Chef Takahiro Ishizawa Debuts His Signature Restaurant at Raffles Hotel

Singapore’s vibrant culinary landscape welcomes an exciting new addition with the opening of Ishizawa, the much-anticipated namesake restaurant by celebrated sushi master Chef Takahiro Ishizawa. Officially opening its doors on April 19 at the iconic Raffles Hotel, Ishizawa marks a bold new chapter in the chef’s celebrated career.

Having earned acclaim as the head chef of Shinji by Kanesaka at the Carlton Hotel, Chef Ishizawa is no stranger to the demands of excellence. Known for his meticulous craft and soulful approach to Edomae sushi, he now brings his singular vision to the forefront with a dining experience that’s both timeless and ever-evolving.

Taking over the space previously occupied by the one-Michelin-starred Oshino, Ishizawa is more than just a new restaurant—it’s the embodiment of Chef Ishizawa’s personal journey. With over 13 years of experience, his omakase offering is a harmonious blend of tradition, passion, and artistry, where every dish is a reflection of his relentless pursuit of perfection.

At Ishizawa, guests can expect a deeply curated omakase experience, one that honors the centuries-old techniques of Edomae sushi while embracing the chef’s own creative expression. Each course is a study in precision and balance, crafted with the utmost respect for ingredients and seasonality.

With its serene setting within Raffles Hotel and Chef Ishizawa’s signature touch, Ishizawa is poised to become a destination for sushi aficionados and discerning diners alike—those seeking not just a meal, but a truly exceptional encounter with Japanese culinary heritage.

Ishizawa is a new chapter in Japanese omakase dining, led by Chef Takahiro Ishizawa—affectionately known as Ishi-san. With over two decades of experience, including his tenure as head chef of the Michelin-starred Shinji by Kanesaka, Chef Ishizawa embarks on a journey to even greater heights, bringing his philosophy of continuous refinement to life.

Inspired by the crane—a revered symbol of longevity, prosperity, and grace—Ishizawa represents the chef’s unwavering pursuit of excellence. Each dish reflects a harmony of tradition and personal artistry, offering an omakase experience that is both timeless and ever-evolving. With a deep respect for heritage and an eye toward the future, Chef Ishizawa invites you to savor an unforgettable culinary journey—one that lingers in memory and keeps you coming back for more.

Born in Niigata, a region in Central Japan known for its pristine rice crop, Head Chef Takahiro Ishizawa bears a deep and lifelong reverence for the culinary traditions and culture of his people.

As a young boy, he made a promise to his father to traverse the world, explore its wonders and learn all he can while staying true to his roots – a promise that has led him to where he is today.

A true sushi shokunin (artisan), Chef Ishizawa is on a never-ending pursuit to perfect his craft. To create sushi that is perfectly balanced, he believes he must first maintain stillness within, achieved only through constant discipline and an unwavering focus even as the world around ebbs and flows.

Chef Ishizawa serves his food with pride and passion, dedicating himself to preserving the purity of traditional Edomae cuisine through his never ending pursuit for excellence.