Shakō-Ba @ North Canal Road - A Vibrant & Immersive Experience Alongside Classic and Innovative Izakaya Creations

Time to check out the hottest new izakaya bar in town! Shakō-Ba is conceptualised around a unique daruma theme, inspired by the traditional Japanese doll symbolising perseverance and good luck. The space is stylishly decorated, with a main bar and dining area showcasing cheeky neon signage to create the perfect atmosphere for a night out. There's also a private room available for diners who want to enjoy a karaoke session.

The kitchen is led by Chef Patrick, who brings with him over 25 years of culinary expertise. Besides the ala carte main menu, they have recently launched an omakase menu, served in a cosy dining room away from the main bar and dining area. This setting offers a more intimate and sophisticated ambience whilst still embracing a fun and playful vibe. During my visit, my dining companion and I were treated to the Daruma Lite Omakase, and to begin the evening, we were presented with a tray of 6 different types of Japanese cups and glasses. This welcome ritual allows each diner to choose their preferred vessel, which is then paired with a complimentary welcome drink! There are both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available, and I was pleased with my refreshing iced yuzu drink.

Seasonal Appetisers 4.5/5

Chef Patrick then presented the first dish: a tray of Seasonal Appetisers featuring three delightful items. The fruit tomato, delicately sprinkled with snowflake salt, was set alongside a bowl of beancurd skin paired with wasabi. Intriguingly, there were two little river crabs perched on the tray — I initially thought they were just decorative! However, they are indeed meant to be eaten. Deep-fried and seasoned with salt and garlic powder, the crabs were incredibly crunchy, and we demolished them rather quickly.

Seasonal Sashimi Tray 4.2/5

Next, we were treated to the Seasonal Sashimi Tray, presented with a touch of flair as lights illuminated the ice beneath. We were served three thick, fresh slices of fish: chutoro, yellowtail, and swordfish belly. Chef Patrick adds a creative twist to the soy sauce by transforming it into a foam, encouraging diners to apply the soy sauce foam directly onto the fish rather than dipping it.

Scallops Cold Truffle Somen 4.8/5

Before diving into the Scallops Cold Truffle Somen, diners get to engage in an exciting game of dice with Chef Patrick! The stakes are high—those who win will be well rewarded with a complimentary topping of fresh seasonal hairy crab to elevate their somen! But even if luck isn't on your side, the truffle somen is already very delicious, featuring large, succulent pieces of scallops that make it a delight regardless!

Truffle Chawanmushi 4.2/5

Next is a Truffle Chawanmushi that is served piping hot and warms the palate. Each spoonful reveals a silky smooth consistency, enhanced by earthy truffle flavours.

Tempura Prawn & Corn Rice 4.2/5

We were then served a tray of Tempura Prawn & Corn Rice, a dish beautifully showcasing textures' harmony and flavours. The bite-sized pieces of prawn and corn tempura are perfectly crisp, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy bed of rice beneath. The rice is seasoned with furikake, and I found the dish to be quite tasty, although my dining companion felt that the rice could do with an extra pinch of salt.

Shots Tray

At this point, you have the chance to win free shots — if you’re feeling daring! The odds are definitely in your favour, as you’ll draw from a full deck of cards, winning the corresponding number of shots based on your draw. But beware: if you happen to draw the Joker, you'll have to buy a round for all the diners at the omakase table, though at a discounted 1-for-1 price! Are you willing to take the risk?

Note: The shots shown in my photo are the mini version, as we requested a reduced size. Typically, the shots served are in standard shot glasses!

Clam Soup 4.2/5

After all that excitement, sip on a comforting bowl of Clam Soup, where each spoonful envelops you in warmth and contentment. The broth is richly infused with the briny essence of fresh clams, and the many tender pieces of clam in the soup provide a satisfying bite in every sip.

Dessert 4.2/5

For dessert, diners are treated to three delightful pieces of mochi, each one coated in your choice of chocolate, kinako, or sesame. A nice way to experience traditional Japanese sweets with a modern twist.

Brown Sugar Cheesecake 4.5/5

This Brown Sugar Cheesecake isn't included in the Daruma-lite omakase menu, but it's absolutely worth ordering from the main menu. The cheesecake boasts a luscious, melted top layer of cheese that perfectly complements the crispy brown sugar crust, adding rich caramel sweetness to every bite. Each forkful combines the creamy filling, the crispy sugar crust and the buttery biscuit base, creating a harmonious blend of textures that will leave you craving more.

The drinks menu is equally enticing, featuring a diverse selection of flavoured shochu, sake, highballs and more, ensuring there’s something to please every palate. Whether you prefer the refreshing notes of a fruity shochu or the nuanced flavours of a finely crafted sake, you’ll find the perfect accompaniment to your meal.

Additionally, there's an exciting option to press the "Superstar Button." If you're feeling like a boss, this fun feature lets you treat the whole crowd to a round of shots for just $288! It's a fantastic way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a lively night out with friends. Whether you're here for drinks and izakaya bites or a multi-course omakase, you can be sure of one thing: the team at Shakō-Ba is ready to welcome you for a good time!

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shakō-Ba
12 North Canal Road
#02-01
Singapore 048825
Tel: +65 9689 9010
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (CC Line), Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 5pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk towards the junction of North Canal Road and South Bridge Road. Cross the junction and continue on North Canal Road. Walk along the shophouses along North Canal Road. Look out for an alley and turn left into it. Look for the entrance to the building and take lift to level 2. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]


2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk towards North Canal Road. Continue on North Canal Road. Walk along the shophouses along North Canal Road. Look out for an alley and turn right into it. Look for the entrance to the building and take lift to level 2. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

The Ushi Club @ Boat Quay - A Hidden Gem for Japanese Beef Aficionados

The Ushi Club on Circular Road offers an authentic Japanese yakiniku experience, showcasing premium A5-grade Miyazaki and Miyazawa beef. Walking into the restaurant feels like a brief escape to Japan; the cosy, intimate space exudes a Japanese ambience with its minimalist decor and warm, inviting atmosphere. We were seated at the counter, where each guest had their own grill, and the attentive staff handled the grilling process to ensure each cut was cooked to perfection.

Assorted Kimchi and Namul 4.2/5

We started our Ushi Club Course ($111) with a selection of Assorted Kimchi and Namul. The bright flavours and tangy notes perfectly whet the appetite, offering a refreshing counterbalance to the rich meats that followed. Throughout the dinner, we found ourselves returning to these small bites to cut through the richness of the beef.

Choregi Salad 4/5

The Choregi Salad might look simple at first glance, but it's surprisingly flavourful. The greens are tossed in a light yet savoury choregi dressing, adding a delightful crunch and freshness to the course lineup.

Wagyu Beef Sashimi 4.2/5

The Wagyu Beef Sashimi was a revelation. It might seem unusual for anyone unfamiliar with beef sashimi, but the clean and mild flavours of the high-quality raw beef surprised me. There was no hint of gaminess — just a smooth, buttery taste that elevated the experience.

Beef Muscle with Ponzu 3.5/5

The Beef Muscle with Ponzu was less tender than other cuts due to its natural texture, but the tangy ponzu sauce with radish brightened up the dish. While it was not my favourite, the flavours were well-complemented by the acidity of the ponzu, making it an interesting addition.

Assorted Wagyu Platter 4.8/5

Beef Tongue with Spring Onion 4.8/5

The star of the night was the Assorted Wagyu Platter (120g), featuring cuts like Chunk Tender, Premium Short Rib, Beef Skirt, Chunk Rib, Top Blade, and Triceps Brachii Caput. Each piece was grilled by the skilled staff, allowing us to savour the unique textures and flavors of each cut, one by one, at their optimal doneness. For a more adventurous bite, we had Beef Tongue with Spring Onion, which had a pleasant crunchiness balanced by the fresh, sharp flavour of the green onions.

Brisket Yakisuki 4.8/5

A standout from the grilled selection was the Brisket Yakisuki. Tender and well-marbled, this cut melts in your mouth. Dipping it into an egg yolk added a layer of creaminess, enhancing its richness and making it one of the most indulgent dishes of the night.

Garlic Rice 4/5

We were served a comforting bowl of Garlic Rice to wrap up the meal. The garlicky aroma and warm, hearty flavour were the perfect ends to a rich and satisfying dinner.

Wagyu Beef Tartare 4.2/5

We tried the Wagyu Beef Tartare ($28) from the à la carte menu. Mixed with egg yolk, spring onion, and a touch of seasoning, the tartare is perfect when paired with seaweed for a rich, umami-filled wrap.

Kourayaki 4/5

The seasonal Kourayaki ($18) was another treat—a blend of crab tomalley and roe grilled directly in its shell. The rich, creamy texture of the king crab tomalley, combined with the umami depth from Japanese cooking sake, homemade mirin, and butter, was a decadent addition to the meal.

The Ushi Club delivers a stellar Japanese yakiniku experience in a cosy setting where high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation shine. Each course, from the refreshing starters to the premium Wagyu cuts, is thoughtfully prepared to bring out the best flavours. This spot is a hidden gem for Japanese beef aficionados, offering a taste of Japan in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Ushi Club
64 Circular Road
#01-01
Singapore 049418
Tel: +65 6423 9060
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk straight down Chulia Street to Circular Road. Walk down Circular Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Kushi Japanese Dining @ Grantral Mall & Complex MacPherson - Offering Budget-Friendly A La Carte Japanese Buffet

Kushi Japanese Dining has been a fixture in Singapore for the past 16 years, having moved locations a few times before settling into its current spot at Grantral Mall, MacPherson. Offering a budget-friendly à la carte buffet, Kushi boasts an extensive selection of Japanese dishes that satisfy all your cravings.

Assorted Sashimi Platter 4/5

We began our buffet experience with the Assorted Sashimi Platter, which included maguro, sake, shiro maguro, tako, ika, meikajiki, and hamachi (limited to one serving per table). The sashimi was impeccably fresh, with the shiro maguro standing out as a rare find at many Japanese restaurants.

Pitan Tofu 3.5/5

Chawanmushi 3.5/5

We also enjoyed the Chawanmushi, which was subtly flavourful, and the must-try Pitan Tofu, a unique and creamy dish that offered a different take on tofu.

Agedashi Tofu 4/5

Tako Yaki 3/5

Asari Miso Soup 4/5

Moving on to the hot dishes, we sampled the perfectly fried Agedashi Tofu, which was crispy on the outside and tender within. It's a dish we could quickly devour on our own. The Tako Yaki was decent but could be skipped if you're looking to save room for more sashimi. The Asari Miso Soup, with its plump and fresh clams, served as a refreshing palate cleanser, preparing us for the next round of food.

Assorted Kushiyaki 3.8/5

Saba Shoyaki 4/5

Pork Belly Shogayaki 3/5

Surume Ika 4/5

Next, we tried an assortment of Kushiyaki, as recommended by our server. Each skewer was perfectly grilled, but our favourites were the Saba Shoyaki and Surume Ika. The saba was generously portioned, lightly salted, and deliciously flaky, while the grilled squid had a pleasantly charred flavour and was only available in limited servings. The Pork Belly Shogayaki was tasty, but we wished we had room to enjoy it with rice.

Assorted Tempura Platter 4/5

For Tempura, the Ebi stood out with its light, crispy batter, and the prawn itself was fresh and sweet.

Kitsune Soba 3/5

Garlic Fried Rice 3/5

Kushi offers options like Garlic Fried Rice, Kitsune Soba, and Mini Ramen if you need carbs. While they were decent, they didn't leave a lasting impression.

Shabu Shabu Pork 4/5

However, the Shabu Shabu Pork was a pleasant surprise. The broth was clean and sweet, likely from the vegetables, and perfectly contrasted with the heavier grilled and fried dishes we had been enjoying. This hotpot dish is a must-try if you want something to cut through the greasiness and refresh your palate.

Wafu Beef Steak 3.5/5

For those looking for more beyond the buffet, Kushi offers a 25% discount on selected à la carte dishes. We decided to try the Wafu Beef Steak. You can request your preferred doneness, and the flavourful wafu sauce enhances the tender steak.

Priced at $54.90++ for lunch and $58.90++ for dinner, Kushi's buffet is exceptional value for money, offering a wide variety of quality Japanese dishes. The restaurant is clean, brightly lit, and nicely decorated, providing a comfortable dining environment.

For those planning a special gathering, Kushi also offers two private dining rooms, each accommodating up to 10 people, or 20 if combined, with a minimum spend required. Whether you're a fan of sashimi, grilled items, or hotpot, Kushi Japanese Dining will surely satisfy you.

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


Kushi Japanese Dining
Grantral Mall & Complex Macpherson
601 Macpherson Road
#01-27/28
Singapore 368242
Tel: +65 69040728
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tai Seng (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tai Seng MRT Station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Hanare by Takayama @ Takashimaya - Indulge in the Limited-Time Miyazaki A4 Gyukatsu Set for 2 at $158

Hanare by Takayama at Takashimaya has launched a limited-time seasonal Miyazaki A4 Gyukatsu Set for 2 diners at $158, and it's a luxurious feast not to be missed. This exclusive set menu includes a selection of dishes from appetisers to dessert, offering a fine balance of flavours and premium ingredients. Available to just 10 diners per session for lunch and dinner daily, the exclusivity of this meal makes it an enticing option for those looking to indulge in something special.

Aburi Scallop Salad 3/5

To begin, diners can choose from three salads: White Bait Salad with Plum Dressing, Aburi Scallop Salad (+$18), and Aburi Wagyu Beef Salad (+$22). We opted for the Aburi Scallop Salad. The scallops were plump, fresh, and slightly torched, which enhanced their sweetness. Paired with wakame seaweed and greens, the sancho dressing added a refreshing zest to the dish. While the scallops were delightful, the salad felt somewhat predictable and lacked the wow factor to warrant the additional price.

3 Kinds of Seasonal Sashimi 4.2/5

Following the salad was the Seasonal Sashimi, featuring three types of fresh fish. Thickly cut and beautifully presented, the sashimi was a highlight, offering that perfect melt-in-your-mouth sensation. The freshness of the fish was unmistakable, and each bite was a testament to the quality and care taken in sourcing ingredients. It is a substantial and satisfying dish for sashimi lovers.

Snow Crab Chawanmushi 5/5

The Snow Crab Chawanmushi was another highlight of the meal. The steamed egg custard was silky smooth, with each spoonful bursting with the sweetness of the snow crab. The addition of ikura (salmon roe) added a delightful salty pop, complementing the creamy texture of the chawanmushi. This luxurious version of a classic dish elevated the dining experience with its rich and delicate flavours.

Signature Kamameshi 5/5

A signature at Hanare, the Kamameshi (traditional Japanese rice dish) is a must-try, and luckily, it’s included in this set. Diners can choose from four varieties: Fried Garlic Kamameshi, Salmon and Ikura Kamameshi (+$12), Hokkaido Seiko Kani and Ikura Kamameshi (+$18), and Wagyu Kamameshi (+$24).

We went for the Hokkaido Seiko Kani and Ikura Kamameshi. The fragrant rice, cooked in a specially brewed dashi stock in a traditional iron pot, was topped with female snow crab, ikura, mushrooms, and edamame. The umami-packed rice was served with miso soup and pickles on the side, and every bite was satisfying, with the crab's sweetness enhancing the overall depth of flavour.

Miyazaki A4 Gyukatsu 4.5/5

The star of the show is undoubtedly the Miyazaki A4 Gyukatsu, where 200g of premium, breaded beef fillet is served golden and crispy on the outside while retaining a juicy, tender core. The real fun starts when diners get to grill the gyukatsu to their preferred doneness on a hot plate. The beef's rich marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture made it the highlight of the meal and a true indulgence for meat lovers.

Frozen Yuzu & Mango Prafit with Candied Yuzu Peel 3/5

The meal ended on a refreshing note with the Frozen Yuzu & Mango Parfait with Candied Yuzu Peel. The tartness of the yuzu paired with the sweetness of the mango created a well-balanced dessert, light and palate-cleansing after a rich meal. The candied yuzu peel added an extra touch of elegance and texture to the dessert.

The Miyazaki A4 Gyukatsu Set is a delightful experience for those looking to indulge in a curated menu of premium ingredients. While the Aburi Scallop Salad didn't quite justify its additional cost, the freshness of the sashimi, the luxuriousness of the chawanmushi, and the flavourful kamameshi and gyukatsu more than made up for it. The meal ended on a sweet and satisfying note with the Frozen Yuzu & Mango Parfait.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hanare by Takayama
Takashimaya Shopping Centre
391 Orchard Road
#03-07
Ngee Ann City
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 82989369
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line), Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight at Ngee Ann City until 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 destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]