If you are craving a culinary adventure that combines authentic flavours and a vibrant dining scene, Clarke Quay is the place to be. Known for its bustling nightlife and stunning riverside views, this lively area is also a haven for Japanese cuisine lovers. In this guide, we are thrilled to share our top picks for the best Clarke Quay Japanese food that promise to tantalise your taste buds. From sizzling yakiniku and delicate sushi to hearty ramen bowls and crispy tempura, these dining spots bring Japan’s culinary heritage right to Singapore’s heart. Whether you are a local foodie or a visitor exploring the area, our curated list guarantees a memorable gastronomic experience that reflects the rich variety and quality Clarke Quay has to offer.
Note: This list is strictly not in order.
1. Tomo Tokyo
Tomo Tokyo has become a favourite destination for those craving authentic flavours and a lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit for Clarke Quay Japanese food enthusiasts. Their menu highlights the essence of Tokyo’s dining culture, offering sushi, sashimi, and beautifully plated seasonal dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Guests can expect a cosy yet stylish interior, perfect for casual meals or intimate gatherings. Their skilled chefs take pride in delivering dishes that balance traditional techniques with modern presentation. The service is warm and attentive, ensuring diners feel welcomed throughout their visit. Tomo Tokyo also pairs its meals with an excellent selection of Japanese sake and cocktails to complement each dish. This restaurant attracts both locals and tourists who seek genuine Japanese flavours right by the riverside. With its vibrant setting and high-quality dishes, Tomo Tokyo truly stands out as a top spot for anyone exploring the Clarke Quay dining scene.
Prices:
- Otsumami Bites start around $8 – $19 depending on item.
- Salads: eg. Avocado Cream Cheese Salad at about $20, and the Sashimi Kai Sou Salad at $28
- Maki rolls and Ramen: cost between $18 – $28 or more.
- Cocktails & drink specials: Standard cocktails / sake cocktails from $18 – $26 or higher.
Highlights:
- Tomo Tokyo blends small-plate sharing style (seafood, sashimi, nigiri, yakitori etc.) with modern Japanese flavours, tapas, pastas with a twist.
- The design features a calm base of monochromatics and neutral tones, accented with vibrant colour touches; lounge music or DJs after hours adds energy, and there’s a river-view outdoor seating.
- They have private indoor and alfresco spaces for events, capacity for ~65 seated / ~100 standing; special per-person rates apply.
Business Reviews:
1. Lewis is a professional manager! He treat every of his customers very friendly attitude & prompt service making my experience pleasant. He always put on a smile on his face. 😊 he is the only best in Tomo Tokyo. Will come back again just for him
2. Environment around restaurant is happening fresh to feel rome around and enjoy 🍻🍕🍜🍣🍡
3. The food was flavorful and beautifully presented, the service was warm and attentive, and the atmosphere felt cozy yet elegant. A great spot for a satisfying Japanese dining experience.
| Website: | https://tomotokyo.com.sg/ |
| Operating Hours: | Sunday-Thursday 12–3 PM, 5–11 PM I Friday & Saturday 12–3 PM, 5 PM–1 AM |
| Number: | 6336 0100 |
| Address: | 3A River Valley Rd, #01 – 04, Singapore 179020 |
2. Shinya Izakaya
Shinya Izakaya is a go-to destination for diners looking for a relaxed yet authentic Clarke Quay Japanese restaurant experience. It specialises in hearty izakaya-style dishes, offering skewers, grilled seafood, and comforting hotpots that pair perfectly with their impressive sake and beer menu. The restaurant’s cosy interiors, warm lighting, and laid-back atmosphere create a welcoming space for friends and colleagues to unwind after work. Their chefs focus on quality, using fresh ingredients to ensure every bite is rich in flavour. Shinya Izakaya is known for its friendly service and casual dining vibe that makes every visit enjoyable and stress-free. Its riverside location in Clarke Quay adds a touch of charm to the entire experience. Popular among both locals and expats, it’s the ideal place for anyone who loves sharing delicious Japanese dishes in a lively setting. Shinya Izakaya’s mix of authentic flavours and relaxing ambience makes it an essential stop for food lovers.
Prices:
- Ajisai (8-Course) – $78++
- Sakura (11-Course) – $118++
- Ronin (6-Course) – $38++
- Samurai (8-Course) – $78++
- Shogun (11-Course) – $118++
- Kushiyaki – Around $3.80 – $8.80++
- Zensai/Appetiser – Around $6 – $12++
Highlights:
- Helmed by Master Chef Lu, the restaurant blends traditional Japanese flavours with creative touches.
- About 35 types of beers (served in frozen mugs) plus many sakes & wines.
- Cosy booths, warm lighting, private or semi-private rooms for groups; situated in Boat Quay, very accessible from Clarke Quay MRT (short walk).
Business Reviews:
1. Went on a Thursday night crowd was decent. Japanese food was superb and their sashimi was super fresh👌🏻 washed down with some of their sakes. Can choose between indoor and outdoor sitting chose indoor for the air-conditioning but their outdoor sitting has a nice view of the river. Would definitely return for their japanese selection. Edit: Came back again with more friends this time, would definitely recommend!😋
2. Had an amazing experience at Shinya Izakaya! The dishes were delicious, especially the grilled skewers and ramen. The place has a cosy, welcoming vibe and the service was excellent. Definitely a go-to spot for authentic Japanese food in Singapore!
3. Booked Shinya Izakaya at Boat Quay in the evening. Staff attended to us and were friendly and attentive. We ordered some Japanese steak and sashimis. Their sashimis served were fresh and delicious. Didn’t try their skewers as we ordered enough items and will come by to try next time.
| Website: | http://www.shinyaizakaya.com/ |
| Operating Hours: | 12 PM–3 AM Daily |
| Number: | 8493 2488 |
| Address: | 78 Boat Quay, Singapore 049866 |
3. Man Man Japanese Unagi
For lovers of authentic eel dishes, Man Man Japanese Unagi is a celebrated name in the world of Japanese food Clarke Quay. Famous for its live eel preparations, the restaurant offers unagi grilled to perfection over charcoal, creating a smoky aroma and flavour that’s hard to resist. Each dish is carefully prepared by chefs who have mastered traditional Japanese grilling techniques, ensuring a consistently excellent taste. The minimalist yet inviting interior allows the focus to remain on the food, letting diners fully savour the experience. Man Man Japanese Unagi is especially popular for its unagi donburi, served with fluffy rice and savoury sauce that enhances the eel’s natural richness. The restaurant prides itself on using the highest quality ingredients to deliver authentic flavours every time. Its location in Clarke Quay makes it a convenient choice for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners. If you’re a fan of unagi, this place is undoubtedly a must-visit.
Prices:
- Unagi Kabayaki – $27.30++
- Unagi Shirayaki – $27.30++
- Roast Beef Hitsumabushi – $39.40++ (large), $29.50++ (medium)
- Hitsumabushi – $29.80++
- Scallop Hitsumabushi – $38.80++ (large), $28.80++ (meduim)
- Nega Tama Hitsumabushi – $41.40++ (large), $31.50++ (meduim)
Highlights:
- Man Man Unagi has been awarded the Bib Gourmand in 2019, indicating excellent quality that’s good value.
- This Clarke Quay branch has exclusive items made in collaboration with Chef Teppei Yamashita (Teppei Japanese) and Tendon Kohaku.
- Grilled over charcoal in a Nagoya-style, with smoky char and sweet savoury tare. Many reviews praise the balance: crispy skin, tender inside.
Business Reviews:
1. Good food. The fish is very fresh tasting. Meat is very soft. Fish is lightly grilled. Not like some that looks coated with a thick layer of sauce. I ordered the 120g rice set. Cost $34.50 nett. Went a second time and order the cold udon set. Small piece of unagi. Cost $30.50 nett. Full of carbohydrate from the udon and rice but little fish to go along. Better order the 120g rice set.
2. A wonderful experience eating here. Delicious food, good ambience, and excellent service. Recommend for you to try !
3. Came here during unagi promotion. The unagi is the simply the best in Singapore! A must try to order the Hitsumabushi set so you can try to eat the normal unagi don and with the dashi!
| Website: | https://manmanunagi.oddle.me/en_SG/ |
| Operating Hours: | 11:30 AM–3:30 PM, 5–9:30 PM Daily |
| Number: | 6226 1780 |
| Address: | 6 Eu Tong Sen St, #B1 – 52 / 53, Singapore 059817 |
4. Mitsuba Japanese Restaurant
Mitsuba Japanese Restaurant is a gem for those who love high-quality sushi buffets and an extensive menu of Japanese restaurant Clarke Quay offerings. Known for its generous portions and premium ingredients, Mitsuba caters to both casual diners and serious sushi enthusiasts. Their sushi and sashimi platters are always fresh, beautifully arranged, and prepared by skilled chefs who prioritise flavour and presentation. The restaurant’s interior exudes a warm, contemporary vibe, making it suitable for family gatherings, friendly get-togethers, or romantic dinners. Mitsuba also boasts a menu that includes grilled items, tempura, and hearty Japanese hotpots, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Their attentive service staff make the dining experience smooth and pleasant for every guest. Diners often praise the quality of food that matches its reasonable pricing. Located right in Clarke Quay, Mitsuba continues to impress both locals and tourists seeking authentic Japanese cuisine in a comfortable setting.
Prices:
- A la carte Buffet (Regular):
- Adult – $59.90++
- Child below 1.4m tall – $29.90++
- Child in baby chair – free
- A la carte Buffet (Premium):
- Adult – $99.90++
- Child below 1.4m tall – $49.90++
- Child in baby chair – free
Highlights:
- Mitsuba was founded in May 2014 by William Chia, a retired banker and certified sake sommelier (“Kikisake-Shi”).
- Signature cuisine includes Thick Cut Sashimi and a wide selection of Japanese dishes. Mitsuba is known for its premium quality sashimi and sushi, expansive buffet and ala-carte menus.
- They offer Regular Buffet, Premium Buffet, and Simply Ala-carte menu options.
- Innovatively, Mitsuba is also the first Japanese restaurant in Singapore to introduce delivery robots to assist service, allowing human staff to focus more on food & service quality.
Business Reviews:
1. Had the weekday set lunch promos – Karafu Chirashi and the Trio Don (three types of salmon). Mitsuba consistently delivers when it comes to quality sashimi, and this visit was no exception. The cuts of raw fish were fresh, generous, and well-prepared, striking a nice balance of flavor and texture. It’s one of those rare places where the fish really speaks for itself, making the set lunch great value for the quality you’re getting. Definitely a spot I’d return to when craving good Japanese fare at Clarke Quay Central.
2. The restaurant’s decor exudes a Japanese atmosphere, and the warm yellow lighting creates a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel comfortable and at ease the moment you enter.
3. 𝐌𝐢𝐭𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐚 𝐉𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐭 at The Central (Clarke Quay) is a hidden gem for Japanese buffet lovers. It has a cozy, no-frills setting with a panoramic riverside view, where the star is not the decor but the ridiculously generous all-you-can-eat Ala Carte buffet. You will get fresh sashimi (thick-cut, not stingy), premium sushi, grilled items, tempura, teppanyaki, and even unagi – all served freshly made, not sitting out cold. Enjoying the premium buffet includes some of the highlights like foie gras, wagyu steak, crayfish, Iberico pork rib, lobster bisque & more…
| Website: | https://mitsuba.com.sg/ |
| Operating Hours: | 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 6–10 PM |
| Number: | 6227 0388 |
| Address: | 6 Eu Tong Sen St, #03-88 The Central, Singapore 059817 |
5. Tendon Kohaku The Central
Tendon Kohaku The Central is a popular choice for those craving crisp, flavourful tempura served over perfectly cooked rice, earning its place as a top spot for Clarke Quay Japanese food. Renowned for their signature tendon bowls, this restaurant specialises in combining crunchy tempura with a rich, savoury sauce that ties every bite together. Their menu features a variety of options, including seafood, chicken, and seasonal vegetables, all fried to a golden perfection. The restaurant’s bright and welcoming atmosphere makes it a pleasant place for casual dining, whether alone or with friends. Their commitment to consistency ensures that every dish served meets the same high standards that fans have come to love. Service is efficient and friendly, even during busy mealtimes. Located in The Central, it’s a convenient stop for both lunch and dinner while exploring Clarke Quay. For tempura enthusiasts, Tendon Kohaku is a delightful experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Prices:
- Kohaku Tendon Set – $19.80++
- Kohaku Curry Set – $18.80++
- Seafood Tendon Set – $23.80++
- Vegetable Tendon Set – $18.80++
- Unagi Tendon Set – $25.80++
- Steak Tendon Set – $22.80++
- Salmon Tendon Set – $22.80++
- Premium Tendon Set – $28.80++
- Dashi Udon – $19.80++
Highlights:
- The head chef is Hideki Tsukao, and the brand emphasizes preserving the tradition of Tendon — combining authentic Japanese tendon (tempura + donburi) with quality ingredients.
- They use a unique batter (a mixture of flours) for extra crispiness and flavour; also use blended oil and “water fryers” to reduce oil deterioration.
- They’ve chosen Hokkaido Nanatsuboshi rice (grown with minimal chemicals) for their tendon bowls.
Business Reviews:
1. Everything was nice about this restaurant. Went there on weekend but still get can seat without queueing up. Tendon was amazing, almost the same like the one I had in Japan.
2. Craving satisfied with tons of delicious fried stuff and multi grain rice bowl. Definitely recommend with a bottle of Sapporo beer!
3. Excellent food! I had the half-half set – half portion of tendon with tempura and half portion of udon, both were delicious. The tempura items were crispy and light, a delight to eat. The chilli flakes provided give a nice kick. Highly recommended!
| Website: | https://tendonkohaku.com/ |
| Operating Hours: | Monday-Friday 11:30 AM–3:30 PM, 5–9:30 PM I Saturday & Sunday 11:30 AM–9:30 PM |
| Number: | 6226 1710 |
| Address: | 6 Eu Tong Sen St, #B1-52/53, Singapore 059817 |
6. Hitoyoshi Yoshi Sushi
Hitoyoshi Yoshi Sushi has earned a loyal following for its fresh sushi and sashimi, making it one of the top destinations for Clarke Quay Japanese restaurant dining. Their chefs focus on traditional sushi-making techniques while incorporating modern touches to keep dishes exciting. The menu offers a wide variety of nigiri, sashimi, and sushi rolls, all made using premium seafood sourced daily. Guests can also enjoy an array of hot dishes, including grilled items and comforting soups. The restaurant’s chic and contemporary interior creates a relaxing yet sophisticated setting for a casual meal or special occasion. Known for their exceptional service, the staff at Hitoyoshi Yoshi Sushi ensure that each visit is enjoyable and memorable. Their commitment to quality and presentation sets them apart from other sushi spots in the area. Whether you’re a sushi lover or new to Japanese cuisine, this restaurant delivers an outstanding dining experience in Clarke Quay.
Prices:
- Aburi Salmon Cheese Maki – $22.20
- Giant Chirashi Don – $56.20 (3-4 Pax)
- Saba Shio Yaki Set – $16.90
- Salmon Teriyaki Set – $17.90
- Thick Cut Super Kaisen Don with Katsuo Tsuke Ran O – $28.90
- Hokkaido Don – $38.90
- Bluefin Nigiri Platter – $33.80
- Salmon Lovers Platter – $19.80
- Yoshi Nigiri Platter – $20.80
Highlights:
- Hitoyoshi Yoshi Sushi offers a wide variety of sushi & sashimi, including modern interpretations like Aburi (flame-seared) sushi, mentaiko, and cheese-based rolls.
- The group behind it, Hitoyoshi Group, was founded in 2017. The founders have prior experience in top-notch Japanese restaurants, with one having lived in Japan.
- Their mission is to offer authentic Japanese flavors using fresh, high-quality ingredients at reasonable/affordable prices.
Business Reviews:
1. Have been patronising this restaurant for quite a while. Food and service is consistently awesome.
2. This was our first visit to the outlet, and I must say it was an excellent experience. Jaylyn and his colleagues provided outstanding service throughout. They were warm, attentive, and made sure everything was well taken care of, which really left a great first impression. The team’s professionalism and friendliness made the meal even more enjoyable. With such great service, I’ll definitely be returning again. Highly recommended for anyone who values good food and excellent hospitality.
3. Casual Japanese eatery selling a wide range of Japanese dishes from sashimi, sushi to donburis and noodles. Food 🍱 is of good quality though the pricing also matches the slightly higher quality of dishes. Rather crowded on a Saturday evening. The porridge is nice and warm and the chirashi bowl is full of different types of sashimi
| Website: | https://hitoyoshigroup.com/brand/hitoyoshi-yoshi-sushi/ |
| Operating Hours: | 11:30 AM–10 PM Daily |
| Number: | 6980 6793 |
| Address: | Clarke Quay Central, #01-68 to 69, 6 Eu Tong Sen St, Singapore 059817 |
Conclusion
Indulging in the best Japanese food in Clarke Quay is more than just about dining – it’s about experiencing the vibrant energy of this iconic district. From sushi to ramen and everything in between, Clarke Quay offers endless options to satisfy your cravings. After your meal, you can continue the evening by exploring the lively Clarke Quay bars, perfect for winding down with a refreshing cocktail or soaking up the nightlife atmosphere.
For those who love to shop and explore, you’ll also find plenty of malls in Clarke Quay that make it easy to turn your dining trip into a fun day out. And if you’re planning a truly special evening, don’t miss the chance to try some of the best fine dining spots nearby, where exquisite flavours and elegant settings make for an unforgettable experience. Clarke Quay truly has it all – food, fun, and fantastic memories waiting to be made.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What types of Japanese food can I find in Clarke Quay?
Clarke Quay is a well-known dining hub in Singapore, and its Japanese food scene is impressively diverse. Visitors can expect a wide array of dishes that cater to both traditionalists and those seeking contemporary flavours. Classic staples such as sushi and sashimi remain popular choices, often served with fish and seafood flown in directly from Japan for maximum freshness. Ramen lovers can enjoy different styles, from rich tonkotsu broths to light shoyu-based soups, as well as spicy miso options for those who like a bit of heat.
If you’re looking for hearty rice meals, donburi bowls topped with grilled eel (unagi), teriyaki chicken, or tempura prawns are commonly available. There are also Japanese curry dishes, yakitori skewers grilled over charcoal, and tempura sets that pair perfectly with a warm bowl of miso soup. Beyond the usual favourites, some restaurants offer unique specialties like shabu-shabu hotpot, wagyu beef sukiyaki, or omakase tasting menus where the chef curates seasonal dishes for you.
Whether you’re after an intimate fine-dining experience or a casual izakaya meal with friends, Clarke Quay has options to suit every preference. The variety makes it an excellent destination for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts who want to explore the full spectrum of flavours and dining styles in one vibrant area.
2. Are there affordable Japanese restaurants in Clarke Quay?
Absolutely. While Clarke Quay is often associated with nightlife and upscale dining, there are plenty of affordable Japanese restaurants that cater to everyday budgets. Many casual ramen shops, donburi counters, and izakayas serve generous portions at prices that won’t break the bank. For example, a hearty bowl of ramen can cost as little as $12 to $18, while bento sets and donburi dishes typically range from $15 to $25.
Lunch specials are especially worth seeking out, as many restaurants offer discounted sets during weekdays, including main dishes served with soup, salad, and sides. Some izakaya-style eateries also have happy hour deals on food and drinks, which means you can enjoy skewers, sushi rolls, and drinks at a fraction of the usual price.
This affordability makes Clarke Quay a great spot for students, young professionals, or families who want to enjoy quality Japanese food without spending excessively. Despite the lower price points, many of these restaurants pride themselves on authenticity and fresh ingredients, ensuring that you don’t have to compromise on taste or quality.
3. Is it necessary to make reservations at Japanese restaurants in Clarke Quay?
While not all Japanese restaurants in Clarke Quay require reservations, it’s highly recommended, especially if you’re visiting during peak dining hours. Clarke Quay is a bustling spot popular among both locals and tourists, so walk-in diners may face long waiting times—particularly on weekend evenings, public holidays, or during festive events.
Fine-dining establishments offering omakase or seasonal set menus often have limited seating, so reservations are essential to secure a spot. For larger groups or special celebrations like birthdays, booking ahead ensures that the restaurant can prepare a suitable table arrangement and provide better service.
Even if you’re dining at a casual ramen shop or izakaya, calling ahead can save you time and hassle, particularly if you’re visiting with family or a big group. Most restaurants allow reservations to be made online or via phone, which adds convenience for diners planning their visit.
4. Do Clarke Quay’s Japanese restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan-friendly dishes?
Yes, several Japanese restaurants in Clarke Quay offer vegetarian-friendly options, though fully vegan dishes may be slightly harder to find. Traditional Japanese cuisine includes a range of plant-based dishes such as vegetable tempura, grilled eggplant, tofu-based meals, seaweed salads, edamame beans, and vegetarian sushi rolls made with cucumber, avocado, or pickled radish.
For vegetarians, udon or soba noodles in light vegetable-based broths are usually available and make for a satisfying meal. However, vegan diners should be aware that many Japanese broths and sauces—such as miso soup or ramen broth—often contain fish stock or bonito flakes.
If you have specific dietary requirements, it’s best to check the menu in advance or inform the staff when placing your order. Some restaurants are happy to modify dishes by substituting ingredients or preparing meals without animal-based products. This proactive approach ensures that you can enjoy a pleasant and worry-free dining experience.
5. Are there Japanese restaurants in Clarke Quay that stay open late at night?
Yes, Clarke Quay is known for its lively nightlife, and many Japanese restaurants—especially izakayas and ramen shops—stay open late into the night. This makes them a fantastic choice for late-night suppers after a night out at the bars or clubs in the area.
These late-night eateries often serve popular comfort foods like steaming bowls of ramen, sizzling yakitori skewers, karaage chicken, and assorted sushi rolls. The lively, casual ambience of these places is perfect for unwinding with friends over good food and drinks.
However, opening hours may vary between weekdays and weekends, with some establishments extending their hours until 11 PM or later on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s a good idea to check the specific restaurant’s closing time before heading down, especially if you’re planning a late dinner or a post-party meal.
