A Guide to Finding the Best Sushi in Singapore
Sushi, the beloved Japanese delicacy, is celebrated worldwide for its fresh ingredients, precise technique, and cultural significance. In Singapore, a city renowned for its diverse culinary landscape, sushi lovers are spoilt for choice. Whether you’re a sushi enthusiast or someone new to the cuisine, Singapore offers a variety of sushi dining experiences, ranging from affordable sushi chains to luxurious omakase courses. This guide delves into what makes good sushi in Singapore and where to find it.
1. The Art of Sushi: What Makes Sushi Great?
Before diving into where to find the top sushi in Singapore, it’s essential to understand what makes sushi good. Sushi is more than just raw fish on rice. It is an intricate balance of flavors, textures, and presentation that has evolved through centuries of Japanese culinary tradition. Key elements include:
- Freshness of Ingredients: Fresh fish, sourced from the best markets, is the cornerstone of excellent sushi. Fish should have a clean taste, a smooth texture, and no strong odor.
- Rice Quality and Flavor: The vinegared rice, or “shari,” is equally important. The rice should be cooked to perfection, with a balance of tangy, sweet, and salty flavors from the vinegar seasoning.
- Skill of the Chef: A well-trained sushi chef understands how to slice fish, prepare rice, and combine ingredients in ways that elevate each piece.
- Presentation: Visual appeal is critical in Japanese cuisine, and sushi is no exception. The sushi should be aesthetically pleasing, arranged with care, and served in an environment that complements the meal.
With this in mind, let’s explore some of the top sushi spots in Singapore.
2. Best Sushi Restaurants in Singapore
2.1. Shinji by Kanesaka
Shinji by Kanesaka is a name synonymous with top-tier sushi in Singapore. Helmed by master sushi chef Shinji Kanesaka, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers an authentic sushi experience. Located at the Carlton Hotel and St. Regis Singapore, the restaurant focuses on “omakase” dining, where guests leave it up to the chef to decide their meal.
What sets Shinji apart is its dedication to traditional Edomae-style sushi. Fish is flown in daily from Tokyo’s famous Toyosu Market. The rice is perfectly seasoned, and the fish is skillfully sliced to highlight its natural flavors. Every piece of sushi is a delicate balance of texture and taste. Shinji by Kanesaka’s omakase sets may be pricey, but for those looking to experience the pinnacle of sushi dining, this is a must-visit.
Signature Dish: Omakase (chef’s selection) Price Range: $$$$ (premium) Address: Carlton Hotel, 76 Bras Basah Rd, Singapore 189558
2.2. Sushi Jiro
Sushi Jiro has made a name for itself by offering high-quality sushi and sashimi at more affordable prices. With two outlets, one at Marina Mandarin Hotel and another at Great World, Sushi Jiro offers a casual yet sophisticated dining experience.
The chefs at Sushi Jiro are meticulous in their preparation, and the variety of sushi on offer is impressive. From fatty tuna (“otoro”) to sea urchin (“uni”), the ingredients are fresh and flavorful. Sushi Jiro also offers several omakase courses for those who want a personalized dining experience without the hefty price tag.
Signature Dish: Premium sushi platters Price Range: $$-$$$ (mid-range) Address: Marina Mandarin Hotel, 6 Raffles Blvd, Singapore 039594
2.3. Teppei Sushi Bar
Teppei Sushi Bar is known for its affordable, high-quality sushi and sashimi bowls, or “chirashi don.” Located in the lively area of Tanjong Pagar, this cozy sushi bar has a cult following among locals and expats alike.
What makes Teppei stand out is its value for money. The lunch chirashi bowls are generously packed with various types of sashimi, including tuna, salmon, scallop, and prawn. The ingredients are fresh, and the portions are hearty, making Teppei an excellent option for a casual sushi fix. The small, intimate setting also provides a cozy atmosphere for diners looking for a more relaxed meal.
Signature Dish: Bara Chirashi Don Price Range: $-$$ (budget-friendly) Address: 1 Tras Link, #01-18 Orchid Hotel, Singapore 078867
2.4. Sushi Airways
For a unique sushi experience, Sushi Airways offers an aviation-themed restaurant that combines great sushi with a fun dining atmosphere. Located on the second floor of a shophouse in Kampong Glam, Sushi Airways is decorated like the inside of a vintage airplane, complete with retro airline seats and windows.
Despite the playful décor, the sushi here is serious business. Fish is flown in four times a week from Japan, ensuring freshness and variety. The sushi menu includes a mix of traditional offerings and more modern, creative dishes. Sushi Airways is perfect for a fun night out with friends or family, offering both omakase sets and à la carte options.
Signature Dish: Chef’s Omakase Price Range: $$-$$$ (mid-range) Address: 20A Baghdad St, Singapore 199659
2.5. Mitsu Sushi Bar
Hidden in the heart of Duxton, Mitsu Sushi Bar is one of those places that sushi aficionados tend to keep to themselves. It’s a small, intimate venue where the chef and staff focus on delivering a high-quality sushi experience. The fish is imported from Japan, and the menu changes based on what is available and fresh.
The omakase course at Mitsu Sushi Bar is highly recommended, where each dish is carefully crafted to highlight the ingredients. With less fanfare than some of the more famous sushi restaurants, Mitsu Sushi Bar delivers excellent sushi in a more understated setting.
Signature Dish: Omakase with seasonal specialties Price Range: $$$ (high-end) Address: 21 Duxton Rd, Singapore 089487
3. Sushi on a Budget: Affordable Sushi in Singapore
While sushi is often associated with fine dining, Singapore also offers numerous places to enjoy good sushi without breaking the bank. Here are some wallet-friendly sushi joints that offer quality sushi at reasonable prices.
3.1. Genki Sushi
Genki Sushi is a popular choice among sushi lovers who are looking for quick and affordable sushi. This Japanese conveyor belt sushi chain, known for its tech-savvy ordering system, has multiple outlets across Singapore. Diners place their orders via a tablet, and sushi arrives directly at the table via a mini “train.”
The sushi at Genki is fresh, with various options, from basic salmon nigiri to more elaborate creations. It’s the perfect spot for a casual meal or a quick bite after work.
Signature Dish: Salmon Nigiri Price Range: $ (budget) Address: Various outlets across Singapore
3.2. Sushiro
Another conveyor belt sushi chain, Sushiro, hails from Japan and has made a splash in Singapore with its affordable and extensive menu. With locations at Tiong Bahru Plaza and Isetan Scotts, Sushiro offers sushi, side dishes, and desserts, all delivered to your table by a conveyor belt.
Despite its wallet-friendly prices, Sushiro maintains a high standard when it comes to the quality of its fish and other ingredients. It’s an ideal spot for families or groups of friends looking to enjoy a sushi feast without the high price tag.
Signature Dish: Seared Salmon Belly Price Range: $ (budget) Address: Isetan Scotts, Tiong Bahru Plaza
4. Conclusion: Singapore’s Sushi Scene
Singapore’s sushi scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering something for everyone, whether you’re after a luxurious omakase experience or a quick sushi fix. The key to enjoying good sushi lies in knowing where to find it, understanding what makes it great, and savoring the skill and tradition behind every piece. Whether you’re indulging at a Michelin-starred restaurant like Shinji by Kanesaka or grabbing a bite at Sushiro, Singapore has no shortage of options for sushi lovers.
So next time you crave sushi, explore the culinary offerings of Singapore’s vibrant sushi scene, and you’re sure to find something that satisfies both your taste buds and your budget.
