This eatery is the first Muslim-owned Japanese izakaya in Singapore. Situated in a shophouse in the Kampong Glam area, it is appointed with low-slung tables and tatami floors, with murals of geishas and other Japanese iconography adorning the walls. The menu features kushiyaki and charcoal-grilled fare made with produce sourced from Japan.

In accordance with halal practices, the izakaya doesn’t serve pork or alcohol, but that just means you should order one of the innovative mocktails to go with the kushiyaki. Try the Geisha, a refreshing passion fruit-based tipple mixed with tea, or Aka Nichibotsu, an alcohol-free sangria.

Come in a group so you can sample a wide range of dishes. Don’t miss the surume ika, or grilled whole squid. Grilled to tender perfection, its deep smokiness is accented by a little squeeze of lemon. The stewed beef ribs are excellent too. Cooked till fork-tenderness and paired with a mouthwatering gravy, it is best enjoyed with a bowl of steamed white rice.

Other highlights are the tori karaage (morsels of tasty fried chicken) and the kaki fry (breaded and deep-fried oysters). To end the meal, ask for a comforting matcha soy tea.