It’s that time of the evening when the day’s last email has been sent, and all you want is a place to just… exhale. I was scrolling through my phone, looking for a cosy dinner spot around Upper Thomson and landed on Zenryoku Izakaya, located at 183 Upper Thomson Road, just opp Shunfu Est (opposite Shunfu Mart). The pictures promised warm wood interiors, glowing lanterns, and the authentic Japanese izakaya vibe—a true stay drink place where you can settle in and relax. I decided to check it out.
Zenryoku Izakaya Kitchen Serves Food, Drink Alcohol, and Authentic Atmosphere
Walking into Zenryoku Izakaya is like stepping into a slice of Japan tucked away in Singapore. The small, intimate house is centered around the open kitchen where chefs work their magic. The air is filled with the smoky aroma of charcoal, and the vibe is lively with the sizzle of the grill, clinking glasses, and happy chatter.
The decor is simple yet authentic, with Japanese posters, sake bottles, and kanji characters adorning the walls. The meaning of izakaya, made up of three kanji, is “stay-drink-place,” and this spot embodies that perfectly. It’s clear this isn’t one of those intimidating formal restaurants with multi-course meals served all at once. Instead, here the kitchen serves food ordered slowly and as it’s ready, allowing guests to wind down and enjoy each dish at a comfortable pace. With limited seats, it’s best to book ahead, especially on weekends.
A Typical Izakaya Menu with Something for Everyone
The menu at Zenryoku Izakaya might not be extensive, but it packs plenty of delicious options for dinner or even a casual lunch. I opted for several courses to sample a bit of everything.
First up, I ordered the Tsukune with pasteurized egg yolk ($5.80). The juicy, char-grilled meatball dipped into the creamy egg yolk was simply divine. It was a great way to kick off the meal.
Next, I tried the Nankotsu (chicken soft bone) ($3.50), which had a crispy texture and smoky flavor, perfect for snacking while sipping on a highball.
Wanting something more comforting, I went for the Oden Moriwase ($19.60). This dish, featuring assorted fish cakes, daikon radish, and other goodies in a light broth, was like a warm hug in a bowl. The soft daikon practically melted in my mouth.
Every dish felt carefully prepared with passion, and you could taste the care and effort behind each one. The yakitori and oden were clear highlights, making me want to return to this cosy drink place to explore more of the menu.
Slow Pace, Drink Alcohol, and Friendly Service at Zenryoku Izakaya
One thing that sets Zenryoku Izakaya apart from typical restaurants is its slow-paced, relaxed dining style. The food is ordered slowly and served as it’s ready, so you can enjoy each dish without feeling rushed. My skewers arrived first, followed by the oden about 10 minutes later. This stay-and-drink pace is perfect for catching up with friends or unwinding after a long day.
The drinks menu is solid, and I paired my meal with a couple of refreshing highballs. The staff were attentive, ensuring my glass was never empty and explaining the dishes with enthusiasm. You could tell they genuinely enjoy what they do, which creates a warm and welcoming environment for guests. While many patrons are non Japanese, the authentic atmosphere and friendly service make everyone feel at home.
Practical Tips for Visiting Zenryoku Izakaya at 01 04, 183 Upper Thomson Road
Zenryoku Izakaya is close enough to walk if you take the MRT to Marymount Station. Parking is available in nearby private estates, but grabbing a ride might be easier.
Reservations are recommended, as this house has limited seats and fills up quickly. Like many izakayas, guests are required to drink alcohol, so it’s a great place for those wanting good food and drinks. Expect to spend $35 to $60 per person, depending on how much you order.
Parting Cheers: The Perfect Izakaya Food Spot to Settle, Drink Alcohol, and Enjoy
Zenryoku Izakaya is a fantastic spot for anyone who loves authentic izakaya food and great drinks in a lively, unpretentious setting. It’s ideal for small groups of friends or anyone looking to enjoy a cozy dinner with yakitori and sake.
This place shines for its authentic taste, relaxed pace, and welcoming service. It may not be a typical choice for a quiet, romantic date or a large family dinner, but it’s perfect for a casual night out with great food and good drinks.
If you’re looking for an izakaya that brings the flavors of Japan close to home in Singapore, Zenryoku Izakaya is absolutely worth a visit.
