Food in Orchard isn’t always the cheapest, but there are some hidden gems in the area if you know where to go. Run by a Japanese chef who has worked at Michelin-starred restaurants, Morinaga Izakaya Restaurant is one such.
The hole-in-the-wall eatery is located in the basement of Midpoint Orchard, which is directly opposite 313 Somerset and Somerset MRT Station. Its nondescript, no-frills setup is exactly what regulars return for, on top of its extensive selection of food and drinks.
The reviews online, while mixed, seem to be generally positive. You won’t go wrong with the Mentai Mayo Omelette ($11++): dashi-infused tamagoyaki drizzled with creamy mentaiko mayo on top.
The omelette, though a tad wet, was thick and fluffy with a pleasant flavour from the dashi.
There’s also the popular Truffle Somen ($14++), served cold as a refreshing respite from the weather.
Ikura is added to the mix for a burst of saltiness to complement the faint truffle aroma.
Pair your drinks with a side of Miso Pork with Cheese ($10++)Â to share.
Tender slices of grilled pork are topped with cheese—we just wished shredded cheese was used here instead of the regular cheddar slices.
If you enjoy funky flavours, the Hokkaido Potato with Butter and Salted Squid ($9++) might be right up your alley. Tuck into lightly seasoned potato chunks that are slightly crisp on the outside, yet fluffy inside, topped with a pungent salted squid mix. This side’s a bit of an acquired taste, but we think it would work with a boozy drink in hand!
Then, wash it all down with your choice of Highball (from $9++) or Shochu ($9++) in flavours such as Lemon Sour and Oolong Cocktail.
If you’re in the area, head over to Vin Geek for some delicious wines in a cool self-dispensing machine! Another must-try Japanese restaurant is Ka-EN Grill & Sushi Bar in City Hall, which has DIY Wagyu BBQ and more.
Address: 220 Orchard Road, #B1-08, Midpoint Orchard, Singapore 238852
Opening hours: Daily 12pm to 10pm
Tel: 9101 3016
Website
Morinaga Izakaya Restaurant is not a halal-certified eatery.
Photos taken by Zi Hui Tan and edited by Hui Hui Lau.
This was an independent visit by Eatbook.sg.
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