Best Japanese Omakase dining in SG

Omakase - literally translated to "I will leave it to you", is a Japanese meal that is served entirely at the discretion of the chef. Its a myriad of dishes with the freshest sushi you can find and takes decades for a sushi chef to truly master the art.

Discerning guests know all of this and are more than willing to allow the chef to demonstrate their skill, knowledge, and creativity. Because after all, if we can't trust the chef, then why bother eating there at all?

However, while omakase is well-known for being an excellent meal experience, it is also excruciatingly expensive. But the good news is that many sushi restaurants are making an attempt to offer more affordable omakase.

There exists two tiers of omakase now - an affordable option with a common class of fish or a premium option serving only the best and most decadent dishes.

Here, we take a look at the top 5 omakase dining places in Singapore.

1. YOYOGI

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Let's start this list off strong. I'm a regular here and know Chef Edwin very well.

The quality and experience of the meal is always assured and I have no qualms about visiting every time I'm craving for omakase. What sets Yoyogi apart is certainly its atmosphere. Most sushi restaurants have a hushed, almost reverent atmosphere of intense seriousness.

On the other hand, Yoyogi feels relaxed and casual which sets me at ease, and Edwin has no problems at all with interacting and laughing with his guests. While I admit this may not be for everyone, it is a refreshing change from the traditional sushi restaurants.

Edwin also makes constant trips to Japan purely to research, eat and experience new dishes that he can bring back to his eager diners in Singapore.

While he does offer an Omakase menu, he can be flexible with your budget and serve a customised sushi course to match your price.

Address: 49 Amoy St, Singapore 069875

Cost: Varies

2. TEPPEI

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When I first heard about Teppei, the place was booked out solid - for months. It was only after a long 3-month wait that I finally managed to sit down to try his 17-course omakase meal.

When I got there, I squeezed into the cramped counter seats alongside other eager guests and after a short flurry of preparation, the meal began.

This was absolutely worth the 3 months wait. Teppei now offers two tiers of Omakase. One at $80 and another at $120 with more upscale ingredients. He is currently running a Kyoto-inspired omakase meal and you can get lucky with some last-minute seats usually announced on their Facebook page.

Do note that lunch is walk-in only. No reservations.

Address: 1 Tras Link, #01-18, Orchid Hotel, Singapore 078867

Cost:

3. OSAKA KITCHEN

Found at Wisma Atria's Japan food town, Osaka Kitchen serves dishes true to its namesake such as Osaka style Okonomiyaki.

Recognized as a bib gourmand restaurant in the Singapore Michelin guide of 2016, Osaka Kitchen is a popular restaurant. Diners walking in are often disappointed as most of their tables are usually reserved - I found out the hard way myself too.

Their Omakase course is priced at a decent $80 and comes with some premium dishes that you would normally find on pricier meals. Their course comes with an A4 grade Ohmi Wagyu steak and of course, excellent seafood dishes as well.

Address: 435 Orchard Road Wisma Atria #04-46 Singapore, Singapore 238877

4. SUSHI JIRO

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For customers who want an experience true to an authentic Japanese experience, Sushi Jiro would be your choice.

A reputable restaurant that has fresh produce flown in four times a week from Tsukiji fish market and other top-grade producers, Sushi Jiro sets high standards for omakase dining and is a truly authentic experience.

Chef Jiro founded the restaurant over two decades ago after training extensively in Japan and the restaurant specializes in Edomae style sushi. Their Omakase courses, as expected comes with the usual suspects at high-end sushi dining. Uni, Otoro, Kobe beef and more.

Address: 6 Raffles Blvd, #04-600 Marina Mandarin Hotel, Singapore 039594

5. RYO SUSHI

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Also located at Orchid Hotel, RYO has grown in fame as one of the more affordable Omakase restaurants in town.

Due to its popularity, securing reservations at RYO can prove to be incredibly challenging. Their phone is always busy and if you do get through, it is not guaranteed you'd get the time or day of your preference. Be warned and be ready to be on a waitlist.

Seasonal menus can be really affordable with prices as low as below $50 and the price changes with their seasonal menu.

Address: 1 Tras Link, #01-06 Orchid Hotel Singapore 078867

This article was first published in Shopback.