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.
Snow City in Jurong is now home to another attraction – Fountain Microbrewery, which quietly opened its doors last month. Situated one level above the family attraction, the cozy gastropub blends three decades of master brewer Mung Tjai’s experience with good ol’ recipes that satisfy.
Tiger Street Lab at Jewel Changi Airport is back with a new street food collaboration, this time with Yishun-based Jiao Cai Seafood.
The humble hawker joint, helmed by 29 years old second generation hawker Chew Zhi Jie, has also partnered with Timbre Head Chef, Tommy Teo to deliver a trio of mouthwatering, sambal loaded dishes that promises to take no prisoners with its intense spice levels!
Indonesian comfort food gets a modern upgrade at MOONSTONE Bar, a quaint noodle place cum bar situated along Amoy Street. Helmed by Keith Koh and Anthony Utama, the latter of whom also owns the famous Tamade Cafeteria in Bali, this new entry to Tanjong Pagar’s robust kaleidoscope of food joints and watering holes is where you can expect to find street food staples with a couple of twists.
Chue On It 