My Visit to Una Una Bugis | Japanese Cuisine, Flavors, Value & Best Time
Have you ever walked into a place and felt like you’d been transported somewhere else? That’s exactly what happened to me when I first stepped into Una Una Bugis. I felt instantly welcomed by the gentle hum of conversation, clinking glasses, and the subtle hiss of the grill a symphony that made my stomach do a little happy dance.
The warm lighting, honey-toned wood panels, and low-hung lanterns created a cozy yet playful atmosphere. Counters lined with bar stools invited solo diners to watch chefs in action, while families and friends filled booths, sharing laughter and plates of vibrant Japanese dishes. I paused for a moment and thought,
“Every corner here tells a story, every dish feels intentional.”
From freshly grilled yakitori to delicate sushi rice, every aroma promised a new flavor adventure. That’s when I realized: Una Una Bugis isn’t just dinner it’s a little Japanese escape in the heart of Singapore.
I’ve always believed that a great Japanese meal is as much about philosophy as it is about flavor, and Una Una Bugis embodies that beautifully. Their approach is simple yet inspired: freshness at the heart of every dish, playful creativity in flavors, and a menu designed for sharing, from delicate sushi to sizzling izakaya-style plates.
Nestled in the vibrant Bugis neighborhood, Una Una is perfect for everyone from curious tourists exploring the city, to locals craving authentic Japanese bites, and office-goers grabbing a satisfying lunch.
Details:
- Address: 201 Victoria St, #05 – 02 Bugis+, Singapore 188067
- Nearest MRT: Bugis MRT
- Opening hours:
| Wednesday | 11 am–3 pm, 5–10 pm |
| Thursday | 11 am–3 pm, 5–10 pm |
| Friday | 11 am–3 pm, 5–10 pm |
| Saturday | 11 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 11 am–10 pm |
| Monday | 11 am–3 pm, 5–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 11 am–3 pm, 5–10 pm |
- Cuisine: Japanese Izakaya & Sushi
Why Una Una Bugis is a favorite:
- Fresh, innovative Japanese dishes
- Casual, relaxed dining
- Group-friendly menu options
- Sushi and izakaya favorites
Every visit feels like stepping into a space where flavor, fun, and social dining come together effortlessly.
Where Is Una Una Bugis Located Exactly?
Finding Una Una Bugis is a breeze, and its spot right in the heart of Bugis makes it perfect for a bite amid shopping or exploring. The restaurant sits just a short stroll from Bugis MRT, tucked near the lively streets connecting Bugis Junction, Bugis+, and the colorful alleyways of Haji Lane. If you wander past the iconic Sultan Mosque, you’re practically in the neighborhood!
From the MRT, it’s about a 5-minute walk just follow the buzz of cafes, boutiques, and the tempting aroma of street food. Whether you’re a tourist, shopper, or local craving Japanese flavors, Una Una is conveniently within reach.
My Personal Visit & First Impressions at Una Una Bugis
Stepping into Una Una Bugis, I was instantly wrapped in a warm, inviting glow. Rich wood accents, cozy booths, and subtle Japanese-inspired décor made it feel like a mini escape to Japan right in Bugis. The restaurant buzzed softly with conversation—solo diners perched at the counter, friends laughing over shared plates, families enjoying casual meals, and office-goers sneaking in a quick bite.
The staff were wonderfully attentive, greeting each table with genuine smiles and keeping the service smooth without ever feeling rushed. The overall vibe was social and playful, yet calm enough to enjoy a quiet moment if you wanted. I quickly realized that whether you’re dining solo, with a partner, or in a group, Una Una Bugis strikes the perfect balance of casual comfort and thoughtful sophistication.
Una Una Bugis Menu – Complete Dining Guide
Exploring the Una Una Bugis menu is like embarking on a little culinary adventure. Every section invites you to taste, share, and savor the essence of Japanese dining from crisp appetizers and delicate sushi to sizzling grilled dishes, hearty rice bowls, and sweet endings. The menu is designed for sharing, making it perfect for friends, family, or solo diners craving variety. Let’s dive into this flavorful journey, one section at a time.
Starters, Appetizers & Light Bites
I always like to start with Una Una’s appetizers small plates that pack big flavor. From crunchy edamame and creamy potato salads to silky chawanmushi and fresh sashimi salads, each dish is a little tease for your taste buds. Perfect for sharing or sampling solo, these bites awaken your appetite and set the tone for the meal ahead. They’re playful, light, and full of Japanese umami, giving you the perfect introduction to Una Una’s creative menu.
| Item | Notes |
| Edamame | Boiled soybeans, lightly salted ($4.10). |
| Chilled Tofu | Japanese steamed tofu, smooth and delicate. |
| Sashimi Salad | Fresh raw fish with mixed greens and tangy dressing ($13.82). |
| Shime Saba Aburi | Seared mackerel sushi topped with sauce, served with rice and garnishes ($12.74). |
| Takowasabi | Spicy octopus with wasabi, a bold Japanese delicacy ($6.26). |
| Unagi Salad | Grilled eel on a bed of fresh greens with savory dressing ($13.82). |
| Ikura Chawanmushi | Savory steamed egg custard topped with marinated salmon roe ($8.42). |
| Unagi Chawanmushi | Steamed egg custard with grilled eel ($7.34). |
| Salmon Carpaccio | Thinly sliced raw salmon drizzled with olive oil and lemon ($12.74). |
| Mentaiko Potato Salad | Creamy, tangy, and earthy ($6.26). |
| Potato Salad | Slightly sweet, savory, and creamy ($5.18). |
Sushi Selection
Sushi at Una Una Bugis is a delightful mix of tradition and creativity. From classic rolls like California and Philadelphia to specialty rolls such as unagi and mentaiko, every piece bursts with freshness and flavor. The sushi section invites sharing and tasting, making it fun for groups or solo diners who love variety. Each roll is carefully prepared, balancing textures, ingredients, and visual appeal, so every bite feels like a small celebration of Japanese culinary artistry.
| Item | Notes |
| Unagi Roll | Grilled eel sushi roll with rice, seaweed, sweet soy glaze, garnished with sesame ($20.30). |
| Philadelphia Roll | Crab, avocado, and cream cheese roll ($18.14). |
| California Roll | Classic sushi roll with multiple fillings ($13.82). |
| Mentaiko Roll | Spicy cod roe wrapped in rice and seaweed, rich and flavorful ($19.22). |
Unagi Mains
For eel enthusiasts, the Unagi mains are the stars of the show. Rich, savory, and satisfying, these dishes combine tender grilled eel with rice or beef, pork, and seafood in generous portions. Each plate is comforting yet refined, perfect for savoring slowly or sharing with friends. From classic kabayaki sets to hitsumabushi bowls, this section showcases the essence of Japanese umami, offering a hearty, flavorful centerpiece that leaves a lasting impression.
| Item | Notes |
| Unagi Kaisen Jyu | Grilled eel on rice, seafood-rich ($28.94). |
| Unagi Pork Jyu | Grilled eel with pork slices ($27.86), half portion ($21.38). |
| Unagi Sashimi Gozen | Fresh sashimi served with rice ($32.18). |
| Unagi Beef Jyu | Grilled eel with tender beef slices on rice ($28.94). |
| Unagi Sushi Roll Set | Grilled eel on rice, set menu ($20.30 for full, $32.18). |
| Unagi Kabayaki Set | Classic grilled eel set ($36.50). |
Other Mains, Rice & Noodles
If you’re craving something hearty, the rice, noodle, and other mains deliver warmth and satisfaction. From comforting udon soups and zaru soba to chicken, beef, pork, or salmon rice bowls, every dish is carefully balanced, filling, and flavorful. These options are perfect for solo lunches, group meals, or anyone seeking a wholesome Japanese experience. Each bowl is an inviting combination of textures, proteins, and seasonings that highlights Una Una’s dedication to taste and comfort.
| Item | Notes |
| Beef Kake Udon | Tender beef slices with udon noodles ($15.98). |
| Kake Udon | Simple, plain udon noodles ($10.58). |
| Beef Jyu | Hearty rice bowl with beef ($20.30). |
| Beef Chicken Jyu | Mixed protein rice bowl ($20.30). |
| Chicken Hitsumabushi | Grilled chicken on rice with condiments ($14.90). |
| Kaisen Ikura Hitsumabushi | Seafood and salmon roe hitsumabushi ($19.22). |
| Salmon & Barachirashi Jyu | Salmon and assorted toppings on rice ($25.70). |
| Pork Jyu | Flavorful pork rice bowl ($19.22). |
| Salmon Jyu | Grilled salmon on rice ($18.14). |
| Zaru Soba | Cold buckwheat noodles ($10.58). |
Deep-Fried & Charcoal Grill
The deep-fried and charcoal-grilled dishes are where aroma and texture truly shine. Crispy karaage, mentaiko gyoza, and takoyaki satisfy cravings for crunch, while grilled salmon, squid, and chicken offer smoky, flavorful indulgence. Each dish is fun to share, playful in flavor, and crafted with care. Perfect for mixing with other menu items, this section brings energy, warmth, and savory satisfaction, making it ideal for casual gatherings or adventurous solo diners who love bold, tasty bites.
| Item | Notes |
| Mentaiko Gyoza | Pan-fried dumplings topped with spicy cod roe ($10.58). |
| Takoyaki | Crispy outside, soft inside, classic snack ($10.58). |
| Chicken Karaage | Deep-fried, crispy outside, tender inside ($10.58). |
| Grilled Salmon | Charcoal-grilled and flavorful ($12.74). |
| Grilled Salmon Mentaiko | Salmon with mentaiko sauce ($13.82). |
| Grilled Chicken Yuzu Pepper | Grilled chicken with a zesty yuzu pepper kick ($12.74). |
| Grilled Squid | Whole squid, perfectly grilled ($19.22). |
| Grilled Chicken Teriyaki | Sweet-savory glaze with tartar sauce ($12.74). |
Beverages
No Japanese meal is complete without the right drinks to refresh and complement your food. From classic sodas like Coke, Sprite, and Rootbeer to sparkling soda water, these beverages quench thirst and cleanse the palate between bites. They balance the savory, rich, and umami-packed dishes perfectly, keeping the meal light, fun, and satisfying. Whether enjoyed solo or with friends, these drinks are simple, refreshing, and a delightful accompaniment to the lively flavors of Una Una Bugis.
| Item | Notes |
| Coke | Classic soft drink ($3.78). |
| Coke Zero | No sugar, same classic taste ($3.78). |
| Sprite | Crisp lemon-lime refreshment ($3.78). |
| Rootbeer | Sweet, creamy carbonated beverage ($3.78). |
| Soda Water | Classic sparkling water ($3.78). |
Signature Hitsumabushi
The signature hitsumabushi is a dish to savor slowly, taking in the aroma, spice, and tender grilled eel layered on rice. It’s rich, flavorful, and designed to be enjoyed in portions, letting you experience the evolving textures and sauces bite by bite. Small, medium, or large, this dish is perfect for eel lovers and anyone looking to experience Una Una’s culinary craftsmanship at its most indulgent and memorable.
| Item | Notes |
| Unagi Kaisen Hitsumabushi | Spicy grilled eel on rice with condiments; small ($19.76), medium ($23.00), large ($29.48). |
Must-Try Dishes at Una Una Bugis
If you’re wondering where to start at Una Una Bugis, here are my personal picks and crowd favorites dishes that always impress, capture the essence of Japanese dining, and showcase the restaurant’s signature flavors:
- Signature Yakitori – Charcoal-grilled chicken, pork, and vegetable skewers. Smoky, juicy, and lightly seasoned, each skewer bursts with umami and is perfect for sharing or nibbling solo.
- Chicken Karaage – Deep-fried to golden perfection. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy inside, this classic fried favorite is comfort food with a playful twist.
- Grilled Salmon / Grilled Squid – Charcoal-grilled to smoky perfection. The salmon is rich and flavorful, while the squid is tender with a satisfying chew, each bite enhanced by subtle seasoning.
- Sushi Platter or Sashimi – Fresh, buttery slices of salmon or tuna, or a mix of rolls like Unagi and Mentaiko. Light, delicate, and visually beautiful, perfect for tasting a variety of flavors.
- Dessert Highlight – Mochi or matcha treats. Soft, subtly sweet, and satisfying, these desserts provide a gentle finish to a savory and indulgent meal.
These selections offer a balance of textures, flavors, and temperatures, ensuring you experience the full spectrum of Una Una Bugis from sizzling grills to delicate sushi and indulgent sweets.
How Does the Food Taste? – Honest Flavor Review
At Una Una Bugis, every bite feels thoughtfully crafted. The flavors are umami-rich, with grilled dishes offering smoky, savory depth, while fried favorites like karaage are crisp outside, tender inside. Sushi and sashimi are fresh, delicate, and clean on the palate, providing a refreshing contrast. Rice bowls and udon bring comforting warmth, perfectly balanced for casual, everyday dining. I love how the menu adapts subtly to local tastes without losing Japanese authenticity slightly playful, generous portions, and perfectly seasoned, making each meal satisfying, approachable, and delightfully memorable for both newcomers and seasoned Japanese food lovers alike.
Dietary Choices at Una Una Bugis
Dining at Una Una Bugis is largely inclusive, but it’s always best to check with the staff if you have strict dietary requirements. For those who are halal-conscious, some dishes feature seafood or vegetarian ingredients, but confirmation is recommended. Vegetarians can enjoy options like edamame, potato salad, chawanmushi, and select sushi rolls without meat. While vegan options are limited, the team is accommodating and can suggest modifications where possible. My tip: ask for adjustments on sauces or skip certain toppings to make dishes more plant-friendly Una Una is flexible and welcoming to all diners. For a more casual Japanese dining vibe with izakaya-style sharing dishes, you can explore Watami Bugis izakaya here.
Portion Sizes & Value for Money
One of the things I love about Una Una Bugis is how the portions strike the perfect balance. Small plates are ideal for sharing, letting you mix sushi, grilled skewers, and appetizers without feeling overwhelmed. At the same time, generous platters and set meals—like the hitsumabushi and unagi sets are perfect for a hearty lunch, dinner, or even a casual celebration. Considering the freshness, quality, and care in every dish, the pricing feels fair and approachable, making it easy to enjoy a flavorful Japanese experience without stretching your wallet.
Seating, Wait Times & Reservations
At Una Una Bugis, the seating is thoughtfully designed to suit every kind of diner. You’ll find cozy booths for couples, tables for small groups, and a counter for solo diners who love a front-row view of the sushi and grill action. Peak hours typically dinner and weekends can be busy, so a short wait is common. For a relaxed experience, visit during off-peak hours. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended for larger groups to secure your spot and avoid the rush, especially if you’re planning a casual celebration.
Is Una Una Bugis Ideal for Groups & Families?
Absolutely! Una Una Bugis is perfect for sharing and social dining. The menu is made for groups, with small plates, sushi rolls, and generous mains that everyone can pick, mix, and enjoy together. The restaurant’s casual, playful atmosphere makes it easy for families, friends, and colleagues to relax and savor their meals. There are also kid-friendly options like chicken karaage and simple rice bowls, so little ones are happy too. Whether it’s a family outing or a catch-up with friends, this is a spot where everyone feels welcome and well-fed. If you want to explore more dining options in the same area, check out my full guide to Bugis Plus Restaurants near Bugis MRT.
Ordering Options, Takeaway & Delivery Services
If you’re not dining in, Una Una Bugis makes it easy to enjoy their flavors at home or at the office. Takeaway is available for those on the go, and many of the menu favorites including sushi rolls, grilled skewers, and rice bowls travel well without losing their flavor or texture. You can also order via GrabFood or Deliveroo, making it convenient for local diners craving a Japanese feast without stepping out. Whether solo or with friends, the full menu is accessible wherever you are, so you never have to miss a bite.
Best Time to Visit Una Una Bugis
Timing really shapes the Una Una experience. For a relaxed vibe, I love visiting during weekday afternoons or early evenings, when the restaurant is calm and you can enjoy the aromas of sushi and grilled dishes without the crowd. Dinner rushes and weekends bring a lively, social energy perfect if you want to soak up the buzz while sharing plates with friends or family. Personally, I’d suggest off-peak for a cozy meal, or peak hours if you enjoy the playful, bustling atmosphere that makes Bugis dining so vibrant.
Deals, Promotions & Value Sets
If you love getting more bang for your buck, Una Una Bugis has you covered. Their set meals and platters are perfect for sharing and give a little taste of everything sushi, grilled skewers, and mains without breaking the bank. Keep an eye out for seasonal or promotional combos, ideal for groups or casual celebrations. Some deals may also be tied to apps or loyalty programs, so it’s worth asking the staff. These value sets make it easy to enjoy a full Japanese experience while staying wallet-friendly.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Visiting Una Una Bugis for the first time? Here are my top tips to make the most of your meal:
- Mix it up: Try a combination of sushi, grilled skewers, and hot plates to experience the full menu.
- Share dishes: Small plates are perfect for tasting everything with friends or family.
- Visit off-peak: Weekday afternoons or early evenings offer a calmer, more relaxed vibe.
- Ask the staff: They know the best dishes and can recommend seasonal or popular options.
- Go with company: Sharing the meal makes the experience more fun and social.
People Also Ask
What is Una Una Bugis known for?
Una Una Bugis is famous for its fresh sushi, savory grilled skewers, and signature unagi dishes, combining casual Japanese dining with playful flavors.
Does Una Una Bugis offer vegetarian options?
Yes! Options like edamame, salads, chawanmushi, and select sushi rolls are suitable for vegetarians. Confirm with staff for modifications.
Is it good for groups?
Absolutely. The sharing-friendly menu, spacious seating, and relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for friends, families, or office gatherings.
Can I make a reservation?
Yes. Reservations are recommended during peak hours or weekends, especially for larger groups.
How much does a typical meal cost?
Small plates and sushi rolls start around $4–$20, with mains and sets ranging from $14–$36, offering good value for fresh, quality Japanese cuisine.
my Final NOTE
Visiting Una Una Bugis felt like stepping into a little pocket of Japan in the heart of Bugis. From the aroma of grilled skewers and fresh sushi to the playful clatter of chopsticks on plates, every detail felt thoughtfully crafted. The menu’s variety, generous portions, and approachable pricing make it perfect for solo meals, family outings, or lively group dinners. I especially loved the unagi dishes and the vibrant sushi selection. For anyone craving casual yet refined Japanese flavors in a relaxed, social atmosphere, Una Una Bugis is an absolute must-visit.
