There is a specific moment when the evening shifts gears. You step away from the polished, air-conditioned vastness of Orchard Road, leaving behind the heavy foot traffic of shoppers and tourists. You turn a corner, perhaps cross a street, and the atmosphere changes. The ambient noise drops an octave. The lighting shifts from fluorescent retail glare to something warmer, dimmer, and more inviting. You have entered the orbit of Cuppage Plaza Singapore, a hidden gem in the heart of town that feels less like a commercial district and more like a cluster of intimate eateries offering authentic Japanese cuisine within an establishment that exudes a cozy and welcoming ambiance.
This transition is not just geographical; it is psychological. People don’t typically end up in Cuppage Izakaya spots by accident. Many have decided to seek out this experience, drawn by the promise of something special. It’s a destination chosen for its unique dining experience—one that values connection, good food, and a relaxed pace. While the rest of the city rushes toward high-profile openings or rooftop bars, Cuppage Plaza offers something more enduring: the comforting rhythm of izakayas, Japanese restaurants, and casual eateries.
The Turn Off Orchard — And Into a Different Pace at Cuppage Plaza Singapore
Around 7:00 PM, office workers head to Cuppage Plaza Singapore, a hub of authentic Japanese restaurants like Kazu Sumiyaki Restaurant, Izakaya Naniwa, and Izakaya Nijumaru. Groups of friends settle here for delicious dishes and a variety of menus showcasing authentic Japanese cuisine, making it a go-to spot to eat all the food.
Unlike the busy Orchard Road, Cuppage Izakaya offers a relaxed vibe with narrow corridors and shophouses that create a great place atmosphere, resembling a Japanese village. It’s the perfect setting to unwind with tasty food, good company, and memorable conversations.
A Brief History of Cuppage Plaza
Located within walking distance of Somerset MRT, Cuppage Plaza has evolved from a nightlife hub in the 1970s to a renowned destination for authentic Japanese food. In the early 2000s, many bars transformed into izakayas and Japanese restaurants, attracting both Japanese residents and local food lovers.
Today, Cuppage Plaza hosts multiple authentic Japanese restaurants, including Kazu Sumiyaki Restaurant for grilled skewers, Hanashizuku Japanese Cuisine for traditional dishes, and Keria Japanese Restaurant for noodles. The plaza’s layout encourages diners to explore diverse menus within a concentrated dining environment featuring traditional Japanese design and service.
Known for its quality, authenticity, and great value, Cuppage Plaza offers both quick meals and extended dining experiences centered around communal dining, making it a key spot for authentic Japanese cuisine in Singapore.
Exploring Authentic Japanese Cuisine at Cuppage Plaza: From Kazu Sumiyaki Restaurant to Hanashizuku Japanese Cuisine
Cuppage Plaza is located a five-minute walk from Somerset MRT Station.
As you venture deeper into Cuppage Plaza, the transition into a world of authentic Japanese cuisine becomes unmistakable. Vertical wooden signage, noren curtains fluttering in the doorways, and lanterns glowing warmly signal the many Japanese restaurants that line the street. Many restaurants offer counter seating, allowing diners to sit directly in front of the open kitchen or sushi preparation area for an enhanced dining experience. Each spot offers a unique dining experience, from the bustling Keria Japanese Restaurant to the intimate Izakaya Naniwa and the refined Hanashizuku Japanese Cuisine.
This micro-district mirrors the charm of Tokyo’s famed alleyways, where proximity is key. Restaurants and bars, like the popular Kazu Sumiyaki Restaurant or Hanashizuku, sit shoulder-to-shoulder, spilling light and laughter onto the pavement. You’ll hear the clinking of glasses, the shuffle of chopsticks, and the sizzling sound of grilled yakitori sticks basted with savory teriyaki sauce, prepared by skilled head chefs.
Why Cuppage Works as an Izakaya Micro-District: A Sense of Community and Great Service
Cuppage’s success as a dining hub lies in its ecosystem of options. Whether you’re craving chicken katsu curry rice, fresh sashimi moriawase, or smoky teriyaki sauce-drizzled yakitori, there’s something for every palate. At Izakaya Nijumaru, a filling dinner typically costs around $20-30 per person, making it an affordable choice for quality Japanese cuisine. This variety eliminates the anxiety of planning the perfect night out.
Short Distances, Easy Decisions at Cuppage Izakaya
At Cuppage Plaza, if one spot is full or crowded, another is just steps away. Reservations are recommended during peak hours, especially for popular places like Izakaya Nijumaru, which is often busy at dinner, making lunchtime a quieter option. You can start with a cold drink at Izakaya Naniwa, enjoy a hearty bowl of beef rice nearby, and end with a quiet moment at Hanashizuku Japanese Cuisine. This compact layout encourages spontaneity, letting groups sample dishes like sashimi moriawase, noodles, and sizzling yakitori skewers across multiple venues for a dynamic dining experience.
Unplanned Evenings Made Easy with Good Food and Service
One of the biggest draws of Cuppage Izakayas is their accessibility. No reservations? No problem. While specific spots like Keria Japanese Restaurant or Kazu Sumiyaki Restaurant can fill up quickly, there’s always a seat waiting somewhere in the building, making it the perfect destination for last-minute plans.
This openness fosters a relaxed vibe. You’re not here to impress anyone or follow a rigid itinerary. Instead, you’re here to enjoy good food, awesome service, and the simple pleasure of being in good company. Whether it’s a casual lunch meal or a late-night drink, the unpretentious atmosphere makes every visit special. However, it’s important to check the last order time, especially at Izakaya Nijumaru, as the service can be inconsistent and some reviews note that the staff may close the kitchen earlier than advertised.
A Dining Experience Where Cooking and Connection Go Hand in Hand
At Cuppage Izakayas, food supports connection rather than overshadowing it. The Japanese ritual of oshaku—pouring sake for others—embodies care and generosity around the table. Menus focus on sharing, with small dishes like chicken skewers, grilled shiitake mushrooms, and bowls of noodles encouraging interaction.
The drink menus, featuring sake, shochu, other alcoholic beverages, and soft drinks, foster a convivial atmosphere. Many izakayas require alcohol orders, creating a relaxed setting for evenings with drinks like sake or shochu. Whether sipping sake or enjoying a cold beer, the beverages enhance the overall dining experience.
Hidden Gems in Cuppage Plaza: Izakaya Nijumaru and Other Establishments
Some of Singapore’s authentic Japanese restaurants are tucked away in the cozy corners of Cuppage Plaza. Izakaya Nijumaru, for example, is famed for its comforting katsu curry rice and flavorful teriyaki sauce dishes. As you might guess, Izakaya Nijumaru is extremely popular among locals and Japanese expats, and has been a favorite for many visitors since it opened in 2017. The restaurant is known for its authentic Japanese food and a casual, nostalgic 80s ambiance that transports diners back in time. Many are impressed by the grilled food here, especially the excellent grilled pork belly and yakimono, and the extensive menu features a wide range of authentic Japanese dishes that appeal to both regulars and newcomers. Izakaya Nijumaru is often crowded during dinner hours, so lunchtime is a better option if you prefer a quieter dining experience. It is located on the second floor of Cuppage Plaza, occupying a significant portion—a quarter of the second storey—at 5 Koek Road, #02-10/12 Cuppage Plaza, Singapore 228796.
Over at Keria Japanese Restaurant, you’ll find fresh sashimi moriawase and other favorites served with precision and care by the head chef.
For those seeking a smoky, grilled flavor, Kazu Sumiyaki Restaurant is a must-visit. With its hearty skewers of meat, fish, and vegetables, this spot delivers on both taste and atmosphere. Kazu Sumiyaki Restaurant has been operating in Cuppage Plaza for over two decades and is known for its high-quality dishes such as grilled foie gras, marinated beef tongue, and Spanish mackerel crowned with ikura. The tsukune, a Japanese-style chicken meatball, is especially popular here and at Kemuri, and many diners leave impressed by the consistent quality—no matter which ingredients you choose, the price remains the same, making the experience straightforward and transparent.
Meanwhile, Hanashizuku Japanese Cuisine offers a more intimate setting, perfect for long conversations over sake and signature Japanese dishes.
Why People Return to Streets, Not Just Restaurants: The Word on Cuppage Izakaya
What makes Cuppage Plaza special isn’t just the quality of its food—it’s the atmosphere, the sense of place. Regulars return not just for the food but for the rhythm of the district. The well-worn counters, the familiar shout of irasshaimase as you walk in, the comforting hum of conversation—all create a sense of belonging.
It’s a place where the logistics of the evening fade into the background, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: the people you’re with. Whether it’s a midweek dinner or a late-night drink, the consistency, variety, and warmth of Cuppage Izakayas guarantee a memorable evening every time.
Closing: An Invitation to Discover Cuppage Plaza’s Izakaya Culture and Great Places to Eat
The next time you’re craving authentic Japanese food or looking for a great place for a dining experience, head to Cuppage Plaza Singapore. Step into the warm glow of an izakaya and let the evening unfold naturally. Be it the smoky skewers of yakitori, a bowl of comforting noodles, or a shared bottle of sake, you’ll find a space designed for connection and joy.
Cuppage Plaza is more than just a dining destination—it’s a hidden gem that offers a taste of Japan’s vibrant izakaya culture right in the heart of Singapore. So loosen your tie, gather your friends, and explore the streets of Cuppage Izakaya. You might just discover a new favorite spot—and a new rhythm to your evenings.
If evenings like these are what you seek, there’s a broader world of Japanese izakaya experiences across the city worth exploring—each offering its own take on comfort, authenticity, and atmosphere.
