September 3, 2025
Nikuya Tanaka, a steakhouse known for its kappo-style counter dining and top-quality Japanese beef, is opening its first international outpost in Singapore this September.
Founded by Chef Satoru “Boss” Tanaka, Nikuya Tanaka has built a strong reputation in Japan for its dedication to wagyu. The flagship in Ginza has been ranked Japan’s No. 1 steak restaurant for two years in a row and is also placed #27 on the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants list.
Chef Tanaka comes from a family deeply rooted in the meat trade. Growing up around butchery and livestock, he developed an early passion for wagyu. His approach focuses on letting the beef speak for itself, highlighting its natural flavour, texture, and richness.
At the heart of Nikuya Tanaka’s philosophy is the use of purebred Tajima Wagyu, a rare type of beef that makes up less than 0.1% of Japan’s total wagyu production. Chef Tanaka is known for carefully selecting female cattle aged over 35 months, resulting in meat with exceptional marbling and depth of flavour.
The Singapore outlet will mirror the intimate setup of its Ginza counterpart, featuring a 10-seat kappo-style counter and a private dining room. Guests can expect a personal and immersive experience, where the chefs prepare and serve each dish directly at the counter.
Nikuya Tanaka focuses on simple techniques that bring out the best in wagyu, such as binchotan charcoal grilling and delicate seasoning. While full menu details haven’t been revealed yet, diners can expect a curated selection of dishes that showcase the beef’s quality without overcomplicating flavours.
The atmosphere is designed to feel warm and intimate, with soft lighting and clean, minimalist interiors, creating the perfect setting for a refined yet relaxed dining experience.
For steak and wagyu lovers, Nikuya Tanaka’s arrival marks an exciting moment for Singapore’s dining scene. While the city already has plenty of great steak restaurants, few match the precision and philosophy behind Chef Tanaka’s approach. This opening brings a taste of Japan’s finest wagyu craftsmanship right to Singapore’s doorstep.
In an impressive climb up the global culinary ladder, the chef-owner of Potong in Bangkok, has just been named the World’s Best Female Chef for 2025.
CreatorsLab recently concluded a significant international distribution deal for its documentary series, ‘Chefs Uncut.’