Cuppage Plaza always feels like stepping back into a 1990s Tokyo side street. The faded neon lights and narrow hallways carry a lot of quiet history. I visited on a Wednesday around 7pm, and the corridors were already humming with life.
For readers using SG Malls Dining Guide to explore Cuppage Plaza’s Japanese dining scene, Kazu Sumiyaki is one of those names that keeps coming up for a reason.
Kazu Sumiyaki has been quietly grilling here since 1993. It felt like uncovering a well-kept secret that everyone somehow already knows.
A Wednesday Night Inside Cuppage Plaza’s Hidden Grill Room
The moment I slid open the heavy wooden door, the rich scent of charcoal smoke and rendering fat hit me. The space is wonderfully compact and intimate. It is filled with Japanese expats unwinding over cold beers and sake.
The noise level was much higher than expected, bouncing off the low ceilings. You definitely won’t find a library-level quiet here. Ask for the counter seat—it’s more interactive, and watching the chefs tend the flames is pure theater.
The air conditioning was quite strong inside. I actually needed my jacket until the ambient heat from the open grill finally warmed up my corner of the room.
The $7 Skewer Everyone Talks About
I ordered the famous Foie Gras Skewer ($7) right away. It arrived glistening on a beautiful ceramic plate. The edges were perfectly charred, giving way to a warm, molten center. The rich, buttery texture practically melted on my tongue.
The sharp, smoky charcoal cut right through the heavy fat, creating a brilliant balance. It is deeply decadent, though I admit ordering more than one might feel too rich for a single sitting.
Next came the Hotate Kai ($6), a plump grilled scallop. You can instantly taste the restraint and skill of the chef with this dish. The edges were slightly crisp and kissed by the fire, leaving the inside remarkably sweet and tender. A quick squeeze of fresh lemon was all it needed. It tasted like the ocean, grounded by the earthy smoke of the grill.
Awayuki Was Interesting, But Not Essential
I also tried the Nama Tsukune, a minced chicken meatball. It had a wonderful, springy bite and carried the sweet, sticky glaze beautifully. I finished the savory portion of my meal with a small Okonomiyaki ($3). It was a comforting cabbage pancake topped with dancing bonito flakes. Every single dish felt deeply intentional and crafted with serious patience.
I decided to try the Awayuki ($12) for dessert, which is a smoky custard served with mochi. While the custard had a fascinating charred flavor, the accompanying ice cream was freezing cold and rock hard. I’d probably skip it next time and just stick entirely to the grilled meats.
Service With Quiet Precision
The service stood out just as much as the food. The waitstaff were incredibly attentive without ever hovering over my shoulder. My tiny water cup was refilled instantly, and they wiped down the counter between every course.
When I wasn’t sure what to order next, the waitress kindly pointed out a few seasonal off-menu items. The team works with a quiet, practiced rhythm that only comes from decades of working together.
Book Ahead, Budget Well, and Don’t Rush the Grill
You will likely spend around $50 to $80 per person, depending on how many premium skewers and drinks you choose. Do not try walking in on a weekend. I noticed several people getting turned away at the door while I was there.
You absolutely must call to book a few days in advance to secure a spot. Keep in mind they have a $100 minimum spend per person if you book for a group of more than five people.
Why Kazu Sumiyaki Still Feels Special
Kazu Sumiyaki is not the place for a cheap, fast meal or a highly polished, quiet date. The wait for the food was longer than expected, simply because good charcoal grilling takes time.
But if you appreciate the stubborn, beautiful craft of traditional cooking, it is entirely worth the effort. It is a place that grounds you, serving up a rare slice of culinary heritage right in the middle of town.