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 area, known for its vibrant food scene, is a hotspot for yakitori enthusiasts seeking quality charcoal-grilled skewers paired with a lively atmosphere.
The Somerset Food Scene: Dining Options Along Orchard Road
The stretch around Orchard Road offers an exceptional dining experience for all types of food lovers. Whether you crave casual rice bowls or an elaborate omakase meal, this vibrant area provides a diverse range of options to satisfy every palate. For those who appreciate the art of charcoal grilling, the yakitori scene here stands out as a unique and flavorful culinary journey.
I have explored several establishments to assess their food quality, ingredient selection, and service. Here is my definitive guide to the best yakitori spots near Somerset MRT station, where you can enjoy expertly grilled skewers and authentic Japanese flavors.
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.
The counter seating here is intimate and brimming with charm, allowing most people to watch the chef’s expert technique up close. This immersive experience adds to the delicious appeal, making it a top choice for those seeking authentic yakitori near Somerset. Located at 313 Orchard Rd, #01-26, Singapore 238895, KAI Yakitori also pairs well with craft beer selections, enhancing the overall dining experience.
2. Skewers Yakitori Izakaya
Stepping into this house of Skewers Yakitori Izakaya transports you directly to Japan. Their menu focuses heavily on classic cuts. The chicken skin skewer is a standout, arriving perfectly charred with a satisfying crunch. Other signature skewers include the juicy chicken heart and tender chicken thigh, all grilled over charcoal to bring out deep smoky flavors true to the Saitama region style. To complement your meal, they offer a carefully curated selection of craft beers, making it a great beer bar destination for yakitori lovers.
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. Expect to spend around $35 to $60 per person here. Because the space is tight, making a reservation is essential, and it’s best to request a counter seat so you can watch the chef cook your meal over the open coals, giving you a front-row experience of the grilling artistry. Skewers Yakitori Izakaya is open from Mon to Fri evenings, with some weekend hours, so plan your visit accordingly.
A useful tip: arrive early on Fri to secure a spot, as it tends to fill up fast. Their Facebook page often posts updates and special offers, so it’s worth checking before you go. This spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic yakitori near Somerset MRT, combining traditional Japanese grilling with the vibrant local craft beer scene.
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. Signature skewers such as chicken heart and thigh stand out for their perfect balance of smoky char and tender juiciness, showcasing the chef’s respect for every cut. The counter seating here is intimate, providing a front-row view of the grilling artistry and allowing diners to fully immerse themselves in the experience.
Located near Cuppage Plaza, Kemuri Japanese Bar fits well within the vibrant Somerset food scene, where categories of dining range from casual to high-end. This spot is an excellent choice for a quiet, food-focused date night or a special occasion, offering a heady mix of traditional yakitori craft and contemporary omakase finesse. The price range reflects the premium quality and the chef’s meticulous attention to detail, making it a worthwhile case for those seeking authentic Japanese yakitori in Singapore.
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, offering an authentic yakitori experience that highlights the rich culinary heritage of Japan. It is an establishment designed for serious yakitori enthusiasts who appreciate the craft of grilling over charcoal.
The menu here features premium items like chicken liver and chicken heart, alongside beautifully grilled seasonal vegetables such as shiitake mushrooms and asparagus, showcasing the best of Somerset food’s dedication to quality ingredients. The meat is tender and the execution is flawless, with each skewer seasoned to enhance its natural flavors without overpowering them. Signature skewers like the succulent tsukune and crispy chicken skin are must-tries.
Expect to spend between $80 and $120 per person, reflecting the high caliber of ingredients and the meticulous preparation involved. Like Kemuri, the seating is highly limited, with only a handful of counter seats available, making it a coveted spot for an intimate dining experience. Booking ahead is essential due to the small capacity. 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, elevating the yakitori dining to a true art form.
Yakitori and Craft Beer in 313 Somerset: A Flavorful Tradition
Somerset is a vibrant hub for Japanese cuisine lovers, especially those who appreciate the art of yakitori, skewered, grilled chicken and other delicacies cooked over charcoal. This culinary tradition, rooted deeply in Japan, has found a passionate following in Singapore’s Somerset area, where several establishments celebrate authentic yakitori grilling styles.
Yakitori in Somerset often features a variety of meats including Sakura chicken, pork, and seasonal vegetables, all expertly prepared with traditional sauces like tare or simply seasoned with salt to highlight the natural flavors. Many yakitori spots emphasize quality ingredients and authentic techniques, some even sourcing sauces and meats directly from Japan to ensure a genuine experience.
Complementing the smoky, savory skewers, craft beer has become a popular pairing in Somerset’s yakitori scene. Bars and izakayas offer carefully curated selections of artisanal brews that balance the rich flavors of grilled meats, enhancing the overall dining experience. This fusion of traditional yakitori and innovative craft beer elevates Somerset’s food culture, making it a must-visit destination for food and drink enthusiasts.
Conclusion: Savor the Ultimate Flavors of Somerset Food
The Somerset area in Singapore, especially around Somerset MRT station and Orchard Central, 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 like JiBiru Yakitori Craft Beer bar 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 those who appreciate a well-paired drink, many yakitori spots offer a curated selection of craft beers, enhancing the experience with the perfect head of foam atop each glass.
Uncover Singapore’s top authentic yakitori gems with our expertly curated guide from Best Yakitori Singapore, your passport to the finest grilled delights in town.
