A NEW Japanese Handroll lunch in CBD??!
Can omakase-style handrolls be affordable in CBD? We headed down to Onori during peak lunch hours to see if their fast-casual handroll concept can actually balance quality, convenience and price under the CBD lunch rush.
🍤FRIED EBI - 🍴5/5
Ebi was fried well with a crisp exterior. Main highlight was the kaffir lime and coconut mayo sauce which leaned citrusy, creamy and savoury. Mango salsa added refreshing tropical notes that balanced the richness of the fried ebi and sauce well.
🍣SPICY MAGURO (TUNA) - 5/5
Fresh tuna paired with a sesame-based sauce that gave each bite a strong nutty flavour. Gochujang added mild sweetness and spice without overpowering the tuna. Each bite was very saucy.
🍣SPICY SALMON - 4.5/5
Salmon was heavily marinated with a savoury soy-forward flavour. Texture leaned firmer and richer compared to the tuna. Mala salmon skin added crispness and contrast, though the mala flavour itself was quite subtle.
🍤TEMPURA KAKIAGE - 5/5
Light and airy kakiage with a crisp exterior and chewy interior texture. The seasoning leaned salty, almost similar to fries. Was very satisfying
🍄🟫TRUFFLE MUSHROOM RAGU - 3.5/5
Truffle flavour was quite mild and difficult to detect. Mushroom filling itself was well seasoned with earthy and buttery notes carrying most of the flavour.
ICED MATCHA LATTE
Light and earthy. No comments as I’m not a big matcha drinker.
🧑🧑🧒🧒LUNCH CROWD
Visited during peak lunch hours and there was a short queue. As the outlet is still newly opened, operations felt slightly understaffed. Food took around 30–40 minutes after ordering, which may be difficult for those on a strict 1-hour lunch break. Non-peak hours may provide a smoother experience. Note that the store closes at 2:30PM and reopens at 5:30PM.
🪑SEATING
Fairly large number of tables and counter seats available, though tables are placed quite closely together. Conversations from nearby tables are easily heard, so those looking for a quieter or more private setting may find it less ideal.
🚆CONVENIENCE
Located at Orchard Gateway, just a few minutes walk from Somerset MRT. Convenient option for those working around the Orchard area.
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🧾 TOTAL PAID: $19.51 (5 ROLL SET MEAL)
[NOT SPONSORED]
ONORI
📍 277 Orchard Road, Orchard Gateway, B2 -13, Singapore 238858
If you're looking to try Onori but worried about the lunchtime crowd and wait times, I recommend going during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience and quicker service. Their handroll set meals start from around $4 each, making it a reasonably priced option for CBD workers craving quality Japanese flavors without breaking the bank. Besides their standout fried ebi and spicy maguro, don’t miss the tempura kakiage which offers a satisfying crispy texture reminiscent of fries. The truffle mushroom ragu, while a bit mild on truffle aroma, provides a rich earthy balance. Seating is diverse with tables and counters but can be tight and noisy due to the close proximity of tables, so if you prefer a quieter lunch, consider an earlier or later visit. Conveniently located just a short walk from Somerset MRT, Onori fits well for Orchard area employees needing a quick, tasty handroll fix. Overall, I found the balance of taste, price, and convenience quite good, especially if you plan your visit to avoid peak lunch hours. Plus, keep an eye out for promotions offering free drinks with set meals to enhance your meal experience.
