Yakiniku Bugis | the Japanese BBQ , Best Dishes & When to Visit
Strolling through the bustling streets of Bugis, I was immediately drawn to a tantalizing aroma sweet, smoky, and unmistakably meaty. The sizzle of thinly sliced beef on open grills mingled with hints of caramelized marinade, making my stomach rumble before I even spotted the restaurant. I found myself pausing, wondering, Could this really be the best Japanese BBQ in Bugis? The warm glow of table grills and the chatter of diners sharing plates promised more than just a meal it was an experience. At Yakiniku Bugis, every visit feels like a small celebration: smoky wagyu, interactive grilling, and the simple joy of sharing good food. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a social, indulgent ritual in the heart of Bugis.
When I first stepped into Yakiniku Bugis, I could immediately tell this was more than just another Japanese BBQ spot. The restaurant is renowned for its authentic yakiniku, with premium beef, wagyu, and pork cuts that melt in your mouth, all paired with signature sauces that highlight the umami without overpowering the natural flavors. What makes the Bugis outlet special is its perfect balance of casual and refined a central location that’s easy to reach, a layout designed for groups, and table grills that make every meal interactive. I loved how cozy the modern Japanese interior felt, yet the ventilation kept the smoky aroma just right, so you could focus on the food and conversation.
📍 Address: 80 Middle Rd, #01-92/96 Bugis Junction, 188966
🚇 Nearest MRT: Bugis MRT (5-minute walk)
⏰ Opening Hours:
| Monday | 11 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 11 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 11 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 11 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 11 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 11 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 11 am–10 pm |
🍲 Cuisine: Japanese BBQ / Yakiniku
Why is this Bugis outlet so popular?
- Premium meat cuts: beef, wagyu, and pork
- Interactive tabletop grilling at each table
- Social, share-style dining perfect for groups
- Central location near Bugis Junction and Bugis Street
Whether you’re a first-timer or a yakiniku enthusiast, this bugis yakiniku spot makes for a memorable meal every time.
Where Exactly Is This Yakiniku Bugis Located?
Finding Yakiniku Bugis is a breeze if you’re coming from Bugis MRT. I usually exit via Exit A, then take a short 5-minute stroll along the bustling streets toward Bugis Junction you’ll pass trendy shops and cafes that make the walk lively. The restaurant is right on the street front, so the sizzling aroma of grilled wagyu practically guides you in. Look out for the modern wooden signage with Japanese lettering and the occasional queue of diners waiting for a table during peak dinner hours. Being so central, it’s a convenient spot for anyone craving Bugis Japanese BBQ after shopping at Bugis Street or the nearby malls.
My Personal Visit & First Impressions
I visited Yakiniku Bugis on a lively Friday evening, just as the after-work crowd started trickling in. The restaurant was buzzing with groups of friends, couples, and small families, all gathered around their tabletop grills. The moment I sat down, the sizzle of marinated beef on the hotplate filled the air, mingling with the rich, sweet-savory aroma of sauces and smoky wagyu fat it instantly made my stomach growl. The staff were warm and attentive, quickly setting up the grill and explaining the dipping sauces. My first bite of the juicy, tender beef left me impressed: the marinade was perfectly balanced, and the slight char from the grill enhanced every mouthful. It was a true Japanese BBQ indulgence.
Yakiniku Bugis Menu – Complete Dining Guide
Exploring the Yakiniku Bugis menu is like stepping into a world of sizzling Japanese BBQ delights. Every section is crafted for sharing, tasting, and savoring from premium beef and wagyu sets to hearty pork and chicken options, lunch specials, and all-you-can-eat indulgences. The menu is designed for social dining, making it ideal for friends, family, or solo diners who love variety. Let’s take a closer look at what’s on offer, section by section.
Lunch Specials & Takeaway Deals
Lunch at Yakiniku Bugis is perfect for a quick but satisfying Japanese BBQ fix. The Student Set and Takeaway Deal are wallet-friendly, including rice, soup, and refreshing drinks. Each option is designed to deliver the BBQ experience even on a busy day, whether you’re dining in or grabbing a takeaway.
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Beef Yakiniku Bento | $6.90. Limited-time takeaway only, includes miso soup. Perfect for a quick lunch. |
| Student Set | Includes 300g of your choice: Karubi, Pork Belly, Chicken + drink. Great value for students. |
| Karai Nabe / Niku Nabe | Hearty, flavorful soups with beef or pork, warming and satisfying. |
| Yakiniku Don / Buta Don / Chicken Don | Rice bowls with tender grilled meats, easy and filling. |
| Curry Udon / Yaki Udon | Japanese-style udon (spicy/non-spicy) with beef or pork, comforting and flavorful. |
Set Menus
The set menus at Yakiniku Bugis are where the BBQ experience shines. Each comes with rice, soup, and a choice of kimchi, salad, or spicy beansprout, making them perfect for sharing or first-time diners. From classic beef short plates to premium wagyu, the sets cater to all cravings.
| Item | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Karubi Set | $18.90 | Beef short plate. Standard favorite, 200g/300g options. |
| Duo Prime Set | $17.90 | Boneless short rib + beef short plate. Balanced flavors. |
| Sukiyaki Karubi Set | $19.90 | Sukiyaki beef short plate, sweet-savory umami. |
| Sukiyaki Prime Karubi Set | $20.90 | Boneless beef short ribs, premium marinade. |
| Hokkaido Shirobuta Set | $21.90 | Pork belly + pork collar, perfect for pork lovers. |
| Value Set | $16.90 | Pork belly + chicken thigh. Great starter combo. |
| Trinity Set | $17.90 | Beef short plate, pork belly, chicken thigh. Sharing-friendly. |
| Hey! Set | $27.90 | Beef tongue, beef short plate, skirt steak. Premium trio. |
| Duo Cut Set | $23.90 | Beef short plate + skirt steak. Balanced flavors. |
| Ja Karubi Set | $24.90 | Special boneless short rib, rich and tender. |
| Australian Wagyu Ribeye Set | $31.00 | 200-day grain-fed ribeye, indulgent wagyu. |
| Hey! Niku Set | $29.90 | Karubi, tontoro, prime karubi, pork belly, chicken thigh. Feast-worthy. |
Meat Selections & Flavours
Every grill experience is customizable, letting you enjoy tom yum, spicy bulgogi, sukiyaki, or classic yakiniku marinades depending on the meat.
| Meat | Flavors |
|---|---|
| Karubi | Tom yum, spicy bulgogi, sukiyaki, yakiniku |
| Pork Belly | Tom yum, spicy bulgogi, sukiyaki, yakiniku |
| Chicken | Tom yum, spicy bulgogi, yakiniku |
All-You-Can-Eat Buffet
For the ultimate indulgence, the 90-minute all-you-can-eat buffet offers 20 items, letting you mix and match beef, pork, chicken, and sides. Ideal for groups or anyone wanting to sample the full range of Japanese BBQ flavors at Yakiniku Bugis.
Must-Try Dishes
When it comes to Yakiniku Bugis, I’ve found a few standout dishes that instantly elevate the Japanese BBQ experience. These are my go-to picks, perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting the best wagyu and grilled meats Bugis has to offer.
- Australian Wagyu Ribeye Set – The marbling on this ribeye is next-level. Each bite melts in your mouth, with a buttery texture and rich, umami-packed flavour that makes it a must-try for wagyu lovers.
- Hey! Set – A premium trio of beef tongue, short plate, and skirt steak. The variety lets you explore textures and flavours, from tender to slightly chewy, all smoky and satisfying.
- Trinity Set – Combines beef short plate, pork belly, and chicken thigh. I love this combo for sharing; it’s a full spectrum of meats with contrasting marinades that keep the grill fun.
- Ja Karubi Set – Special boneless short rib, deeply flavoured and tender. I always recommend it for anyone seeking a rich, indulgent bite.
- Sukiyaki Prime Karubi Set – Sweet-savory sukiyaki marinade makes this set irresistible, especially if you enjoy that delicate caramelized finish on your grill.
These dishes highlight the smoky aroma, sweet-savory marinades, and premium cuts that make Yakiniku Bugis a top choice for Japanese BBQ in Bugis. If you’re also in the mood for Korean BBQ after your yakiniku feast, don’t miss my full review of Bulgogi Syo Bugis restaurant.
How Does the Food Taste?
At Yakiniku Bugis, every bite is a little celebration of Japanese BBQ mastery. The wagyu ribeye practically melts on your tongue, marbled to perfection and tender without being greasy. The marinades strike a perfect balance sweet, savory, with umami depth that lingers delightfully. As the meats sizzle on the tabletop grill, the smoky aroma fills the air, making every turn of the tongs feel like a mini ritual. Even the chicken and pork carry that signature caramelized finish. It’s authentic, indulgent, and a social dining experience that truly brings Bugis yakiniku to life.
Dietary Options
If you’re curious about dietary considerations at Yakiniku Bugis, here’s the scoop. The restaurant is not halal, as pork and beef are core to most of the menu. You’ll find pork, beef, chicken, and limited seafood options, with wagyu and short ribs being the star attractions. Vegetarian options are very limited, mostly sides like salad, kimchi, or beansprouts, so plant-based diners may need to come prepared. Because the grills are shared for all meats, cross-contact is inevitable, so allergy-sensitive diners should be cautious. Overall, this is a haven for meat lovers, but not the ideal spot for strict dietary restrictions.
Portion Sizes & Value for Money
Yakiniku Bugis offers cozy indoor seating with tabletop grills at every table, letting you enjoy the interactive Japanese BBQ experience right at your own pace. The ventilation is surprisingly effective smoke from the sizzling meats is minimal, so you can focus on grilling without worrying about lingering odors. Peak hours, especially weekday evenings and weekend dinners, can get busy, with waits of 15–30 minutes for walk-ins. If you want a stress-free experience, I’d recommend making a reservation, particularly for groups or larger sets, though solo diners and couples often get seated quickly during off-peak hours. If you want to explore more popular dining spots in the same area, check out my complete guide to Bugis Junction Restaurants near Bugis MRT.
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 This Yakiniku Bugis Good for Groups & Families?
Yakiniku Bugis is perfect for groups of 3–6, giving everyone space to grill their own selections without feeling cramped. The atmosphere is lively but not overwhelming, making it kid-friendly if your little ones enjoy interactive dining (just keep an eye on the hot grills). The social, hands-on style encourages sharing, swapping meats, and tasting different marinades, so it’s ideal for families or friends looking to bond over food. Even couples can enjoy the experience, but I personally love coming with a small group—it turns dinner into a playful, communal Japanese BBQ ritual.
Ordering Options, Takeaway & Delivery Services
Yakiniku Bugis truly shines as a dine-in experience—there’s nothing like sizzling your own meat right at the table and enjoying the aroma of caramelizing marinades. Takeaway is limited to bento-style deals, which are convenient but miss the interactive fun of tabletop grilling. Delivery isn’t offered for the full yakiniku sets, and for good reason—the meat tastes best fresh off the grill, with the texture and smoky aroma intact. If you’re craving that authentic Japanese BBQ thrill, plan to eat on-site, enjoy the social energy, and savor each bite just as it’s meant to be experienced.
Best Time to Visit
Timing your Yakiniku Bugis visit can make all the difference between a relaxed meal and a bustling, lively atmosphere. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Time | Weekday | Weekend | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lunch | Light crowd | Moderate | Perfect for solo diners or small groups |
| Dinner | Busy | Very busy | Peak hours: 7–9 PM, likely queues |
| Late Night | Moderate | Moderate | Ideal for a quieter, indulgent experience |
Melissa’s tip: I love heading for an early dinner around 6 PM on weekdays. The tables are ready, grills hot, and you still get the full social energy without long waits. For a weekend feast, consider a late-night slot if you want to skip the queues and enjoy a more relaxed vibe.
Deals, Promotions & Value Sets
Yakiniku Bugis makes it easy to try a variety of premium meats without breaking the bank. Their set menus are perfect for first-timers: the Karubi Set, Duo Prime Set, or Trinity Set all come with rice, soup, and sides, giving you a full Japanese BBQ experience. For students or solo diners, the Takeaway Deal offers a beef bento with miso soup at a steal. Group diners can explore larger combos like the Hey! Niku Set or Australian Wagyu Ribeye Set for a sharing-friendly feast. Add-ons like extra pork belly or chicken let you customise your meal and get maximum value.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Start with a signature set – I always recommend the Karubi or Duo Prime Set to get a full tasting experience.
- Grill meats carefully – Thin slices cook fast; watch for caramelized edges without overcooking.
- Mix sauces and sides – Pair grilled wagyu with kimchi or spicy beansprout to balance richness.
- Manage smoke at your table – Adjust the grill heat and ventilation to avoid overpowering your senses.
- Share and sample – Ordering a mix of beef, pork, and chicken allows everyone to taste variety without wasting food.
People Also Ask
What is yakiniku?
Yakiniku is Japanese-style BBQ where bite-sized meats and vegetables are grilled at your table, giving a hands-on, interactive dining experience.
Is Yakiniku Bugis halal?
The restaurant serves pork, so it’s not fully halal. Chicken and beef options are available, but cross-contact with pork may occur.
How much does Japanese BBQ cost in Bugis?
Most set menus range from around $17 to $31, with premium wagyu sets at the higher end. Lunch specials and student deals can be more budget-friendly.
What is the best yakiniku dish?
The Australian Wagyu Ribeye Set and Duo Prime Set are my top picks—rich, tender, and full of smoky umami flavor.
Are there queues at Bugis yakiniku restaurants?
Yes, peak dinner hours and weekends often see lines forming, so reservations or early visits are recommended.
my Final NOTE
Dining at Yakiniku Bugis was an indulgent, interactive experience that I can’t stop thinking about. From sizzling wagyu on the tabletop grill to the sweet-savory marinades and perfectly balanced sides, every bite felt like a mini celebration. This spot is ideal for groups, friends, or couples who enjoy sharing and discovering flavors together, with a lively yet comfortable atmosphere. I’d happily return to explore more of their sets and mix different marinades, especially the Wagyu Ribeye. If you love Japanese BBQ, Yakiniku Bugis isn’t just a meal it’s a social ritual and a must-visit gem in Bugis.
