425_original.jpg?w=576&q=75&auto=format)
The Japanese word 'Izakaya' literally translates to "stay-drink-place" so you know this is where you can go to truly relax after a long day in the office. Here are 8 stand-out Izayaka bars in Singapore you should check out:
For Japanese Comfort Food in the CBD
Serving traditional Izakaya to the masses, Suishin sells sushi, sashimi, yakitori, and a large assortment of sake and beers! Sit outside if the weather's good and kick back with your friends over a few beers whilst chomping down on their grilled skewers including the Tori Momo ($3), Negima ($3), Tori kawa ($3), and Buta Bara Pork Belly ($4).
For Yakitori Sticks
Located at Tanjong Pagar, Nanami Izakaya hopes to provide the most authentic dining experience for both locals and Japanese patrons alike. Their dinner time spread features a variety of yakitori, sashimi, tempura, and a la carte dishes. If you're after yakitori, be sure to order the Chicken Meatball ($4), Chicken Wing ($4), Enoki Bacon ($4), Tomato Bacon ($4), and Chicken Thigh ($3)! Or simply go for the Yakitori 5 Kinds ($14).
For Delectable Donburi Bowls
Currently an experimental pop-up, Mono Izakaya specialises in aged fish and meat dishes. While you're there, dig into their delicious rice bowls such as the Bulgogi Duck Don ($22) which features duck breast, honey soy, and kimchi. Alternatively, go for the Juku Wagyu 1 Bite Don ($25) or the 1 Big Piece Bossam Don ($18) that comes with braised pork belly.
For A Succulent Grilled Squid
Here at Shukuu, you'll feel as if you've just been transported to Japan! Their authentic Izakaya dishes will please any seafood lover. One such dish is the Surume Ika ($23) which is grilled to perfection; the tender texture of the squid is elevated even further by the smokiness of the charcoal grill. The Rosti Mentai ($12) is another stellar dish! After all, the swiss-style potato shreds that are topped with a highly addictive creamy mentaiko sauce is sure to satisfy.
For An Affordable Daily Lunch Set
Izakaya Shinjuku is a trendy yakitori spot that your friends are guaranteed to love! Committed to perfecting the flavours of their grilled menu items, Shinjuku’s full range of a la carte specials including the Kushiyaki, Suma Gimo, and Asparagus Maki go best with their Daily Lunch Set ($12.50).
For A Super Crispy Chicken Karaage
13 Izakaya is the place to be for delectable Japanese cuisine! Savour their extremely crispy Chicken Karaage ($8) that's served with sesame sauce and a side of cabbage; don't forget to drizzle the lemon wedge over to give the meat an extra citrusy zest. Other popular dishes are the Chicken Liver ($8), the Aburi Beef Cubes ($16), and the Tonkatsu ($23.40).
For A Delicious Unagi Donburi
Check out Izakaya Hikari's diverse menu which carries everything from Yakimono and Donburi to fresh sashimi cuts and sushi dishes. Their highly popular Unagi Donburi ($18.90) boasts a soft and chewy meat that is extremely palatable, and hard to resist. If eel isn't quite for you, opt for the Salmon Mentaiko Donburi ($16.90) instead!
For An Assortment of Kushiyaki
Utilising only the freshest ingredients imported from Japan, Namonaki Izakaya will cater to even the pickiest of taste buds! In this modern Japanese Izakaya joint, there's something for everyone as their Kushiyaki offering allows diners to choose any 5 items for $15! Some grilled delights we'd recommend include the Tebasaki ($3.90), Hatsu ($3.90), Bonjiri ($3.90), Eringi Mushroom ($3.90), and the Negima Kushiyaki ($3.90).
