Sushi in Singapore: Why Sushi Ryujiro Deserves a Spot on Your Must-Try List
Introduction
There’s no shortage of top-tier sushi restaurants in Singapore, but every now and then, a new name appears that instantly makes waves. That’s exactly what happened when Sushi Ryujiro opened its doors at #01-19, 1 Scotts Road, Shaw Centre. Backed by the legendary Les Amis Group and led by acclaimed Tokyo chef Ryujiro Nakamura, this omakase spot promises an authentic Edomae experience that’s as refined as it is personal.
As someone who’s obsessed with good sushi (and has made it my mission to hunt down the best sushi in Singapore), I knew I had to see if Sushi Ryujiro lived up to the hype. Spoiler: it absolutely does — but it’s not your typical omakase night out.
The Vibe: Quiet Luxury, Not Flashy Opulence
The restaurant sits quietly within Shaw Centre, away from Orchard Road’s chaos. The moment I stepped inside, the mood shifted — warm wood tones, a serene glow, and a sleek 14-seat counter where every grain of rice and slice of fish gets the spotlight. There’s also a private room (6 seats) and a semi-private space (4 seats), perfect if you’re planning something special.
The interior design feels like an homage to Tokyo’s minimalist sushi-yas — elegant but never intimidating. You immediately sense that this is a place where precision matters, and conversation takes a backseat to craftsmanship.
The Chefs: From Tokyo, With Discipline
At the helm is Chef Naruki Ikeda, who trained under Chef Ryujiro Nakamura himself in Japan before being handpicked to lead the Singapore outpost. Nakamura’s Tokyo restaurant earned a cult following for its purist approach to sushi — no theatrics, just razor-sharp technique and ingredients at their peak.
Here, Chef Ikeda continues that legacy. Every slice, brush of soy, and dab of wasabi feels intentional. The rice (shari) is seasoned with a blend of four types of red vinegar, and you can taste how much thought goes into balancing acidity and umami. It’s craftsmanship you can feel with every bite.
The Food: Seasonality and Subtlety
If you’re new to Edomae sushi, expect delicate, restrained flavors instead of bold sauces or heavy seasoning. The spotlight is firmly on the fish — most flown in from Toyosu Market in Tokyo several times a week.
I started with a small appetizer of cold somen topped with crispy ebi, a refreshing contrast before the sushi parade began. The chutoro nigiri was stunning — lightly glazed, perfectly fatty, and just warm enough to melt on the tongue. Then came the nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), grilled over binchotan charcoal and rolled with sushi rice — a smoky, buttery bite that I still dream about.
Each course came out with quiet precision, with the chef watching closely to ensure I ate it at the right temperature. There’s no rush here — just pure, meditative eating.
The Menu & Prices
Sushi Ryujiro isn’t cheap, but for what it delivers, the pricing feels justified.
| Menu | Price (SGD++) | When Available |
|---|---|---|
| Nigiri Course | $188 | Lunch |
| Omakase | $288 | Lunch & Dinner |
| Signature Omakase | $388 | Dinner |
| Special Menu (when Nakamura is in town) | $488 | Dinner |
If you’re dipping your toes in for the first time, the lunch omakase ($288++) hits the sweet spot — it’s indulgent without being over the top. For serious sushi lovers, the Signature Omakase ($388++) offers the full Ryujiro experience, complete with premium seasonal fish and luxurious touches like uni and otoro.
The Experience: Calm, Controlled, and Deeply Personal
Unlike some high-end sushi counters where the vibe feels a little too formal, Sushi Ryujiro strikes a nice balance. The service is polished, but the team is warm and attentive. Chef Ikeda occasionally engages in light conversation, though most of the experience is quiet — more meditative than performative.
If you’re after energy and showmanship, this might not be your pick. But if you appreciate calm, detail, and Japanese precision, you’ll be in heaven.
The Verdict
So, is Sushi Ryujiro one of the best sushi restaurants in Singapore? I’d say yes — easily in the top tier. It’s not about flash or fusion, but about delivering authentic, Tokyo-level sushi in a setting that feels genuinely special.
It’s definitely a splurge, but if you care about craft, seasonality, and an experience that feels almost ceremonial, Sushi Ryujiro is worth every dollar.
Practical Information
🕒 Hours:
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Lunch: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM
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Dinner: 6:00 PM – 10:45 PM
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Closed on Mondays🎟️ Reservations: Opens 90 days in advance via the website. Credit card hold required.👕 Dress Code: Smart casual (long trousers & closed shoes for men).
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