Best Japanese food brand openings in Singapore in 2026
Our little red dot is home to a variety of cuisines from all over the world, yet in the midst of it all, Japanese food seems to steal our hearts time and time again. With Japan being one of Singaporeans’ go-to travel destinations, it’s no surprise that there’s been a recent wave of Japanese brands making their debut here. From famous gyudon to matcha desserts and Ginza-famous sandos, here’s our compilation of the best new Japanese eateries in 2026.
Table of Contents
- Best Japanese food brand openings in Singapore in 2026
- 1. Matsuya
- 2. I’m Donut
- 3. Age.3
- 4. O/sio
- 5. Yamamoto
- 6. Tokyo Onigiri
- 7. Charcoal Grill Shinpachi
- 8. Hikiniku To Come
- 9. Unagi Yondaime Kikukawa
- 10. Koko Kawane
- 11. Sushidan
- 12. Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu
- 13. Torinosuke
- 14. Gatten Sushi
- 15. Tonkatsu Daiki
- 16. RITUEL
- 17. MUKAI
- 18. Torikizoku
- 19. Sushi Ryujiro
- 20. Kyoto Onimaru
- Guide to famous new Japanese food brands in Singapore
1. Matsuya
Image credit: u/kccz123 via Reddit
If you’re a frequent Japan-goer, you’d know that Matsuya is one of Japan’s most popular gyudon chains. Now, you can save your flight to Japan, as they’re set to make their arrival at Suntec City sometime in November 2026. This would mark the completion of the ‘big 3’ gyudon chains in SG, alongside Sukiya and Yoshinoya.
Image credit: Japan Journeys
While we still don’t know much about the Singapore outlet, Matsuya is well-loved and known for its affordable gyudon bowls. A full meal in Japan costs roughly between ¥400 and ¥1000, which converts to about S$3.25 to S$8.10. The top pick here is the classic Beef Bowl (¥480) that’s stewed with onions in a sweet soy sauce. For a heartier option, go for their selection of curry bowls, such as Beef Curry and Rice (¥680) or Beef Curry with Cheese (¥950).
Read our Matsuya feature.
Address: 3 Temasek Boulevard, #B1-125 (Tower 2), Singapore 038983
Opening hours: TBD
Website
Matsuya is not halal-certified.
Popular Japanese Gyudon Chain To Open At Suntec In Nov 2026
2. I’m Donut
Image credit: The New Yorker
Adding to the line-up of Japanese doughnut chains, I’m Donut will be making its debut in Singapore at ION Orchard, set to open in December 2026. The brand has over 10 outlets across Japan and is best known for their fluffy nama doughnuts. What sets them apart is their brioche dough, made with pumpkin and fermented at low temperatures before it gets fried at high heat.
Image credit: I’m Donut
Though their Singapore menu is still unconfirmed, we presume that their best-selling powdered sugar doughnut, the I’m Donut? Original (price TBD), will make an appearance. Another top pick would be the Custard Cream (price TBD), filled generously with Diplomat cream. The I’m Donut? Matcha (price TBD) would be perfect for fellow matcha fans, starring a kneaded dough coated in Yame matcha powder from Fukuoka. FYI: everything here is made handmade in-house, from the dough to the fillings and even the toppings!
Check out our I’m Donut coverage.
Address: 2 Orchard Turn, #B2-19, ION Orchard, Singapore 238801
Opening hours: TBD
Website
I’m Donut is not halal-certified.
Viral Japanese Chain I’m Donut To Open At ION Orchard
3. Age.3
Image credit: @age.3_ginza
Another Japanese eatery landing at ION Orchard in mid-November 2026 is Age.3, a fried sando shop hailing all the way from Ginza. The brand rose to fame for its crispy golden sando boasting a soft and chewy centre, with locals braving the queues of up to two hours just to try them.
Image credit: @age.3_ginza
Going all-out for their debut, the Singapore menu will feature a whopping 34 flavours. For something sweet and classic, opt for the Whipped Cream Sando (price TBD) that’s made with low-sugar cream that’s whipped by hand. Other interesting flavours include the Creme Brulee Sando (price TBD), Mont Blanc (price TBD), and Chocolate Strawberry (price TBD). Their savoury choices are just as extensive, including the Beef Short Rib Yakiniku Sando (price TBD) served with barbecue sauce and a soft-cooked egg, Grilled Keema Curry (price TBD), and Grilled Cheese with Smoked Salmon (price TBD).
Read our Age.3 feature.
Address: ION Orchard, Singapore 238801
Opening hours: TBD
Website
Age.3 is not halal-certified.
Viral Japanese Fried Sando Shop Age.3 To Open At ION Orchard With 34 Flavours
4. O/sio
Image credit: O/sio
Following our review of Sio Pasta—an Italian-inspired pasta concept helmed by Michelin-approved Japanese chef Shusaku Toba—earlier this year, its sister eatery, O/Sio, is set to launch its first overseas eatery in Tanjong Pagar on 4 November 2026. O/Sio offers hearty Italian fare with a Japanese twist, from fresh pasta to charcoal-grilled meats, alongside a complementary wine programme curated by Chef Toba himself.
Image credit: O/sio
Look forward to mains starting from $18.80. Special offerings include the Singapore-exclusive Smoked Truffle Carbonara (price TBD) for a decadent pairing of creamy pasta and earthy black truffle shavings. If you enjoy seafood, the Seafood Pomodoro (price TBD) would be right up your alley. They also have the fan-favourite Charcoal-grilled Angus Beef Steak (price TBD) that’s served with a side of crispy fries.
Read our O/sio feature.
Address: 38 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088461
Opening hours: TBD
Tel: 8072 9512
Website
O/Sio is not halal-certified.
Japanese Pasta Restaurant By Michelin-Approved Chef To Open In CBD
5. Yamamoto
Among the plethora of local delicacies at Lau Pa Sat lies Japanese chain Yamamoto’s Hamburg. Now, you can satisfy your hamburg cravings during lunch or after a long day at work. Aside from its central location, another plus point would be its prices, with all mains under $20.
We highly recommend the Singapore-exclusive Jikasei Hamburg ($17.90++), featuring a chicken patty doused in a rich demi-glace and served with a side of potato pasta salad, tomato-sauce pasta, and roasted veggies. First-timers should try the signature Yamamoto Hamburg ($19.90++), comprising a classic grilled beef patty stuffed with gorgonzola, topped with flame-torched mushroom cream sauce, and slathered in the same demi-glace.
Read our Yamamoto review.
Address: 18 Raffles Quay, Stall 96-103, Lau Pa Sat, Singapore 048582
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 9pm
Website
Yamamoto’s Hamburg is not halal-certified.
Japanese Hamburg Chain Opens First SG Outlet In CBD—Here’s Our Review
6. Tokyo Onigiri
Image credit: @tokyo_onigiri_sg
Japanese rice ball specialist Tokyo Onigiri has recently opened its first Singapore outlet at One Raffles Place, with onigiri priced from $4.90. The kiosk only offers takeaways, but it should not be an issue for busy office-goers as it’s also linked directly to Raffles Place MRT Station.
Image credit: @onigiri_ichiriyu_manpuku
Here, you can choose between a la carte onigiri (from $4.90) or set meals with a choice of miso soup or a canned drink, plus a side of pickled daikon. The 2-Onigiri Set Meal starts from $13.90, while the 3-Onigiri Set Meal starts from $18.80. If you’re spoilt for choice, go for the shop’s six featured combinations, with the cheapest being the Soy Glazed Meat & Soy Marinated Egg Yolk ($7.90) and Kimchi Pork & Soy Marinated Egg Yolk ($7.90).
Read our Tokyo Onigiri feature.
Address: 1 Raffles Place, #B1-36, One Raffles Place, Singapore 048616
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11am to 7pm, Sat 10am to 3pm
Website
Tokyo Onigiri is not halal-certified.
7. Charcoal Grill Shinpachi
Image credit: Charcoal Grill Shinpachi via Google Maps
Japan’s beloved casual dining chain Charcoal Grill Shinpachi recently opened its first international outlet at NEX. The brand has earned a loyal following across more than 100 outlets in Japan, and is best known for its high-quality yet affordable charcoal-grilled fish teishoku, AKA grilled fish sets.
Image credit: Charcoal Grill Shinpachi
The restaurant offers over 10 grilled fish sets to choose from, with prices starting at $8.90. Highlights include the Saba Bunki Boshi Set ($15.90++), featuring lightly salted fish dried with cold air, as well as the Hokke Set Half ($11.90++), starring Atka mackerel with a tender, flaky interior and crisp skin.
Check out our Charcoal Grill Shinpachi coverage.
Address: 23 Serangoon Central, #B1-80A, NEX, Singapore 556083
Opening hours: Daily 10am to 10pm
Tel: 6634 0029
Website
Charcoal Grill Shinpachi is not halal-certified.
Popular Japanese Grilled Fish Chain To Open At NEX With Sets From $8.90
8. Hikiniku To Come
Hamburg chains have been gaining popularity lately, and Hikiniku To Come has levelled up the game, renowned for both its expertly grilled patties and immersive dining experience. Originating from the Kichijioji neighbourhood in Tokyo, the brand has expanded rapidly all over Asia, with its Singapore outlet located at VivoCity. Diners sit around the open grilling station, getting a front-row view of the chefs in action.
When a restaurant only serves one thing, you know they mean business—the Hikiniku To Come Set ($27.90++) is the only menu item available here. The star of the dish has to be the hamburg patties, which are served one at a time, fresh off the grill. Alongside the protein is a bowl of miso soup, a raw egg, and unlimited servings of freshly cooked rice. During our visit, we appreciated how the chefs match the grilling of each patty to the diner’s dining pace, ensuring every hamburg is enjoyed piping hot.
Read our Hikiniku To Come feature.
Address: 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-102/103, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 10pm
Website
Hikiniku To Come is not halal-certified.
Japan-Famous Grilled Hamburg Chain Opens At VivoCity—Here’s What To Expect
9. Unagi Yondaime Kikukawa
With a long history dating back to 1932, Unagi Yondaime Kikukawa is a Michelin-approved Japanese chain that recently opened a new outlet at Raffles City. Best known for their unagi don, each eel is filleted and grilled over binchotan, AKA Japanese charcoal, which imparts a clean and woody smokiness to its protein.
We tried the signature Kabayaki Ippon Unagi Set ($48++), which features a whole grilled eel atop a bed of Japanese rice. It also comes with a side of sliced nori, cabbage, ginger, and kimo-sui, a traditional eel liver soup. While this isn’t the cheapest meal to get on a whim, the eel is about twofold the length of what you’d typically get at other unagi restaurants in Singapore, making it still a value-for-money feast.
Read our Unagi Yondaime Kikukawa review.
Address: 252 North Bride Road, #B1-75, Raffles City Shopping Centre, Singapore 179103
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 10pm
Tel: 8998 3687
Website
Unagi Yondaime Kikukawa is not halal-certified.
We Tried A $50 Bento From The Famous Unagi Yondaime Kikukawa—Is It Worth The Splurge?
10. Koko Kawane
Image credit: KOKO Kawane
Recently opened at The Star Vista, KOKO Kawane serves both beautiful matcha and pastries. Its signature move is grinding whole tea leaves into matcha on the spot, so every cup is as fresh as it gets. The House Blend ($8.50) matcha latte would be a good pick for something light, while the signature Soemen Blend ($12.50) has a creamier finish. Go for the premium single-origin Okumidori ($13.50) for an umami yet subtly sweet flavour.
Image credit: KOKO Kawane
All five of the cafe’s pastries combine Japanese flavours with French techniques. Must-orders include the tea leaf-shaped and matcha-focused Midoba ($10), as well as its hojicha counterpart, Kohaku ($10), layered with hojicha sponge, cremeux with hazelnut praline, and passionfruit jam.
Read our Koko Kawane feature.
Address: 1 Vista Exchange Green, #01-02, The Star Vista, Singapore 138617
Opening hours: Daily 10am to 9pm (last order 8.30pm)
Tel: 8209 7988
Website
KOKO Kawane is not halal-certified.
This New Star Vista Cafe Has Freshly Ground Matcha From A 400-Year-Old Tea Farm
11. Sushidan
Image credit: Sushidan Parkway Parade via Google Maps
Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Hiroyuki Sato, Tokyo-born concept Sushi Dan has opened its second Singapore outlet at Parkway Parade, bringing accessible Edomae-style sushi to Easties. The new 35-seater outlet is almost half the size of their Raffles City flagship, but keeps the same value-driven menu that put the brand on the map.
Diners can expect a la carte sushi from $1.99++, sashimi from $2.99++, hand rolls from $3.99++, and omakase sets starting at $19.90++. For first-timers, highlights on the menu include The Goshoku Set ($19.90++), Sushidan’s entry-level omakase. It comes with seasonal chawanmushi, a chef’s appetiser, three ochoko mini dons, a sushi platter, a negitoro handroll, and miso soup. There’s also the Goshoku Aburi Set ($19.90++), offering a torched version of the same lineup for those who prefer their sushi with a bit of char.
Read our Sushidan coverage.
Address: 80 Marine Parade Road, #01-10, Parkway Parade, Singapore 449269
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 10pm
Website
Sushidan is not halal-certified.
Sushidan To Open At Parkway Parade On 5 Sep With $19.90++ Omakase
12. Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu
Parkway Parade got a facelift with a brand new food section a few months ago. Joining the line-up of new eateries is Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu. The new outlet follows the brand’s first opening at Raffles City and second outlet at One Holland Village, both of which drew long queues from diners eager to try its signature Japanese beef cutlets.
Unlike the usual tonkatsu, gyukatsu here is served lightly cooked, allowing diners to finish cooking the beef to their preferred doneness on a personal hot stone. Their classic Sirloin Gyukatsu Zen ($25++) features a thick slice of beef cutlet that’s crispy, juicy, and tender all at once. If you’re feeling bougie, go for the A5 Miyazaki Sirloin Gyukatsu Zen ($55++), which is crispy on the outside with richly marbled meat on the inside.
Read our Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu feature.
Address: 80 Marine Parade Road, #01-11, Parkway Parade, Singapore 449269
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 10pm
Website
Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu is not halal-certified.
Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu To Open At Parkway Parade With A5 Wagyu Cutlet And More
13. Torinosuke
Image credit: Torinosuke via Google Maps
Torinosuke serves lesser-known Hiroshima-style Toripaitan ramen, adding some variety to Singapore’s ramen scene. The Hiroshima restaurant recently opened at Millenia Walk, marking its first Singapore outpost.
Image credit: Torinosuke via Google Maps
Its signature Toripaitan ramen comes in various forms, with the classic priced at $12.90++. Their Ajitama series includes Toripaitan ($14.90++), Shoyu ($12.90++), Miso ($13.90++), as well as Kara Miso ($14.50++). Meat lovers can pair their ramen with the massive Warji Katsu, named after the traditional Japanese straw sandal for its similar flattened shape. Prices range from $18.90++ to $20.50++ per bowl, with its broth said to be simmered for 10 hours with roasted chicken meat, bones, and vegetables for maximum flavour.
Address: 9 Raffles Boulevard, #01-106, Millenia Walk, Singapore 039596
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 9:30pm
Tel: 6341 7598
Website
Torinosuke is not halal-certified.
14. Gatten Sushi
Image credit: Takashi Kato via Google Maps
Home to numerous Japanese eateries, ION Orchard welcomed yet another with the arrival of Gatten Sushi, a Japan-famous conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Originally from Saitama, Japan, diners get to watch as the staff prepare the sushi right in front of them.
Image credit: Jay via Google Maps
Prices for conveyor belt sushi range between $2.50 to $9.80 a plate, offering classics such as Nigiri, Ika Nigiri and various types of maki. Patrons can also order more atas a la carte options, including Sea Urchin ($9.80) and Steamed Snow Crab ($7.80). Sashimi fans can go straight for the 5-Piece Set for all the finest cuts of fish in one go.
Read our Gatten Sushi feature.
Address: 2 Orchard Turn, #B3-20, ION Orchard, Singapore 238801
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 10pm
Tel: 6876 1210
Website
Gatten Sushi is not halal-certified.
Japan-Famous Conveyor Belt Sushi Restaurant Opens At ION With Live-Cut Seafood
15. Tonkatsu Daiki
Highly acclaimed Tonkatsu Daiki entered the tonkatsu scene earlier this year, landing at Ngee Ann City. Drawing inspiration from Japan’s food capital, Osaka, this eatery blends tonkatsu mastery with an authentic local vibe, with the hole-in-the-wall entrance styled after a Japanese train car. It’s even decked out with Japan Railway-style seating and overhead grab handles.
The tonkatsu we tried lived up to its Michelin Guide recognition. The Classic Hire Tonkatsu Set 120g ($29++) sported a gorgeous pink centre and golden exterior, with the lean pork tenderloin cooked to peak succulence. Each set is served with heaps of shredded cabbage, rice, miso soup, and pickles, along with three condiments: tonkatsu sauce, mustard, and pink salt.
Read our Tonkatsu Daiki review.
Address: 391 Orchard Road, #05-33, Ngee Ann City, Singapore 238873
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 2:30pm, 5:30pm to 9pm
Website
Tonkatsu Daiki is not a halal-certified eatery.
Michelin-Approved Osaka Tonkatsu Restaurant Opens In SG—Is It Worth The Hype?
16. RITUEL
Image credit: Rituel Tokyo
Tokyo’s vibrant cafe culture has officially landed in Singapore with RITUEL Tokyo’s arrival at Takashimaya. Marking the brand’s first international outpost, it offers a French-inspired atmosphere with a Japanese twist, serving exquisite pastries, afternoon tea sets, and all-day dining options.
Image credit: Lei sakura via Google Maps
Signature bakes include the 36-layer Signature Layer Croissant ($7.20), which is fermented overnight with French butter, and the spiral-rolled Escargot Danish. Joining the menu are Singapore-exclusive creations, such as the Japanese Egg Danish Sandwich ($22++) with scrambled eggs and truffle mushroom cream, alongside the Wagyu Roast Beef Danish Sandwich ($42++) served with house-made pickles and red wine sauce.
You can also treat yourself and a loved one to high tea with their BOUQUET Afternoon Tea, priced at $118++ per set for two.
Read our RITUEL feature.
Address: 391 Orchard Road, Takashimaya Shopping Centre, 03-10A/03-11D, Ngee Ann City Tower B, Singapore 238873
Opening hours: Daily 10:30am to 9:30pm
Website
Rituel Tokyo is not halal-certified.
Popular Tokyo Cafe Rituel Opens At Takashimaya With SG-Exclusive Dishes
17. MUKAI
Image credit: MUKAI Singapore via Google Maps
Kaisendon fans no longer have to travel all the way to Shibuya to try MUKAI, Tokyo’s cult-favourite kaisendon restaurant. Bringing fresh seafood bowls to our sunny island, MUKAI chose Plaza Singapura to make their first overseas debut.
Image credit: @kaisendoro_mukai
The brand named their signature dish Kaiho Don, translating to “sea treasure” and stacks chopped seafood into a tall, IG-worthy mound. The dish starts with the entry-level Nami ($28.90++), progressing through higher tiers such as the Jo ($32.90++), Tokujo ($40.90++), and Kiwami ($52.90++). For the ultimate feast, the top-tier Goku Goku ($79.90++) comes fully loaded with an assortment of seafood, though only 30 bowls are prepared daily. You can also opt for set meals—the Haō ($68++) and MUKAI ($99++) sets pair premium bowls alongside side dishes, miso soup, and dessert.
Read our MUKAI coverage.
Address: Plaza Singapura, #B1-07, 68 Orchard Road, Singapore 238839
Opening hours: Daily 11:30am to 3pm, 5:30pm to 10pm
Tel: 6219 4846
Website
MUKAI is not halal-certified.
Famous Shibuya Restaurant Opens At Plaza Singapura With 1-For-1 Kaisendon
18. Torikizoku
Fans of Japanese nightlife will instantly recognise Torikizoku by its iconic yellow signage. Established in 1985, this renowned yakitori giant boasts over 700 locations worldwide and has finally made its Singapore debut at VivoCity—saving you a 5,350km trip to Japan.
Staying true to its home-country roots, the chain maintains a flat pricing model where all skewers, sides, and rice bowls cost just $3.90++, excluding alcoholic beverages. Rather than replicating Japan’s snug izakayas, the local flagship offers an airy setting featuring indoor and outdoor seats with views of the Harbourfront boardwalk. Don’t miss their flagship Signature Kizokuyaki skewers, served in chicken thigh or breast and seasoned with Rock Salt, Spice, or a savoury Sauce.
Check out our Torikizoku review.
Address: 1 Harbourfront Walk #01-104/105, VivoCity, Singapore 098585
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 10pm
Website
Torikizoku is not halal-certified.
Japan-Famous Torikizoku Opens At VivoCity With $3.90++ Yakitori—Is It Worth A Try?
19. Sushi Ryujiro
Image credit: Sushi Ryujiro via Google Maps
Following its closure at Shaw Centre earlier this year, Michelin-starred Sushi Ryujiro has made a comeback at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel. Guests get to enjoy ingredients and dishes of the highest quality, sourced directly from fishermen that you can’t find elsewhere.
Image credit: Ashley Lee via Google Maps
The restaurant’s Edomae-style omakase features seasonal assortments of Japanese seafood flown in from Toyosu Market. Lunch options include the standard Sushi Omakase (from $228++), starring 13 nigiri pieces, and the Premium Lunch Omakase (from $298++) with additional dishes and starters. As for dinner, prices start from $328++ with an extensive sushi menu and a cooked course progression. Do note that there are various seating times for each experience, so it’s best to make a reservation ahead of time.
Address: 15 Stamford Road, #01-88, The Capitol Kempinski Hotel, Singapore 178906
Opening hours: Tue-Sun, 12pm to 2:30pm, 7pm to 10:30pm
Tel: 8099 1777
Website
Sushi Ryujiro is not halal-certified.
20. Kyoto Onimaru
Earlier this year, Kyoto Onimaru made its debut at Hougang Mall, bringing authentic onigiri to our shores. Drawing long lines upon its opening, they operate as a takeaway-only kiosk, with onigiri starting from just $2.20.
With over 15 rice balls to choose from, the most wallet-friendly is the Seaweed Tsukudani ($2.20), followed by the Salted Kelp and Edamame ($2.30). For something creamier, the Mentaiko Tuna Mayonnaise ($2.90) is filled with flaky tuna and topped with mentaiko sauce. Heartier options include the Grilled Eel with Shichimi ($6.50), starring a generous portion of eel in a sweet and savoury sauce atop a Shichimi leaf, omelette, and a bed of rice.
Read our Kyoto Onimaru feature.
Address: 90 Hougang Avenue 10, #01-12, Hougang Mall, Singapore 538766
Opening hours: Daily 10am to 10pm
Website
Kyoto Onimaru is not halal-certified.
Get Onigiri From $2.20 With Thick Unagi And Mentaiko Tuna In Hougang
Guide to famous new Japanese food brands in Singapore
Japan will continue to have a chokehold on us all, and now you can satisfy all your Japanese cravings with the newest openings in town.
If you’re into Korean food, check out our guide to the best new Korean eateries in 2026. If you prefer Chinese cuisine, our guide to the top 20 Chinese food brand openings has you covered.
12 New Korean Eateries That Opened In 2026: DIY Bibimbap, Fresh Shio Pan And More
Top In Asia
