Precision and indulgence unite at the one-Michelin-starred Waku Ghin by Tetsuya Wakuda
Tucked away in the heart of Marina Bay Sands is Waku Ghin, helmed by the legendary Japanese chef Tetsuya Wakuda. When it comes to sushi, this a destination, a curated experience where every bite feels like it’s been designed to linger in your memory. With two Michelin stars and a well-earned spot on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list, Waku Ghin has redefined what fine dining means in Singapore.
But let’s set aside the accolades for a moment—this isn’t about the stars or the awards. It’s about the true brilliance of Chef Wakuda, a man whose craft feels more like art than cooking. His food doesn’t shout; it speaks softly but powerfully like a whispered story passed down through generations. Each dish at Waku Ghin pays tribute to the dishes' ingredients, a celebration of simplicity elevated to something extraordinary. Here, you get to step into Chef Wakuda’s world, where every detail, from the hand-polished glassware to the delicate balance of flavors, becomes part of a larger narrative.
Waku Ghin isn’t trying to wow you with theatrics or over-the-top innovation. Instead, it’s intimate, and deliberately so. The experience begins in a private room, where the teppanyaki grill becomes a stage and the chef your storyteller. You watch as the ingredients—pristine and unassuming—transform before your eyes into something spectacular. It’s a kind of alchemy, the kind that makes you sit back and wonder how something so simple could taste so extraordinary.
This is where Chef Wakuda’s genius truly shines. He doesn’t rely on flashy techniques or unnecessary embellishments. Instead, his food is honest, rooted in respect for the natural integrity of the ingredients. Take the marinated Botan shrimp with sea urchin and Oscietra caviar. It’s decadent, yes, but it also feels impossibly light, like the ocean distilled onto a plate. Or the perfectly seared Australian wagyu, paired simply with wasabi and citrus soy—a reminder that sometimes the most powerful flavors are also the simplest.
The Experience: Luxury, Michelin Level Hospitality Meets Intimate Fine Dining
Waku Ghin redefines fine dining by offering a personalized experience that feels more like an invitation into Chef Wakuda’s private kitchen than a traditional restaurant. The name “Waku Ghin” translates to “silver flow” in Japanese, reflecting the sleek interiors and the smooth flow of creativity that runs through every detail of the restaurant.
The dining journey begins in one of the private teppanyaki rooms, where only a small number of guests are served at a time. Each dish is prepared right before your eyes, adding an intimate and theatrical touch to the experience. As the meal progresses, diners move to the main dining area for dessert and coffee, creating a seamless transition from savory to sweet.
Waku Ghin’s Menu is a Symphony of Japanese Precision
Waku Ghin’s menu is a perfect blend of Japanese precision and European flair, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients sourced from around the world. The omakase menu, a multi-course masterpiece, is the restaurant’s crown jewel. It changes daily, depending on what’s fresh and at its peak.
Signature dishes include:
Marinated Botan Shrimp with Sea Urchin and Oscietra Caviar: A decadent combination of umami-packed flavors that feels like an oceanic treasure.
Australian Wagyu with Wasabi and Citrus Soy: Perfectly seared wagyu beef that melts in your mouth with just the right kick of wasabi.
Cold Angel Hair Pasta with Truffle and Botan Ebi: A seemingly simple dish elevated to divine levels with the addition of fresh truffle and sweet prawn.
For dessert lovers, Waku Ghin offers an array of delicate sweets, like their famed Gyokuro Green Tea and Chocolate Mousse, which perfectly balances bitter and sweet notes.
Curated Sake and Wine Pairings
The drink menu at Waku Ghin is its own work of art. Premium sakes, Japanese whiskies, and a carefully curated wine list come together with a purpose—to elevate every bite you take. Chef Wakuda’s belief in harmony shines here, where each pairing is crafted to amplify the flavors on your plate. Every sip works in tandem, balancing richness with subtlety, boldness with restraint, creating a rhythm that feels effortless yet deeply intentional.
The sake selection steals the spotlight, offering rare regional varieties that celebrate the craftsmanship of Japanese brewing. Crisp, dry pours that refresh the palate sit alongside velvety, full-bodied sakes packed with umami, each one telling its own story. The wine list doesn’t lag behind either, featuring standout bottles from top-tier vineyards and hidden treasures chosen specifically to complement the bold, intricate flavors of the menu.
But the magic is in the details. Each pairing feels like an extension of Chef Wakuda’s philosophy—thoughtful, precise, and perfectly in tune. A delicate, floral sake might dance alongside fresh seafood, while a robust Japanese whisky brings out the smoky depth of grilled dishes. Here, food and drink aren’t just companions; they’re collaborators, working together to create a dining experience that’s immersive, balanced, and undeniably memorable.
Beyond the Plate: Tetsuya Wakuda’s Philosophy
Chef Tetsuya Wakuda’s culinary philosophy revolves around simplicity, respect for ingredients, and a deep connection to nature. His dishes speak volumes with minimalistic presentations that allow the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. With Waku Ghin, Chef Wakuda brings his passion for creating memorable dining experiences to Singapore, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who walks through its doors.
Practical Details
Location: Marina Bay Sands, Level 2
Hours: Open for dinner, by reservation only
Dress Code: Smart casual (leave the flip-flops and tank tops at home)
Price: The omakase experience starts at SGD 450 per person (worth every penny).
Why Waku Ghin Is Worth the Splurge
Dining at Waku Ghin isn’t just about eating—it’s about immersing yourself in an unparalleled culinary experience. From the exquisite craftsmanship of each dish to the intimate setting, everything is designed to leave you in awe. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in one of the world’s finest dining experiences, Waku Ghin delivers on every front.
In a city renowned for its vibrant food scene, Waku Ghin stands out as a testament to the heights that fine dining can achieve. Book a table, and prepare for an unforgettable evening where every bite tells a story.
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