Shinji by Kanesaka (Carlton Hotel)

If you can't hightail to Japan, Shinji is the hallowed shrine within Singapore waters for sushi – perfectly sliced sashimi on perfectly warmed vinegared rice. That said, there's a bit of an irreverent atmosphere at Shinji: The chefs are known to entertain birthday celebrants with a bit of song and dance - complete with wacky shades and party hats! Omakases are the main arrangement (from $250 at lunch) with appetisers and cooked dishes, but we find those other components distracting and unduly heavy on the palate; you might be better off asking to swap out the cooked dishes for more sushi and sashimi.