Whether your only introduction to onigiri is via 7-Eleven’s pre-packed range, or you’re the type who regularly dreams of Japan’s enormous, fresh onigiri, this place is for you. Onigiri GON is a new made-to-order concept opened by a Fukuoka native, offering over 20 handmade flavours at Fortune Centre.
In a time where Singapore’s food scene is overrun by generic dining chains and tea brands, it’s refreshing to see lesser-known concepts like Onigiri GON. For Chef Takamsa Suzuki, his tireless research in Japan has paid off in the form of his mouthwatering onigiri, which are made to order and attract snaking queues on weekends.
Chef Takamasa Suzuki
Individual flavours start from $4.90 for simpler, vegetarian-based options, to $4.90 – $6.90 for the more premium, seafood ones. The Onigiri Combos ($13.90 – $18.90 for 2 – 3 onigiris with pickles and soup) offer the most bang for buck, allowing you to mix and match with top-ups for selected flavours.
What stood out to me was the warm rice, which packed a hint of flavour from the seasoning applied by Chef Takamsa Suzuki during preparation. Portions are generous for the price point, and you can spot a hint of the fillings peeking through the rice.
Combo 2- Choice of 3 Onigiri with Miso Soup and Pickles ($18.80)
I was not expecting much from the Karashi Tanaka ($4.90 for ala carte), but one bite into the spicy mustard greens and it won me over. Crunchy and flavourful, the mustard greens were punchy but not overwhelming. I recommend this if you’re looking for a vegetarian option for your combo.
Karashi Tanaka – Spicy Mustard Greens ($4.90 ala carte)
Contrary to my expectations, the Ebi Tempura ($6.90 for ala carte) does not consist of a whole battered shrimp. Rather, marinated ebi chunks, along with tempura bits, are stuffed into the rice. Onigiri lovers looking for something less conventional by local standards may enjoy the contrast between the succulent ebi and the crunchy bits.
Ebi Tempura ($6.90 ala carte)
The highlight for me is the Spicy Salmon ($6.90 ala carte). I recommend saving this for last so the warm rice slowly cooks the sashimi, yielding fork-tender pieces that melt on the tongue. Well worth the $2 top-up.
Spicy Salmon ($6.90 ala carte)
For sides, the Kyuri Shiokouji ($2.90 ala carte) is a refreshing Japanese summer staple, great to snack on while waiting for your onigiri. Soups range from plain nori to sliced pork with vegetables.
Kyuri Shiokouji – Kouji Pickled Cucumber ($2.90 ala carte)
Aosa Misoshiru – Fresh Nori Seaweed with Spring Onion ($2.90 ala carte)
Onigiri GON is a relatively affordable and family-friendly option for those craving their Japanese fix near town. Seats tend to fill up first during the lunch hour rush, so head down early or be prepared to queue.
Address: 190 Middle Rd, Fortune Centre, 01-18, Singapore 188979
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 11.30am – 4pm
Closed on Sunday
Nearest MRT: Bugis EW12/DT14, Bencoolen DT21, Bras Basah CC2
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