I had the pleasure of dining at Sushi Sato recently, a hidden gem in Dempsey, and it was an unforgettable experience. Opened since November 2021, this Japanese omakase restaurant is helmed by Master Chef Yuji Sato, formerly of Hashida Singapore. Nestled beside Min Jiang and tucked away in a quiet “back alley,” the location itself sets the stage for a tranquil, zen-like dining experience.
The interior is minimalist yet elegant, with a private room for up to six guests and a main counter that seats nine. From the moment I entered, the peaceful atmosphere and attention to detail made me feel like I was entering a different world—one focused entirely on the craft of sushi.
Sushi Sato offers only omakase menus for both lunch and dinner, with packages starting at S$260 and dinner from S$400. After much deliberation, I opted for the sushi Edomae package at S$260, and every dish was a revelation.
The meal started with an appetizing Chawanmushi, featuring bits of snow crab and Hokkaido scallop. This was a true standout—its silky texture and delicate flavors were the perfect way to open the meal. It had a unique combination of shark fin soup and egg custard, which was just heavenly.
Next, we were treated to a series of small appetizers, including a crispy Conger Eel Tempura, which was simply fantastic. Other small dishes included Natsu and shishito pepper marinated in soy sauce, seaweed marinated in vinegar, Yuba (fresh beancurd skin) with dashi jelly and ikura, edamame beans with quail egg, and chilled dashi-marinated summer vegetables. Each bite was a burst of flavor, showcasing the chef’s meticulous attention to detail.
Then came the star of the show: the sushi. The sushi selection included 15 different pieces, and each bite was incredibly fresh, with a depth of flavor that made it feel as though the fish had been caught live just moments before. The Sea Bream was a light and refreshing start, marinated in Chef Sato’s special soy sauce with a citrusy note that perfectly complemented the fish’s natural flavor. The trout was another highlight—fatty and rich, it had a flavor profile similar to salmon, which I loved.
The Tamagoyaki, a custard-like egg roll, was served alongside the rice bowl, and it added a sweet and savory contrast to the more savory sushi dishes. The balance of flavors in each course was nothing short of perfection.
One of the standout dishes at Sushi Sato was a mini bowl featuring a luxurious combination of fresh Hokkaido Uni (sea urchin) and Ikura (salmon roe). The sweetness and creaminess of the Uni paired perfectly with the briny burst of flavor from the Ikura, creating a delightful contrast in textures and tastes.
Sushi Sato exceeded all expectations, from the incredible sushi to the impeccable service. It’s clear that every detail has been thoughtfully crafted, making it a dining experience that I’ll definitely be returning to in the future. If you’re looking for an exceptional omakase meal, Sushi Sato is an absolute must-visit!
Address: 6B Dempsey Rd, Singapore 247662
Reservation Required (walk-in may not be available)
Hours: 12 to 1030pm , close on Monday
