Love yakitori? We know the best yakitori spots in Singapore for a grilling skew-mance.
Mention Japanese cuisine, and most people will immediately pick sushi or ramen as their faves. Some might go for yakiniku or shabu shabu. What about the humble yakitori? These versatile baddies are perfect as a bar snack, entree, or party cuisine. In fact, we can guarantee that stopping at just one is impossible. Hungry yet? You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for yakitori restaurants in Singapore. Yes, we know the best Japanese joints where you can sink your teeth into charcoal-grilled skewers.
The best yakitori restaurants in Singapore
1. Sa Tae Bak
This eatery’s name holds a double name. It stands for “three pieces of meat” in Hokkien, and if you say the name fast enough, it sounds like “satay“, another skewer fave here in Singapore. How clever! Sa Tae Bak goes all out with the theme, with Japanese-style posters on the walls and various yakitori options. The crispy and creamy enoki bacon miso is a must-try, with the unagi coming a close second. Oyster lovers can enjoy these molluscs fresh or grilled.
Sa Tae Bak, multiple locations including Bali Lane and Changi Road
2. Torisei
While many Korean dining establishments call Tanjong Pagar home, there are some underrated gems we highly recommend visiting. One of them is this kappo-style restaurant, which serves up head-to-tail yakitori omakase menus for lunch and dinner. You can even customise your menu as long as you inform the folks in advance. Speaking of the menu, you won’t be able to find it online as it changes seasonally. But that’s the beauty of it – you’ll end up with a lovely surprise once you’ve warmed your seat.
Torisei, #01-02/03, Frasers Tower, 182 Cecil Street, Singapore 069547
3. Nanbantei
You may know Far East Plaza as Little Pinoy (or that Orchard Road mall filled with Filipino food). However, it’s also the home of what’s arguably one of Singapore’s pioneering yakitori restaurants. The a la carte menu boasts specialities like a meatball combining beef, chicken, and pork, shishamo (pregnant fish), and chicken buttocks (for those with adventurous palates).
Nanbantei, multiple locations including Far East Plaza and Chinatown Point
4. Kai Yakitori
Who’s been to Orchard Plaza? If you replied in the affirmative, you’re a real one. Singapore’s often-forgotten mall (it’s adjacent to Orchard Central if you need a reminder) is brimming with Japanese delights, including this elusive yakitori restaurant. Chook skewers are front and centre of Kai’s omakase menu. Foodies raved about the wing, which is crispy yet tender. Tip for the faint-hearted: close your eyes and quickly pop the hatsu (chicken heart) into your mouth.
Kai Yakitori, #04-23/24 Orchard Plaza, 150 Orchard Road, Singapore 238841
5. Yorimichi Izakaya
Blink and you’ll probably miss this hidden bar. That’s expected since it occupies a small nook near the complex’s entrance. (Also, who goes to Golden Mile Tower for Japanese food?) Step inside and you’re immediately transported to the Land of the Rising Sun, thanks to Japanese posters and paraphernalia. Psst: check out the disco ball surrounded by cherry blossoms! Yorimichi’s claim to fame is its outstanding yakitori, which really hits the nail on the head. Everything is perfectly grilled and goes along well with a yuzu highball.
Yorimichi Izakaya, #01-02, Golden Mile Tower, 6001 Beach Road, Singapore 199589
6. Yakitori Yatagarasu
If you’re not too busy, take some time to walk down Circular Road. This bustling stretch houses hidden restaurants and cafes, happening bars, and a famous supper place. Gourmands will also know this area in Singapore has a strong Japanese presence, and this yakitori restaurant plays a part. Visitors often sing the praises of its chicken skewers, though the pork ones are nothing to scoff at. In short, order everything and enjoy the meaty goodness.
Yakitori Yatagarasu, #01-01, 72 Circular Road, Singapore 049426
7. Skewers Yakitori Izakaya
Most people typically associate yakitori with Japanese chefs. That’s not the case here. The grilling is handled by talented locals who nail that perfect smoky char and juicy tenderness, transforming each skewer into a mouthwatering masterpiece. The skewers menu goes beyond just chicken, offering an array of other grilled delights like beef, pork, seafood, and veggie options.
Skewers Yakitori Izakaya, #04-01, Cuppage Plaza, 5 Koek Road, Singapore 228796
8. Shunjuu Izakaya
Izakayas are our go-to spots for good food and great vibes. At this Robertson Quay gem, the sumiyaki (charcoal grill) specialities are the real stars, stealing the show from everything else on the menu. Don’t miss out on standout offerings like the meat bar served with raw egg, oysters wrapped in pork, and perfectly crispy chicken wings. Wash everything down with top-notch sakes imported from all over Japan.
Shunjuu Izakaya, #01-15, Riverside View, 30 Robertson Quay, Singapore 238251
9. The Burning Oak
Yakitori takes centre stage at this hipster hawker stall, which resides above Simpang Bedok, aka one of Singapore’s iconic supper spots. Chow down on quail egg, pork shoulder, chicken thigh, and shiitake mushroom skewers at affordable prices. Craving the premium stuff? We recommend getting the slow-cooked beef short rib or Iberico pork cheek. The only word we can use to describe them is “delicious”.
The Burning Oak, multiple locations including Bedok Marketplace and Expo
10. JiBiru Yakitori & Craft Beer Bar
As its name implies, JiBiru is a post-work heaven for those craving Japanese beers. Aside from the craft brews, this bar feeds the parched with grilled meats inspired by the Saitama region near Tokyo. Some snacks you won’t be able to resist are chicken meatballs and premium Hokkaido pork, all marinated and glazed in special sauces. Those feeling super peckish should go for the platters.
JiBiru Craft Beer Bar, #01-26, 313@Somerset, 313 Orchard Road, Singapore 238895
11. Mikawa Yakitori Bar
This spot is probably the closest thing you’ll get to an izakaya in the Siglap neighbourhood. Mikawa takes pride in its yakitori offerings, which include chicken gizzard, heart with sauce, and soft bone. You can also enjoy other meaty (and vegetarian) delicacies on skewers, like pork belly with onion, scallops wrapped in bacon, codfish, and Japanese sweet potatoes.
Mikawa Yakitori Bar, multiple locations in Siglap and Bukit Timah
12. Shirokane Tori-Tama
A handful of Japanese eateries dot the Robertson Quay terrain, with many folks flocking here for a taste of the beloved country. This Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient is one yakitori restaurant in Singapore that skews towards those palates. Here’s where diners can get parts like neck, back, tail, and middle wing carved from smoky, barbecued chicken. The live grilling will take time, so sip on a Sapporo or Suntory as you patiently wait.
Shirokane Tori-Tama, #01-02, Robertson Walk, 11 Unity Street, Singapore 237995
It’s yakitori time at these Japanese restaurants and food spots in Singapore!
