Tempura Makino Singapore: The Only Tempura We’d Queue For

ABBEY: If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, Tamoya Udon & Tempura at Plaza Singapura is a must-visit spot. During our recent visit, we were greeted with a bit of a queue, but thankfully, the wait was short—we were seated within just a few minutes.

I decided to try the Beef & Pork Combo Don, which came topped with a perfectly cooked onsen egg. What stood out right away was the generous portion of meat. Unlike most Japanese rice bowls where the rice often outweighs the meat, Tamoya flips the script. The bowl was filled with tender, savory slices of beef and pork that satisfied both my heart and my hunger.

Another highlight was their Kakiage—a mixed vegetable tempura that came in a sizeable portion. It was impressively light, not too oily, and paired wonderfully with the dipping sauce provided.

One of the great perks here is the free-flow side dishes. We helped ourselves to a variety of options including kelp, corn, and pickled radish, which added a nice balance to the meal.

Tamoya Udon & Tempura delivered a satisfying and flavorful dining experience. Whether you’re craving hearty donburi or crispy tempura, this place is definitely worth a return visit.

Tempura Makino Unagi Set - Japanese Restaurant in Singapore

WILL: I’ve given up on tempura a long time ago. Too often, it’s soggy. Oily. Over-seasoned. A forgettable side dish.

But one night in Singapore, that changed.

My husband was craving Japanese food, and we noticed a long queue outside Tempura Makino. I wasn’t expecting much—but curiosity won.

I ordered the Unagi Tempura Set (SGD 23.90). And from the first bite, I paused.

Crispy. Light. Clean.
Not greasy. Not salty. Just right. The kind of crunch that makes you slow down and savour.

This tempura wasn’t a sidekick. It was the main event.

The portion was generous—no need for dessert. You could taste the quality of the ingredients, and there’s a clear skill behind how each item was fried. No shortcuts.

Now, I understand the queue. It’s not just hype. It’s a return-worthy kind of place.

If you’ve been disappointed by tempura before, let Tempura Makino change your mind. Because yes—it’s that good!

Have you tried a tempura that surprised you? Let me know—I might check it out next.

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Tempura Makino

(W) https://tempuramakino.com.sg/

(H) 11am to 10pm daily

(A) 1 HarbourFront Walk, #02-111, VivoCity Singapore 098585