Established in 1980, Shima is on of the oldest Japanese restaurants in Singapore. The interiors show their age, but the friendly service more than makes up for it.

Service is prompt and generally attentive, and tea cups never left empty for long. The menu is extensive, and most come for its famous teppanyaki and kaiseki (starting at $68), which offer quite good value.

Memorable dishes include the US beef prime ribeye and the indulgent Tochigi Japanese wagyu, teppanyaki grilled Hiroshima oysters, firefly squid with vinegared miso and the hearty garlic rice. Desserts are traditional—fruits of excellent quality and lovely mochi-based sweets.

Good to note: A good range of lunch buffets, set menus and promotional seasonal menus make Shima’s offerings quite enticing.