I have a confession to make: I am a total sucker for basement restaurants. There’s something about descending a staircase or taking an escalator down that feels like leaving the real world behind. You escape the noise, the traffic, and the heat, slipping into a little secret pocket of calm. That’s exactly how I felt finding Morinaga Izakaya, one of the standout Japanese restaurants tucked away in the basement of Midpoint Orchard. It feels like stumbling upon a hidden tavern in Japan rather than a spot just meters away from the Somerset bustle.
Atmosphere and First Impressions at Morinaga Izakaya
I visited on a Tuesday evening around 7:30 pm, just as the dinner crowd was starting to filter in. Stepping inside, the vibe shifted instantly. The fluorescent glare of the mall corridor gave way to warm, dim lighting and the cozy hum of conversation. It’s not a huge space; just intimate rows of wooden tables and stools that encourage camaraderie and sharing among diners.
Morinaga Izakaya channels that authentic izakaya energy: casual, unpretentious, and a little rustic. It wasn’t overwhelmingly loud, but there was a nice buzz of chatter that made it feel alive. One thing to note: the air conditioning is surprisingly chilly down there. I was wearing a sleeveless top and definitely wished I’d brought a cardigan, so consider this your warning to layer up!
Exploring the Extensive Menu: Signature Dishes and Authentic Flavours
We started with what seems to be everyone’s favorite: the Signature Mentaiko Cheese Omelette ($15). Honestly, the hype is justified. It arrived steaming hot, a fluffy, pale yellow pillow sitting in a shallow pool of dashi. When I sliced into it, the texture was incredibly soft; almost like a savory custard, and the filling was a rich, gooey mix of melted cheese and spicy mentaiko roe. The salty pop of the roe against the creamy egg was addictive, though it’s definitely rich enough that you’ll want to share it.
Next, we needed something cold to balance out the richness, so we ordered the Truffle-Flavoured Somen with Ikura ($16). This was easily the highlight of my night. The somen noodles were chilled perfectly, boasting that satisfying, slippery texture that just glides down. The dip had a subtle truffle aroma—not that artificial, gasoline-like smell you get sometimes, but a gentle earthiness that worked so well with the soy base. Topped with generous pearls of ikura that burst with briny juice, it was refreshing and elegant.
Of course, no izakaya experience is complete without fried chicken. The Signature Deep Fried Chicken ($12) here is a must-try, featuring a super crisp, golden-brown batter on the outside and juicy, tender chicken thigh meat inside. It’s classic Japanese cuisine comfort food done right, served piping hot and perfect when accompanied by a cold beer or a refreshing lemon sour.
The menu offers plenty of other choices, including grilled pork, yakitori skewers such as tsukune, and a variety of sashimi and sushi options showcasing fresh seafood and authentic flavours from the land of the rising sun. For those who love beef, there are thoughtfully prepared dishes that highlight quality cuts, sometimes paired with foie gras for an indulgent twist. The chef takes pride in crafting each dish with care, ensuring a balance of traditional and inventive flavours.
Service and Dining Experience: A Taste of Japan in Singapore
The service at Morinaga Izakaya feels very genuine. The staff are friendly and attentive without hovering, which I really appreciate. We were served by a Japanese lady who kindly recommended a drier Japanese sake that paired perfectly with our dishes.
The pacing is typical of an izakaya—laid-back and unhurried. Dishes arrive as they are ready, allowing diners to savor each plate and enjoy the fun, social atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to explore seasonal specials and an extensive selection of drinks, including sake, shochu, highballs, and beer. Whether you’re here for lunch or dinner, Morinaga Izakaya offers a relaxed environment to dine with friends or a date.
Many Singaporeans on the hunt for authentic Japanese cuisine have shared positive reviews online, praising the intimate ambiance and the balance of flavours. A quick photo of the vibrant dishes is a must to capture the experience and share it forward with friends.
Need-to-Know Details: Visiting Morinaga Izakaya at Midpoint Orchard
In terms of cost, expect to spend about $50 per person for a full dinner with drinks, including a shared small bottle of sake. You can dine more affordably by sticking to tea and rice bowls, but the experience is well worth it if you decide to indulge.
The restaurant fills up quickly, even on weekdays, so reservations are highly recommended—especially on weekends. There’s a minimum spend policy on Friday nights after 4 pm (around $80 per person with alcohol), so keep that in mind if you’re planning a casual Friday night outing.
Getting there is easy—it’s just a short 2-3 minute walk from Somerset MRT. While Midpoint Orchard doesn’t have dedicated parking, nearby options like 313@Somerset or Orchard Central provide convenient parking.
The Bottom Line: Why Morinaga Izakaya Shines Among Japanese Restaurants in Orchard Plaza
Morinaga Izakaya is a fantastic hidden gem amidst the many Japanese restaurants in Orchard Plaza. It offers an intimate, authentic izakaya experience that’s perfect for those craving genuine Japanese flavours without the formality of fine dining.
Perfect for:
Diners looking to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine with friends in a cozy setting.
Couples seeking a low-key date night with delicious food and drinks.
Anyone wanting to explore an extensive menu of classic izakaya dishes, from yakitori to sashimi, paired with Japanese sake and seasonal specials.
Avoid if:
You’re part of a large group without a reservation.
You expect large, American-sized portions—this is all about sharing and savoring delicate, thoughtfully prepared dishes.
For those who love the camaraderie and fun of a public izakaya, or fans of renowned spots like Shunjuu Izakaya, Morinaga Izakaya offers a similarly warm and inviting vibe right here in Singapore. I’ll definitely be back for that truffle somen; it’s been living rent-free in my head ever since!
