Nestled in the basement levels of Takashimaya Shopping Centre along Orchard Road, the Takashimaya Food Hall has long been a culinary institution in Singapore. This sprawling food destination offers an impressive array of Japanese delicacies, international treats, and artisanal goods that cater to both quick bites and thoughtful gift-giving. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes this food hall a must-visit destination.
Japanese Dining Excellence
Ebisu Sando Kyoto
Specialty: Japanese Sandwiches
Must-Try: Pork Cutlet Sando ($16)
Ebisu Sando Kyoto brings authentic, made-to-order Japanese sandwiches to the food hall. Their signature Pork Cutlet Sando strikes the perfect balance between crispy breading and tender meat, all nestled between pillowy shokupan. For those seeking luxury, the A5 Japanese Wagyu Karubi Roast Beef Sando ($28) delivers premium indulgence. Don’t overlook their sweet offerings—the Strawberry Sando ($9.80) combines fresh fruit with cream in a delightfully refreshing package.
Rating: ★★★★½
Best For: Quick lunch, sandwich lovers
Tsuru-koshi
Specialty: Udon & Donburi
Must-Try: Ebi Tendon ($17.80), Tonkotsu Udon ($8)
With over 20 different udon variations, Tsuru-koshi is a paradise for noodle enthusiasts. The restaurant’s elastic, smooth noodles are the star of the show, maintaining perfect texture whether served hot or cold. The creamy Tonkotsu Udon offers comfort in a bowl, while the Curry Udon provides a spicy kick. While the broths are fairly standard, the quality of the noodles elevates the entire experience.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Budget-friendly Japanese meals, udon lovers
Nakajima Suisan Grilled Fish
Specialty: Japanese Grilled Fish Sets
Must-Try: Gindara Shioyaki Set ($22.90), Saba Shioyaki Set ($10.90)
A hidden gem that deserves more recognition, Nakajima Suisan offers authentic Japanese teishoku at remarkably affordable prices. The Saba Shioyaki Set at $10.90 is an absolute steal, complete with rice, pickles, miso soup, and hot green tea. The grilled fish arrives perfectly cooked with crispy skin and tender flesh. Despite consistent crowds, the efficient service keeps wait times minimal.
Rating: ★★★★★
Best For: Value seekers, authentic Japanese experience
Teppei Syokudo
Specialty: Chirashi Don
Must-Try: Signature Kaisendon ($15.80), Aburi Salmon Don ($15.80)
Teppei Syokudo has built a reputation for generous portions and fresh ingredients. Their Signature Kaisendon delivers a mountain of salmon cubes, various sashimi, and a generous dollop of ikura over pearl rice. The customization options allow you to add premium toppings like sea urchin and scallop. For the quality and quantity provided, the pricing is exceptionally competitive.
Rating: ★★★★½
Best For: Sashimi lovers, filling meals
Yonehachi
Specialty: Okowa (Glutinous Rice Sets)
Must-Try: Shio Saba Shokado Set ($16.90), Black Vinegar Chicken Set ($17.90)
Yonehachi offers something refreshingly different—okowa sets reminiscent of healthy onsen meals in Japan. The glutinous rice comes in four flavors (red bean, salmon, chestnut, and seasonal), accompanied by thoughtfully prepared side dishes. The Shio Saba Shokado Set represents excellent value with four sides, miso soup, and Houji tea. This is comfort food done right—wholesome, satisfying, and authentic.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Health-conscious diners, unique Japanese cuisine
Kimukatsu
Specialty: Multi-Layer Tonkatsu
Must-Try: Tonkatsu Set ($17.80), Tonkatsu Kare ($19.80)
Kimukatsu’s claim to fame is their innovative 25-layer pork cutlet that mimics mille-feuille pastry. The result is a lighter, crispier tonkatsu than traditional versions, with each bite revealing delicate layers. The regular set includes all the essentials—rice, miso soup, fresh cabbage, and pickles. While slightly pricier than standard tonkatsu, the unique preparation justifies the cost.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Tonkatsu enthusiasts, special occasions
Torasho Ramen Bar
Specialty: Tonkotsu Ramen
Must-Try: Tonkotsu ($13++), Spicy Tonkotsu Level 3 ($16++)
Affiliated with the acclaimed Torasho Ramen And Charcoal, this food court outpost delivers rich, authentic ramen. The classic Tonkotsu features a thick, creamy broth with silky noodles and perfectly grilled chashu. The Spicy Tonkotsu Level 3 adds serious heat without compromising the broth’s depth. For food court ramen, this punches well above its weight.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Ramen cravings, spice lovers
Bakeries & Sweet Treats
St. Leaven
Specialty: Japanese-Style Bakery
Must-Try: Matcha Bun ($3.20), Ham & Cheese Loaf ($3)
Strategically positioned near the main entrance, St. Leaven greets visitors with the aroma of fresh-baked goods. Their Matcha Bun is a standout—soft matcha bread coated with a crunchy matcha biscuit layer and dusted with green tea powder. It sells out quickly, so early birds get the prize. The Ham & Cheese Loaf offers reliable, hearty satisfaction for those seeking savory options.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Morning visits, matcha lovers
DONQ Boulangerie
Specialty: Japanese-French Bakery
Must-Try: Sausage Roll ($3.80), Brioche Sausage ($3.80)
This Japanese bakery chain brings authentic French-inspired baking techniques to Singapore. DONQ maintains consistently high standards across their range, from flaky croissants to savory filled breads. The helpful top-five bestsellers list guides indecisive shoppers. Everything tastes fresh, with proper butter richness and excellent texture.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Breakfast, bread lovers
Mini One
Specialty: Miniature Croissants
Must-Try: Mini Croissants ($2.80 for 100g), Strawberry & White Chocolate Mochi ($3.80 for 100g)
The intoxicating aroma of buttery croissants leads you straight to Mini One. Their miniature croissants are addictively soft and fluffy—impossible to eat just one. The Strawberry & White Chocolate Mochi demonstrates creativity with its chewy strawberry dough and stretchy mochi filling. If you catch them during baking times, the experience is even better.
Rating: ★★★★½
Best For: Croissant fans, gift-giving
Peck
Specialty: Italian-Inspired Bread
Must-Try: Cheese Ciabatta ($4.40), Panino Caprese ($3.80)
From the same group behind Four Leaves Bakery, Peck fills the niche for affordable Italian bread. The Cheese Ciabatta is a personal favorite—large, chewy, and loaded with savory cheese. The Panino Caprese offers a fresher option with mozzarella, tomato, and basil in airy focaccia. These are substantial portions that won’t break the bank.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Budget-friendly quality, Italian bread lovers
Mr Obanyaki
Specialty: Taiyaki & Obanyaki
Must-Try: Red Bean Taiyaki ($2.60), Kaya & Peanut Obanyaki ($2.50)
Mr Obanyaki draws consistent queues for their fish-shaped and round pancakes. The Red Bean Taiyaki comes generously stuffed with lightly mashed red beans, providing textural variety. While best eaten fresh and warm, they can be reheated at home in a toaster. The Chocolate Taiyaki and Kaya & Peanut Obanyaki offer sweet alternatives at extremely reasonable prices.
Rating: ★★★½
Best For: Sweet snacks, nostalgic treats
Confectionery & Gifts
Minamoto Kitchoan
Specialty: Wagashi (Japanese Confectionery)
Must-Try: Matcha Baumkuchen ($29), White Peach Mochi (from $19)
Minamoto Kitchoan elevates wagashi to an art form. Each confection is visually stunning and meticulously crafted. The Matcha Baumkuchen showcases layers of green tea-infused sponge cake, while the White Peach Mochi encases sweet white peach bean paste in delicate mochi. These are premium gifts that make lasting impressions, though prices reflect the luxury positioning.
Rating: ★★★★½
Best For: Gifts, special occasions, wagashi enthusiasts
Shiseido Parlour
Specialty: Luxury Confectionery
Must-Try: Shiseido Biscuit ($36 for 20 pieces), La Ganache ($25 for 12 pieces)
Not related to the skincare brand, Shiseido Parlour represents old-world Japanese luxury. Their confections are beautifully packaged and make impressive gifts. The Shiseido Biscuit is a classic that’s been beloved for generations. While expensive, you’re paying for heritage, quality, and presentation. These are treats for special occasions and discerning recipients.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: High-end gifts, Japanese confectionery collectors
Juchheim
Specialty: German Baumkuchen
Must-Try: Original Baumkuchen (from $21), Liebchen ($15 for 12 pieces)
Watching Juchheim’s baumkuchen being made is mesmerizing—a massive metal rod slowly rotates in an oven, getting dipped in batter to create countless caramelized layers. The result is dense yet flavorful, with each layer offering slightly different texture. The in-house baking ensures freshness that packaged versions can’t match. The butter biscuits provide a more affordable entry point.
Rating: ★★★★½
Best For: Cake lovers, watching baking process, gifts
Kobe Fugetsudo
Specialty: Wafer Sandwiches
Must-Try: Wafer Sandwich Assortment ($25 for 8 pieces)
These iconic wafer sandwiches evoke pure nostalgia. As one of the first Western sweets to gain popularity in Japan, Kobe Fugetsudo represents a piece of culinary history. The delicate wafers with cream filling offer a satisfying crunch and subtle sweetness. They’re pricey, but the nostalgic value and gift-worthy packaging justify the investment for special occasions.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Nostalgic treats, gifts for elders
Cookie Mixx
Specialty: House-Made Cookies
Must-Try: Belgium Chocolate Chunk, Earl Grey Tea, Milo Chocolate Chips (from $8.60 per 100g)
Cookie Mixx stands out for using fresh ingredients without artificial preservatives or coloring. Their cookies achieve that perfect crisp texture while maintaining less sweetness than typical store-bought versions. The customization option—choosing your base and up to three toppings—allows for personalized treats. These are cookies that taste homemade because they essentially are.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Cookie lovers, customizable gifts
Bankaku
Specialty: Yukari Shrimp Crackers
Must-Try: Charcoal-Baked Shrimp Crackers ($13 for 8 pieces)
Bankaku offers an elusive Japanese luxury—premium shrimp crackers baked over charcoal fire. The result is an umami explosion with a satisfying crackle and subtle nutty aftertaste. These are leagues above regular shrimp crackers, offering complexity and refinement. While expensive, they make impressive gifts for savory snack enthusiasts and represent authentic Japanese craftsmanship.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Unique gifts, umami lovers
International Delights
Bateel
Specialty: Gourmet Dates & Dubai Chocolate
Must-Try: Hazelnut Kunafa Choco Bar ($9.50), Premium Dates
This Dubai-based brand brings gourmet dates and the viral Dubai chocolate to Singapore. Choose from seven date varieties, each with distinct texture and sweetness profiles. The Hazelnut Kunafa Choco Bar delivers on the hype—soft chocolate casing with crunchy kunafa and creamy hazelnut sauce. The pistachio version offers equally indulgent satisfaction. This is trend-forward luxury snacking.
Rating: ★★★★½
Best For: Trying viral treats, date enthusiasts
Venchi
Specialty: Italian Gelato & Chocolate
Must-Try: Cuor Di Cacao, Green Pistachio From Bronte (from $11)
Located at the far end of the food hall, Venchi serves intensely flavored Italian gelato. The dark chocolate Cuor Di Cacao is genuinely rich and chocolatey without being overly sweet, while the pistachio gelato tastes authentically nutty. Prices are premium ($11-12), but the quality matches. This is proper Italian gelato that doesn’t compromise on ingredient quality or flavor intensity.
Rating: ★★★★
Best For: Gelato purists, chocolate lovers
Butter Studio
Specialty: Custom Decorated Cakes
Must-Try: Ondeh Ondeh Cake ($40.80 large), Custom Cupcakes (from $22 per 6 pieces)
Butter Studio brings whimsy and color to cake design with unicorn, mermaid, and rainbow motifs. Their cakes cater to celebration needs with various sizes and flavors. The Ondeh Ondeh cake incorporates local flavors, while the Salted Caramel Red Velvet offers international appeal. As a halal-certified option, it serves diverse communities. The visual appeal makes these Instagram-worthy centerpieces.
Rating: ★★★½
Best For: Birthday celebrations, halal options, colorful cakes
Value Analysis
Best Budget Options:
- Nakajima Suisan Saba Shioyaki Set ($10.90)
- Tsuru-koshi Tonkotsu Udon ($8)
- Mr Obanyaki Taiyaki ($2.60)
- Mini One Croissants ($2.80 for 100g)
Best Value for Quality:
- Teppei Syokudo Kaisendon ($15.80)
- Ebisu Sando Kyoto Pork Cutlet Sando ($16)
- Yonehachi Okowa Sets (from $16.90)
Splurge-Worthy:
- Bateel Dubai Chocolate ($9.50)
- Minamoto Kitchoan Wagashi (from $19)
- Ebisu Sando Wagyu Sando ($28)
Practical Tips
Timing Recommendations
- Morning (10-11am): Fresh baked goods at St. Leaven, Mini One baking schedules
- Lunch (12-2pm): Expect crowds at Teppei Syokudo, Tsuru-koshi, Nakajima Suisan
- Afternoon (3-5pm): Quieter period, good for browsing confectionery
Evening (6-8pm): Second rush, some items may be sold out
Navigation Strategy
Enter through the main entrance to start at St. Leaven
Work your way clockwise for systematic exploration
Venchi is at the far end—save it for dessert
The food court area (Torasho Ramen) is separate from the main hall
What to Skip
While most offerings are solid, a few considerations:
Extremely premium items may not justify the cost unless gifting
Food court options outside the featured stalls can be hit-or-miss
Some international chains may be available elsewhere at better prices
Final Verdict
Takashimaya Food Hall excels as a comprehensive food destination that balances everyday accessibility with special-occasion luxury. The Japanese offerings are particularly strong, delivering authenticity at various price points. The international selection adds welcome diversity, while the confectionery section provides thoughtful gift options.
Strengths:
Exceptional variety spanning quick snacks to sit-down meals
Authentic Japanese food with reasonable pricing
High-quality bakeries and confectioneries
Convenient Orchard Road location
Clean, well-maintained environment
Weaknesses:
Can get extremely crowded during peak hours
Premium items carry significant price tags
Some seating areas fill up quickly
Navigation can be confusing for first-timers
Overall Rating: ★★★★½
Whether you’re seeking a quick Japanese lunch, hunting for premium gifts, or simply exploring Singapore’s food culture, Takashimaya Food Hall delivers. It’s a place where you can grab a $2.60 taiyaki or splurge on $36 biscuits—and both experiences feel equally valid. That versatility, combined with consistent quality across price points, makes it a Orchard Road institution that deserves its reputation.
Best For: Japanese food lovers, gift shoppers, tourists seeking authentic experiences, anyone who appreciates quality food at various price points
Return Likelihood: High—different vendors and seasonal offerings provide ongoing reasons to revisit
- Limited Information: Most establishments appear to be dine-in focused
- Takeaway Available: Several hawker stalls and coffee shops
- No Delivery Mentioned: For most locations
Tourist Accessibility:
- Highest Value: Maxwell Food Centre, Tong Ah Eating House, Original Katong Laksa, Atlas Bar
- Moderate Accessibility: Most hawker centres and established restaurants
- Advance Planning Required: The Ampang Kitchen, Burnt Ends reservations
Cultural Significance:
- Historical: Tong Ah (1939), Singapore Zam Zam (1908), Song Fa (1969)
- Heritage Preservation : Kim Choo Kueh Chang, Tan’s Tu Tu Coconut Cake
- Modern Innovation: Burnt Ends, Cloudstreet, % Arabica
Cooking Techniques Highlighted:
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