A certain striped mascot comes to mind whenever someone mentions “locally-brewed beer”. But did you know that Singapore is also home to other microbreweries? Thirty Six Brewlab & Smokehouse boasts an in-house brewery with 23 different taps to satiate cravings for midday or evening pints in its spacious premises in Telok Ayer.
Seeking an alternative to the seemingly endless Christmas roasts this festive season? Celebrate the end of 2021 tze char style with Penang-themed food and BBQ skewers at George Town Tze Char, which has recently expanded with an all-new indoor dining experience and craft beer bar!
The neighbourhood around Keong Saik Road is well-known for its scattering of upscale watering holes and evening nosh, and Takeshi Noodle Bar is one of those up-and-coming joints that ticks the boxes of a social space and fusion fare.
Tipsy Penguin can be described as somewhat of a hidden gem in central Tampines. Since its opening some three years ago, it has been huddled between two bustling commercial centers, Our Tampines Hub and the trio of shopping malls around Tampines MRT station. Until the recent hiatus on live performances, Tipsy Penguin has served as a robust gathering place for residents and workers alike in the east.
Every so often, you’ll stumble on a hidden gem that you would want to keep to yourself, as your secret go-to spot for your favourite food or drink. While I was admittedly a little hesitant to put this accidental new find of mine in the spotlight, sharing is caring.
So without further ado, let me introduce you to my new favourite Japanese izakaya in Singapore: Dosukoi x Donpachi.
Tucked away in the basement of Cuppage Plaza (also affectionately known as Little Japan), away from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road, Dosukoi x Donpachi is a cozy hangout spot that looks to be run by a husband-and-wife team. The izakaya is home to an extensive line of homemade umeshu that is prominently displayed at the counter.
The Bar Kakure, which was soft-launched a month ago, has a couple of great things going for it. For one, it is helmed by a seasoned Japanese bartender, Kazuhiro Chii of Waku Ghin fame. For another, it is currently offering an exquisite 5-Course Omakase Dinner at an irresistible $95++.
Occupying the upper level of 29 Scotts Road, above omakase fine dining restaurant Ki-Sho, The Bar Kakure is an intimate 15-seater bar that boasts bespoke cocktails and limited edition sakes and brews from Japan. The decor is a flawless blend of East and West.
In the mood for some tipple after your visit to Chinatown? Kakurega The Lair is a new casual Japanese sake bar that opened its doors in December 2020.
The 50-seater bar spans three levels in the heart of Chinatown, along Smith Street. Tables are spaced relatively far apart from one another, guaranteeing you a cozy, intimate experience consisting of the twin pleasures of sake and yakitori. The dim lighting and wood-themed furniture adds to its inviting atmosphere.
Chue On It 