Nestled along Nankin Row, Koji Sushi Bar is easy to miss but this casual sushi joint has been popular since opening in 2014. The a la carte menu includes donburis, sashimi and sushi sets, which satisfies without breaking the bank.

To indulge, go for the omakase dinner (from $98) which requires advance booking. Items are seasonal, with seafood air-flown from Japan twice weekly. Their freshness stands out. The salt-grilled ayu sweetfish, in season from June to September, is served simply with lemon and grated radish to highlight the fish’s sweet, tender flavours. One of the sushi is a luxurious serving of warm vinegared rice wrapped in konbu and generously heaped with minced tuna, sea urchin, ikura, topped with gold leaf garnish. The buttery rich tuna, sweet briny sea urchin and refreshing pops of ikura make a perfect marriage of flavours. The miso soup comes with a giant hamaguri clam that is plump, meaty and extremely sweet.

Service here is friendly and efficient. The restaurant is cosy with only 22 indoor counter seats and an open kitchen taking centre stage. It may be a squeeze, but that adds to the charm.

Be sure to check out their newly opened second branch at Raffles City.