




Singmatei
About
A Hidden Japanese Culinary Corner in Ala Moana
Tucked away from the high-traffic corridors of Honolulu, Singmatei offers a no-frills, authentic experience for those craving traditional Japanese comfort food. This is the kind of neighborhood spot where the focus remains entirely on the kitchen, providing a quiet reprieve from the bustle of the nearby shopping centers.
The Soul of the Menu
The menu is anchored by classic, hearty bowls of ramen and expertly prepared tonkatsu that prioritize substance over aesthetic flair. You will find that the broth here is simmered for hours, resulting in a depth of flavor that carries the unmistakable aroma of garlic and pork bones. It is a place built for solo diners grabbing a quick lunch or local workers looking for a satisfying meal without the pretension of more upscale Waikiki establishments.
What to Expect
Stepping inside, you are met with the rhythmic sound of sizzling pans and the clatter of ceramic bowls. The interior is functional and modest—expect a layout that leans toward the practical side rather than interior design flourishes. Keep in mind that the space is compact, which gives it an intimate, cozy feel, though you might find yourself sitting close to your neighbor during the peak lunch hour. It is a genuine slice of Honolulu life, perfect for a low-key meal where the food does the talking.
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Location
1450 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96814
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Reviews
Showing 3 of 3 community reviewsDilan HerathGoogle Maps
Recently
Amazing Malaysian food! All of it was delicious. They give a lot of meat! They have interesting combinations that you won't find on the mainland; at least not in the Midwest. The butterfly teas were good. Not as intensely flavored as nearby bubble tea shops. Note that they only serve large sizes for about $8. They add a lot of ice, so it may be worth asking for low ice. Quick service, 10 min for our 5 dishes. They give large portion sizes. 3 of us took half the food for later.
Monica MarianesGoogle Maps
Recently
We got the Bak Kut Teh and the pork chop laksa. Everything came piping hot. The bakkutteh was light and delicious, meat fell off the bone. The laksa was delicious, it got some sweetness to it and the right amount of saltiness. Both dishes came in good portion. The wait time was fairly quick.
Bam BamGoogle Maps
Recently
Always wanted to try this place. Had no idea what to order ended up with lemongrass chicken with the blue rice and a couple Thai teas. Overall an excellent value the meal was just under $15 and the tea $8. Next time I will likely skip the tea to make the meal more affordable and cut down on sugar. It was a large enough portion that me and hubby could share, probably not two hungry teenagers. Found the quality quite good. Would recommend asking for and paying if necessary for extra sauce, would have loved more, it was yummy. The staff was nice and tried to be helpful, however she didn't speak enough English to help with allergy questions.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Singmatei
Common questions from diners about Singmatei in Honolulu.
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