashi’s popular Twilight Hour promotion runs from Monday to Friday, from 2.30pm onwards, offering a Buy 1 Get 2 deal on all signature temaki (excluding Uni Temaki). Beyond the promotion, we also sampled several of the restaurant’s signature dishes to see whether they were worth a return visit.

Temaki 5/5

We sampled six freshly made Temaki varieties — Spicy Shake, California, Chef’s Special (featuring Tuna and Uni), Salmon & Tamago, Negitoro, and Beef Steak served with a raw egg dipping sauce. Prices start from an affordable $6 and go up to $48 for the premium Uni Temaki. What impressed us most was the generous amount of fillings packed into every handroll. Unlike many temaki, where the ingredients disappear halfway through, these remained generously filled right down to the final bite.

It was honestly one of the most satisfying temaki experiences we’ve had. That said, don’t expect three handrolls to leave you completely full. With a rice-to-filling ratio of roughly 30:70, the emphasis here is clearly on quality ingredients rather than carb-heavy portions.

Nasu Awaseyaki 4.8/5

Nasu Awaseyaki ($20) features Japanese eggplant topped with homemade miso. What stood out immediately was the texture. Instead of the soft, melt-in-your-mouth consistency typically associated with eggplant, this version offered a pleasant bite and slight crunch. Encased in a light tempura-style coating, the eggplant remained juicy within, while the savoury miso topping added depth and umami. Interestingly, the combination somehow reminded us of fried bananas! It was unexpected, yet surprisingly enjoyable.

Wakadori 4.5/5

Wakadori ($18) is a pan-seared chicken dish glazed with teriyaki sauce. The chicken was executed beautifully, with crisp, golden skin giving way to tender and juicy meat. We approached this dish with modest expectations, as teriyaki sauces can often lean overly sweet. Thankfully, Akashi strikes a more balanced savoury-sweet profile. As we continued eating, the flavour became strangely familiar, reminiscent of marmite chicken but subtler and more refined. This is the kind of dish that practically begs for a bowl of steamed rice.

Kani Ramen 4.5/5

Kani Ramen ($18) is a stir-fried ramen dish topped with fresh crab meat. The flavour profile was lighter and more nuanced than expected. There was a gentle tanginess running through the dish, which initially led us to believe vinegar was involved. We later learned that the acidity actually came from Japanese sake, lending the noodles a subtle brightness without overpowering the crab’s sweetness. Portion-wise, it was just right, satisfying without feeling heavy or cloying, making it an easy dish to finish.

While the Buy 1 Get 2 Temaki promotion is undoubtedly the headline attraction, Akashi’s signature dishes proved equally capable of holding their own. The standout for us was undoubtedly the temaki, thanks to the freshness of the ingredients and the generous fillings packed into every roll.

If you’re looking for a casual Japanese dining spot that delivers quality ingredients, well-executed dishes and excellent value during off-peak hours, Akashi’s Twilight Hour promotion is certainly worth checking out.

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


Akashi Japanese Restaurant
Pargaon
290 Orchard Road
#B1-01/02
Singapore 238859
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line), Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1. Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. At the traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link, cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 2 or 3. Proceed to the road level. Walk down Orchard Road until the junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road and walk to Paragon. Journey time is about 12 minutes. [Map]

Torasho Ramen Bar @ Takashimaya - Revamped with a Focus on Authentic Japanese Shoyu Ramen

Chef Sho Naganuma is the founder of the popular homegrown Japanese ramen brand Torasho Ramen. Its Takashimaya space has recently undergone a revamp and menu refresh, with a renewed focus on classic Japanese-style shoyu ramen.

Chef Sho introduced this direction to showcase the authentic flavours he grew up with, built on a carefully crafted base of pork and shoyu.

Chashu Wontonmen 4/5

First up was the Chashu Wontonmen ($22), served in a generously filled bowl, topped with tender, well-seasoned chashu, wontons, bamboo shoots, and bean sprouts. The egg is a $2 top-up. The clear broth was hearty and deeply savoury, yet surprisingly light. We especially enjoyed the layered depth of flavours, which went beyond just soy sauce. That said, we did wish the noodles had a slightly firmer bite.

For simpler options, there is the signature Ramen ($16), Chashumen ($19), and other variations with different toppings.

Wonton Tsukemen 4/5

If you prefer bolder flavours, go for the Wonton Tsukemen ($21). The dipping broth is noticeably thicker and richer. This is also available as Tsukemen ($18), Tsukemen with Tamago ($20) and Chashu Tsukemen ($21).

House condiments are available at the counter for diners to customise their bowls, including homemade garlic chilli, crushed garlic for tsukemen, and ramen pepper from Nagoya.

Karaage 4/5

Beyond ramen, you can also opt for sides or top up to set meals, such as Wonton, Karaage, Chashu Rice Set, Curry Rice Set and more. We tried the Karaage ($6.80) to share, which was crispy on the outside and juicy within.

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.


Torasho Ramen Bar
Takashimaya Food Hall B2
391 Orchard Road
Singapore 238873
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line), Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight to Ngee Ann City and to the destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

Mashi No Mashi @ Nakin Row - Relocates and Reopens With An Improved Menu Featuring A5 Wagyu

Mashi No Mashi, acclaimed for serving the world's first 100% Wagyu ramen, has relocated to Nakin Row and reopened as a ramen bar concept. Established by Wagyumafia, a collective of restaurants renowned for harnessing the qualities and versatility of Japan's most famous beef through various culinary concepts. Founded by Chef Hisato Hamada, Wagyumafia prides itself on working directly with farmers and selecting only the top 1% of the finest Kobe and Ozaki beef.

Ultra Wagyu Ramen 4.5/5

With the relocation comes an elevated menu. The restaurant has upgraded from A4 to A5 Wagyu and introduced special reopening prices. Signature dishes remain, including the Ultra Wagyu Ramen ($18.80). This generous Hakata-style bowl features a milky, rich Wagyu bone broth and A5 Wagyu chashu. Compared to the very first Ultra Wagyu Ramen I had when the brand first opened, which was noticeably beefier and richer, this version took on a lighter approach. That said, it remained a satisfying bowl, with a flavoursome broth where the beefy depth still hummed in the background. The Red Chilli tare added a savoury, slightly fiery kick that lifted the flavours of the chashu even further.

Wagyu Bak Kut Teh 4.5/5

The Wagyu Bak Kut Teh ($19.65) is a Singapore-exclusive creation. Served in a peppery, garlicky homemade Wagyu bone broth, the beef was succulent and tender, pairing beautifully with black soy sauce and Japanese rice. Now offered at a special SG60 price, it's definitely more attractive to diners than before.

Wagyu Steak Rice 4.8/5

We also tried the Wagyu Steak Rice ($32.80), featuring charcoal-grilled A5 Wagyu. The charcoal-grilled beef highlighted its natural flavours more distinctly than the chashu, and the accompanying umami steak sauce complemented the meat superbly.

Wagyu Gyoza 5/5

Charcoal Edamame 4.8/5

For sides, while it's a pity to see the Wagyu Siew Mai removed from the menu, the scrumptious Wagyu Gyoza ($6.80) remains. A new addition is the Charcoal Edamame ($4.80), grilled and basted with Wagyu beef fat, a more luxurious take on the usual boring edamame.

The drinks menu now features Suntory Highball on tap, ideal for cutting through the richness of the meal. The Ginger Sour ($12) was an interesting option as well, with the acidity of sushi ginger.

Mr Mashi Ice Cream 4/5

For dessert, we tried the MNM ice creams — Mr Mashi and Mashi Jr. Mr Mashi is a creamy banana sherbet, sweetened with maple and studded with pecans and caramel bites, while Mashi Jr leans towards a raspberry swirl. Both had a well-balanced sweetness that rounded off the meal nicely.

Reopening as a ramen bar concept is a natural fit for Mashi No Mashi, highlighting both its ramen focus and beef-centric identity. With the upgrade to A5 Wagyu, it's now an even more.

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.


Mashi No Mashi
3 Pickering Street
#01-42
Nankin Row
Singapore 048660
Contact: +65 8957 8620
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk down Cross Street to South Bridge Road. At the junction of Cross Street and South Bridge Road, cross the road. Turn left onto South Bridge Road. Walk down South Bridge Road. Turn right onto Nakin Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to China Street. Turn right onto China Street. Walk down China Street. Turn left onto Nakin Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Chef's Tavern @ Craig Road - Affordably Priced Exquiste European-Japanese Cuisine

Chef Stephan Zoisl, previously of Chef's Table at Tras Street, returns with a brand-new concept – Chef's Tavern, a casual European-Japanese eatery tucked along Craig Road. Unlike the Western Omakase experience at his former restaurant, Chef's Tavern offers a more approachable menu built around premium ingredients, well-executed dishes, and warm hospitality.

Tavern Style Teishoku Sets 4.2/5

The Tavern Style Teishoku Sets are available during lunch (Mon–Sat, 12pm – 230pm) from $28++, and offer excellent value. Each set comes with a choice of rotating mains, such as pork or monkfish, served alongside salad, soup, vegetables, fruit and a choice of sourdough or Japanese rice. A satisfying and wholesome one-tray meal that combines quality produce and comforting flavours.

Hokkaido Scallop Crudo 4/5

A refreshing and vibrant start was the Hokkaido Scallop Crudo ($19). Stuffed with mint and shiso, the sweet scallops were paired with a tangy mango leche de tigre, pomelo sacs, calamansi juice, and topped with trout roe and avocado cream. Bright, zesty and texturally pleasing.

Hamachi Sashimi 4/5

The Hamachi Sashimi ($18) was clean and simple, allowing the freshness of the fish to shine through. Paired with lightly pickled vegetables and grapes compressed in sweet Austrian wine, this was a light and elegant appetiser to whet the appetite.

Anchovy Puff Pastry 4/5

The Anchovy Puff Pastry ($12) was another favourite. Ricotta cream and savoury anchovy on a crispy puff base, finished with olives. It had great flavour contrast and texture in each bite.

Prawn & Lobster Ramen 3.8/5

The Prawn & Lobster Ramen ($24) came with a rich, house-made lobster bisque broth simmered over 24 hours. It was packed with deep umami and sweetness, paired with juicy Argentine prawns and an onsen egg. While I enjoyed the broth, the ramen noodles were a little too soft for my liking.

Cold Kombu Angel Hair Pasta 4.2/5

A signature dish here is the Cold Kombu Angel Hair Pasta ($22). Chilled angel hair pasta is dressed in a tom kha coconut and lobster bisque sauce, topped with warm Argentine prawns and crispy artichoke chips, and finished with kombu, chives and lemongrass. It is a cold dish that is packed with flavour.

Schnitzel 'Wiener Art' 4.2/5

Chef Stephan pays homage to his Austrian roots with the Schnitzel 'Wiener Art' ($28). Pork loin coated in kaisersemmel breadcrumbs and deep-fried to golden perfection. It came with a butterhead lettuce salad in a citrusy vinaigrette, cranberry jam, fried capers, and anchovy brown butter, a delightful European take on comfort food.

Maple Leaf Duck Breast 4/5

The Maple Leaf Duck Breast ($32) was perfectly cooked, tender and juicy. Underneath the slices was a rich duck leg confit and duck jus. The dish was lifted with a mix of caramelised onion cream, shallot crumble, charred leek, pickled pearl onions and chive oil. It was a well-balanced and hearty plate.

Alaskan Black Cod 4.2/5

A standout dish was the Alaskan Black Cod ($34). Pan-roasted with a crisp exterior and buttery interior, it was paired with earthy salt-baked celery root. The Madras curry beurre blanc and passionfruit gel added aromatic spice and acidity, finished with trout roe and tarragon oil.

Pina Colada 4/5

The Piña Colada ($14) dessert was a fun play on the tropical cocktail. Coconut parfait, pineapple sorbet, rum caramelised pineapple and gula melaka sauce, all layered with crisp filo pastry. It was refreshing and not too sweet.

White Peach Mousse 3.8/5

The White Peach Mousse ($14) came with white peach compote, oolong ice cream, buttery sable and berries in berry gel. Light and fruity, though the flavours were more subtle compared to the other desserts.

Chocolate Gateau 4.2/5

For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Gateau ($16) was an indulgent treat featuring multiple layers of chocolate mousse and glaze. Served with yuzu sorbet, yuzu gel, cocoa nibs, chocolate chantilly and popping candy. It is a well-thought-out dessert with different textures and a citrusy lift.

Chef's Tavern by Chef Stephan Zoisl is a great addition to the Craig Road dining scene. Whether you're looking for a value-for-money lunch or refined dinner plates, the dishes here deliver comfort, flavour and finesse without being overly fussy. It's a hidden gem worth checking out.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Chef's Tavern
Craig Place
20 Craig Road
#01-02
Singapore 089692
Tel: +65 6224 4188
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 930pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Orchid Hotel. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Continue on Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road and walk to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Turn right onto Craig Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]