[Review] Kin-Nomi Brings Japanese Precision and Thai Boldness Together in One Fun Chinatown Izakaya

Thai and Japanese cuisines are already among Singaporeans’ favourites on their own, so combining them into a single dining concept presents itself as a winning idea. At newly opened Kin-Nomi in Chinatown, the idea is executed with confidence, blending the finesse of Japanese cuisine with the bold, punchy flavours Thai cuisine is known for.

The restaurant describes itself as a modern izakaya where people come together to eat, drink and socialise, drawing its name from the Thai word “Kin“, meaning to eat, and the Japanese word “Nomi“, meaning to drink. The result is a lively Japanese izakaya concept built around sharing plates, grilled skewers, handrolls and comforting mains with unmistakable Thai influences.

Located just opposite Boon Tong Kee in Chinatown, Kin-Nomi exudes a relaxed and youthful energy.

The interiors lean towards dark tones with colourful lighting, creating a funky yet comfortable atmosphere that’s equally suited for casual dinners, after work drinks or gatherings with friends. Beyond the dining area, the restaurant also houses entertainment spaces including karaoke and private rooms, making it more than just another neighbourhood izakaya.

Our dinner tasting began with the Crispy Papaya Salad (S$10), an interesting spin on the familiar Thai classic. Instead of simply serving shredded green papaya in the traditional style, Kin Nomi incorporates crispy fried elements that add an enjoyable crunch throughout the dish.

It retains the refreshing tanginess expected of papaya salad but introduces extra texture that makes it feel more indulgent.

The Tuna Larb with Crispy Rice Cracker (S$16, 2 pieces) was one of the stronger appetisers.

Fresh tuna seasoned with fragrant Thai larb spices was paired with crisp rice crackers that provided an excellent contrast. Each bite started with a light crunch before giving way to soft, moist tuna packed with herbs and citrus notes.

The Umami Ebi Carpaccio (S$20) showcased beautifully sliced shrimp dressed in a rich savoury Thai flavoured sauce.

This dish’s note profile leaned towards the intense side, almost bordering on overpowering, but seafood lovers who appreciate bold seasoning will likely enjoy its savoury depth. It is certainly not a subtle dish, but one that leaves an impression.

The stars of the meal were undoubtedly the handrolls.

The Spicy Scallops Handroll (S$16) delivered plump scallops wrapped in crisp seaweed with just enough spice to complement the briny flavour.

Equally satisfying was the Curried Salmon Handroll (S$12), which introduced aromatic Thai curry flavours into creamy salmon, creating an unexpectedly harmonious combination.

These handrolls demonstrated just how well Japanese technique and Thai flavours can work together, and they were easily our favourite dishes of the evening.

Next came the Thai Style Tsukune (2 skewers, S$10). The grilled chicken meatballs were juicy with hints of Thai seasoning, making them a solid accompaniment to drinks.

Among the mains, the Dry Tom Yum Seafood Ramen (S$28) was perhaps the biggest surprise. Instead of resembling a typical ramen bowl, it arrived looking almost like an elevated seafood pasta.

The noodles were coated in a rich, creamy tom yum sauce that tasted closer to an Italian seafood pasta infused with Thai aromatics than a conventional Japanese noodle dish. It was rich, comforting and somewhat indulgent.

Presentation was a highlight for the Scallops Cheese Mentai Glass Noodles (S$18), which arrived topped with three whole scallops served on their shells.

Beneath them sat silky glass noodles coated in creamy mentai sauce. The combination of sweet scallops, savoury cheese and rich mentai created a decadent dish that felt luxurious despite its approachable price.

The River Prawn Tempura Tom Yum Rice (S$18) offered generous portions, featuring crispy tempura river prawns atop fragrant tom yum flavoured rice. While enjoyable, the combination of fried seafood and rice made this one of the heavier dishes of the meal.

Dessert provided a satisfying conclusion to the meal.

The Mango Sticky Rice (S$10) delivered exactly what fans of the Thai classic would expect, with sweet ripe mango paired alongside sticky glutinous rice and creamy coconut sauce. We also sampled the Warabi Mochi Kinako (S$9), choosing the kinako version over matcha. The soft, delicate mochi coated in roasted soybean powder was pleasantly light and offered a gentle finish after a meal dominated by rich flavours.

Overall, Kin Nomi succeeds in making Thai Japanese fusion feel more than just a novelty. Most of their dishes lean towards richer, heavier flavours that will appeal to Singaporean tastebuds. This is food designed for sharing over drinks, where bold seasoning, creative combinations and generous portions take centre stage. The handrolls stood out as must orders, while the inventive mains are fun to try. Prices are pretty reasonable too, with most items priced below $20.

Combined with its lively atmosphere and central Chinatown location, Kin-Nomi offers a refreshing addition to Singapore’s dining scene for anyone looking to enjoy two beloved cuisines in one sitting.

Kin-Nomi

Address:
333 New Bridge Road, Singapore 088765

Opening Hours:
Daily, 12:00pm to 2:30pm,
5:30pm to 12:00am

Contact:
+65 8875 4245

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