Love your Japanese?
Hokkaido Marche has been open on the Basement 2 level of Orchard Central for the past year and a half, but it remains something of a hidden gem. Tucked beside the legendary 24-hour discount Japanese store, Don Don Donki, it’s the only dedicated Japanese marketplace-style eatery in Singapore.
On our recent family visit, we (mum and dad!) grabbed a couple of refreshing Sapporo beers at the Dot Bar, before having a wander around the seven food stalls. We spied sashimi bowls, katsu curry, Hokkaido pork bowls, soba noodles, sushi and, of course, delicious ramen, in two varieties.
For a change, there were no arguments. The kids got to choose their beloved sushi (which was made fresh and delivered quickly, much to everyone’s relief!), while I had my favourite salmon and tuna sashimi bowl, and my husband slurped a steaming bowl of pork ramen with a side of gyoza.
Hokkaido is the second largest and most northern island of Japan. If you’re an avid skier, you’ll know its famous ski fields. If you’re bit more sedentary, it’s worth visiting to appreciate the stunning scenery, bountiful food and relaxing onsen – and the beer gardens in Sapporo are great, too.
Produce from Hokkaido benefits from the island’s rich soil, its altitude and the climate. Many of the restaurants at Hokkaido Marche have their origins on the island, and have carried those roots of fresh, bountiful Japanese food to Singapore. The food is a genuine reflection of the culture of this part of Japan; in fact, some of the market’s chefs hail from there.
Our whole family loved the experience at Hokkaido Marche. It was easy, affordable and quick. Getting restaurant-quality Japanese food without the long wait or hefty prices is right up our alley; we’ll definitely be back.
Basement 2, Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road
6509 9383 | hokkaidomarche.com.sg
If, like our family, you love Japanese food but can never agree on the restaurant style, we’ve discovered a place to make everyone happy!