Best Izakayas in Singapore

Community favourite Keria racks up points for its underrated but oh so delicious Japanese fare. Get the value-for-money Tempura Set Meal, which comes with expertly batter-fried morsels AND super fresh sashimi. A group of three to four is perfect for this spot, so you'll have tummy space to share the addictive Mentaiko Cabbage ($8) and luxe Uni Spaghetti ($21) too!
Photo by Burppler Wei Zhi Chiang

This homegrown spot has come a long way in crafting that authentic izakaya experience. Come with friends to share a big bottle of house sake ($138 for 1.8L) and order these for a surefire win: fresh Maguro Yukke ($12) with a splash of sesame and chilli oil, the creamy, mentaiko-loaded Rosti Mentai ($8) and the always good Chef Selection Skewers ($18 for five skewers).
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Hunt down this hidden gem for its buzzy vibes and unassumingly good nosh. The Orihara Don is unique to this Singapore joint, and is worth ordering for a runny egg and plenty of pork. For small bites, the Chicken Hearts are excellently done. There are limited bar seats, but it's much more fun to stand while knocking back a bottle of sake.
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You'll have to look hard to find this small Golden Mile haunt, but the effort pays off in amazing nosh. Expect an old-school Jap setting, which will do well for dialled-back dates. Must-orders include the incredibly juicy, tobiko-topped Grilled Scallop with Cheese ($6.80) and the staff-recommended Ankimo (Monkfish Liver, $7) that surprises with its rich, creamy texture.
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This Tanjong Pagar watering hole is the real deal — just ask the Japanese expats who fill the place regularly. On hot, humid nights, go for the ingeniously done Omakase Oden ($25), which features cooling yuzu daikon, kombu prawn dumplings and more. Also not to be missed is the mini Claypot Rice with Seabream ($29), a chef's special that sees pearly rice cooked in rich seabream dashi. Yum.
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For a trendy yakitori to bring your friends, this fairly new one in town guarantees a good time. You can expect to chomp on mindblowingly good Chicken Karaage ($9.60) and a varied selection of yakitori, while nursing a very tall glass of Mega Highball (from $18). In case you’re hungry for more, bat for the hearty Oyako Don ($12.80) — just pray that it hasn't sold out!
Photo by Burppler Kenneth Lee

Mark this 100AM hotspot down for a no-brainer weeknight dinner. Sit outside if the weather's good to kick back over a few beers and the Gyoza Croquette ($11). Save space for mains though, because a beautifully cooked Buta Kakuni ($14) with melt-in-the-mouth Iberico pork belly awaits – order a bowl of rice to go with this!
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If it's a foolproof supper spot you're looking for, this Cuppage Plaza izakaya has you covered with wonderful skewers and snazzy feels. Standouts include the Foie Gras ($7), the fatty Tontoro Ringo (pork jaw, $4.50) and easy-to-love Pink Pork Belly ($4). Queues form as early as 6pm, so make a reservation if you can!
Photo by Burppler Dixon Chan