Torimaro

Singapore has its fair share of hidden izakayas – most are situated in town, but in soon-to-be derelict buildings like Midpoint Orchard and Orchard Plaza. With the new opening of chicken-focused Japanese joint Torimaro, it's veered off course: this izakaya bar is right in the middle of the CBD in Capital Square. 

Despite moving out of its former location within the bustling CBD, along Church Street to Novena Regency, this authentic yakitori and sake bar continues to draw diners from around the island. We recommend going for the omakase experience (starts from $80), offering a good selection of appetisers, skewers and mains. The menu shines the spotlight on different parts of the chicken, from the neck to the tail, all executed with flair. We really enjoyed the chicken innards, especially the heart, which had the perfect char and bite.

For something hearty and comforting, try the chicken sukiyaki. While most sukiyaki hotpots feature delicate slices of beef, this was chock-full with chicken, tofu, and tsukune, grilled chicken meatballs.

There was also a series of yakitori skewers: chicken thigh, sasami – chicken tenders, and chicken wing. At this point, Tormaro’s generosity was evident with a chicken sukiyaki to follow. While most sukiyaki hotpots feature delicate slices of beef, this was chock-full with chicken, tofu, and tsukune, grilled chicken meatballs. 

Only the biggest eaters wouldn’t be whinging at this point. But after we thought we were entirely done with the omakase course, there was still a serving of fresh udon – noodles to be cooked in the simmered chicken broth. There was even dessert to end it all off: you could choose between a vanilla, melon, or yuzu flavour.