7 Best Izakaya Bars in Singapore for After-work Chill-outs

Shunjuu Izakaya is a Japanese restaurant in Singapore that is best known for its charcoal-grilled skewers. It is located at Robertson Quay, right along the Singapore River. It is the perfect place to unwind after a hard day’s work and down some sake while enjoying the view of the river!

Highlights:

FOOD:

• Set Lunch: S$13 – S$25
• Drinking Food (Cold): S$9 – S$23
• Drinking Food (Hot): S$11 – S$20
• Sashimi: S$12 – S$57
• Charcoal grill: S$5 – S$25
• Fried Food: S$10 – S$20
• Rice and Noodles: S$5 – S$21
• Dessert: S$6 – S$12

DRINKS:

• Warm Sake: S$15 – S$29
• Junmai: S$39 – S$99
• Ginjyo: S$39 – S$89
• Junmai Ginjyo: S$39 – S$269
• Daiginjyo: S$39 – S$199
• Junmai Daiginjyo: 39 – S$299
• Shochu: S$14 – S$24 per glass
• Beer: S$10 – S$38
• Plum Wine/Liqueur: S$12 – S$19 per glass
• Wine: S$69 – S$119
• Cocktails: S$11 – S$19
• Non-alcoholic beverages: S$5 – S$12

MUST-TRIES:

• Grilled ox tongue
• Grilled Kagoshima ribeye beef
• Oyster rolled with pork
• Fried tofu with spicy sauce
• Fried squid tentacles with truffle salt

LOOK & FEEL: Shunjuu Izakaya has two dining areas that offer different experiences. The indoor dining area, with its open-concept kitchen, gives off the vibe of a regular Japanese izakaya. It could get slightly noisy, but it is all part of the izakaya experience. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, you can sit in the outdoor area and enjoy the view of the river.

Ikigai Izakaya is a contemporary Japanese izakaya located in Singapore, which utilizes the highest quality ingredients to deliver authentic Oriental flavors.

The restaurant is situated by the Singapore River and boasts an outdoor seating area, perfect for a lively gathering with family and friends.

“Ikigai” is a term in Japanese that means “reason for being” in English. This philosophy is the foundation of the experience provided at Ikigai Izakaya, which goes beyond just the food and atmosphere.

Highlights:

FOOD:

• Appetizers: S$2 – S$15
• Agemono (deep fried): S$7 – S$20
• Yakitori (chicken skewers): S$2 – S$13
• Yakiyasai (grilled vegetables): S$3 – S$4
• Maki: S$2 – S$28
• Yakimono (grilled/pan-fried): S$5 – S$120
• Donburi (rice bowl): S$10 – S$38
• Noodles: S$8 – S$20
• Sashimi: S$10 – S$48
• Dessert: S$5.5 – S$7.5

DRINKS:

• Draft beer: S$12 – S$14 per pint
• Bottled beer: S$9 – S$14
• Wine: S$62 – S$408 per bottle
• Scottish whiskies: S$178 – S$328 per bottle
• Japanese whiskies: S$148 – S$248 per bottle
• Spirits: S$188 – S$408 per bottle
• Sake: S$26 – S$98 per bottle
• Shochu and umeshu: S$18 – S$88 per bottle
• Cocktails: S$18
• Tea cocktails: S$16
• Mocktails: S$12
• Non-alcoholic beverages: S$2 – S$7

MUST-TRIES:

• Gyu Saikoro Steak (Black Angus Beef Tenderloin)
• Buta Bara (Grilled Pork Belly)
• Tebasaki (Chicken Wings)
• Ei Hire (Grilled Stingray)
• Dragon Roll
• Century Egg Tofu

LOOK & FEEL: Ikigai Izakaya embodies the ideal balance of yin and yang, harmoniously blending into its natural surroundings with the flowing water, representing the essence of life in Japanese culture. Its air-conditioned indoor dining space, with an industrial theme, exudes an edgy ambiance, while the spacious al fresco area offers a picturesque view of the Singapore River.

The name TOMO comes from the Japanese word “tomodachi”, meaning “friend.” As its name suggests, TOMO Izakaya is the perfect destination to relish Japanese food and drinks with your friends in Singapore.

 TOMO Izakaya is a sophisticated modern izakaya that serves traditional Japanese dishes curated with sake, shochu, and other drinks to satisfy the palate. It has two branches in Singapore, one in Clarke Quay and another at the Esplanade.

The izakaya menu features a wide variety of small plates, including yakitori, sushi, and karaage.

Highlights:

FOOD:

• Appetizers: S$4 – S$22
• Sashimi: S$12 – S$52
• Sushi: S$6-S$32
• Maki: S$6.5 – S$22
• Soups and salads: S$4.5 – S$18
• Stewed dishes: S$18 – S$23
• Stir-fried dishes: S$14 – S$22
• Fried dishes: S$10 – S$19
• Skewers: S$4-S$10 per stick
• Grilled dishes: S$9 – S$38
• Noodles: S$10 – S$24
• Rice bowls: S$5 – S$29
• Dessert: S$5.5 – S$6

MUST-TRIES:

• Sushi Moriwase (Assorted Sushi)
• Sashimi Moriwase (Assorted Sashimi)
• Kushi Mori (Assorted Skewers)
• Tomo Uni Ikura Maki
• Tempura Unagi Cream Cheese Maki
• Grilled wagyu sushi with egg
• Grilled eel

LOOK & FEEL: TOMO Izakaya captures the true spirit of a traditional Japanese izakaya through its stylish, minimalist Zen-inspired design, combined with a youthful and lively atmosphere. Tomo Izakaya offers two distinct izakaya experiences with its indoor and outdoor seating areas. Guests can choose to dine indoors to get a feel of a real Japanese izakaya or opt for outdoor seating to enjoy the view of the Singapore River while indulging in the restaurant’s delectable Japanese cuisine.

LOCATIONS:
TOMO Izakaya @ Clarke Quay: 3A River Valley Rd #01-04 Singapore 179020

TOMO Izakaya @ Esplanade: 8 Raffles Ave #01-09 Singapore 039802

Taki Izakaya Bar resembles a scene straight out of sushi land, providing an oasis-like atmosphere. It is a 120-seater tavern designed for individuals with hectic 9-to-6 schedules to relax amidst the hustle and bustle of the daily grind. Located in Singapore’s central business district, Taki Izakaya Bar is popular for both work lunches and after-work drinks. The menu features high-quality ingredients that will satisfy any Japanese food enthusiast.

Highlights:

FOOD:

• Appetizers: S$6.80 – S$16.80
• Kushiyaki (skewers): S$6.80 – S$24.80
• Agemono (deep-fried): S$5.80 – S$11.80
• Main dishes: S$9.80 – S$26.80
• Maki: S$14.80 – S$18.80
• Temaki: S$5.80 – S$7.80
• Sashimi: S$8.80 – S$44.80
• Dessert: S$4.80
• Premium sushi sets: S$28.80
• Lunch sets: S$18.80

DRINKS:

• Bottled beer: S$11.80
• Draft beer: S$8.80 – S$9.80 per mug
• Sake: S$45 – S$58 per 360-ml carafe
• Wines: S$12.80 – S$15.80 per glass
• Whisky: S$14.80 – S$19.80 per glass
• Tequila: S$16.80 – S$17.80 per glass
• Rum: S$14.80 – S$15.80 per glass
• Gin: S$16.80 – S$17.80 per glass
• Vodka: S$16.80 per glass

MUST-TRIES:

• Kushiyaki Platter
• Tori Kawa (Crispy Chicken Skin)
• Tako Karaage (Octopus)
• Hotate Mentai Aburi (Scallops)
• Spicy Maguro Maki
• Tempura Moriwase

LOOK & FEEL: The theme at Taki Izakaya is centered around the meaning of its name, which is “cascade” or “falling water.” This concept is reflected throughout the establishment, creating a revitalizing atmosphere that allows visitors to escape from the busy CBD and transport themselves to a serene Japanese countryside. Seating options include indoor, alfresco, and bar areas.

If you’re looking for an affordable and authentic Japanese restaurant with a wide selection of dishes, Izakaya Hikari is a great choice. From appetizers like Edamame and Hiyayakko Tofu to classic favorites like sashimi and donburi bowls, there’s something for everyone.

Izakaya Hikari is the best place to go when on a budget, as it offers good quality and tasty food at a fairly affordable price without any compromise.

Highlights:

FOOD:

• Appetizers: S$3.90 – S$5.90
• Sashimi: S$6 – S$33
• Sashimi Donburi: S$16.90 – S$25.90
• Yakimono: S$3.90 – S$20.90
• Grilled food: S$6.90 – S$17.90
• Fried food: S$3.90 – S$8.90
• Cooked Food: S$2.50 – S$18.90

DRINKS:

• Sake: S$35 – S$350 per bottle
• Sparkling Sake: S$20 – S$22
• Alcoholic drinks: S$8 – S$130
• Non-alcoholic drinks: S$3 – S$4.50

MUST-TRIES:

• Hiyayakko Tofu
• Sashimi Platter
• Yakimono Set
• Chicken Karaage
• Surume Ika
• Kawa Ebi
• Salmon Mentaiko Donburi

LOOK & FEEL: The atmosphere of Izakaya Hikari truly embodies that of a traditional izakaya with its dark wood decor, counter dining, and an impressive display of sake bottles. Here, you can have a good time without the frills and fancy.

Nonbei Izakaya is a relaxing spot in Singapore where you can indulge in some delectable sashimi, assorted yakitori skewers, crispy fried treats, and perhaps even some hot sake to satisfy your cravings. It was created by the team behind the thriving George Town Tze Char & Craft Beer.

Located in Chinatown, Nonbei Izakaya’s casual and vibrant ambiance provides an excellent venue for post-work gatherings with your friends and colleagues.

Highlights:

FOOD:

• Appetizers: S$4-S$10
• Grilled dishes: S$12 – S$22
• Fried dishes: S$10 – S$15
• Sashimi: S$8 – S$18 (3 pieces)
• Sashimi sets: S$38 – S$58
• Other dishes: S$10 – S$22

DRINKS:

• Sake: S$10 – S$228 per bottle
• Beer: S$12 – S$15
• Wine: S$45 – S$142 per bottle
• Other alcoholic beverages: S$10 – S$12
• Non-alcoholic beverages: S$3- S$4

MUST-TRIES:

• Asari Butter Yaki
• Beef Tataki
• Kushi Yaki
• Grilled Yellowtail Collar
• Sashimi

LOOK & FEEL: The inspiration for Nonbei Izakaya stems from the infamous Drunkard’s Alley, also known as Nonbei Yokocho, located in Tokyo. This renowned area is recognized for its narrow, lantern-lit passageways and lively drinking establishments. Nonbei Izakaya provides both indoor and outdoor dining options. While the indoor space offers a comfortable, air-conditioned atmosphere, the outdoor seating area is undoubtedly the prime location, particularly during the cooler climate. It allows you to immerse yourself in the lively ambiance and historic charm of Chinatown while also enjoying a picturesque view of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.

You can fully immerse yourself in the izakaya vibes with affordable halal Japanese food at Daya Izakaya, the only halal Izakaya in Singapore. Indulge in a wide variety of mouth-watering izakaya dishes, including fresh sashimi and cooked dishes, leaving you wanting more.

If you’re someone who loves getting your money’s worth, then this restaurant is definitely worth a visit.

Highlights:

FOOD:

• Appetizers: S$4 – S$38
• Soups and salads: S$1.90 – S$12
• Yakimono (Grilled): S$9 – S$25
• Kaminabe (Mini paper hotpot): S$14 – S$19
• Nimono (Simmered): S$12 – S$13
• Sashimi: S$6 – S$36
• Sushi: S$12 – S$16.80
• Agemono (Fried): S$6 – S$15
• Noodles: S$8 – S$13.50
• Kushiyaki (Skewers): S$2 – S$8 per stick
• Rice sets: S$12 – S$18
• Dessert: S$5

 DRINKS:

• Non-alcoholic drinks: S$1 – S$8

 MUST-TRIES:

• Grilled Miso Lamb Cutlet
• Oyster Nabe
• Hotate Kinoko Butter
• Sashimi Moriawase
• Garlic Beef Steak

LOOK & FEEL: Daya Izakaya is an excellent spot to unwind and enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine in a semi-casual atmosphere. The interior is reminiscent of a typical Japanese Izakaya with its wooden panels and hanging lanterns. There is ample seating available outside, which is especially pleasant during the evenings.