Ju Kyu Singapore @ Telok Ayer Street - Modern Japanese Restobar Catering to Various Occasions Booasting an Eclectic Menu

Located in Telok Ayer, Ju Kyu offers a modern Japanese dining experience within an enigmatic space adorned with sakura blossoms and vibrant Japanese motifs. The restaurant caters to various occasions, boasting a full menu ranging from skewers to tapas, small plates, rice dishes, noodles, mains, and desserts. Handcrafted cocktails with a Japanese twist are also one of the key offerings of Jyu Kyu.

Skewers 3.8/5

Grilled over Bincho-tan charcoal in a traditional Japanese Konro, Jyu Kyu's skewers are a highlight of the menu. We enjoyed a selection that included Pork Belly Enoki ($5.50), Beef Striploin ($6.50), Asparagus ($4.50), and Grilled Corn ($6.50). Each item had a well-executed caramelisation, but the Pork Belly Enoki stood out for its juicy, flavorful bite. The Grilled Corn, dusted with house spices, had great flavour but could have benefitted from a plumper corn cob.

Chargrilled Squid 3.8/5

The Chargrilled Squid ($22), grilled with care and served with sambal chilli and lime, had a lovely balance of flavours, though the squid could have been juicier for a more satisfying bite.

Chawanmushi 4/5

Cold Tofu 4.5/5

We tried the Cold Tofu ($14) from the tapas selection and Chawanmushi ($7.80). The marinated tofu was topped with ikura and furikake, with the marination seemingly infused with century egg, adding an excellent funky depth. The Chawanmushi, brimming with ikura, also surprised us with its generous fillings of salmon and mushrooms.

Uni & Crab Cracker 4/5

For a unique small plate, the Uni & Crab Cracker ($26) offered a mix of creamy crab rillettes and uni, topped with ikura and served on crispy rice paper puffs. The coriander infusion was subtle, but the contrast between the creamy filling and the crunchy base was delightful.

Unagi & Eggplant Rice 4.5/5

Under the Rice selection, the Unagi & Eggplant Rice ($26) was a standout, combining smoky, caramelized teriyaki eggplant with perfectly grilled eel. The smokiness of the eggplant added a surprising depth to the otherwise familiar unagi rice bowl, elevating the dish with texture and flavour.

Pork Belly Tonkotsu Ramen 4.8/5

A surprise hit was the Pork Belly Tonkotsu Ramen ($26). Despite not being a ramen speciality shop, Jyu Kyu delivered a bowl of rich, creamy pork broth hearty with tender chashu served slightly charred, a beautifully marinated ajitsuke tamago, and nicely cooked noodles.

Miso Black Cod 3.8/5

For Mains, we tried the Miso Black Cod ($34), served with spinach goma-ae was decent but felt like it could use a bit more refinement. While the pairing with goma-ae was thoughtful, the dish didn't quite reach the same heights as other mains.

Ju Kyu's beautifully decorated interior, featuring sakura-filled ceiling and Japanese illustrations, provides the perfect backdrop for a drink or two. Their curated cocktail menu offers aesthetically pleasing beverages that excite your eyes and palate.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Ju Kyu
198 Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068637
Tel:: +65 8819 8000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 11pm
Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 1130pm
Sat: 5pm - 1130pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left and walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

[CLOSED] Freya @ Stanley Street - Modern Mediterranean Restaurant with Two Different Dining Experiences During the Day and Night

Freya at Stanley Street, a modern Mediterranean restaurant, offers two distinct dining experiences under one roof. During the day, the focus is on flavorful, nutritious salads and healthy grain bowls, while at night, you can enjoy modern Mediterranean cuisine alongside fine wines and cocktails.

Potato Pave 4.5/5

We began with the Potato Pave ($10), a crowd-pleasing starter. These potato mille-feuille bites, made in-house by compressing layers of thinly sliced potatoes, were pure deliciousness, especially when paired with the cold sour cream.

Beef Croquettes 4.5/5

The Beef Croquettes ($20) were more than just your typical croquettes. Each piece was a chunk of crumbed, coffee-braised beef cheek, and the contrasting crust accentuated the tenderness of the meat. The avocado cream on top added a luxurious mouthfeel.

Bresaola 4.2/5

The Bresaola ($12) was like a canapé, featuring air-dried Wagyu Bresaola with ricotta cheese and mustard on sourdough. The combination of savoury bresaola and milky ricotta was excellent for both mouthfeel and taste, with the mustard providing a final kick of flavour.

Carrot 3/5

The Carrot ($18) dish had the potential to be a great dish. The grilling of the young carrots could have been executed better to achieve a more tender texture and a more intensified sweetness to pair with the smoked feta. The savoury cashew nut crumbles offered a delectable crunch to the dish.

Mussels 4/5

For the main course, we had locally sourced Mussels in fermented chilli rice wine broth ($32). The broth had a mouthwatering aroma that appealed to all senses, and the plump mussels were best enjoyed with a glass of white wine. The restaurant has curated a selection of wines if you want to indulge.

Apple Tart 4/5

The dessert was good. The Apple Tart ($16) featured house-made apple filo parcels served with vanilla custard and candied walnuts. The apple filo was perfectly crisp with tender cinnamon-y apple cubes, but the custard could have been less sweet.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


[CLOSED]
Freya
13 Stanley Street
Singapore 068732
Tel: +65 8399 2450
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 10pm (Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street, walk to Boon Tat Street. Turn left onto Boon Tat Street. Turn right onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to Mccallum Street. Turn right onto Mccallum Street. Turn left onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Jun Omakase @ Samsung Hub - Contunues to Impress with its Commitment to Quality and Freshness

It's been six years since I first visited Jun Omakase at Samsung Hub back in 2018, and I'm delighted to see that it has not only stood the test of time but continues to impress with its exceptional omakase offerings. On this visit, my friend and I decided to indulge in two of their omakase menus: the Ume Omakase ($168) and Jun Omakase ($228).

Ume Omakase - 3 Seasonal Appetiser 4/5

Jun Omakase - 3 Seasonal Appetiser 4/5

We began our omakase dinner with three seasonal appetisers, each offering a unique taste of the season's finest ingredients. The Ume Omakase featured a delightful trio: Fire Squid Tempura, Tofu Skin with Junsai (water shield), and Shellfish. Each bite was a delicate balance of flavours and textures, setting the stage for what was to come.

The appetisers for the Jun Omakase, which included Sawagani, a Japanese soft-shell freshwater crab, and Uni, took on a more premium flair. The Sawagani was crispy and full of umami, while the uni was rich and creamy, a perfect introduction to the higher-end offerings of the Jun Omakase.

Ume Omakase - Ikura Chawanmushi 4/5

Jun Omakase - Uni Truffle Chawanmushi 4.2/5

Next came the Chawanmushi, a beloved Japanese steamed egg custard. The Ume Omakase treated us to an Ikura Chawanmushi, where the briny pops of ikura (salmon roe) contrasted beautifully with the smooth, savoury custard. Meanwhile, the Jun Omakase elevated this dish with a luxurious Uni Truffle Chawanmushi, where the earthiness of the truffle melded with the richness of uni, creating a sublime dish that lingered on the palate.

Ume Omakase - 7pc Seasonal Sashimi 4.5/5

Jun Omakase - 8 pc Premium Sashimi 4.5/5

The sashimi course was undoubtedly the highlight of the night, showcasing an impressive array of freshly imported seafood from Japan. The Ume Omakase offered a 7-piece selection, including Tuna Jaw, Spotted Grouper, Striped Jack, Silver Beltfish, Sweet Shrimp, Scallops, and Sea Bream. Each piece was a testament to the restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality.

On the other hand, the Jun Omakase provided an 8-piece selection of premium sashimi. This included Tuna Jaw, Pomfret, Scallop, Alfonsino, Amberjack Belly, Silver Beltfish, Sweet Shrimp, and Herring Roe on Kelp. The additional piece of sashimi, coupled with the more luxurious choices, made this course a feast for the senses, truly showcasing the best of what the sea has to offer.

Ume Omakase - Two Types of Seasonal Dishes 4/5

Ume Omakase - Two Types of Seasonal Dishes 3.8/5

We were treated to two cooked seasonal dishes for the Ume Omakase: a perfectly grilled Sea Barracuda and a decadent combination of Scallop and Foie Gras. The Barracuda was beautifully charred, retaining its natural flavours, while the Scallop and Foie Gras dish provided a rich and indulgent contrast.

Jun Omakase - Two Types of Premium Dishes 4.2/5

Jun Omakase - Two Types of Premium Dishes 4/5

The Jun Omakase, staying true to its premium promise, offered Kinmedai (Golden Eye Snapper) for the grilled fish dish and an exquisite A5 Kagoshima Wagyu. The Kinmedai was delicate and flavourful, with its skin crisped to perfection. The A5 Wagyu, as expected, melted in the mouth, delivering an unparalleled richness that left a lasting impression.

Ume Omakase - Negi Toro Uni Don 4.2/5

For the carbo course, the Ume Omakase menu offered a choice between 6 pieces of Nigiri or Negi Toro Uni Don. We opted for the latter, a bowl of finely chopped fatty tuna topped with uni. The combination of flavours was as delightful as indulgent, a satisfying end to the savoury courses.

Jun Omakase - 6pc Nigiri 4.5/5

Jun Omakase - 2 Premium Hand Roll 4/5

There was no such choice in the Jun Omakase, but we were certainly not disappointed. It included 6 pieces of meticulously crafted Nigiri and 2 Premium Hand Rolls. By this point, I was almost too full, but the chef kindly reduced the amount of rice in the sushi, allowing me to savour each piece without feeling overwhelmed.

To conclude this exquisite meal, we were served a trio of desserts: Japanese Musk Melon, Cheesecake, and Kanten Jelly with Okinawa Brown Sugar. The Musk Melon was incredibly sweet and juicy, a refreshing palate cleanser. The Cheesecake was rich and creamy, while the Kanten Jelly provided a light, sweet ending to this remarkable dining experience.

Jun Omakase continues to impress with its commitment to quality, freshness, and culinary excellence. Whether you opt for the Ume Omakase or the more premium Jun Omakase, you're in for a dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying. This is a place where the art of omakase is celebrated, and where each dish is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. I'm glad to see that after six years, Jun Omakase remains a steadfast beacon of culinary brilliance in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jun Omakase
Samsung Hub
3 Church Street
Singapore 049483
Tel: +65 62240311
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Raffles Place (EW. NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 930pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to the traffic light junction at Cecil Street and Church Street. Cross the road. Walk down Church Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Um Yong Baek @ Telok Ayer - Second and Bigger Outlet to Enjoy the Popular Pork & Rice Soup

The popular Um Yong Baek on Boon Tat Street has expanded with a new, larger outlet on Telok Ayer Street. This new location offers the same signature Dwaeji Gukbab (Pork & Rice Soup) for lunch and Korean grilled meats for dinner. Eager to try their famed Dwaeji Gukbab, I finally got the chance to visit the new outlet, which conveniently allows reservations.

Busan Style Daejigukbab 4.5/5

We began our meal with the Busan Style Daejigukbab ($21). This version boasts a broth made by roasting aged pork and then boiling it for long hours to draw out the deep, savoury flavours of the meat into a clear broth. The dish includes various cuts of pork, each boiled separately to retain their distinct taste and texture. Even the rice is prepared using a traditional Korean method to remove starch, allowing the savoury broth to permeate each grain. This meticulous preparation results in a lighter, cleaner taste that highlights the original flavours of the pork.

Milyang Style Daejigukbab 4.2/5

Next, we tried the Milyang Style Daejigukbab ($21). The main difference lies in the broth, which is made from various pork bones to achieve a thicker, richer pork flavour. While both styles are delicious, I preferred the Busan style for its lighter, cleaner taste, allowing the original pork flavours to shine more distinctly.

The meal is accompanied by complimentary banchan, with the kimchi standing out in particular. It effectively cuts through the richness of the pork broth, refreshing the palate and enhancing the overall dining experience.

Ohsorigamtoo Sooyuk 4.8/5

The lunch menu offers other delightful dishes in addition to the pork and rice soup. We sampled the Ohsorigamtoo Sooyuk, which features generous portions of boiled pork maw. The pork maw was clean and had a delightful chewy texture. What truly surprised me was the accompanying sauce, which paired excellently with the pork maw, elevating its flavour.

Ohgyeopsal Sooyuk 4.5/5

We also tried the Ohgyeopsal Sooyuk, which is a boiled pork belly with skin. The pork belly had a nice, bouncy gelatin texture and didn't feel fatty at all. It came with sides of tofu, garlic, and chives, which offered a unique and delicious way to appreciate the boiled pork belly. Eating the pork belly in four different ways with these sides was a novel and enjoyable experience.

Um Yong Baek's new outlet on Telok Ayer Street successfully brings the essence of authentic Korean cuisine to Singapore, offering a delightful journey through the flavors of Busan and Milyang Dwaeji Gukbab. The attention to detail in the preparation of each dish, from the broth to the banchan, ensures a memorable dining experience. Whether you prefer the lighter Busan style or the richer Milyang style, Um Yong Baek is definitely worth a visit for an authentic taste of Korean Pork & Rice Soup.

Note: THis is an invites tasting.


Um Yong Baek
80/82 Telok Ayer Street
#01-01
Singapore 048466
Tel: +65 8122 3498
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 330pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Toku Nori @ Telok Ayer Street - Reinventing Handrolls with Their Own Special, Modern and Unique Take

Toku Nori, a new Japanese restaurant, is nestled on the second and third storeys of a pre-war heritage shophouse along Telok Ayer Street. The name "Toku (特)" translates to "special" in Japanese, and true to its name, Toku Nori is reinventing handrolls with its unique touch. The 40-seater sushi bar counter dining space infuses traditional design elements of a Japanese handroll bar with contemporary aesthetics, offering an inviting ambience for a memorable dining experience.

Handroll: Hotate Roll 4/5

We began our dinner with a selection of handrolls, each crafted by the chef right before our eyes at the sushi bar counter, served and timed to individual pace. The Hotate Roll ($9), paired with yuzu koshi, lime, and chives, was a delightful start. The premium-grade japonica pearl rice, Koshihikari, provided a sublime balance of moisture, stickiness, and subtle sweetness that complemented the scallop's natural sweetness. The yuzu koshi and lime pairing heightened the overall flavour profile, making each bite a refreshing experience.

Handroll: Maguro Roll 4/5

Next, we had the Maguro Roll ($8), featuring smoked onion cream, crispy shallots, and melt-in-the-mouth maguro. The combination of flavours and textures worked harmoniously, offering a delightful textural enjoyment that left us craving more.

Handroll: Engawa Roll 4/5

The Engawa Roll ($9.5) was another highlight, aburi for a touch of smokiness before being wrapped into a roll with shiro miso and roast garlic. The slight char from the aburi added a depth of flavour that elevated the delicate engawa.

Premium Roll: Foie Gras Roll 4.2/5

For a more luxurious experience, we opted for the Foie Gras Roll ($16). The creamy foie gras, given a kiss of fire from the torch, was paired with a garlic soy glaze and spicy leek, resulting in an explosion of flavours that was both rich and satisfying.

Premium Roll: Wagyu & Uni Roll 4.5/5

The Wagyu & Uni Roll ($16) comprised of wagyu karubi, Hokkaido sea urchin, and caviar. This luxurious combination of fatty, melt-in-the-mouth wagyu, the sweetness of uni, and the umami from the caviar created a heavenly flavour profile that left us wanting more.

Izakaya Platter

Kakuni Pork Belly, Aburi Salmon Crispy Sushi, Maguro Popper, Chicken Rib 4.5/5

In addition to the sushi rolls, Toku Nori offers a selection of izakaya items. We sampled the Kakuni Pork Belly ($14/2pc), Aburi Salmon Crispy Sushi ($16/3pc), Maguro Popper ($12/3pc), and Chicken Ribs ($14). Each item was well executed, delicious, and perfectly complemented with alcohol, making them ideal for a casual night out.

Wagyu Sando 4/5

The Wagyu Sando was another standout dish. The rich, buttery wagyu was sandwiched between lightly toasted, golden brown bread. The exceptionally tender wagyu and the slight crunch of the bread created a delightful mouthfeel that was both satisfying and memorable.

Sakura Matcha Latte, Yuzu Matcha, Housemade Warabi Mochi 4.2/5

To wrap up our meal, we enjoyed the Housemade Warabi Mochi ($12), which was airy and soft, presented in three different flavours: kinoko, goma, and matcha. For matcha lovers, we had the Sakura Matcha Latte and Yuzu Matcha, both of which used ceremonial-grade premium tsuki matcha, offering a perfect balance of flavours to end our meal on a high note.

Toku Nori is a gem in the heart of Telok Ayer Street, offering a unique and modern take on traditional Japanese handrolls. Its inviting ambience, attentive service, and innovative menu make it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the delicate art of sushi and handrolls. Toku Nori promises an exceptional dining experience that will leave you coming back for more.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Toku Nori
200A Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068638
Tel: +65 8082 6536
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1145am - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left and walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]