Kokoro Ikazaya (Lau Pat Sat)

I always thought heading to Lau Pa Sat for food was a little too touristy, so it was never really on my list. But when my friend jio-ed me to Kokoro Izakaya, I finally had a reason to visit. Walking through the bustling hawker centre, soaking in the lively atmosphere and checking out all the different stalls, made me realise there's actually more to Lau Pa Sat than I had expected. Sometimes, all it takes is a good food recommendation to see a familiar place in a whole new light.

Kokoro Ikazaya (Lau Pat Sat)

From the outside, Kokoro Izakaya resembles a charming little Japanese hut tucked within Lau Pa Sat. Despite its compact setup, this is where the team prepares a wide selection of comforting Japanese dishes while serving up ice-cold drinks. With its warm lantern-lit ambience and cosy vibe, it's the perfect spot to wind down after a long day at work, whether you are catching up with friends or simply enjoying a quiet meal.

Side of Kokoro Ikazaya (Lau Pat Sat)

Ramen lovers, this one's for you! Kokoro Izakaya offers two comforting bowls that are perfect for satisfying your noodle cravings. The Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen ($12.90) features a bold, creamy, umami-rich pork broth, while the Tori Paitan Ramen ($12.90) is silky, robust, and comforting with its rich chicken broth. Whether you prefer pork or chicken-based ramen, both make a hearty meal any time of the day.

Menu

One thing that immediately caught my attention was the open charcoal grill. Despite operating from a compact little hut, Kokoro Izakaya lets diners catch a glimpse of the chefs expertly grilling skewers over glowing charcoal. Watching the smoky flames kiss the ingredients while the irresistible aroma fills the air adds to the whole dining experience. It's a simple touch that makes waiting for your food even more enjoyable.

Charcoal Grilling at Kokoro Izakaya

Kick off your meal with the Hyogo Oysters, served fresh and plump. Enjoy them with your choice of ponzu sauce, aburi mentaiko, or aburi mozzarella cheese for three delicious flavour profiles.

Hyogo Oyster 3pcs - $19.90

Served sizzling on a hot plate, the Mentaiko Potato Julienne is comfort food at its best.

Mentaiko Potato

Layers of julienned potatoes are baked with creamy mentaiko sauce, melted cheese, and sweet corn kernels, creating a rich, savoury dish that's incredibly addictive.

Close-up showing the cheesy potato strands being lifted with chopsticks

The Tori Paitan Ramen (Light Portion) is ideal for those with a smaller appetite. It features a silky, creamy chicken broth paired with springy noodles, tender chicken chashu, bamboo shoots, and a perfectly cooked ajitsuke egg for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Tori Pai Tan Ramen - $6.90 (Light Portion)

Black Garlic Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen - $14.90

The Chicken Katsu Don features a crispy chicken cutlet gently simmered with egg in a savoury bonito-based sauce, then served over a bed of fluffy Japanese rice. Finished with shredded seaweed, it's a comforting one-bowl meal packed with flavour.

Tori Katsu Don Set - $9.90

If you're craving seafood, the Salmon Teriyaki Don is another satisfying choice. Featuring a perfectly grilled salmon fillet glazed with savoury-sweet teriyaki sauce, it's served over fluffy Japanese rice with fresh cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and Japanese pickles for a well-balanced meal.

Salmon Teriyaki Don

Each set comes complete with a side of creamy Japanese potato salad and your choice of hot or iced green tea, making it a wholesome and value-for-money meal.

Potato Salad

Available on the lunch  &dinner menu, the Sauteed Udon with Japanese Asari Clam is a delightful alternative to ramen. Chewy udon noodles are tossed with sweet, briny asari clams in a light, umami-packed seasoning for a simple yet satisfying meal.

Sauteed Udon with Japanese Asari Clam - $14.90

Don and Noodle Set

The Oden is perfect for sharing, featuring a comforting assortment of Japanese favourites including Uzura Tamago (quail egg), Daikon (white radish), Kinchaku (fish roe money bag), Chikuwa (grilled fish cake), mushrooms, and other classic oden ingredients, all simmered in a light, flavourful dashi broth.

Oden - $7.90

One of my must-order dishes at any Japanese restaurant is Yaki Surume Ika (Grilled Squid). Grilled until lightly charred yet tender, it pairs perfectly with a squeeze of lemon. Choose between the classic Shio (salt) or the sweeter Teriyaki seasoning.

Yaki Surume Ika - $22.90

The Salmon Cheese Harumaki offers a tasty twist on the classic spring roll. Wrapped in a light, crispy pastry, it's filled with flaky salmon and melted cheese, creating a rich and satisfying bite. Pair it with the creamy dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavour.

Salmon Cheese Harumaki - $5.90

No visit to an izakaya is complete without yakitori and kushiyaki, and Kokoro Izakaya doesn't disappoint. Every skewer is grilled over glowing charcoal, giving it a smoky aroma and beautifully charred finish. 

Skewers

From juicy chicken and pork to quail eggs, mushrooms, sausages, and bacon-wrapped scallops, each skewer is cooked to perfection and makes the perfect pairing with an ice-cold drink.

6 Types of Skewers - From $3.90 Each

Pair your charcoal-grilled skewers with a bottle of Japanese sake for the complete izakaya experience. Served chilled, its smooth and clean finish complements the smoky, savoury flavours of the grilled dishes, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Sake

Looking for the perfect bar snack? The Tori Shippo Karaage (Deep-Fried Chicken Tail) is an excellent choice to pair with an ice-cold beer or your favourite alcoholic drink. Each bite is crispy on the outside and wonderfully juicy inside, with the chicken tail's rich, buttery flavour making it incredibly addictive. A squeeze of fresh lemon adds a refreshing touch, balancing the richness and making it hard to stop at just one piece.

Tori Shippo Karaage (Deep-Fried Chicken Tail) - $8.90

Kokoro Izakaya at Lau Pa Sat is a cosy spot for authentic Japanese comfort food and charcoal-grilled skewers in the heart of Singapore's CBD. From fresh oysters and hearty rice bowls to smoky yakitori, ramen, and sake, every dish is thoughtfully prepared and packed with flavour. Whether you are stopping by for a satisfying lunch or winding down with drinks after work, Kokoro Izakaya is well worth adding to your dining list.

Kokoro Ikazaya (Lau Pat Sat)
Location: 18 Raffles Quay, Lau Pa Sat Festival Market (MR20, Singapore 048582

Tora Tora Tora Japanese Restaurant Singapore

 A visit to Tora Tora Tora Japanese Restaurant in Singapore was a refreshing change from the usual dining experience. Instead of being located in a shopping mall or neighbourhood, this well-established Japanese restaurant is tucked away within an industrial estate and, surprisingly, sits on the rooftop of a building. The unique setting instantly piqued my curiosity, making the journey feel like discovering a hidden gem. Away from the usual crowds, the peaceful atmosphere added a special touch to the dining experience, making it one that felt both relaxing and memorable.

Tora Tora Tora Japanese Restaurant Singapore

Stepping inside, the restaurant offers a spacious and welcoming ambience with plenty of comfortable seating. The open kitchen lets diners catch a glimpse of the chefs in action, adding to the lively dining experience while showcasing the care that goes into preparing each dish.

Tora Tora Tora Japanese Restaurant Interior

The Truffle Edamame was a pleasant surprise. Lightly seasoned with fragrant truffle oil, the Japanese soybeans took on an earthy aroma that paired wonderfully with their natural sweetness. It was my first time enjoying edamame this way, and I have to say, it really works! A simple yet addictive starter that's perfect for sharing.

Truffle Edamame - $9 

We also tried the Tontoro, better known as Kurobuta Pork Jowl, and it certainly didn't disappoint. Grilled to perfection, each slice was tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavours. The rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture paired beautifully with the savoury dipping sauce, making it a simple yet delicious dish that's perfect for sharing.

Tontoro - $28

We also ordered the 10-piece Sashimi Platter, featuring five slices each of Salmon and Hamachi. Before we even took our first bite, the presentation had already won us over. Beautifully arranged on a wooden raft over a bowl of ice, the sashimi was complemented with cucumber, leaves, shredded daikon, and colourful garnishes, making it a true feast for the eyes. Best of all, the sashimi was thickly sliced, incredibly fresh, and buttery, allowing the natural sweetness of the fish to shine through.

Salmon & Hamachi Sashimi  - $16  &$17 (5pcs Each)

The Salmon Ikura Mentaiko Maki is a must-try for salmon lovers. Filled with crab stick and crisp mizuna, each roll is topped with lightly torched salmon, creamy mentai mayo, and a generous sprinkle of salmon roe for bursts of briny flavour. The combination of smoky, creamy, and savoury notes creates a delicious harmony in every bite. Available in both 4-piece and 8-piece portions.

Salmon Ikura Mentaiko Maki - $14.50 (4 pcs)

The Sushi Mori (12 Pieces) offered an excellent variety of premium sushi, featuring salmon, tai, hamachi, kanpachi, hotate, and kajiki. Each piece was generously topped with thick, fresh slices of seafood over perfectly seasoned sushi rice. Every bite highlighted the natural sweetness and delicate flavours of the fish, making this assorted platter a satisfying choice for anyone who enjoys quality sushi.

Sushi Mori (Raw  Aburi)  - $38

The Hotate Truffle Carpaccio was surprisingly impressive. The fresh, sweet scallops were delicately sliced and dressed with fragrant truffle oil, creating an aromatic combination that elevated the natural sweetness of the seafood. Every bite was light, silky, and full of umami, making this an elegant appetiser that truffle lovers shouldn't miss.

Hotate Truffle Carpaccio - $28

The Seafood Fried Rice was a hearty and flavourful dish, generously packed with succulent prawns, tender scallops, and fish, all stir-fried with fragrant Japanese rice. Topped with a sprinkle of egg roe, it added a delightful pop of texture and flavour. The standout was the plump, juicy prawn, while the aromatic fried rice tied everything together, making this a satisfying dish on its own.

Seafood Fried Rice - $26

Yukke Sashimi Cold Ramen was a pleasant surprise, as it was my first time enjoying ramen served in such a unique way. The chilled, fine ramen noodles were paired with fresh hotate, sakura shrimps, vibrant fish roes, and shredded nori, all coated in a savoury yukke-style sauce. Every bite was refreshing, packed with umami, and beautifully balanced with the sweetness of the seafood. It was incredibly addictive, leaving me wanting more with every mouthful. Definitely a must-try if you're looking for something light yet full of flavour.

Yukke Sashimi Cold Ramen - $26

Overall, it was a great dining experience. The food was fresh, delicious, and well-executed. I would gladly return for another meal and wouldn't hesitate to recommend this place to my family and friends.

Japanese Sushi and Seafood Feast

Tora Tora Tora Japanese Restaurant Singapore
Location: Oxley BizHub 2, 62 Ubi Rd 1, #11-19, Singapore 408734
Website

Madly Good Japanese Cafe

Dinner meet-up with the foodies at Madly Good Japanese Café where cosy vibes meet comforting plates and thoughtfully crafted drinks. It’s one of those spots that makes catching up feel effortless, with a relaxed ambience and food that quietly delivers. A simple yet satisfying place to gather, unwind, and enjoy good company over a well-rounded meal.

Madly Good Japanese Cafe @ Clarke Quay

Enjoying a trio of aesthetically crafted drinks, each topped with charming little pickers that add a playful touch. From fruity and refreshing to creamy and fragrant, they are as delightful to sip as they are to admire, pretty, well-balanced, and perfect for a laid-back catch-up.

Homemade Earl Grey Lychee Tea Strawberry Soda - $7 & $8.60

Tender Australian Beef Cheek paired with creamy mashed potatoes and asparagus, all coated in a rich, savoury beef cheek sauce. Simple, comforting, and deeply satisfying, one of those plates that quietly delivers on flavour without needing any fuss.

48 HR Sous Vide Aus Beef Cheek - $27

Grilled Iberico Pork Ribs glazed with a savoury miso sauce, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh green salad tossed in a light onion dressing. The ribs were juicy and flavourful with a hint of umami richness, while the sides added a refreshing balance, simple, hearty, and quietly satisfying.

Miso Iberico Pork Rib - $27

Pork Belly Don Set presented as a wholesome, complete meal with a variety of sides and fruits. The sous vide pork belly was tender and well-glazed in a savoury sauce, served over rice with a silky onsen egg at the centre.

Accompanied by sides like chuka wakame, creamy potato salad, lotus root, and Japanese pickles, along with a refreshing fruit of the day to round off the set. You can also top up $1 for brown rice for a slightly heartier option.

Pork Belly Don Set - $21

A well-balanced bowl that brings everything together, tender, savoury-glazed pork belly, silky onsen egg, and fluffy rice beneath. Each bite is layered with umami richness, while the fresh greens and sides add a light, refreshing contrast. Simple, comforting, and quietly satisfying.

Pork Belly Don Close Up

A cosy spread for three that feels just right comforting mains, hearty portions, and a nice variety to share. From rich, savoury plates to lighter sides and a refreshing drink, it’s one of those easy meals where good food and good company come together effortlessly.

Our Meal

Sweet deals are in store this Mother’s Day throughout the month of May, and this indulgent dessert is one not to be missed. The Crispy Golden Panko Toast features a beautifully crisp exterior that gives way to a smooth and fragrant taro paste filling, creating a delightful contrast in both texture and flavour. Paired with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, the warm and cold combination comes together perfectly for a comforting and satisfying treat. It’s a simple yet well-executed dessert that makes for a thoughtful way to end the meal on a sweet note.

Taro Panko Toast - $17.60 from $22 

The Taro Milk Dream lives up to its name, offering a comforting blend of creamy milk and rich taro, gently sweetened to deliver a smooth, nutty finish in every sip. The addition of delicate flower petals not only enhanced the drink’s fragrance but also elevated its presentation, giving it a visually elegant and refreshing appeal.

Taro Milk Dream - $5.60 from $7

Overall, it was a comforting and satisfying dining experience, with a good mix of hearty mains, well-balanced sides, and thoughtfully crafted drinks. Nothing felt overly complicated just honest flavours done right. Paired with good company, it made for an easy, enjoyable meal that leaves you feeling content and quietly impressed.

Madly Good Japanese Cafe
Location: Clarke Quay Central,  6 Eu Tong Sen Street, Clarke Quay, #02-82/83, 059817

Shabu Days Singapore

If you’re looking for a comforting and fuss-free hotpot experience, there’s a new spot to check out at Hillion Mall, Shabu Days しゃぶデイ. Built around the idea of “Your Daily Shabu Treat”, Shabu Days offers a personal dining concept that feels just right whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or winding down with a simple, satisfying dinner. What makes the experience enjoyable is how straightforward everything is. Ordering is designed to be easy and customisable in just 3 simple steps.

Shabu Days

 A Simple 3-Step Ordering Experience

You get to build your own set according to your preferences:

• Step 1: Choose your main, from Beef, Pork, Chicken Thigh or Seafood
• Step 2: Pick your preferred soup base
• Step 3: Select your rice or noodle

It’s a no-frills system that lets you enjoy shabu without overthinking, while still giving enough variety to suit different cravings.

If you are feeling a little indulgent, you can top up $3.50 to make your own DIY egg risotto. It’s a fun and comforting way to end your meal, especially if you enjoy something warm and rich after your hotpot.

Menu

Each set is thoughtfully paired with:

• 1 Yasai Garden Bowl (a fresh mix of vegetables)
• 3 Treasure Bowl

This makes the meal feel balanced and complete, without needing to order too many additional sides.

Yasai Garden Bowl and 3 Treasure Bowl

To go along with the meal, we had the Kimura Cider Muscat, a refreshing Japanese soda that added a light and fruity touch to the overall experience. Served chilled and poured over ice, the drink had a gentle fizz with a subtle sweetness from the muscat grapes. It wasn’t overly sugary, making it a great palate cleanser in between bites of shabu.The crisp and slightly floral notes made it especially enjoyable alongside the warm broth, offering a nice contrast that kept the meal feeling balanced and refreshing.

Kimura Cider - $6.80

One of our mains was the Japanese A5 Wagyu Chuck Roll (150g), and honestly, our eyes were immediately drawn to that “A5” on the menu, it’s hard to ignore. The slices arrived beautifully plated, showcasing that signature rich marbling that wagyu is known for. Each piece was neatly presented and even came with a name tag, adding a thoughtful and slightly premium touch to the dining experience.

Japanese A5 Wagyu Chuck Roll 150g

Another main we went for was the Pork Collar, which stood out for its beautiful balance of lean meat and fat. The slices were neatly presented and, just like the wagyu, came with a name tag, adding a consistent and thoughtful touch to the overall dining experience. The marbling was visibly well-distributed, promising a tender bite once cooked.

Pork Collar 120g

We also went for one of their popular items, the Seafood Treasure Platter, a great option if you’re looking for a mix of different textures and flavours in one set.

The platter comes with Tioman Fish (100g), 2 Scallops and 4 Tiger Prawns, all neatly presented and looking fresh. The prawns were plump and glossy, while the scallops had a firm, clean appearance. The slices of fish added a nice balance to the platter, making it feel like a well-rounded seafood selection.

Seafood Treasure Platter 

For our soup bases, we went with the Bonito Kombu and the Tangy Tomato, giving us the best of both worlds.

Meal Set

The Bonito Kombu offered a light, clean and comforting broth that allowed the natural flavours of the ingredients to shine, while the Tangy Tomato brought a richer, slightly hearty profile with a subtle tanginess that paired especially well with the meats.

Pork Collar from Bonito Kombu

As for the carbs, we had a mix of ramen and raw udon, which added a nice variation in texture, the ramen being springy and familiar, while the udon gave a softer, more chewy bite.

Wagyu 

Fish Slice

We also opted to top up for the DIY egg risotto, which turned out to be a fun and satisfying way to end the meal. Using the leftover broth, it transforms into a creamy, flavourful finish that rounds up the entire shabu experience nicely.

Risotto Set

To wrap up the meal, we followed their instructions and made the DIY egg risotto using the remaining broth and this turned out to be a surprisingly enjoyable finale.

Risotto

The rice absorbed all the flavours from the soup, creating a rich and comforting base, while the egg added a creamy texture that brought everything together nicely. Each spoonful was warm, savoury, and deeply satisfying, especially after the hearty shabu experience.

What stood out was how simple the process was, yet the end result felt like a completely different dish altogether. It’s definitely more than just an add-on it’s a great way to round off the meal on a comforting note.

Rice

Interestingly, Shabu Days also introduces a 5-Step Dining Ritual, which adds a meaningful touch to the overall experience. More than just a guide on how to enjoy the meal, it feels like a gentle reminder to slow down, appreciate the ingredients, and be present while dining. From taking in the vibrant vegetables to savouring the broth and ending with a comforting bowl of rice, each step encourages a sense of mindfulness.

5 Step Dining Ritual

It also reflects a deeper element of Japanese dining culture the idea of giving thanks and showing appreciation for the food we enjoy. A small detail, but one that adds warmth and intention to the entire shabu experience.

Shabu Days Singapore
Location: Hillion Mall, 17 Petir Rd, #02-15 Singapore 678278