Japanese restaurants are a dime a dozen on our tiny island. Whether it is the usual conveyor belt outlet, or the more expensive specialty restaurant, one can be sure to find Japanese cuisine no matter where the location. However, authentic Japanese food at down-to-earth prices is a rare find, and Kadoman Restaurant is indeed such a gem. Located somewhat obscurely in Grand Plaza Park Hotel, this is a treasure that should be cherished.

• The Vibe
  Kadoman is small, seating only about 30 people, and this contributes to its quaint Japanese charm. Old-style Japanese music plays in the background, and the service staff calls out to the chefs in Japanese. Items from the menu, scrawled in Japanese characters, are pasted on the wall. It is easy to tell that the owner, who is native Japanese, has not strayed far from his roots.

• The Food
  Kadoman serves a spread of ramen, Japanese rice sets, tempura and other all-time favourites. If you are in the mood for something spicy, and do not mind the taste of sesame, try the Tan-Tan Men(noodles in sesame sauce with minced meat),$15. The mix of sesame and spice will provide a interesting combination for your tastebuds. For diners who like cold noodles, do order the Hiyashi Chuka($12), which is a platter of cold noodles in soy sauce, accompanied by an assortment of vegetables. Unlike the cold noodles served in conveyor belt outlets, this comes well-presented with a variety of colours, making it an appetizing main in terms of presentation as well as taste. A must-order side dish is the deep-fried tempura ($25 small), which comes with prawns larger than your hand! Fried to a crisp and not oily in the least, a bite will leave you craving for more. Lastly, the unagi(seasonal price), is also recommended, if you do not mind splurging a bit as it is usually relatively expensive. Served bathed in a home-made sweet sauce, this will send Japanese foodies straight to heaven.

• The Service
  The staff was extremely helpful and quick to offer recommendations. Although deluged by customers' requests, the friendly waitress still popped by once in awhile to ask how the meal was going.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Kadoman:
Those looking for an unassuming place to have a good Japanese meal should head for Kadoman. Visited by locals and Japanese expatriates alike, the quality of cuisine should satisfy most, especially when it is priced as such. However, the restaurant does not serve sashimi, which may disappoint Japanese cuisine aficionados. It can get crowded during lunch and dinner hours though, so do be prepared to go early.