Why This Brunch Made the Cut
Every Saturday, Kaya—the sleek Japanese‑fusion bar tucked inside The Standard—opens its doors to a Weekend Brunch that feels more like a culinary showcase than a traditional spread. What sets it apart?
Free‑flow à la carte – You pick from a curated list of hot and cold bites, small plates, mains and desserts, all served in a relaxed, communal style.
Unlimited non‑alcoholic drinks – From sparkling yuzu soda to freshly brewed matcha, the beverage bar never runs dry. (If you’re after something stronger, premium upgrade packages add Japanese whisky, sake or craft cocktails.)
Signature Japanese‑fusion flair – Think classic Japanese techniques meeting bold Singaporean twists, all presented with a minimalist aesthetic that matches The Standard’s modern vibe.
Below is my full walk‑through of the brunch, complete with dish‑by‑dish impressions, scores, and a few practical tips for anyone planning to drop by.
The Arrival: The Standard Tray
Before the main plates hit the table, the kitchen sends out The Standard Tray – a sampler designed to curb that early‑morning rumble while you sip your first drink. The tray is split into four sections: two hot bites, a “sando” (sandwich) and two cold plates.
Item Rating (out of 5) Quick Take
Chicken Karaage 4.8 Juicy, golden‑crusted morsels that are perfectly bite‑sized – a step up from the usual chunky pieces you find elsewhere.
Tamago Sando 3.0 Fluffy Japanese egg sandwich, but the bread was a tad soggy after the generous tamago spread. Still comforting, just not a show‑stopper.
Apple Sesame Salad 4.5 Crisp apple slices tossed with sesame‑dressed greens; the sweet‑savory balance is delightful.
Assorted Sashimi 4.0 Fresh, clean slices of tuna, salmon and white fish. The presentation is minimalist, letting the fish’s quality shine.
Daikon Slaw (extra cold bite) 5.0 A personal favourite: thinly shaved daikon, lightly pickled, with a zingy vinaigrette. It’s refreshing and adds a crunchy contrast to the richer items.
Overall Tray Score: 4.3/5
Pro tip: If you’re a fan of the daikon slaw (which many regulars are), ask the staff to add an extra serving. It’s often the most talked‑about item on the tray.
Moving On: Main Bites & Sweet Endings
Once the tray clears, the brunch transitions into a more substantial round. While the exact menu can rotate, the following dishes were on offer during my visit and are worth noting.
Dish Rating What Stands Out
Miso‑Glazed Black Cod 4.7 Succulent fillet with a caramelised miso crust; the fish melts in your mouth.
Truffle‑Infused Soba Noodles 4.2 Chewy buckwheat noodles tossed in a subtle truffle oil, topped with shiso and toasted nuts.
Yuzu‑Citrus Pancakes (Dessert) 4.4 Light, airy pancakes with a citrus glaze that balances sweetness without being cloying.
Matcha Tiramisu 4.6 A Japanese spin on the Italian classic – layers of matcha‑soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone, dusted with cocoa.
The brunch’s free‑flow beverage station includes a rotating selection of seasonal teas, freshly squeezed juices, and house‑made yuzu soda. For those who like a buzz, the Premium Upgrade (S$78 per person) adds a pitcher of sparkling sake and a curated flight of Japanese whisky—perfect for a lazy Saturday brunch with friends.
Ambience & Service
The Standard’s interior is a blend of industrial chic and Japanese minimalism: exposed concrete walls, soft pendant lighting, and subtle wood accents. The open‑kitchen concept lets you watch the chefs work their magic, adding a theatrical element to the dining experience.
Service is attentive without being intrusive. Waitstaff circulate with the free‑flow drinks, refilling glasses promptly. The brunch runs from 10 am – 2 pm, and tables are released on a first‑come‑first‑served basis after 1 pm, so if you’re aiming for the full menu, try to arrive early.
Value for Money
Item Approx. Price (per person)
Standard Brunch (incl. free‑flow non‑alcoholic drinks) S$48
Premium Upgrade (adds alcoholic beverages) +S$30
À la carte add‑ons (e.g., extra daikon slaw, premium sushi rolls) S$8 – S$15 each
For a mid‑range brunch that delivers high‑quality Japanese‑fusion dishes, the price point is justified. The free‑flow concept lets you sample a wide range without feeling pinched, and the upgrade is reasonably priced compared to other weekend brunches in the Central Business District.
Bottom Line
Kaya @ The Standard nails the balance between innovative Japanese‑fusion and approachable brunch comfort. The Standard Tray alone is enough to convince most first‑timers to return, while the main dishes and desserts keep the experience elevated.
Best for: Groups of friends, couples looking for a relaxed yet refined Saturday morning, and foodies who love a twist on classic Japanese flavors.
Not ideal for: Those seeking a purely traditional Japanese brunch (the fusion elements may be too bold for purists).
Final Score: 4.5 / 5
If you’re in Singapore and craving a brunch that feels both stylish and satisfying, make a reservation at Kaya this weekend. Bring a hearty appetite, a love for good coffee (or yuzu soda), and be ready to indulge in a Japanese‑fusion feast that will set the tone for a perfect Saturday.
Quick Checklist Before You Go
Reserve (especially for the premium upgrade) via The Standard’s website or phone.
Arrive early (by 10:30 am) for the full free‑flow experience.
Dress code: Smart‑casual—nothing too formal, but neat attire is appreciated.
Parking: The Standard offers valet parking; public transport (downtown MRT) is also convenient.
Enjoy your brunch, and stay tuned for more Singapore food adventures on SG Food on Foot!