Run by friendly Singaporeans who are passionate about creating an authentic izakaya experience, Shukuu is a homey, comfortable spot to wind down a big group of friends. Its unpretentious vibe puts you at ease instantly, as you sit back and nurse a cold beer. For a refreshing start to the meal, get the Maguro Yukke ($12) — fresh tuna chunks lightly marinated in sesame and la-yu chilli oil, made silky-smooth when the quail egg yolk is mixed in. If you love mentaiko, you must have the satisfying Rosti Mentai ($8), long strips of potato 'noodles' doused in irresistible mentaiko sauce, and the Kani Gratin ($7), a baked crab dish mixed with cheese and mentaiko. From the yakitori selection, go for the generous chicken thigh ($4) which is tender and juicy. Also treat yourself to some Sake no Sakamushi ($12 for three), oysters steamed with a splash of sake! Split a big bottle of house sake ($138 for 1.8L), it's very worth it.
Avg price: $60 per person with drinks
Photo by Burppler Russell Chua