As the brainchild of the very charming Howard Lo, a finalist on local dating show "Eye for a Guy", Standing Sushi Bar serves sushi with fresh fish from Japan, Australia, and Norway. Specifically, these fish are delivered from their native geography, which means faster time from ocean to plate and fresh, delicious sushi for diners.

Located in the Bras Basah arts enclave, Standing Sushi Bar is housed within the Singapore Contemporary Art Museum and features a contemporary décor of sleek wooden countertops, and modern Japanese finishings.

Despite its name, the restaurant serves more than just sushi (and also has places to sit!). The menu offers a generous assortment of Japanese cuisine, like tempura, donburi, soba, udon, and robatayaki (Japanese barbecue of skewered meat, seafood, and vegetables cooked over coals). (Jan 2012)

Standing Sushi Bar's high quality, fresh and affordable Japanese food has stood the test of time, the standard remaining consistent over repeat visits to the different outlets." -Sparklette

"Surprisingly fresh fish worth standing up for whether you're a bargain hunter or a free-spending gastronome. Just don't go there in killer stilettos." -8 Days

"We even gave each other spontaneous thumbs-up the moment we bit into the California roll. Pardon my pun, but this place deserves a standing ovation." -The New Paper

"This busy Raffles Place fixture brings a popular Tokyoite concept to town. The seafood is flown in fresh from Japan daily and the result is sushi and sashimi that can rival some of the more established names in town." -I-S Asia-City

Although we are truly impressed with restaurant owner Howard Lo's ability to win the heart of MTV VJ Denise Keller during his days on television, we are primarily drawn to Standing Sushi Bar for its incredibly fresh sushi. We began with the sashimi platter which allowed us the opportunity to try a healthy selection of fresh fish. We especially loved the white tuna - a fish often sought after by sport fishers, and the affordable price tag it comes with! In fact, we really love that Standing Sushi Bar serves up premium product at non-premium prices.

Beyond the sushi (and Howard), we are captivated by the non-sushi items, like their signature tsukune (chicken balls with soft bone), gyuniku moriawase (beef with miso paste and spicy mustard), and shake aburi (seared salmon make with yuzu sauce). Consider finishing a great meal with a scoop of traditional green tea or black sesame ice cream, which is even better when topped with red bean paste.

Finally, sure to cure the Monday blues are Standing Sushi Bar's specials. From 6pm to 10pm every Monday, the restaurant features $2 salmon sashimi (5 slices of premium salmon cuts), $5 for wine, plum wine, hot sake or Asahi Beer, and just $1 for a glass of sake! (Jan 2012)

"A relatively new establishment on the sushi-chain scene, this bar’s consistency and speed has brought it popularity in Singapore and Jakarta, pairing quality with convenience. A relatively casual setting to watch sushi chefs at work by the counter, this modern space has decor to suit the sleek business crowd, with sharp angles, neutral colours and clean lines. Small tables are available for diners wanting more a private conversation. There’s a great range of sashimi and sushi, robatayaki, noodles and grilled food, with sets available for lunch and dinner. Expect nothing fancy, just good quality." -Time Out Singapore

Standard Chartered The Good Life: 15% off a la carte bill. Offer valid till 31 Dec 2013.