Singapore offers a diverse range of restaurants, especially when you navigate the busy streets of town. During my recent visits to the area, I spent time exploring the local dining options to find the most authentic and satisfying skewers. If you want to eat well after a long day of shopping, you do not want to miss the rich flavours of traditional Japanese grilling.
The Somerset Food Scene: Dining Options Along Orchard Road
The stretch around Orchard Road provides an incredible dining experience for all types of diners. Whether you seek casual rice bowls or an intricate omakase meal, this area has enough variety to satisfy any craving. However, for those who appreciate the precision of a charcoal grill, the yakitori scene here is a world of its own.
I have visited several establishments to observe how they prepare their food, from the quality of the meat to the service provided. Here is my definitive guide to the best yakitori you can find near the Somerset MRT station.
1. KAI Yakitori (near Somerset MRT Station)
Located a short walk from Somerset MRT station along Orchard Road, KAI Yakitori is a hidden spot among the many Somerset food and dining options around Orchard Gateway and 313 Somerset. Unlike typical restaurants, this place focuses on a refined yakitori dining experience.
The menu follows an omakase style, offering a diverse range of skewers. A standout is the tsukune (minced meat), soft, juicy, and fragrant, with rich flavours that linger on your taste buds. Each dish is carefully prepared, from tender chicken to savoury pork, alongside grilled mushrooms and peppers, all cooked over charcoal. Prices are higher, usually $80+ per person, but the quality justifies the experience. This is less about quick food and more about a complete meal.
2. Skewers Yakitori Izakaya
A short four-minute walk away, tucked behind a subtle curtain on the fourth floor of Cuppage Plaza, lies Skewers Yakitori Izakaya. Stepping into this house of grilling transports you directly to Japan. The space is intimate and often slightly smoky, which adds to the authentic atmosphere.
Their menu focuses heavily on classic cuts. The chicken skin skewer is a standout, arriving perfectly charred with a satisfying crunch. For those who want to balance the rich meats, you can also order a comforting noodle dish or ramen, alongside a warm bowl of chicken soup. They also serve excellent grilled vegetables, including juicy mushrooms and sweet peppers. Expect to spend around $35 to $60 per person here. Because the space is tight, making a reservation is essential. Request a counter seat so you can watch the chef cook your meal over the open coals.
3. Kemuri Japanese Bar
If you prefer a more structured dining experience, Kemuri Japanese Bar offers a fantastic yakitori omakase. This restaurant operates primarily during dinner hours. The chef dictates the menu, presenting a carefully paced progression of skewers that highlight different textures and flavours.
During my visit, I paid approximately $99++ for the omakase set, which included around 10 to 12 skewers paired with seasonal side dishes. The chef treats every piece of chicken with immense respect, ensuring each bite is cooked to perfection. While you will not find beef, lamb, or pork on this highly specialised menu, the sheer quality of the poultry is enough to excite your taste buds. This is an excellent choice for a quiet, food-focused date night.
4. Fukuda Yakitori Dining Near Orchard Gateway
Just a five-minute walk from the MRT, situated inside Orchard Plaza near Orchard Gateway, is Fukuda Yakitori Dining. This tiny chef-led counter focuses strictly on traditional technique. It is an establishment designed for serious yakitori enthusiasts.
The menu here features premium items like chicken liver and chicken heart, alongside beautifully grilled seasonal vegetables. The meat is tender and the execution is flawless. Expect to spend between $80 and $120 per person. Like Kemuri, the seating is highly limited, and it can be notoriously difficult to book. If you manage to secure a spot, let the chef guide your order. They understand exactly how to balance the deep, smoky profiles with lighter, more subtle plates.
Beyond Yakitori: Hi Noodle and Other Delights
While yakitori is an excellent choice, the immediate area around Orchard Central and 313 Somerset provides plenty of other ways to indulge. Sometimes, a group of friends cannot agree on a single cuisine, and that is where this neighbourhood truly shines. You can easily find a quiet cafe to enjoy a cup of coffee or premium tea. Whether you want delicate pastries or an extravagant dessert piled high with whipped cream, the Somerset area has it all.
Ultimately, this district offers an unmatched concentration of quality food. From the dedicated yakitori masters perfecting their craft to the wide variety of alternative dining options, there is a good reason I continually return to this part of Singapore.
Conclusion: Savor the Best of Somerset Food
The Somerset area in Singapore, especially around Somerset MRT station, offers a vibrant and diverse range of dining options that cater to every taste and budget. From the smoky, juicy yakitori skewers grilled to perfection in intimate settings to the comforting bowls of ramen and bihun bakso that warm your soul, there is something here to satisfy every craving.
The seating capacity at many establishments ensures a comfortable atmosphere, whether you’re dining with friends or enjoying a quiet meal alone. From deep fried delights to elegant rice bowls and aromatic soups, Somerset’s food culture invites you to explore, indulge, and never miss a chance to eat your way through this dynamic culinary town.
For more top yakitori spots near Somerset, check out this guide to the best skewers at Cuppage Plaza.
