Sumiya Charcoal Grill Izakaya @ Suntec City

As I traveled up the never-ending escalator on the side of Orchard Central, I reveled in the beautiful view of Orchard Road. I was glad that my friends had arranged to eat at Sumiya Charcoal Grill Izakaya (located on the top floor) so I could enjoy this scenic view while dining. Update: the restaurant has moved to SUNTEC CITY.

Sumiya Charcoal Grill Izakaya is a modern, industrial-themed Japanese restaurant that specializes in charcoal grilled food. The literal translation of “Sumiya” is charcoal (sumi) house (ya).

Ambience
The restaurant has an interesting ambience with its raw industrial design combined with elements of a traditional izakaya joint. The walls are lined with decorative motifs of Japanese folk art and prints. But perhaps the most pleasant feature is that you get to enjoy a great rooftop view from the restaurant while dining. Try to get a window seat if possible!

Food and Drinks
According to the restaurant menu, the use of charcoal in Japanese grilling helps to seal in the juicy taste of the food. It also gives the food a distinct smoky aroma. We each ordered one main dish along with sides to share. I had the Taka chan double soup ramen ($8.80) and a teriyaki Chicken and Leek ($4.50) kushiyaki (Japanese for ‘skewer’). My friends ordered the Squid ($6) kushiyaki, Salmon Sashimi ($8.80) and a few other sides. Some of the interesting menu items include the Unagi Chawanmushi ($7.50) and Beef Tongue ($10). I contemplated ordering the beef tongue for adventure’s sake but thought better against it. You can check out the photos galore below to see everything we ordered.

For drinks, I ordered a good old Asahi super dry ($8.50) draft beer while my friends had the Shochu Cocktail ($8) which comes in different flavours such as lemon, lime, calpis, oolong, among others.

Overall, we had a satisfying meal. The kushiyakis tasted decent, and the squid/ sashimi we ordered were fresh, which is especially important for seafood.

Unagi Hitsumabushi ($15)

Conclusion: Japanese Charcoal Grilled Food with a Great Rooftop View
I enjoyed having dinner here with my friends. Even though the price was slightly on the high side, the food was fresh and the service decent. If you are craving for Japanese charcoal grilled food at a restaurant with a scenic view, Sumiya Charcoal Grill Izakaya is the place for you!

Sumiya Charcoal Grill Izakaya
(formerly known as Kuriya Penthouse)
Address: Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road, #12-02, Singapore 238896
Tel: +65 6509 9618
Opens Daily: Lunch 12pm to 3pm | Dinner 6.30pm to 10.30pm

Address: #03-332 Suntec City, 3 Temasek Blvd, 332, Singapore 038983
Tel: 6235 1816
Opening Hours: Daily 11.30am to 3pm, 5.30pm to 10pm

Photos Galore
Clockwise: Salmon Sashimi ($8.80) Asparagus Bacon ($5) Shiitake Mushroom ($4)

Unagi Chawanmushi ($7.50)

Left: Spicy Cold Udon ($8.80) Right: Taka Chan Double Soup Ramen ($8.80)

Rationalism vs Empiricism. The PhD performing logical analysis of the menu while the engineer collates empirical data from the restaurant staff. Combining both approaches to order the best items. We are serious about our food!