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I’ll admit it—Japanese cuisine wasn’t always my favourite. That changed when my partner introduced me to YAYOI. He discovered the restaurant through a recommendation from his Japanese colleague, who praised it as one of the closest places to authentic Japanese flavours, reminiscent of his hometown. Intrigued, we decided to give it a try.

Fast forward to today; YAYOI has become our go-to spot whenever we’re craving a healthy and satisfying Japanese meal. What’s even more surprising is how my partner has gradually influenced my taste buds. I never cared much for Japanese cuisine in the past, but thanks to him, I’ve grown to appreciate it. For instance, I used to avoid ramen (I never found it appetizing), but now, every once in a while, I find myself craving it. While YAYOI is our favourite for Japanese dishes, SEIROCK-YA is our top pick for ramen—but that’s a review for another day!

What I love most about YAYOI

From the moment I step into the restaurant, I can feel its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The soft lighting, minimalist decor, and subtle touches of Japanese aesthetics create a calm and inviting space. It’s the kind of place that feels instantly comfortable, whether you’re there for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a quiet date night.

One thing that truly stands out about YAYOI is the attention to detail in their meals. The dishes are thoughtfully prepared, balancing authentic flavours with a healthy twist. Their teishoku (set meals) come with perfectly portioned sides, including a bowl of rice, hearty miso soup, pickled cucumber, soft tofu, and a fresh, crisp salad drizzled with roasted sesame dressing. Oh, the salad is my favourite!—not only is it always fresh and delicious, but the fact that it’s free to refill feels like a generous bonus. The rice is refillable too, allowing you to savour your meal without any worry of running out.

What’s On The Menu?

I’ve tried their Chicken Teriyaki Teishoku, Chicken Karaage Teishoku, and most recently, Chicken Namban Teishoku, and I must say, they were all fantastic. The chicken is always tender and juicy, and the accompanying sauces add just the right amount to enhance the flavours. I’ve never been disappointed. My personal favourite so far has to be the Chicken Teriyaki Teishoku. Its perfectly balanced sweetness, paired with the thoughtful addition of ‘tamagoyaki’ (Japanese rolled omelette), creates a sweet-and-savoury harmony that makes the dish feel complete.

For those who enjoy variety, YAYOI offers an extensive menu that includes everything from sushi, sashimi, and donburi to hearty options like katsu curry and tempura. They even have a selection of beef dishes if you’re in the mood for red meat. Personally, I’m not the most adventurous eater and tend to stick to my comfort zone with chicken dishes. However, my partner has explored other options and is always impressed by the quality and flavours of their meals.

Every visit feels well worth it.

Another reason I love YAYOI is how it balances affordability and authenticity. The portion sizes are generous, and the price is reasonable considering the quality of the food. It’s one of the few places where I feel like I’m getting a true Japanese dining experience without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for a cosy spot to enjoy Japanese cuisine with healthy, flavorful options, I can’t recommend YAYOI enough. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of Japanese food or taking your first steps into the cuisine (like I did), YAYOI promises a delightful experience that’s hard to forget. It’s the kind of place where you can savour every bite, knowing you’ve found a gem worth returning to again and again.

Til then. X, Hani.