One of Singapore’s most esteemed Japanese dining destinations, Sushi Sakuta, has marked a significant new chapter this month with the grand reopening of its enhanced space at Millenia Walk, solidifying its position as one of only two Japanese establishments in the city-state boasting two Michelin stars. Helmed by Chef Yoshio Sakuta, previously of the celebrated Shoukouwa, the new locale offers an elevated, meticulously crafted omakase experience that underscores the chef’s dedication to quiet mastery and relentless precision.
The new 16-seat space—featuring ten counter seats and a six-person private room—is designed to be a serene, intimate sanctuary. Pale hinoki wood dominates the central counter, complemented by soft lighting filtered through traditional shoji screens and a revolving display of fine Japanese art, creating an atmosphere of focused elegance. This move follows the recent achievement of its second Michelin star, setting the stage for one of Singapore’s most exclusive culinary engagements.
The Art of the Omakase Experience
The pinnacle of Chef Sakuta’s offering is the 17-course dinner omakase menu, priced at S$500. The sequence unfolds at a masterful, measured tempo, allowing ample time for appreciation without disrupting the overall rhythm of the meal. The experience begins with subtle elegance, such as a delicate chawanmushi topped with chunks of snow crab and rich roe, immediately signaling the caliber of ingredients to come.
The progression of cooked dishes consistently demonstrates a refined balance of classical technique and innovative flavor. Highlights include tender, lightly simmered kinki fish accented by yuzu vinegar and yuzu kosho, as well as a memorable grilled unagi, distinguished by an impeccably crisp base, flaky center, and a dusting of fragrant sansho pepper. These richer courses—which culminate in umami-heavy servings of monkfish liver and abalone—are expertly handled by the beverage program.
Impeccable Beverage Pairings Drive Nuance
The exceptional quality of the dining experience is matched step-for-step by the establishment’s dedication to tailored pairings, overseen by Head Sommelier Iwabuchi Makoto. Makoto introduces a global perspective, integrating select wines and extremely rare sakes to complement the evolving flavor profile of the meal. For instance, the richness of the umami courses pairs seamlessly with a clean, limited-edition 2020 Aramasa sake, of which only 48 bottles were released this year. Conversely, a bolder Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc orange wine is introduced to stand up to the robust texture of the unagi.
The Precision of Shari and Neta
The true measure of a world-class sushi counter lies in the shari (seasoned rice), and here, Chef Sakuta excels. The meal transitions into the sushi portion with nine meticulously prepared bites, each featuring a perfected blend of Hitomebore and Sasanishiki rice grains seasoned with both red and white vinegar.
Crucially, the temperature of the shari is an intentional variable, adjusted to optimize the flavor profile of the neta (fish). For example, large yellowtail is served atop gently warmed rice to enhance its sweetness, while fatty tuna is balanced by room-temperature rice to mitigate the intensity of the cut. This level of precise measurement, carried out by hand by the chef, speaks volumes about the dedication to instinct and experience.
While luxurious elements like uni, snow crab, and fatty tuna feature prominently, the menu also showcases the freshness of seasonal catches, including Spanish mackerel, bonito, and horse mackerel. The final savory course, a firm and crunchy Japanese tiger prawn, followed by a satisfying torotaku handroll, seals the savory journey before a light dessert of seasonal fruits and vanilla ice cream with matcha.
The Price of Perfection
Sushi Sakuta delivers an experience defined by intentionality—nothing feels superfluous or deficient. However, perfection comes at a premium. With the dinner omakase at S$500 per person and the lunch option at S$350, dining here is a substantial investment.
Nevertheless, for those who value the quiet artistry, impeccable technique, and flawlessly integrated dining experience that Chef Sakuta and his team provide, Sushi Sakuta offers a superlative culinary destination. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday at 9 Raffles Boulevard, Millenia Walk, #01-06/07/08, Singapore 039596. Reservations are highly recommended.