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
Website
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]
