SAKEMARU Artisan Sake Hideout @ Clarke Quay - Modern Japanese Kappo-style Izakaya with Extensive Range of Exclusive Artisanal Saké

SAKEMARU Artisan Sake Hideout is an izakaya tucked along South Bridge Road, between Clarke Quay and Raffles Place MRT stations. Specialising in modern Kappo-style Japanese cuisine, the restaurant exudes a cosy ambience with options for counter seating or regular tables.

True to its name, SAKEMARU boasts an extensive selection of artisanal sakes, many of which are rare finds not typically available in other local establishments.

Chef Kudo’s Omakase 4/5

The highlight of the menu is the signature Chef Kudo’s Omakase ($150/pax), while a la carte options are also available.

Saikzuke

The omakase begins with Saikzuke, a curated appetiser platter. This includes monkfish liver delicately paired with ponzu sauce, a saucer of flavourful boiled spinach, sweet Annou potato tempura, dried horse mackerel, and a fresh cuttlefish sushi piece.

Wanmono

The Wanmono soup course features a light yet hearty turnip soup, enhanced with cod milt and garnished with green onions.

Sashimi

No omakase is complete without Sashimi, and we were treated to thick, fresh slices of tuna, sea bream, and mackerel.

Yakimono

For our Yakimono course, we were served with buttery grilled scallops, brussel sprouts, and a tender slice of fish topped with sea urchin.

Agemono

Next was the Agemono course, which consisted of three tempuras: smelt, lotus root, and tilefish. While the ingredients were fresh, we found the batter slightly bland.

Sunomono

The Sunomono course showcased snow crab, grouper, and radish pickled in sweet vinegar, further dressed in Tosazu vinegar. While refreshing, it was a little too sweet for our liking.

Gohan

The main course was Gohan, featuring grilled yellowtail served with saikyo miso claypot rice, paired with a cup of miso soup. The rice is lightly savoury, complementing the grilled fish. I particularly liked the clear miso soup that had depth.

If you are not able to finish your portion of rice, the staff can shape it into small onigiri for takeaway, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Kanmi

The meal concluded with the Kanmi course. While I wished there was slightly more azuki filling, this traditional Japanese sweet treat of strawberry daifuku came with a juicy, sweet strawberry encased in soft mochi skin.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


SAKEMARU Artisan Sake Hideout
55 South Bridge Road
Singapore 058686
Tel: +65 65132789
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line), Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat:1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road and walk to Carpenter Street. Walk down Carpenter Street to South Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Chulia Street to North Canal Road. Walk to the junction of North Canal Road and South Bridge Road. Turn right onto South Bridge Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Shakō-Ba @ North Canal Road - A Vibrant & Immersive Experience Alongside Classic and Innovative Izakaya Creations

Time to check out the hottest new izakaya bar in town! Shakō-Ba is conceptualised around a unique daruma theme, inspired by the traditional Japanese doll symbolising perseverance and good luck. The space is stylishly decorated, with a main bar and dining area showcasing cheeky neon signage to create the perfect atmosphere for a night out. There's also a private room available for diners who want to enjoy a karaoke session.

The kitchen is led by Chef Patrick, who brings with him over 25 years of culinary expertise. Besides the ala carte main menu, they have recently launched an omakase menu, served in a cosy dining room away from the main bar and dining area. This setting offers a more intimate and sophisticated ambience whilst still embracing a fun and playful vibe. During my visit, my dining companion and I were treated to the Daruma Lite Omakase, and to begin the evening, we were presented with a tray of 6 different types of Japanese cups and glasses. This welcome ritual allows each diner to choose their preferred vessel, which is then paired with a complimentary welcome drink! There are both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options available, and I was pleased with my refreshing iced yuzu drink.

Seasonal Appetisers 4.5/5

Chef Patrick then presented the first dish: a tray of Seasonal Appetisers featuring three delightful items. The fruit tomato, delicately sprinkled with snowflake salt, was set alongside a bowl of beancurd skin paired with wasabi. Intriguingly, there were two little river crabs perched on the tray — I initially thought they were just decorative! However, they are indeed meant to be eaten. Deep-fried and seasoned with salt and garlic powder, the crabs were incredibly crunchy, and we demolished them rather quickly.

Seasonal Sashimi Tray 4.2/5

Next, we were treated to the Seasonal Sashimi Tray, presented with a touch of flair as lights illuminated the ice beneath. We were served three thick, fresh slices of fish: chutoro, yellowtail, and swordfish belly. Chef Patrick adds a creative twist to the soy sauce by transforming it into a foam, encouraging diners to apply the soy sauce foam directly onto the fish rather than dipping it.

Scallops Cold Truffle Somen 4.8/5

Before diving into the Scallops Cold Truffle Somen, diners get to engage in an exciting game of dice with Chef Patrick! The stakes are high—those who win will be well rewarded with a complimentary topping of fresh seasonal hairy crab to elevate their somen! But even if luck isn't on your side, the truffle somen is already very delicious, featuring large, succulent pieces of scallops that make it a delight regardless!

Truffle Chawanmushi 4.2/5

Next is a Truffle Chawanmushi that is served piping hot and warms the palate. Each spoonful reveals a silky smooth consistency, enhanced by earthy truffle flavours.

Tempura Prawn & Corn Rice 4.2/5

We were then served a tray of Tempura Prawn & Corn Rice, a dish beautifully showcasing textures' harmony and flavours. The bite-sized pieces of prawn and corn tempura are perfectly crisp, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy bed of rice beneath. The rice is seasoned with furikake, and I found the dish to be quite tasty, although my dining companion felt that the rice could do with an extra pinch of salt.

Shots Tray

At this point, you have the chance to win free shots — if you’re feeling daring! The odds are definitely in your favour, as you’ll draw from a full deck of cards, winning the corresponding number of shots based on your draw. But beware: if you happen to draw the Joker, you'll have to buy a round for all the diners at the omakase table, though at a discounted 1-for-1 price! Are you willing to take the risk?

Note: The shots shown in my photo are the mini version, as we requested a reduced size. Typically, the shots served are in standard shot glasses!

Clam Soup 4.2/5

After all that excitement, sip on a comforting bowl of Clam Soup, where each spoonful envelops you in warmth and contentment. The broth is richly infused with the briny essence of fresh clams, and the many tender pieces of clam in the soup provide a satisfying bite in every sip.

Dessert 4.2/5

For dessert, diners are treated to three delightful pieces of mochi, each one coated in your choice of chocolate, kinako, or sesame. A nice way to experience traditional Japanese sweets with a modern twist.

Brown Sugar Cheesecake 4.5/5

This Brown Sugar Cheesecake isn't included in the Daruma-lite omakase menu, but it's absolutely worth ordering from the main menu. The cheesecake boasts a luscious, melted top layer of cheese that perfectly complements the crispy brown sugar crust, adding rich caramel sweetness to every bite. Each forkful combines the creamy filling, the crispy sugar crust and the buttery biscuit base, creating a harmonious blend of textures that will leave you craving more.

The drinks menu is equally enticing, featuring a diverse selection of flavoured shochu, sake, highballs and more, ensuring there’s something to please every palate. Whether you prefer the refreshing notes of a fruity shochu or the nuanced flavours of a finely crafted sake, you’ll find the perfect accompaniment to your meal.

Additionally, there's an exciting option to press the "Superstar Button." If you're feeling like a boss, this fun feature lets you treat the whole crowd to a round of shots for just $288! It's a fantastic way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a lively night out with friends. Whether you're here for drinks and izakaya bites or a multi-course omakase, you can be sure of one thing: the team at Shakō-Ba is ready to welcome you for a good time!

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shakō-Ba
12 North Canal Road
#02-01
Singapore 048825
Tel: +65 9689 9010
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (CC Line), Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 5pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk towards the junction of North Canal Road and South Bridge Road. Cross the junction and continue on North Canal Road. Walk along the shophouses along North Canal Road. Look out for an alley and turn left into it. Look for the entrance to the building and take lift to level 2. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]


2) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk towards North Canal Road. Continue on North Canal Road. Walk along the shophouses along North Canal Road. Look out for an alley and turn right into it. Look for the entrance to the building and take lift to level 2. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

JUwei 聚味老南洋咖啡店 @ SAFRA Town Club, Clarke Quay - Enjoy Nanyang Delights At This Modern Nanyang Coffeeshop Till 2am

JUwei 聚味老南洋咖啡店 is the new potential late-night spot for anyone craving Nanyang delights like nasi lemak and curry chicken, conveniently located just opposite Clarke Quay MRT station.

Open till 2am, this revamped coffeeshop within the SAFRA Town Club building is decked in retro furniture, decor, and multi-coloured lighting. Before its current iteration, the space was home to JUwei Sichuan Cuisine 聚味江湖菜馆. Now, the menu has shifted to focus on classic Nanyang fare.

The offerings are extensive, including breakfast toasts, beverages, cheong fun, wok-fried items, and rice sets. However, do note that the morning menu has a more limited selection.

Kaya Butter Toast 4.2/5

We enjoyed the Kaya Butter Toast ($2.50). It had cold slabs of butter and fragrant kaya sandwiched between thin crisp toasts. While the portion could be larger, I especially liked that the kaya wasn't too sweet. You can also make it a Toast Set ($5.90) with additional half-boiled eggs and a cup of kopi.

Chicken Curry Chee Cheong Fun 3.5/5

The Chicken Curry Chee Cheong Fun ($7.90) came paired with an assortment of ingredients - chicken, beans, beancurd skin, tau pok and pig skin. The curry was aromatic, but I wished the cheong fun was smoother.

Penang Char Kuey Teow 3.5/5

The Penang Char Kuey Teow ($10.90) carried a decent amount of flavour and wok hei, but it was a pity that the kway teow we had leaned to one of a harder texture. The dish was fried with fishcake, prawn, egg and lap cheong.

Prawn Paste Chicken Mid Joint 4/5

Our Prawn Paste Chicken Mid Joint ($8.90) was served piping hot, with each piece fried to a crunch that you would like your har cheong gai to have. These were nicely marinated, and its meat remained juicy.

Nasi Lemak with Crispy Fried Chicken Whole Leg Combo 4.2/5

Last but not least, we had to try JUwei's Nasi Lemak with Crispy Fried Chicken Whole Leg Combo ($12.90), a dish we saw many other diners enjoying. It was nicely served on a wooden platter with sides of achar, keropok, curry vegetables, egg, and a bowl of soup. The rice could be more lemak, but the texture was done well and fluffy. The highlight was the chunky chicken leg that came with crisp skin and tender meat, accompanied by extra crisp bits for added crunch. The soup was a miss, but the sambal added a sweet-spicy hit.

Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.


JUwei 聚味老南洋咖啡店
29 Carpenter Street
Level 1
Singapore 059923
Tel: +65 6988 0836
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 8am - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road and walk to Carpenter Street. Turn left onto Carpenter Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Chef X @ Clarke Quay Central - Wanting Kimchi the 2nd Home-Based Chef to Take Residency at The Commerical Space

After Baker X's successful launch at Orchard Central, the Far East Organization introduced Chef X at Clarke Quay Central. This retail innovation allows home-based chefs to experience running a restaurant in a commercial space with minimal risk. Each resident chef helms the 24-seater restaurant for four to eight weeks, serving dine-in customers and offering takeaway options.

I recently visited Chef X to experience Wanting Kimchi, the second line-up at this innovative space, from 1 July to 26 August 2024. Diners can expect an array of signature low salt, sugar, and MSG-free handcrafted fermented side dishes alongside new hot dishes.

Banchan 4.2/5

We began our dinner with an array of Banchan, handcrafted by Wanting, the founder of Wanting Kimchi. Each side dish was meticulously fermented from scratch using the freshest, highest-quality produce, naturally rich in antioxidants and probiotics. The effort and dedication to crafting these banchan were evident in every bite. Highlights include Wanting Kimchi's top sellers: Signature Cabbage Kimchi ($15 per tub) and Addictive Apple Kimchi ($15 per tub).

Kimchi Jjim 5/5

Next, we had the Kimchi Jjim ($69 for 2 pax), a new hot dish introduced by Wanting Kimchi for Chef X. Served in a clay pot, the dish features whole braised kimchi crafted with slow-aged, whole-head cabbage kimchi, accompanied by generous servings of tender pork ribs in a robust, full-bodied homemade stock. The aged kimchi's natural sourness perfectly balanced the meat's richness, whetting our appetites with its depth of flavour.

Doenjang Jjigae 4.5/5

For those who prefer non-spicy options, the Doenjang Jjigae ($25 for 1 pax) is a hearty, delicious, and comforting fermented soybean paste stew. The stew includes tender pork ribs, potatoes, and zucchini, making it a satisfying choice for a wholesome meal.

Probiotic Lemon Cheesecake 4/5

To wrap up our meal, we indulged in the Probiotic Lemon Cheesecake ($9). The sweet and sour combination provided a perfect ending to the meal, with a delightful balance of flavours that left us feeling satisfied and refreshed.

Chef X at Clarke Quay Central is an exciting concept that provides home-based chefs with a platform to showcase their culinary skills in a commercial setting. Wanting Kimchi's residency has been a testament to the potential of this innovative space, offering a unique dining experience with its handcrafted, healthy, and flavourful dishes. Whether you're a fan of traditional Korean banchan or looking to explore new hot dishes, Wanting Kimchi at Chef X is worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Wanting Kimchi
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Chef X
Clarke Quay Central
6 Eu Tong Sen Street
#03-103/104
Singapore 059817
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 1130am - 9 pm
(Closed on Sun-Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E or F. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

IL Clay Supper Club & Pizzeria @ Clarke Quay - Inviting Patrons to an Unique Dining Experience Reviving the Golden Era of Supper Clubs

Located in the heart of Clarke Quay, IL Clay Supper Club & Pizzeria is a stylish addition to the vibrant dining scene. This Neapolitan-style pizzeria and bar concept is helmed by renowned Naples-born chef Ciro Sorrentino, whose pizzeria Magherí in Italy earned a spot in the 50 Top Pizzeria Eccellente Italia in both 2022 and 2023. His restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City was also recognised in the 50 Top Pizza Asia-Pacific 2024 award. The supper club aims to bring the authentic flavours and ambience of a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria to Singapore, promising an exceptional dining experience.

Regina Magheri 4.5/5

What sets Neapolitan pizzas apart is their very thin base and a light, airy crust that puffs up around the edges. Neapolitan pizzas focus on the simplicity and freshness of the toppings, typically using San Marzano tomatoes and either Fior di latte or mozzarella di Bufala. The Regina Magherí ($32) is a testament to this tradition, featuring San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh buffalo cheese, pesto sauce, oregano, tomatoes pacchetelle, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. The combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients makes this pizza a must-try.

6 Cheese and Honey Pizza 4.5/5

Another standout is the 6 Cheese and Honey Pizza ($55), which includes mascarpone cheese, fior di latte, smoked provolone cheese, pecorino cheese, gorgonzola mousse, and parmesan chips, drizzled with truffle acacia honey. This pizza offers a luxurious, creamy, and sweet experience. While the taste is exceptional, the price might be steep for some.

Wagyu Beef Cube Skewer 4/5

The Wagyu Beef Cube Skewer ($39), served with parsley salad, tuna sauce, and capers, was our first small plate. Though the beef cubes were slightly dry, the accompanying sauce was outstanding, making us wish for some bread to mop it up.

Burrata Tomato Agrodolce 4/5

Next, we enjoyed the Burrata Tomato Agrodolce ($22), featuring a delicious ball of burrata paired with marinated peeled cherry tomatoes and gremolata oil. The creamy burrata and sweet tomatoes were a delightful combination, whetting our appetites for more.

Roasted Eggplant 3.8/5

We also sampled the Roasted Eggplant ($18), which was appetising when combined with whipped feta cream and candied chilli sauce, enhancing the dish's overall flavour profile.

Smoked Eel and Japanese Scallop 3.8/5

The Smoked Eel and Japanese Scallop ($26), served with capers, green olives, and dill, was light and clean-tasting. The moist, smoky eel and plump, sweet scallop created a harmonious pairing.

Sicilian Grilled Squid 3.5/5

Among the large plates we shared was the Sicilian Grilled Squid ($32), stuffed with saffron risotto and served with a chorizo peperonata sauce. While the bright chorizo sauce was delightful, the stuffed risotto's mushy texture was less enjoyable.

Antarctic Cod Fish 4/5

The other large plate, Antarctic Cod Fish ($46), was pan-seared and accompanied by apple onion relish, charcoal-smoked cauliflower purée, and pistachio crush. The simple execution highlighted the fish's freshness and buttery texture, cooked to perfection.

Gelato Cremoso 4.2/5

We had the Gelato Cremoso ($16), a unique champagne vanilla gelato with mascarpone cheese, honeycomb, and cookie crumbs for dessert. This refreshing and well-balanced dessert provided the perfect sweet ending to our meal.

Whether you're in the mood for excellent pizzas or seeking a new date night spot with a touch of glamour, IL Clay Supper Club is a great option. Personally, I would visit the place primarily for their pizzas and might skip the other items. Please note that pizzas are available for indoor dining only, daily from 12 PM to 6 PM, with the last order at 5 PM.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


IL Clay Supper Club & Pizzeria
Clarke Quay
3D River Valley Road
#01-04
Singapore 179023
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 12pm - 12midnight
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 2am

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit C or G. Walk to the river. Turn left and walk down the river towards the bridge. Cross the bridge. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right onto River Valley Road Walk down River Valley Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]