Hidden in plain sight behind an unassuming door, is Bincho. Bringing authentic Yakitori style cooking to Singapore's cluster of restaurants... and it's damn good!
If you ever have the chance to hang out with a local while traveling, you take it! It’s as simple as that. You’ll be able to see things you would never figure out on your own and you’ll get to experience a true piece of culture, not something created for a guidebook.
While we were in Singapore we were introduced to a fantastic boutique hotel company called the Unlisted Collection (you can read all about our experience with them here) who also happens to create equally amazing restaurants. So when we met with Denise, marketer extraordinaire and like-minded foodie and she offered to take us out to some special places around the area, we jumped on the opportunity.
We were given simple directions, “meet me here at 78 Moh Guan Terrace, #01-19,” and asked an odd question, “Are you willing to eat anything?” Slightly intrigued we said okay and were excited to try something different and a bit out of our comfort zone.
After a short ride on the MRT we arrived at what felt like an empty apartment complex. It was still light out and we were the only people wondering around somewhat aimlessly. After walking around the building a few times we noticed a very small vertical sign that said Bincho! Yay we had found it.
Completely hidden behind a whether facade and surrounded by dumpsters, was one of the best restaurants we’ve ever been to. As soon as you walk through the questionable door, you enter a perfectly hip and modern restaurant. Feeling more like an underground bunker than dining establishment, Bincho is the perfect hidden gem and they are doing seriously awesome stuff!
Bincho is So Much More Than Just Yakitori
Bincho is inspired by a typical yakitori- ya (traditional small grilling stalls) in Japan, think grilled meats and vegetables a la Japanese style. You can expect the typical Japanese flavors of salty and sweet, mixed with unique ingredients, that are completely unexpected…mini grilled corn husks or cocks comb anyone?
Our meal started with refreshing yet strong craft whisky cocktails as we nibbled on creamy liver pate. We watched as chef Asai Masashi diligently worked in front of us, assembling our next course. Within minutes we were served a collection of Yakitori Shio, or the salty dishes, which included a variety of chicken parts - gizzards, breast, tail and cartilage. A plate of Yakitori Tare (the sauce dishes) came next and included chicken heart, liver, cocks comb and neck meat.
“Honestly the taste of every bite was delicious and so well prepared…I just couldn’t get over the textures of some of the parts. Next time I’ll go without the cocks comb and cartilage.”
After our tasting of different chicken parts, we moved onto one of my favourites, Mentai wings stuffed with cod roe. The smokey taste form the grill mixed with the saltiness of the roe was fantastic and really creative! Next was Japanese Sea Bream served with an array of vegetables, and then another favourite, the grilled lamb neck. Our plate of lamb came accompanied with several different seemingly simple sauces, teriyaki, garlic and black pepper.
Making Reservations is Key
Bincho is just one of those great restaurants, you don’t want anyone else to know about. It’s small, it’s intimate, it’s a conversation starter and the food is amazing. It’s a place where you can be adventurous (try the chicken parts at least once) and dine on some of the best grilled food in Singapore. Seating is limited, so make sure to make reservations! I can’t wait to come back!
For more information about Bincho, make sure to visit their website: