Apart from a Japanese wooden signboard hanging above, no other signs indicate that this is a restaurant, let alone an izakaya. But beyond those large, sliding wooden doors lies a haven for both Japanese and locals to wind down with a cold beer after a long day. Located on the same stretch as Spize at River Valley, Tsukune Ichigo specialises in grilled chicken skewers. First timers should order the Tsukune Set ($14), meatball skewers done five different ways. We especially love the ones slathered in sweet and savoury tare sauce, followed by the moreish okonomiyaki sauce (it tastes like the real deal!) and the ponzu sauce. There is a minimum order of two skewers per flavour for individual skewers. You won't go wrong with the flavourful Negishio ($6 for two) — skewered chicken lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, grilled then topped generously with a garnish of chopped leek, onions and sesame oil.
Avg price: $30 per person with drinks
Photo by Burppler Muriel A