Sushi in Singapore: Discover the Luxury of Sushi Masaaki
I’ve eaten my fair share of sushi in Singapore, but every now and then, a place comes along that makes me slow down and really pay attention. That’s exactly what happened when I visited Sushi Masaaki at South Beach Avenue. From the moment I stepped into the warm, wood-toned space, I knew this wasn’t just another sushi spot—it felt more like stepping into a little pocket of Japan, where everything revolves around the chef, the counter, and the food.
The Vibe
The space is small, cozy, and almost zen-like, with just 12 counter seats made from 250-year-old hinoki wood. It’s the kind of place where you notice the tiniest details—the gleam of the knives, the way the light falls on each plate, even the faint aroma of binchotan charcoal. Sitting at the counter, I had front-row seats to Chef Masaaki Sakashita’s craft, and honestly, it was hypnotic. Every slice, every brush of soy, every gentle press of rice and fish—it all felt like performance art.
The service matches the setting too. Staff move quietly, anticipating what you need without being intrusive. The whole experience feels polished but never stiff, which I appreciated. It struck the right balance of luxury and comfort.
The Food
I went for one of the omakase menus, and trust me, every course was memorable. Chef Masaaki focuses on Edomae-style sushi, which highlights natural flavors while using traditional techniques like marination, aging, or curing. What makes his food stand out, though, is the way he weaves in little touches of creativity.
Some highlights from my meal:
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Uni cake with caviar – Creamy, briny, indulgent, basically a showstopper.
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Seared kinmedai – Lightly torched over binchotan charcoal, giving it a smoky-sweet depth.
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Kawahagi with liver – Rich, smooth, and unexpectedly addictive.
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Handroll with uni – Simple, but so perfectly executed it became one of my favorites.
Each piece felt distinct, like it had its own story. The pacing of the meal was spot-on too—nothing felt rushed, yet there was never a lull. It flowed like a carefully composed symphony, where every note mattered.
The Chef
Part of what makes Sushi Masaaki special is Chef Masaaki himself. Before opening this restaurant, he worked at Ginza Sushi Kanesaka in Tokyo and later at Sushi Mitsuya and Ishi Sushi in Singapore. With over 20 years of experience, he brings a mix of precision and warmth to the counter. Watching him prepare sushi is fascinating, but what I liked even more was how approachable he was. He chats with diners, shares little tidbits about the fish, and makes the whole experience personal instead of intimidating.
Omakase Options
Sushi Masaaki has several omakase menus depending on how much you want to indulge:
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Yui Omakase (S$180++) – Seasonal starters, sushi, sashimi, soup, dessert.
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Sakae Omakase (S$250++) – More elaborate, with premium cuts and variety.
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Miyabi Omakase (S$280++) – A bigger seasonal platter for those who want extra.
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Ren Omakase (S$380++) – The full premium experience, showcasing the very best.
I’d say the S$250–S$280 range is the sweet spot. You get enough variety and luxury without needing to go all out, though if you’re celebrating something big, the Ren Omakase would definitely impress.
Why I Loved It
What really stood out to me was how personal the whole experience felt. A lot of fine dining sushi places can feel rigid or overly formal, but Sushi Masaaki strikes a more welcoming tone. Chef Masaaki isn’t just quietly making sushi in front of you—he interacts, he laughs, and he makes sure you’re having a good time.
And while it’s definitely on the pricier side, I think it’s worth it for special occasions, date nights, or if you’re a serious sushi lover who wants to experience one of the best. It’s not just about eating sushi—it’s about slowing down and appreciating the craft behind every bite.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for a casual sushi fix, this probably isn’t your spot. But if you want an elevated experience, where sushi is treated like art and every detail is deliberate, then Sushi Masaaki should be on your list. It’s also a fantastic option if you’re entertaining guests or want to impress someone with a truly memorable meal.
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