George Town Tze Char & Craft Beer has expanded into Japanese cuisine with the opening of its sister bar, Nonbei Izakaya on South Bridge Road. Inspired by Tokyo’s Drunkards Alley, this part-indoor, part-alfresco bar features tantalising bar bites with an assortment of Japanese sake and beer in a cozy setting.
The interior is considerably more cramped, so I’d recommend checking out the counter or alfresco areas for diners who appreciate a little more wiggle room. That said, Nonbei Izakaya manages to create the illusion of more space with a few clever placements of floor-to-ceiling mirrors.
For its supposed inspiration from Tokyo’s traditional street bars, I find Nonbei Izakaya’s decor to be distinctly modern, with bright blue walls and rattan chairs that look more at home at a beachside bar. The background music is curiously all Western classics from the 80’s, which does break the atmosphere a little.
When all’s said and done, though, Nonbei Izakaya does make a decent showing food-wise. The Kushiyaki – Japanese Skewers ($1.50 – $2.50++) stand out with their wonderfully seasoned meats and vegetables, especially the Japanese Chicken Wings ($2.50++) and Yakitori, Chicken Skewers $2.50++).
Ohitashi – Vegetables Marinated with Dashi ($6++)
Tamagoyaki – Japanese Omelette ($10++)
I did find, though, other items like Tamagoyaki – Japanese Omelette ($10++) and Ebi Tempura 9$15++) on the expensive side. While they taste decent, the portions for their price points are not much to write home about.
Buta Kakuni – Braised Pork with Soy ($10++)
Ebi Tempura ($15++)
Our table agreed that the Buri Kama Shioyaki – Grilled Yellowtail Collar ($18++) was the best out of everything we tried. Featuring buttery fish that melts on your tastebuds, this dish is a must-order for fans of grilled seafood. We couldn’t get enough of it!
Buri Kama Shioyaki – Grilled Yellowtail Collar ($18++)
Kushiyaki – Tebasaki, Japanese Chicken Wings ($2.50++), Yakitori, Chicken Skewers $2.50++), Tori Kawa, Chicken Skin Skewers ($2.50++), Asparagus Bacon ($3++), Ko Tamanegi, Charred Onion ($1.50++), Mukgao, Japanese Yam ($1.50++)
You can’t go wrong with Sashimi 7 Kinds ($58++, top up $18++ for Fatty Tuna) which features beautiful cuts of fresh salmon, tuna, scallops, and more. For something to fill your tummies, go for the Chashu Ramen ($12++) whose wholesome flavours and al dente noodles are guaranteed to satisfy on a rainy day.
Sashimi 7 Kinds ($58++, top up $18++ for Hon Toro, Fatty Tuna)
Chashu Ramen ($12++)
In celebration of their opening, Nonbei Izakaya is offering diners a choice of 6 Live Oysters for $3 or 5 pieces of Sashimi (King Salmon, Bluefin Tuna, or Amberjack) for $3. Don’t miss out on this mouthwatering deal! you can also score a 1-for-1 Happy Hour Promotion from 3pm – 8pm daily. Think 2 pints of 500ml Draft Asashi, 2 bottles of 320ml Sapporo for $10, and more!
Address: 282 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058831
Google Maps
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer DT18
Opening Hours: 11.30am – 2.30pm (lunch), 5pm – 12mn (dinner) daily
Contact: +65 8112 8028
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