In the competitive ramen scene of Singapore, credibility matters. So when a two time champion quietly opens a modest shop in a tech mall better known for gadgets than gourmet food, it demands attention.
Menya Saku Sim Lim Square is the latest venture by Japanese chef Mamoru Kanaya, a former head chef at Buta God under Ramen Champion. After stepping away from ramen for over a decade, Kanaya has returned with a clear promise: richer, creamier tonkotsu ramen crafted with experience and restraint.
Located inside Sim Lim Square, the 30 seat eatery may look unassuming, but behind the counter stands a chef who once clinched back to back Ultimate Ramen Champion titles at Ramen Champion in 2013 and 2014.
From Hokkaido to Singapore: The Journey of Mamoru Kanaya
Born in Hokkaido, Mamoru Kanaya moved to Singapore in 2011 in search of new experiences and a chance to use his English. He initially worked as an izakaya chef before joining Ramen Champion at Bugis.
It was there that Kanaya first learned the art of ramen under a Japanese specialist hired by the operator. What began as a challenge soon became his signature craft. As head chef of Buta God, he refined his technique and eventually emerged as a two time winner in the in house ramen competition.
Despite the accolades, Kanaya is quick to downplay his achievements. Yet his return to ramen in 2025 signals unfinished business and renewed passion
Why Menya Saku Is Different
Menya Saku by Oh Some Bowls opened in June 2025 as a fresh chapter. The name carries meaning. Menya translates to noodle shop, while Saku means to bloom, symbolising a new beginning.
Unlike flashy ramen chains, Menya Saku blends seamlessly into Sim Lim Square’s row of practical, affordable eateries. This is intentional. Kanaya prefers serving office workers and students who want honest food at fair prices.
Prices range from 9 to 16 dollars for a fully loaded bowl, with no service charge or GST. In a market where dining costs continue to rise, this straightforward pricing adds to its appeal
The Signature: Richer, Creamier Tonkotsu Ramen
The heart of the menu is Hakata style tonkotsu ramen. Diners can choose from classic, black garlic, or spicy versions.
Kanaya explains that his current broth differs from his previous Buta God recipe. At Buta God, the pork based broth was intentionally lighter to balance fattier chashu. At Menya Saku, the tonkotsu is designed to be richer and creamier, pairing with leaner pork slices.
The Special Tonkotsu Ramen, priced at 15 dollars, features broth simmered for about 10 hours using a blend of pork and chicken bones. The result is full bodied yet not cloying. The fresh Hakata style noodles, delivered daily from a Japanese supplier, maintain a springy bite even in the dense soup.
For better value, many diners may prefer the basic tonkotsu at 11 dollars or the ajitama version at 13 dollars.
For Spice Lovers: Red and Black Tonkotsu
The Special Red Tonkotsu Ramen stands out for its layered heat. Instead of relying solely on chilli oil, at Menya Saku, Kanaya builds depth using two house made chilli components.
One mixture incorporates minced chicken for texture, while another sharper blend includes cili padi, ginger, garlic and onion. The heat develops gradually, allowing diners to control the spice level as the paste melts into the broth.
The Special Black Garlic Tonkotsu Ramen features house made black garlic oil. The flavour is nuanced rather than overpowering, making it suitable for those who enjoy garlic without overwhelming intensity.
The Sleeper Hit: Niku Soba Ramen
While tonkotsu draws attention, the Niku Soba Ramen is arguably the menu’s hidden gem.
Built on a chicken based broth layered with bonito stock, this bowl delivers clean, lingering umami. The chuka soba noodles are slightly firmer, soaking up the savoury broth without turning soggy.
Tender sliced beef adds richness without overshadowing the soup. Spinach, fishcake and an onsen egg complete the bowl, with the yolk adding silkiness as it blends into the broth. For many, this may be the must order item on a first visit.
A Nod to Hokkaido: Chicken Ramen Salad
Kanaya’s roots in Hokkaido appear in the Chicken Ramen Salad. This dish, commonly found in izakayas in northern Japan, combines chuka soba with fresh vegetables and grilled chicken, lightly dressed in mayo and teriyaki sauce.
At 8 dollars, it serves as either a refreshing side or a lighter main course. It also references Kanaya’s previous venture, Oh Some Bowls, a Japanese inspired salad bar he operated for seven years before redevelopment forced its closure.
A True One Man Operation
One of the most compelling aspects of Menya Saku Sim Lim Square is its simplicity. Kanaya handles soup preparation, noodle cooking and plating himself. His wife Chiaki assists with taking orders and serving customers, despite the absence of service charge.
The shop is clean and minimal, furnished with light wood tables and little decoration. The focus is clearly on the food rather than theatrics.
No Rush to Expand in a Competitive Market
Singapore’s ramen scene is crowded and competitive. Yet Kanaya has no immediate plans to expand beyond this single outlet.
His priority is consistency and quality. Familiar faces from his Buta God days have already started visiting, recognising him from old photos displayed in the shop. Word of mouth may become his strongest marketing tool.
Why Menya Saku Sim Lim Square Is Worth Visiting
For diners seeking authentic Japanese ramen without premium pricing, Menya Saku offers serious credentials and thoughtful execution. The richer tonkotsu broth, well balanced spice options, and standout Niku Soba demonstrate the skill of a chef who has spent over a decade refining his craft.
In a mall better known for electronics than epicurean experiences, this no frills ramen shop proves that excellence does not require extravagance.
Menya Saku by Oh Some Bowls is located at Sim Lim Square and operates from Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 8.30pm, closed on Monday.
If you are searching for Menya Saku Sim Lim Square or looking to try ramen by a Ramen Champion winner in Singapore, this humble shop deserves a spot on your list.
