JEM stands as one of Singapore’s premier shopping destinations for Westies, conveniently located at Jurong East MRT Station. Beyond its extensive retail offerings, the mall has established itself as a culinary hub featuring 20 diverse dining establishments. This comprehensive review explores the best food spots that make JEM a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Japanese Excellence: A Standout Category
Premium Ramen Experience at Kanada-Ya
Kanada-Ya deserves special mention as one of JEM’s crown jewels. This Michelin Guide-listed establishment from Fukuoka prefecture serves what many consider benchmark-setting tonkotsu ramen. The signature Kotteri Tonkotsu Ramen Special ($14.90++) showcases an 18-hour pork bone broth that achieves the perfect balance of richness and creaminess—a level of depth that genuinely distinguishes it from competitors.
The broth’s distinctive character comes through immediately, featuring layers of umami that coat the palate without overwhelming. Generous portions of tender pork belly chashu, wood ear fungus, spring onions, and nori complete the bowl. For those seeking variety, the Spicy Yuzu Ramen Basic ($16.90++) adds tangy heat through yuzu chilli paste, while the Mala Tonkotsu Ramen ($16.90++) delivers numbing spice for adventurous diners.
Warabimochi Kamakura: A Unique Sweet Treat
This Japanese chain brings something relatively uncommon to Singapore—authentic warabimochi made from bracken starch rather than glutinous rice flour. The result is a noticeably silkier, softer texture that sets it apart from conventional mochi.
The innovative drink format proves particularly popular, with warabimochi pearls adding delightful chewiness to beverages like Strawberry Milk ($9.90/$11.90), Coffee Milk ($6.90/$8.90), and Hojicha ($6.90/$8.90). For purists, standalone boxes of 5 pieces ($8.90) or 10 pieces ($15.90) allow you to appreciate the texture without distraction. The outlet-exclusive Mango Yoghurt ($7.90/$9.90) offers a tropical twist worth trying.
Sen Sen Sushi: Accessible Quality
As Don Don Donki’s restaurant venture, Sen Sen Sushi operates as JEM’s exclusive conveyor-belt sushi spot. The Oshi Sushi ($6.80++) provides exceptional value with four distinct varieties: Salmon, Shrimp, Conger Eel, and Pickled Mackerel—perfect for indecisive diners or those wanting to sample multiple options.
The must-order item remains the Seared Salmon with Mentaiko Mayo ($3.50++), a crowd favorite that translates the beloved Don Don Donki sushi counter experience into restaurant format. The combination of torched salmon and creamy mentaiko creates an umami bomb that justifies return visits.
Additional Japanese Options
Aburi-En delivers impressive value with generously portioned donburi. The Aburi Mentaiko Kaisen Bara Chirashi ($19.90++) stands out as an absolute steal, combining diced tuna, salmon, swordfish, ikura, caviar, and tamago under a blanket of creamy mentaiko cheese sauce. The Truffle Roast Wagyu Don ($19.90++) and Premium Bura Don ($16.90++) offer meat-forward alternatives.
Sun With Moon Light specializes in the less common kamameshi (kettle rice), where short-grain rice cooks in bonito and kelp stock alongside various ingredients. The Aburi Kaisen Bara Kamameshi ($22++) provides seafood variety with salmon, unagi, scallop, egg, and salmon roe. The Ika Siew Mai ($3.50++) makes for an interesting fusion side dish.
Tonkatsu EN-biton elevates the humble fried cutlet through premium ingredients, using yuzu-fed pork that delivers enhanced juiciness and nutritional value. The Yuzu Hire Katsu Set ($23++) uses leaner cuts while maintaining tenderness, complemented perfectly by ground sesame seeds and tonkatsu sauce. High rollers can splurge on the Miyazaki Gyukatsu ($39++), featuring premium A4/A5 Wagyu beef.
Korean Dining: From Street Food to Premium BBQ
Seorae: The “Wagyu” of Pork
Seorae distinguishes itself in Singapore’s crowded Korean BBQ scene through its signature Galmaegisal—pork skirt that’s exceptionally rare at local K-BBQ restaurants. Available at $33.90++ for 270g or $59.90++ for 500g, this cut truly earns its “Wagyu of pork” nickname.
Reports consistently describe the Galmaegisal as extraordinarily succulent, juicy, and sweet—genuinely different from standard pork offerings. The meat’s inherent quality shines through even simple grilling, making it worth the premium pricing for serious BBQ enthusiasts.
POCHA! Korean Street Dining: Casual Comfort
Designed to evoke an authentic Korean pojangmacha (street tent bar), POCHA! delivers approachable Korean comfort food in a casual setting. The classics perform admirably: Gimbap ($8.90++), Tteokbokki ($10.90++), and Corndog ($6.90++) all satisfy cravings for familiar street food.
The Budae Jjigae ($14.90++) represents the menu’s heartier side, offering a warming stew packed with beef or pork, tofu, rice cakes, kimchi, and more. It’s the kind of substantial, soul-satisfying dish that justifies a visit on rainy days.
International Flavors: From Thailand to Hong Kong
Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice: Michelin-Approved Thai Classic
This Michelin-recognized import from Thailand brings authentic Pratunam-style chicken rice to JEM. The Single Portion ($5.20++) or thigh upgrade ($6.20++) delivers remarkably tender and juicy chicken paired with fragrant, flavorful rice that absorbs the cooking liquid beautifully.
The accompanying chilli sauce provides the perfect piquant counterpoint, completing the classic flavor profile. For groups, the Steamed Bass with Chilli Lime & Garlic ($28++) adds variety and freshness. The halal certification makes this accessible to more diners.
Tsui Wah: Hong Kong Heritage
Established in 1967, Tsui Wah brings authentic Hong Kong cha chaan teng culture to JEM. The all-day menu accommodates various dining occasions, from the indulgent Crispy Bun with Condensed Milk breakfast to comprehensive dinner spreads.
The Continental Breakfast ($13.80++) covers Western bases with bacon, hash browns, toasted buns, sausage, baked beans, and sunny side up. Lunch and dinner options like Baked Fried Rice with Pork Chop in Tomato Puree and BBQ Pork and Scrambled Egg Rice showcase the restaurant’s comfort food expertise.
Eat 3 Bowls: Taiwanese Comfort
This six-outlet chain excels at accessible Taiwanese classics. The lu rou fan ($5.30) exemplifies their approach—fatty pork belly braised in savory sauce over rice, executed with care despite the modest price point.
The Oyster Mee Sua ($7.50) delivers another crowd-pleaser, while the 3 Bowls Signature Trio Combo ($12.90) solves the indecision problem by providing small portions of lu rou fan, Oyster Mee Sua, and Shredded Chicken Rice ($5.90). It’s efficient Taiwanese comfort eating.
Western and Fusion Options
iSteaks: Decade-Long Western Food Veteran
With ten years in Singapore’s competitive Western food scene, iSteaks has earned its reputation through consistency and variety. The menu spans pork, lamb, and poultry, but beef steaks remain the primary draw with nearly ten cuts and breeds available.
Entry-level New Zealand Silver Fern char-grilled steaks start at reasonable $20++, while premium options like Australian Wagyu MS4/5 ($48++) and Australian T-Bone ($45++) cater to those seeking elevated experiences. Non-steak fans consistently praise the Pork Rack of Ribs ($20++) for its flavor and execution.
Twyst: Budget-Friendly Customization
Twyst’s build-your-own pasta concept appeals particularly to students and budget-conscious diners. Starting at just $7.90, you select from six sauces, various pasta shapes, and proteins including poached chicken, beef pepperoni, shrimp, and smoked duck.
Traditional options like Aglio Olio ($7.90), Creamy Alfredo ($9.90), and Tomato Pomodoro ($8.90) coexist with Asian-fusion creations: Laksa Olio ($9.90), Butternut Kombu ($9.90), and Miso Butter ($9.90). Add-ons like baby spinach, mushrooms, kale, and sous vide egg allow further customization. The halal certification broadens its appeal.
Chinese Classics: Heritage and Tradition
Song Fa Bak Kut Teh: Michelin Bib Gourmand Excellence
Operating since 1969, Song Fa has built a cult following that earned it Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition. The Pork Ribs Soup ($8.80++) delivers what has become increasingly rare—genuinely meaty, tender ribs in abundant, flavorful broth.
The broth itself deserves the accolades, brimming with deep pork bone flavor and carrying a pronounced, warming pepper kick. The Braised Large Intestines ($9.30++) makes an essential side order, offering chewy texture and robust flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
Dian Xiao Er: Award-Winning Roast Duck
This pioneer in the roast duck category uses Cherry Valley ducks, selected specifically for their plumpness and juiciness when roasted. Three variations exist: Duck Roasted with Ten Wonder Herbs (from $18.60++), Duck Roasted with Angelica Herb (from $17.90++), and Duck Roasted with Wild Ginseng (from $19.30++).
The signature Duck Roasted with Angelica Herb (dang gui) involves marinating the duck in herbs and spices before roasting, then dressing with signature herbal gravy. The result justifies the brand’s reputation, particularly when paired with other zi char offerings for a complete spread.
Cafe and Bakery Scene
Tiong Bahru Bakery: Singapore’s International Success
With over 20 Singapore outlets and international expansion, Tiong Bahru Bakery represents local success on the global stage. Their Croissants ($4.20) maintain the reputation that built the brand—achieving that elusive combination of crispy exterior, soft interior, and perfect flakiness.
Beyond plain croissants, the viennoiserie selection includes Pain Au Chocolat ($4.50), Chocolate Kouign Aman ($7), and Almond Croissant ($5.80). The extensive beverage menu features everything from classic Espresso ($5) and Flat White ($6) to trendy Hojicha Latte ($6.50), Turmeric Latte ($6.50), and signature TBB Teh Tarik ($7).
Paris Baguette: Korean Bakery Excellence
This Korean chain’s 20+ Singapore outlets demonstrate strong local acceptance. Fresh daily preparation of cakes makes them popular celebration choices. The Strawberry Yoghurt Cake ($10.60) remains a consistent bestseller, balancing sweet-tangy yoghurt cream and strawberry compote between soft sponge layers.
The Royal Pudding ($5.50) has achieved near-legendary status, with customers rushing to buy cartons of six before daily sellouts. Fresh daily salads and sandwiches round out the brunch offerings.
Tim Hortons: Canadian Import Success
Since landing in late 2023, this Canadian coffeehouse has rapidly expanded to over 10 outlets. The doughnut-coffee combination drives popularity, with Classic Glaze Donut ($2.90), Maple Salted Caramel Donut ($3.50), and Boston Cream ($3.50) leading favorites.
Timbits ($1-$1.50 each, or $10 for ten) provide addictive bite-sized alternatives. The signature Iced Capps—ice-blended drinks available in flavors like Maple French Vanilla ($7.50/$8.40/$9.30) and Belgian Chocolate Mocha ($7.50/$8.10/$8.70)—offer refreshment in Singapore’s heat.
CHICHA San Chen: Premium Bubble Tea
CHICHA San Chen earns consideration among Singapore’s top bubble tea brands through state-of-the-art brewing technology and proprietary plantation leaves. The Bubble Milk Tea ($5.30) achieves remarkable creaminess while maintaining robust tea flavor that doesn’t get lost in milk and sugar.
Fruit-forward options like Iced Peach Tea ($6.50) and Mango Cream Pie ($6) provide refreshing alternatives, demonstrating the brand’s range beyond traditional milk tea.
Halal Options: Inclusive Dining
D’Penyetz: Ayam Penyet Done Right
D’Penyetz specializes in the Indonesian classic where crispy fried chicken gets pounded against stone for enhanced tenderness, then paired with sweet-spicy sambal. The D’Penyetz Smashed Chicken Set ($7.90++) offers thigh or breast choices with five spice levels from Mild to Shiok Spicy, allowing customization to preference.
The execution reportedly hits the mark, delivering the textural contrast and flavor punch that makes ayam penyet so satisfying. Combined with halal certification, it fills an important niche in JEM’s dining landscape.
Value Assessment and Final Thoughts
JEM’s food scene impresses through sheer diversity and quality concentration. Several establishments carry serious credentials—Michelin Guide listings for Kanada-Ya, Michelin Bib Gourmand for Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, Michelin approval for Go-Ang Pratunam—lending credibility to the overall offerings.
Price points span from budget-friendly (Twyst pasta from $7.90, Go-Ang chicken rice from $5.20) to premium (Seorae’s Galmaegisal, Tonkatsu EN-biton’s Wagyu katsu), ensuring accessibility across income levels. The strong Japanese representation particularly stands out, with five quality establishments covering ramen, sushi, donburi, kettle rice, and tonkatsu.
Korean, Taiwanese, Thai, Hong Kong, and Indonesian options provide genuine variety beyond the Japanese focus. Western and cafe selections round out the mix, while halal-certified options (Go-Ang, Twyst, D’Penyetz) ensure inclusivity.
For Westies, JEM functions as a comprehensive dining destination eliminating the need to travel elsewhere for quality meals. For others, the concentration of worthy establishments—particularly the Japanese options and Michelin-recognized spots—justifies the journey to Jurong East.
The mall’s direct MRT connection removes accessibility concerns, while the diverse operating hours (most open 11am-10pm) accommodate various dining schedules. Whether seeking quick bites, casual meals, or more substantial dining experiences, JEM delivers consistent options across categories.
Standout Recommendations:
- Best Overall: Kanada-Ya for exceptional ramen
- Best Value: Aburi-En’s Mentaiko Kaisen Chirashi at $19.90++
- Most Unique: Seorae’s Galmaegisal (rare pork skirt)
- Best Heritage: Song Fa Bak Kut Teh (operating since 1969)
- Best Budget Option: Twyst’s customizable pasta from $7.90
JEM has successfully cultivated a dining scene that serves both its immediate West Singapore community and draws food enthusiasts from across the island. The combination of established names, international imports, and local favorites creates a food court and restaurant mix that punches well above typical mall standards.