Beloved chirashi joint with nett prices to become 3rd major F&B closure, raising alarm over rent & chain monopoly

Known and loved for affordable bara chirashi, sashimi and other Japanese favourites at nett prices, Umi Nami is slated to shutter by end-Sep 2025. This comes after nearly a decade of being a go-to for many in the heart of Holland Village.

“Goodbye and thank you,” read the 27 Jul post in which the iconic establishment announced their impending closure. The team expressed gratitude for the memories and support over the years, while also noting probable changes in their menu and opening hours “as [they] wind down”.

Umi Nami has had a good run — from when it first swung open its doors in 2017, quickly earning a loyal following for quality chirashi bowls that don’t leave a gaping hole in your wallet. Though not specified in their official announcement, owner Valerie Tang cited “rental costs, declining footfall [and] increased competition from nearby establishments” as reasons for the eatery’s decision to close, in an interview with AsiaOne.

Notably, it will become the 3rd major eatery to bow out of Holland Village’s bustling culinary scene, hot on the heels of stalwarts Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao and Wala Wala Cafe & Bar.

The uptick of closures in the area in recent years has emerged as a flashpoint of online discourse. Many netizens have raised concerns over issues like fiercely rising rent, the dominance of larger chain businesses at the expense of indie spots, and even the waning charm of this once-hip neighbourhood.

For one, Mr Khoo Keat Hwee (founder of the now-defunct Mentai-Ya) bemoaned the above in an impassioned TikTok video spurred by Umi Nami’s closure announcement, calling them the “[realities] of today’s F&B”.

On the bright side, you’ve still got time to catch Umi Nami before they officially shut their doors. Treat yourself to a well-deserved fix with a bowl of their famed Bara Chirashi Don (S$12), featuring a generous serving of fresh tuna and salmon sashimi cubes, tamago and shrimp atop a bed of sushi rice. Or, if you’re after a little smokier flair, the Aburi Salmon Don (S$16) will be right up your alley.

Don’t miss out on the Mixed Sashimi (S$16) platter either — presented beautifully with thick, buttery slices of salmon, tuna, hamachi and swordfish sashimi. Anyway, it’s not too late to say sayonara; I’ll see you there!

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