We walked into Yoasobi by Kanpai expecting the quiet, smoky hum of a traditional izakaya restaurant, but the first thing we noticed wasn’t the sizzle of binchotan charcoal. It was the thump of a massive sound system and the heavy, rich aroma of mouth watering dishes, especially the smoked brisket.
If you are hunting for a deeply traditional, chef-led omakase experience, you can turn around right now. But if you want an exciting and affordable experience in Singapore’s Central Business District that blends Japanese bar food with zi-char comfort plates and late-night KTV, this Pekin Street venue completely flips the izakaya script. We recently dropped in to see how this modern fusion menu and lively atmosphere hold up to the hype, and here is exactly what we found.
For a broader look at Telok Ayer’s izakaya and Japanese drinking scene beyond Yoasobi, we’ve mapped out more nearby options here.
Kanpai Yoasobi at Pekin Street: Atmosphere and First Impressions
Located right on the edge of Singapore’s Central Business District, Yoasobi by Kanpai operates with dual personalities. During the day, it functions as a brightly lit, highly efficient lunch spot catering to corporate diners. But when the sun goes down, it transforms into a vibrant bar offering live music, carnival games, and bespoke events.
The interior trades the old-school, wood-heavy izakaya look for a modern, neon-accented space. It is loud and lively, featuring private dining rooms equipped with projector screens, KTV sound systems, and convertible pool tables. This place is designed for groups of friends and occasions where you want to enjoy nights out, not for quiet, intimate conversations.
The Food and Drinks: A Modern Fusion Menu with Flavor
Yoasobi by Kanpai’s menu covers a wide range, from traditional Japanese dishes to local zi-char favorites, providing delicious food that caters to diverse tastes. We started with their signature 16-hour slow-smoked brisket—a rich, smoky meal perfect for sharing over drinks during happy hour.
Next came the yakitori and kushiyaki skewers, straightforward bar food with a savory glaze that pairs well with their affordable drinks menu. The lunch sets, starting at $9.90, offer excellent value with generous portions and bold flavors. This combination of mouth watering dishes and wallet-friendly prices makes for an affordable experience that many customers appreciate.
Service and Practical Details
Service at Kanpai Yoasobi varies with the time of day. Lunch service is fast and efficient, ideal for busy CBD workers. Evening service is friendly but can slow down during peak hours, especially on Fri nights when the bar fills up for happy hour and live music.
Address: 33-35 Pekin Street, Far East Square, Singapore
Opening Hours: Lunch Monday to Friday, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm; Dinner and drinks Monday to Thursday 3:00 pm to 2:00 am; Fri and Sat until 3:00 am (closed Sundays)
Reservations: Highly recommended, especially to book private dining rooms equipped with KTV sound systems and projector screens for bespoke events or group occasions. Contact them today via email or WhatsApp to secure your table.
Final Thoughts: An Exciting Place to Enjoy Nights in Singapore’s CBD
Yoasobi by Kanpai is not a place for izakaya purists but excels as an exciting bar and restaurant offering a modern fusion menu and a lively atmosphere in Singapore’s Central Business District. It provides an affordable experience with delicious food, drinks, and entertainment options like carnival games and live music.
Whether you’re planning a casual meal with friends, a team night out, or a bespoke event, Kanpai Yoasobi on Pekin Street is a place to book for an unforgettable and energetic experience.
