Ossomatsu‑Sama Deshita: A Not‑So‑Modest Slice of Paya Lebar
Ever hear the Japanese line osomatsu-sama deshita? It literally means “maybe it was just a plain old dinner,” a humble line a host says when guests gush about the food. But if you’re looking for something that’s actually worth shouting about in the quieter corners of Paya Lebar, then Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar is the place to be.
Why You’ll Love It
- Fresh Concepts: A modern take on classic izakaya – think kaiseki meets karaoke, but with less karaoke.
- Chef Power‑Pair: Two-time World Gourmet Summit champ Angus Chow, paired with Le Cordon Bleu‑educated Justin Foo. This duo turned a 60‑seater space into a Tokyo‑inspired dream.
- Atmosphere: Warm wooden panels, fake cherry blossoms – the décor whispers “hello from the 90s” without screaming it.
- Secret Seating: Snap up a snug tatami booth if you arrive early, or book one of the private tatami rooms for an IKEA‑style low‑key feast.
What It’s Like Inside
You’ll walk in, expect a quiet mall vibe, but you’ll be greeted by the scent of soy and a chill that says “Take it easy, fam.” When you’re in a tatami room, shoes are left at the door, indoor slippers are mandatory, and the floor cushions, or zabutons, make you wonder if you should switch to yoga pants.
Why It Matters
In the heart of KINEX, where you can’t find a good noodle place in a minute, Osomatsu offers the authenticity of a Tokyo back‑alley hangout with a twist. Their menu mixes traditional egg‑based dishes with bold, modern flavors, giving diners something to talk about—across languages.
Give it a Go
So, if you’re after a night of good food, bad jokes, and a glimpse into a “modest” Japanese meal that is anything but, grab a seat at Osomatsu and let the osomatsu-sama deshita vibe wash over you.
Chef Angus was most recently Executive Chef of Japanese-inspired tapas bar Sake Labo, and he’s brought something of that east-meets-west spirit into his new venture.
Take his star creation at Osomatsu, the Uni Ikura Tart ($22 per piece), which marries sea urchin with hickory-smoking techniques to make a sweet, intensely smoky mouthful of bliss. The smoked uni is then laid atop a tart packed with ikura and truffle cream, and served to our table in a bell jar – lift the lid, and the smoke billows out in theatrical style.
The chefs’ flair for presentation comes through in another signature plate, the Shiromi Truffle ($30). Flown in from Toyosu Fish Market, the sea bream sashimi is clean and tender, seasoned delicately with shio kombu before being crowned with truffle-scented Avruga caviar.
With the slices prettily arranged in a fan shape and sprinkled with gold dust, it’s a feast for the eyes too. For another refreshing starter, opt for the Maguro Tataki Salad ($28). Tossed in a peppy yuzu wasabi dressing, this salad packs generous portions of thick-cut akami tuna slices alongside seaweed and mesclun.<img alt="" data-caption="Maguro Tataki Salad
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Osomatsu’s Izakaya Bonanza: From Sashimi to Skewers
Picture a cozy izakaya that lets you play sushi Gambler and smoky skewer maestro all in one night. Osomatsu’s menu is a vibrant cocktail of fresh sashimi, crispy bites, and hearty grilled treats that never miss the mark.
Star‑Rated Skewers
- Tsukune – The classic chicken patty worth $5.20. Its juicy texture twirls with a crunchy twist from finely chopped cartilage, shiitake mushrooms, and onions – a flavor party in every bite.
- Homemade Chicken Meatballs – Think of them as mini gravy‑marvels, bursting with savory goodness thanks to a twist of ginger‑infused charcoal batter.
- Charcoal Chicken – A $16 wonder that looks like a coal block but tastes like a fireworks show, thanks to a ginger‑juice marination that gives it an unforgettable zest.
Unexpected Ambassadors: Tofu Nuggets
- Tofu Nuggets – Priced at $8, they may sound bland, but Osomatsu’s version delivers a pearl‑like crunch. These pan‑fried nuggets, made from pressed house‑made tofu, almond meal, and potato shreds, pop with flavor, especially when dunked in spicy mayo.
Whether you’re in the mood for raw freshness or craving a smoky feast, Osomatsu’s spread guarantees each bite is nothing short of a delicious celebration.
<img alt="" data-caption="Tofu Nuggets
PHOTO: City Nomads” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”51bb29ea-9d67-4e8c-bae8-2033c697b794″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Osomatsu_Tofu-Nuggets.jpg”/>It’s rare that you’ll find an omakase concept in the heartlands, but Osomatsu is looking to change that. Alongside the current à la carte menu, an omakase experience ($160++ per pax) is in the works, slated to launch after Chinese New Year.
We had a sneak peek of their shokuji course, the Miyazaki A4 Wagyu Cha Zuke – a luxurious take on the Japanese classic of green tea and dashi poured over rice. Pairing well-marbled Miyazaki wagyu with fluffy Japanese rice from Akita Prefecture, it’s decadent yet comforting.
ALSO READ: This Japanese restaurant’s 22-course omakase meal takes at least 3 hours to complete
Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar is located at 11 Tanjong Katong Road, KINEX, #02-21, Singapore 437157, p. +65 9235 9419. Open daily 11.30am–2.30pm & 5.30pm–10.30pm.
This article was first published in City Nomads.
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