Esora

Dining at Esora feels like stepping into a quiet sanctuary, where beauty unfolds through a seamless blend of artistry, intimacy, and culinary precision. Our recent visit was nothing short of extraordinary... a rare experience that now holds a treasured place in our hearts as one of Singapore’s most refined and memorable dining moments. It’s no surprise that Esora has earned its Michelin star; every element reflects a mastery worthy of such recognition, yet it is delivered with a warmth and soul that makes it feel deeply personal. From the moment we entered, a deep sense of calm embraced us. A stillness woven into the fabric of the space, into every movement, every detail. Sho’s presence mirrored this quality: warm, intimate, and refined, holding space with grace and lightness. The menu was a living expression of the season, each course a poetic harmony of flavour, texture, and creativity, honouring tradition while embracing harmonies and new expression. The tea pairing, alongside sake and wine, was exceptional... meditative and grounding, yet bright and uplifting, unfolding the meal like a story. Each moment was an invitation to slow down, to listen, to truly feel. Esora is not simply a place we visited; it is a place we remembered.

Our dining experience was largely disappointing. When you're already investing an additional $15 for a simple fruit tart, particularly for a special occasion, you naturally expect the entire dining experience to be exceptional. Unfortunately, that wasn't our reality. Culinary offerings were distinctly average, lacking any 'wow' factor. Service was equally lackluster, characterized by a noticeable lack of sincerity from the staff. Furthermore, I was quite taken aback by the apparent disregard for oral hygiene, particularly concerning staff who had recently taken smoke breaks. The restaurant's atmosphere felt rather cold and stifling, devoid of the genuine smiles and enthusiasm that would elevate the presentation and explanation of the food. I’ve never felt more eager to finish and leave. Chef was clearly not keen to engage patrons. Like can at least smile right, when patrons say it’s delicious? Esora has definitely seen better days.

Been here twice. Once in 2022 and once recently. In 2022 we had to book months in advance. This round we only booked 4 days in advance for Saturday dinner. The only dish I rly liked this round was the biscuit which was the first dish. Everything else was average and did not stand out. For $327 (dinner price including one glass of Umeshu) I really expect a lot more from the enjoyment of food. The service was excellent for sure, but I’m not willing to pay this price just for service and atmosphere.

Beautiful restaurant with lots of natural light. Great ambience although it can feel a little stifling. Food is very clean tasting but menu seems to be quite repeated across the seasons. Staff was very prompt and paid great attention to the diners.

My first experience at Esora a few years ago was not very good, but tonight's Esora completely changed my mind. The enriched menu provided beautiful and delicate food, their service was warm and professional. It lived up to the Michelin star. ❤️

Staff was knowledgeable and provided detailed explanation of dishes and where ingredients were from. The dishes have so many complex flavours, ingredients, and colours. My favourite was the chicken wing stuffed with mushroom. The staff came around and showed us all the mushrooms the chicken wing will be stuffed with. Love that the chef incorporated autumn ingredients to the dishes. I really enjoyed the tea tasting experience. Not a lot of restaurants provide tea tasting so it was a nice treat. The financiers they gave us as parting gift were so flavourful and buttery, best financier I've had

Wow. Esora takes the noise and chaos of a kitchen and turns it into a tranquil place. The food is beautifully presented and delicious. Everyone was kind and keen to explain how each dish was created.

A delightful Japanese Kappo style dinning experience, with best quality seasonal ingredients and great culinary skills. Presentation was artistic too. Our fav dishes were the chicken wing stuffed with juicy mushrooms, and the Kinmedai with crispy skin. Tea pairing was nice to try too.

Esora is an oasis of elegance and refind cuisine. Experienced their seven course autumn menu and every dish was wonderful. Went with the wine and saki pairings and each was the perfect accompaniment to the courses. The team is attentive and friendly and the three hour seating is just right. Highly recommend.

the best new japanese restaurant in my books! outdoing yet another japanese restaurant in the robertson quay area that i have been wanting to but have yet to review. this restaurant will get a star, there, i hope i don't jinx them! but in all seriousness, looking at the way michelin dishes them out, esora ticks all the boxes. it's one of those places that you just can't wait to write a yelp review for!:) a holistic approach that delivers an experience, being same but different. attention to details, no sauce, garnish too insignificant. where the inclusion or exclusion of which changes, enhances or detracts. the perfect balance that doesn't overwhelm nor leave your keen senses feeling deprive. service, ah yes, a crucial component of that experience. a friendly, well informed and cross trained team that works in sync, flowing as one, the strength of each making the sum of parts stronger. exquisite but not just a pretty face. from the pieces of cutlery and dining ware, to the presentation and plating. you think you have seen it all but then they deliver more. yes, the food will speak for itself. flavours exploding via umami bombs! techniques, if you ask, will be gladly shared verbally. showcasing the best produce they can procure in the regions where they thrive. no dish will taste the same, as each has a complex twist. the "what is that, in a good way" smells fill the room and lifts the anticipation to the next level, whilst your palate waits. pacing is even as the machinery grinds into full gear when all lucky reserved guests showed up. wow, i expected nothing less and they delivered plenty more, a wonderful and complete experience that made for a perfect anniversary celebration! thank you, next........am so glad summer is coming when menu will be changing and esora will be blowing me away, again!