Shunjuu Izakaya is a casual, unpretentious spot in the city that offers unrivalled sumiyaki (charcoal grill) dishes and plenty of sake. Located in Robertson Quay, it is a longstanding establishment of over a decade. Regulars swear by their signature grilled items such as Japanese mackerel with citrus sauce—with tender, moist flesh enlivened by preserved fruit which adds a lovely salty-sour kick. The pork cheek and Kagoshima ribeye, too, are perfectly seasoned and cooked, boasting a beautiful umami.

Another notable dish here is the char-grilled chicken wings, featuring juicy flesh and a crisp, thin skin that snaps deliciously upon first bite—a testament to the chefs’ mastery over the grill. For heartier items, try the angel hair pasta with truffle oil, a simple but hearty dish, or the octopus and seaweed fried rice which is fragrant and offers a nice bite. Offal such as chicken heart, foie gras and ox tongue present perfect doneness and texture.

Wash it all down with close to 70 sake options.