Omakase in Singapore: My Michelin-Star Night at Omakase @ Stevens
Introduction
There are plenty of places doing omakase in Singapore — but every now and then, one comes along that makes you pause and go, “Wow, this is something special.” That was exactly how I felt walking out of Omakase @ Stevens.
Tucked inside the Novotel Mercure complex along Stevens Road, this cozy Japanese-French omakase spot recently earned a Michelin star, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. From the moment you step in, the calm ambience, the scent of freshly grilled fish, and the quiet confidence of the chefs set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
The Story Behind the Counter
At the helm is Chef Kazuki Arimoto, an Osaka native who’s worked in some of Tokyo’s finest kitchens. He’s not just another sushi chef — he’s also the 2025 Michelin Young Chef Award winner. You can feel his passion in the way he talks about ingredients, and every dish that lands in front of you feels like it has a story behind it.
The restaurant itself is small — just 16 counter seats, all lined up in front of a sleek pine-wood counter. It’s the kind of setup that makes you feel part of the performance. You get to see every slice, sear, and brush of sauce up close — like a quiet culinary ballet happening right in front of you.
My Dining Experience
I went for the full seasonal omakase menu (about S$333++) because… go big or go home, right? The courses flowed seamlessly, each one outdoing the last.
Here’s a little glimpse into my dinner:
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Seasonal Sashimi Platter – Think buttery otoro, gleaming kinmedai, and sweet botan ebi, all arranged like art. One bite and you just stop talking for a moment.
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Truffle Chawanmushi – The classic Japanese egg custard, but Chef Arimoto adds a thin layer of truffle foam that takes it to another level.
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A5 Wagyu with Red Wine Reduction – Japanese beef meets French flair. Rich, juicy, and perfectly balanced.
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Yuzu Sorbet with Candied Citrus – A light, refreshing end after all that indulgence.
Every dish felt intentional — the kind that makes you slow down and appreciate what’s in front of you.
Price, Reservations, and the Little Details
This isn’t your everyday dinner spot — it’s definitely one for special occasions. The shorter 6-course menu starts around S$238++, while the full experience is S$333++.
They’re open for dinner only (Monday to Saturday, 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm) and closed on Sundays. You’ll want to book ahead because seats disappear fast — it’s just 16 people per night! Also, note that any last-minute changes (within 72 hours) can incur charges, which honestly makes sense given the prep work involved.
The dress code is smart casual — so no slippers or singlets. Think of it as your excuse to dress up a little and treat yourself.
The Ambience
The atmosphere is quiet and calming — the kind of place where you naturally lower your voice because the moment feels special. There’s soft jazz playing, the faint scent of dashi in the air, and the comforting sound of knives gliding through fish.
What I loved most was how personal the experience felt. The staff didn’t just serve food; they shared tiny details about the ingredients — like how a specific type of sea urchin came from Hokkaido that week. It’s these little things that make omakase dining so unique.
Why I Think Omakase @ Stevens Deserves the Hype
There’s no shortage of omakase restaurants in Singapore, but Omakase @ Stevens manages to stand out without trying too hard. It’s not flashy or over-the-top — just quietly confident, elegant, and deeply satisfying.
Chef Arimoto’s mix of Japanese precision and French creativity makes each bite memorable. It’s not just about eating sushi; it’s about watching a chef tell a story through his food.
If you’re someone who loves fine dining or wants to experience a Michelin-star meal that actually feels warm and personal, this is the place.
Final Thoughts
Dining at Omakase @ Stevens isn’t just about great food — it’s about slowing down and appreciating the craft behind every dish. From the precision of each cut to the care in every flavour pairing, it’s clear why this place earned its Michelin star.
If you’re searching for one of the best omakase experiences in Singapore, trust me — this is it. Just make sure to book early, come hungry, and let Chef Arimoto take you on the ride.
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