Ryokudo’s flagship at Far East Square offers an elevated donburi experience in Singapore’s CBD, rooted in artistry, harmony, and tranquillity. Deeply embedded in the elegance of Japanese tradition, it presents a comforting experience crafted with meticulous precision.
In a city where Japanese dining typically oscillates between extravagant flair and swift convenience, Ryokudo arrives in Singapore with a refreshingly distinct vibe. The flagship opening at Far East Square subtly unveils itself, eschewing grandiosity for a more understated elegance. Instead, it finds its place in the Central Business District, exuding a tranquil confidence, presenting bowls of donburi that communicate through a refined simplicity, artistry, and unwavering quality.
Ryokudo’s narrative unfolds in Jakarta in 2020, where the brand cultivated a devoted clientele through an unwavering dedication to crafting Japanese rice bowls with meticulous attention to detail. The same philosophy now elegantly unfolds along Pekin Street, where discerning professionals and culinary enthusiasts are drawn to meals that embody a sense of thoughtfulness rather than excess. In a realm characterised by relentless speed and efficiency, the essence of Ryokudo offers a refreshing reprieve.
The ambiance of the space beautifully embodies this refined sensibility. Embodying the essence of wabi-sabi, this 60-seat establishment takes cues from the beloved shokudo, those charming dining spots that celebrate comfort and a sense of belonging. The embrace of natural wood finishes, the gentle glow of soft lighting, and the simplicity of pared-back detailing come together to craft an ambiance that exudes a sense of warmth and authenticity, reminiscent of a cherished home rather than a mere design showcase. Delicate accents, such as azure tiles and vibrant wall murals, infuse a sense of warmth and character while maintaining an atmosphere of serene elegance. This space beckons one to stay awhile, even amidst the hustle of a lunch break.
At the core of Ryokudo’s menu lies the donburi, a dish frequently overlooked for its unpretentious nature. In this setting, the bowl transforms into a masterpiece of meticulous artistry. Japanese short-grain rice is meticulously prepared in a delicately seasoned stock, then elegantly combined with a bespoke furikake blend crafted by the esteemed founder, Ryo Rivaldo. This foundation alone conveys the culinary vision at play. Every detail is imbued with significance and intention. Every element is anticipated to contribute significantly.
The same meticulous approach is applied to the tare sauces, each crafted with care in-house. In the realm of Japanese cuisine, tare serves as a quintessential element, subtly uniting flavours in a harmonious embrace. At Ryokudo, the sauces elegantly complement rather than overwhelm. Their presence enriches and elevates the dish, ensuring that the primary ingredients shine individually while harmoniously blending into a unified masterpiece.
One of the most exquisite offerings is the Koma Don, an opulent bowl that artfully combines beef, salmon, unagi, tamago, cucumber, ikura, and tobiko. It presents a harmonious interplay, showcasing the elegant coexistence of land and sea, each complementing the other without rivalry. The interplay of textures transitions seamlessly from tender to crisp, from indulgent to refreshing, ensuring that every bite is a thoughtfully crafted experience.
The Katsu Toji Don epitomises comfort, featuring succulent deep-fried chicken thigh cutlets enveloped in delicately scrambled eggs and onions, all elevated by a touch of homemade dashi. The decision to exclusively utilise fresh chilled chicken reflects Ryokudo’s subtle commitment to excellence. This dish delights the palate with a sense of comfort, yet it is refined through meticulous preparation, ensuring a lightness that enhances the overall experience.
The Gyudon offers a refined take on comfort, featuring succulent beef short plate paired with beautifully caramelised onions. Butter-sautéed shimeji mushrooms impart a rich depth, while the addition of crispy garlic chips offers a delightful contrast. Completed with either a delicate onsen egg or a meticulously pressed omelette, the bowl offers a richness that feels thoughtfully curated rather than merely indulgent.
For those in pursuit of a more indulgent experience, the Steak Don showcases sous-vide Australian beef rib eye, expertly seared to create a beautifully caramelised crust while preserving a perfectly medium-rare interior. This dish exemplifies Ryokudo’s mastery, seamlessly blending a comforting presentation with sophisticated culinary technique.
The menu transcends mere rice bowls, venturing into realms of equally thoughtful culinary creations. The Tori-Ramen, crafted from a harmonious blend of house dashi and collagen-infused chicken broth, presents a refined and delicate interpretation of umami. Gently simmered to achieve a rich depth, it offers a comforting warmth that feels both indulgent and effortless.
Accompaniments serve a vital and elegant purpose in the culinary experience. Chawanmushi, crafted with dashi from ceremonial-grade konbu, presents itself with a silky elegance, featuring optional enhancements that elevate the experience without overwhelming the palate. Ebi Croquettes, meticulously crafted with Aka Ebi renowned for its natural sweetness, are elegantly complemented by yuzu kosho mayonnaise, which adds a touch of brightness and subtle restraint. The White Corn Tempura elegantly showcases the inherent creaminess of the corn, delicately battered to maintain its unique essence.
Matcha, an essential element of Japanese culture, serves as the foundation of the beverage selection. Curated from esteemed purveyors, Ryokudo’s matcha beverages encompass both traditional renditions and innovative twists. Whether enjoyed neat or harmoniously blended with strawberry or coconut, the focus is on achieving a refined balance and exceptional drinkability, rather than mere novelty.
What ultimately defines Ryokudo’s Far East Square flagship is its confidence in simplicity. It does not attempt to reimagine Japanese dining or chase trends. Instead, it refines what already works, offering a space where care is evident in every detail. For Singapore’s CBD crowd, this translates into a dining experience that feels grounding, reliable, and quietly elevated.
