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Showing posts with label Cuisine - Japanese. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cuisine - Japanese. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 12, 2026

Lobster Grill by Ramen Hitoyoshi

Ramen Hitoyoshi Grill and Lobster at Parkway Parade has a simple, contemporary interior with an open-concept layout. The spacious frontage makes the restaurant feel welcoming, while the open kitchen and visible dining area give it a casual and lively atmosphere. The wood-toned furnishings and warm lighting keep the space understated and comfortable, making it a fuss-free spot for a bowl of ramen or a meal with friends.

Lobster Grill by Ramen Hitoyoshi
Ramen Hitoyoshi

We had the Yuzu Green Tea and Sangaria Sukkirito Apple Juice. The Yuzu Green Tea was recommended to us, combining the refreshing citrusy taste of yuzu with regular green tea. It came with the yuzu mixture at the bottom, so we had to give it a good stir before enjoying it. The apple juice was a simple and refreshing choice.

Yuzu Green Tea & Sangaria Sukkirito Apple Juice - $5 & $6

The Stewed Tofu Soup came served in an aluminium foil wrap, filled with tofu, mushrooms and vegetables in a Japanese dashi broth. 

Stewed tofu soup with broccoli, carrots, mushrooms and onions served in an aluminium foil wrap.
Stew Tofu with Mushrooms & Vegetables in Japanese Dashi

It is a vegetarian-friendly option and has a very light, clean taste. I found the broth a little bland, but it still had a wholesome, comforting feel and makes a good choice if you prefer something lighter.

Spoonful of stewed tofu, broccoli, carrot and mushrooms from a Japanese dashi soup.
Stewed Tofu Soup Ingredients

Vegetarian-friendly stewed tofu soup with vegetables and mushrooms in a light Japanese dashi broth.
Vegetarian Stewed Tofu Soup in Japanese Dashi

The Prawn Gyoza was pretty much the usual style, with a nicely pan-fried, golden-brown base and juicy filling inside. If prawns aren’t your preference, they also offer pork and chicken fillings, giving you a few options to choose from.

Pan-fried prawn gyoza with a golden crispy base served with dipping sauce at Ramen Hitoyoshi Grill and Lobster.
Prawn Gyoza 海老餃子 - $9

The Tonkotsu with All Toppings is a classic tonkotsu ramen elevated with an array of toppings, pairing a rich and creamy broth with layers of flavour in every bite.

Tonkotsu ramen with all toppings, including tender buta kakuni, half-boiled egg, mushrooms, spring onions and seaweed in a rich creamy broth.
Tonkotsu Ramen with All Toppings & Buta Kakuni (Non Spicy)

 I had the non-spicy version and opted for the thicker ramen with a medium texture. The buta kakuni was tender and addictive, while I especially enjoyed soaking the sheet of seaweed into the broth for an extra boost of flavour.

Thick medium-texture ramen noodles lifted from a creamy tonkotsu broth with toppings at Ramen Hitoyoshi Grill and Lobster.
Thick Ramen Noodles in Tonkotsu Broth

The Lobster Broth Ramen with Half Lobster and Chashu was the bowl we were most looking forward to. This luxurious ramen features a slow-simmered lobster broth with a rich umami depth, subtle sweetness and a refined seafood aroma.

Lobster Broth Ramen with half lobster, chashu, bamboo shoots, wood ear mushrooms and spring onions in a rich seafood broth.
Signature Lobster Broth Ramen with Half Lobster & Chashu (Non-Spicy)

Topped with half a lobster and slices of chashu, it makes for a wonderfully indulgent bowl that really stands out from the usual ramen offerings.

Half lobster held above a bowl of lobster broth ramen at Ramen Hitoyoshi Grill and Lobster.
Half Lobster with Lobster Broth Ramen

The Red Tilapia was done right, with the fish cooked until the skin developed a slight crisp while the flesh remained tender and flavourful. A squeeze of fresh lemon helped brighten the flavours and enhanced the natural taste of the fish. Simple yet satisfying.

Whole grilled red tilapia with slightly crisp skin, served with lemon wedge and dipping sauce.
Red Tilapia - $22

At the payment counter, I spotted this cute little tanuki (Japanese raccoon dog) figurine and couldn't resist taking a photo. Its playful expression and traditional styling made for a fun little detail to end our meal.

Cute Japanese tanuki figurine displayed at the payment counter of Ramen Hitoyoshi Grill and Lobster.
Cute Tanuki Figurine at the Payment Counter

Overall, our dinner at Ramen Hitoyoshi Grill and Lobster at Parkway Parade was quite a feast, with a good variety beyond just ramen. The Tonkotsu with All Toppings and Lobster Broth Ramen were the highlights for me, especially the tender buta kakuni and rich lobster broth. The grilled red tilapia and gyoza made great sharing options, while the vegetarian-friendly stewed tofu soup offered a lighter choice. With its casual open-concept setting and diverse menu, it is a place worth considering when you are craving Japanese comfort food with a little more variety.

Dinner spread at Ramen Hitoyoshi Grill and Lobster featuring tonkotsu ramen, lobster ramen, grilled red tilapia, stewed vegetables and prawn gyoza.
Dinner Spread at Ramen Hitoyoshi Grill and Lobster

Lobster Grill by Ramen Hitoyoshi
Location:
Parkway Parade, 80 Marine Parade Road, #01-11F/G Singapore 449269
Website

Saturday, July 18, 2026

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.

Front view of Kokoro Izakaya at Lau Pa Sat in Singapore, featuring a traditional Japanese-inspired stall with hanging lanterns, digital menu boards, and the bustling atmosphere of the iconic hawker centre.
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.

Exterior of Kokoro Izakaya at Lau Pa Sat, featuring a cosy Japanese-inspired hut with illuminated Kirin Ichiban signage, traditional wooden design, and lanterns in Singapore's iconic hawker centre.
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.

Digital menu display at Kokoro Izakaya showcasing Tonkotsu Chashu Ramen and Tori Paitan Ramen, both priced at $12.90, at Lau Pa Sat in Singapore.
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.

Close-up of skewers being grilled over a smoky charcoal barbecue at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, with glowing embers and chefs preparing freshly grilled Japanese yakitori.
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.

Fresh Hyogo oysters served on ice with lemon wedges at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore, available with ponzu sauce, aburi mentaiko, or aburi mozzarella cheese.
Hyogo Oyster 3pcs - $19.90

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

Hot plate of baked Mentaiko Potato Julienne topped with melted cheese and sweet corn at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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 of Mentaiko Potato Julienne being lifted with chopsticks, showcasing creamy baked mentaiko sauce, melted cheese, and sweet corn served on a sizzling hot plate at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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.

Light portion of Tori Paitan Ramen with creamy chicken broth, tender chicken chashu, bamboo shoots, and a soft-boiled egg at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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.

Bowl of Chicken Katsu Don with crispy chicken cutlet, egg, bonito-based sauce, Japanese rice, and shredded seaweed at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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.

Bowl of Salmon Teriyaki Don with grilled teriyaki salmon, Japanese rice, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and Japanese pickles at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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.

Creamy Japanese potato salad topped with mayonnaise, served as a side dish in Kokoro Izakaya's lunch set at Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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 noodles with Japanese asari clams, spring onions, and chilli at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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.

Bowl of Japanese oden with quail eggs, daikon, kinchaku fish roe money bag, chikuwa, mushrooms, and fish cakes in dashi broth at Kokoro Izakaya, Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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.

Grilled Yaki Surume Ika (Japanese grilled squid) served with a lemon wedge at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore, available in shio or teriyaki flavour.
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.

Crispy Salmon Cheese Harumaki served with a creamy dipping sauce at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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. 

Assorted charcoal-grilled yakitori skewers including pork belly, chicken, quail eggs, mushrooms, and chicken skin served at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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.

Selection of Japanese kushiyaki skewers featuring grilled sausage, quail eggs, beef, bacon-wrapped scallops, chicken wings, and pork belly at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore.
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.

Traditional Japanese sake bottle with two sake cups served at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore, a perfect pairing with charcoal-grilled yakitori and kushiyaki skewers.
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.

Plate of crispy Tori Shippo Karaage (deep-fried chicken tail) served with a lemon wedge at Kokoro Izakaya in Lau Pa Sat, Singapore, a popular Japanese izakaya snack that pairs well with beer.
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

Sunday, July 5, 2026

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 rooftop entrance in Singapore
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.

Spacious interior of Tora Tora Tora Japanese Restaurant with open kitchen

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 with Japanese soybeans and truffle oil
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 and Hamachi sashimi served on a wooden raft
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 with torched salmon and ikura
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 12-piece assorted sushi with salmon, hamachi and hotate
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 with fresh scallops and truffle oil
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.

Japanese seafood fried rice with prawn, scallops and egg roe
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 feast with sushi, sashimi, seafood fried rice, cold ramen, and side dishes.
Japanese Sushi and Seafood Feast

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

Wednesday, May 6, 2026

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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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