Ex-head chef’s new yakitori omakase from just $48

Are you up for a unique fine-dining experience from as low as S$48? Sapoto, a new yakitori (Japanese grilled skewers) omakase restaurant in Tanjong Pagar might be a place to consider.

The restaurant is a new project co-founded by Desmond Fong, the man behind Japanese fine-dining restaurants Sushi Yujo and SHINRAI, whose names can be translated to “friendship” and “trust” respectively. Its name Sapoto, which means “to support”, represents the two brands coming together to form a lasting bond.

Traditional bintochan or white charcoal burning techniques are used to grill the skewers, which are served omakase-style. The cooking is led by Chef Shyong, former head chef of yakitori restaurant Shirokane Tori-Tama. He’s an expert with over a decade of experience, who came together with Chef Fong to create this omakase concept.

Sapoto offers both lunch and dinner courses, including appetisers and desserts. The Lunch menu (available from 1 Jun) has two variations: Ai (love) (S$48) and SHINRAI (S$98). 

Ai consists of 10 courses, featuring classic yakitori highlights like Momo (chicken thigh) skewers, Tebasaki (mid-wings), seasonal vegetables, Chef’s Choice Grilled Cuts and innards. An Ikura Chawanmushi and the signature Sapoto Ramen will be served as well.

SHINRAI boasts a more premium selection of dishes like Chutoro (fatty tuna) Carpaccio, Truffle Chawanmushi, Pork Jowl and Tsukune (chicken meatballs) with Egg Yolk.

For Dinner, one can enjoy the SHINRAI, or opt for the Sapoto (S$148). In addition to all the SHINKAI courses, there will be fresh sashimi, Uni Truffle Brioche and a surprise Chef’s Recommendation. Yujo (S$198) brings it up a notch by featuring everything from Sapoto plus Wagyu Kushi (skewers) and grilled King Crab.

The restaurant also offers plenty of exclusive ala carte dishes for omakase guests to customise and enhance their experience. Some options include the Minced Chicken & Pork Ball (S$7.80), King Oyster Mushrooms (S$5.80) and Drumlet (S$6.80).

Rare cuts like Windpipe (S$4.80) and Aorta (S$5.80) are add-on choices that provide a unique texture. For more carbs, the Sapoto Ramen ($19.80) and Uni Truffle Brioche (S$39.80) are also available on their own.

Bear in mind that Sapoto’s opening hours from 1 Jun onwards will be changed to 12pm to 2pm and 6pm to 10.30pm from Tue to Sun.

Limited-time unagi maki, under $20 wagyu rice bowls, skewers, karaoke & alcohol at hidden Japanese eatery