Chef’s Stories – Behind Sushi Masa’s Omakase Singapore

Step into the world of Chef Masa, where decades of experience, deep respect for tradition, and a tireless curiosity for flavour come together in harmony. At Sushi Masa by Ki-setsu, he is more than a chef — he is the storyteller of your meal, using ingredients and techniques as his language.

A Life Shaped by the Craft

Chef Masa’s journey began in Tokyo, a city where sushi is not simply food, but a centuries-old art form passed down through generations. As an apprentice, his earliest lessons were not about speed or volume, but about patience, precision, and respect. He learned to read the subtle cues of an ingredient — the firmness of the fish, the aroma of the rice — and to adjust his technique to draw out its natural beauty.

Omakase Experience

In those formative years, every day started before sunrise. He accompanied seasoned masters to the market, witnessing first-hand how to select the finest seafood and how relationships with suppliers could influence quality.

The discipline of those early mornings became the backbone of his approach: meticulous sourcing, careful preparation, and never compromising on standards. Chef Masa places great emphasis on using only the freshest ingredients and seasonal produce, ensuring that each omakase course highlights the best flavors of the moment by focusing on fresh ingredients for optimal quality and taste.

A Global Perspective with Traditional Roots

After mastering traditional techniques in Japan, Chef Masa brought his expertise to renowned international outposts across Asia and the United States. Exposure to different culinary cultures broadened his understanding of ingredients and presentation, but he never strayed from the essence of Japanese omakase Singapore dining: letting the seasons lead the menu and the ingredients speak for themselves. His menu is inspired by both time-honoured Japanese traditions and his global experiences, resulting in creative dishes that reflect his unique culinary journey.

This blend of global exposure and traditional mastery means his omakase is both familiar and surprising. Guests might encounter a perfect piece of nigiri alongside a lightly seared seasonal fish paired with fruit — a combination that feels new yet entirely natural.

The Heart of the Omakase Relationship

For Chef Masa, omakase is a dialogue. The diner entrusts the chef to guide their journey, and the chef accepts the responsibility to surprise, delight, and exceed expectations. At the intimate 8-seater counter in Cuppage Plaza, this relationship is especially personal. Every guest can see, hear, and feel the care in each movement, from the way he shapes the rice to the subtle brush of soy sauce. Diners have the opportunity to enjoy their meals in a tranquil dining area, with a zen-inspired ambiance that may even feature a miniature zen garden, enhancing the sense of calm and focus throughout the experience.

Stories in Every Bite

Each plate is a reflection of his personal journey — the early-morning market visits in Tokyo, the quiet afternoons sharpening knives, the constant testing of new pairings in pursuit of a dish that makes a guest pause in wonder. Some of the standout dishes that have become guest favorites include delicately sliced sashimi, premium scallop and scallops, and luxurious caviar-topped creations. Through Chef’s Stories, you will uncover the philosophies, memories, and inspirations that shape the Sushi Masa experience.

Omakase Restaurant

This is more than an introduction to a chef; it’s an invitation to step into his world, where every course is a chapter, and every bite reveals a part of the story. The omakase experiences offered include a variety of lunch courses and a lunch omakase menu, each carefully priced to suit different preferences. The structure of the meal features a range of appetisers, such as nori-wrapped hand rolls, as well as steamed and tempura dishes, showcasing the chef’s versatility.

Expect expertly prepared sashimi that highlights the chef’s technique, as well as meat options and premium ingredients like caviar. Chef Masa’s skill is evident in the precise slices of fish, the inclusion of both scallop and scallops, and his ability to cook both traditional and innovative dishes. Sake pairings are thoughtfully selected to complement each course. The meal concludes with a dessert course, rounding out the experience and leaving a lasting impression. For those seeking a comprehensive look at the complete meals offered, a full review is available.

Introduction to Omakase

Omakase is more than just a meal—it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Japanese cuisine, where the chef takes centre stage and each course is a surprise crafted just for you. The word “omakase” means “I leave it up to you,” inviting diners to trust the chef’s expertise and creativity. In Singapore, omakase restaurants have flourished, offering everything from accessible lunch omakase menus to elaborate dinner experiences that celebrate the changing seasons and the finest ingredients.

Guests dine in an intimate setting, fully immersed in the chef’s artistry and the unique ambiance that defines the omakase experience. Whether you’re indulging in a special occasion or simply seeking to explore the artistry of Japanese dining, omakase promises a unique connection between chef and guest. Each menu is a reflection of the chef’s vision, the freshest seasonal ingredients, and the traditions of Japan, making every omakase meal a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Sushi Masa’s Story

Tucked away in the heart of Cuppage Plaza, Sushi Masa stands out as a sanctuary for lovers of authentic Japanese dining. This intimate restaurant, with just eight counter seats, offers a rare opportunity to experience omakase in its purest form. Chef Masa, whose culinary journey spans continents, brings a wealth of experience and a deep respect for tradition to every meal.

At Sushi Masa, the omakase experience is defined by the chef’s commitment to sourcing the highest quality seafood, including daily selections from Ueken, a renowned Japanese fish producer. Signature choices like wild-caught horse mackerel highlight the restaurant’s dedication to both quality and sustainability. By blending classic Japanese techniques with innovative touches, Sushi Masa has earned its reputation as a standout among omakase restaurants in Singapore, offering a dining experience that is both refined and deeply personal.

Behind the Scenes

The magic of omakase begins long before the first course is served. Behind the scenes at Sushi Masa, every detail is meticulously planned and executed. Chefs like Masa and Rinto Sasagawa dedicate years to perfecting their craft, mastering the art of selecting the finest ingredients and preparing each element with precision. Chef Rinto Sasagawa, the head of Takahashi, is renowned for his traditional Japanese training and culinary expertise. His influence is evident in the artful preparation of sushi and Japanese dishes, elevating the restaurant’s reputation for high-quality, seasonal cuisine.

The choice of sushi rice is as important as the seafood itself, with careful attention paid to texture, temperature, and seasoning. Cooked dishes are thoughtfully integrated into the menu, providing a balance of flavors and showcasing the chef’s versatility.

At Sushi Masa, the omakase experience is tailored to each guest, with the chef intuitively adjusting the pace and sequence of dishes to create a harmonious flow. This commitment to excellence and creativity has established Sushi Masa as a leader among omakase restaurants in Singapore, where every meal is a testament to the chef’s passion and skill.

Chef’s Inspiration

Chef Masa’s Singapore Outpost omakase sets is a reflection of his lifelong dedication to Japanese cuisine and his relentless pursuit of the finest ingredients. Drawing inspiration from his travels and personal memories, he crafts signature dishes that surprise and delight.

Highlights include botan ebi nigiri crowned with warm prawn brains, and Murasaki uni delicately finished with a squeeze of lemon—each bite a tribute to the sea’s bounty. Seasonal ingredients and local flavours play a starring role, with treasures like golden eye snapper and fresh sea urchin adding depth and character to the menu.

Chef Masa’s creative approach ensures that every omakase experience at Sushi Masa is unique, blending tradition with innovation and making the restaurant a true standout among Singapore’s omakase restaurants.

Unique Dining Experience

Singapore’s omakase restaurants offer a dining experience unlike any other, inviting guests to indulge in the artistry and precision of Japanese cuisine. Each restaurant brings its own interpretation to the omakase experience, from the serene intimacy of Sushi Hare to the sophisticated elegance of Suzuki at Mondrian Singapore Duxton. Diners are treated to a culinary journey that celebrates the finest ingredients—think creamy sea urchin, delicate golden eye snapper, and other seasonal treasures sourced at their peak.

Every dish is meticulously prepared, allowing the natural flavors of each ingredient to shine. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply seeking to explore the depths of Japanese dining, omakase restaurants in Singapore promise an unforgettable experience.

The focus on seasonal ingredients ensures that no two meals are ever the same, and the chef’s expertise transforms each course into a work of art. For those who appreciate the nuances of sushi and the elegance of Japanese cuisine, these restaurants offer a chance to truly indulge in a world-class dining experience.

No lunch omakase menu

To ensure the highest standards of freshness and allow ample time for meticulous preparation, Sushi Masa does not offer a lunch omakase menu. This deliberate choice reflects the restaurant’s commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience, where each dish is crafted with precision and care.

By focusing exclusively on dinner service, the chefs are able to dedicate their full attention to sourcing premium seasonal ingredients and executing each course to perfection, maintaining the integrity and quality that guests have come to expect from one of Singapore’s premier omakase establishments.

Sushi Masa’s Omakase Menu

Embarking on Sushi Masa’s omakase experience is like taking a guided tour through the best of Japanese cuisine. The menu unfolds in a series of thoughtfully composed courses, from pristine sushi to expertly prepared cooked dishes, each highlighting the finest ingredients of the season. Sushi courses showcase the chef’s mastery of technique and his ability to balance flavors and textures, while cooked dishes add warmth and variety to the meal.

Every detail, from the selection of seafood to the presentation of each plate, is designed to create a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking to indulge in exceptional food, Sushi Masa’s omakase sets the standard for quality and creativity, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts in Singapore.

The Art of Omakase

The true art of omakase lies in the chef’s ability to create a menu that feels both personal and extraordinary. It’s a dance between tradition and innovation, where the chef draws on years of experience to select the finest ingredients and craft each dish with care. At Sushi Masa, this artistry is evident in every course, as Chef Masa tailors the meal to the preferences and palate of each guest.

The result is a dining experience that is as much about connection and trust as it is about food. With its unwavering commitment to quality, creativity, and personalized service, Sushi Masa has earned its place among the top omakase restaurants in Singapore, offering a Japanese dining experience that lingers in the memory long after the very end of the meal.

Omakase Community

The omakase community in Singapore is a vibrant tapestry woven from tradition, innovation, and a shared love for Japanese cuisine.

The spirit of omakase is rooted in connection—between chef and diner, and among guests who gather to share in the joy of exceptional food. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely dinner with friends or embarking on your first omakase adventure, the community is welcoming and passionate, eager to share the wonders of Japanese cuisine. In Singapore, omakase is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and the bonds formed around the dinner table.

Future of Omakase

Looking ahead, the future of omakase in Singapore is filled with promise and innovation. As diners seek out ever more unique and memorable meals, omakase restaurants are rising to the challenge, experimenting with new ingredients, techniques, and presentations.

There is a growing emphasis on sustainability, with chefs sourcing locally whenever possible and supporting Singapore’s farmers and suppliers.

This not only ensures the freshest food but also helps reduce the environmental impact of each meal. Social media has become a powerful force, with diners sharing their omakase experiences and inspiring others to explore this dynamic culinary scene.

As new restaurants and talented chefs continue to emerge, the omakase landscape in Singapore is set to become even more diverse and exciting. For food lovers, this means a future filled with creativity, community, and the thrill of discovering the next unforgettable dining experience.