The Modern Izakaya at CHIJMES
Location: 30 Victoria St, #01-18 CHIJMES, Singapore 187996
CHIJMES
Modern Japanese izakaya serving tapas-style dishes and sake at CHIJMES
Modern Japanese izakaya serving tapas-style dishes and sake at CHIJMES
The Modern Izakaya at CHIJMES brings a contemporary twist to the traditional Japanese izakaya concept, offering small plates designed for sharing alongside a well-curated drinks menu. Nestled within the historic CHIJMES complex, the restaurant blends the convivial, after-work drinking culture of Japan with Singapore's cosmopolitan dining sensibilities. The menu features a mix of classic izakaya staples and creative reinterpretations, including sashimi platters, yakitori skewers, agedashi tofu, and seasonal specials that rotate based on ingredient availability. The drinks list spans sake, shochu, Japanese craft beers, and signature cocktails that complement the food menu. CHIJMES' stunning heritage architecture provides a striking backdrop, and the restaurant's al fresco seating area is particularly popular in the evenings when the complex comes alive with atmosphere. The Modern Izakaya appeals to both after-work crowds seeking drinks and small bites and diners looking for a relaxed yet refined Japanese meal in one of Singapore's most picturesque dining destinations.Operating Hours
Overall Rating
Based on 325 Google reviews
Negative Reviews
Matt
Highballs are served like this, and was informed that this is to ensure good taste. Don’t come here if you wish to drink highballs that don’t look like it was drank out of. This was my second highball by the way, from a 1 for 1 happy hour. They were very consistent with the volume of highball that they served.
Positive Reviews
Benedict Chan
Grub 🍢🍢🍢 Dricka 🥃🥃 Vibes 🏮 🏮 🏮 🏮 …
Dis Down Under
We dropped in spur of the moment and were greeted by amazing staff, enjoyed amazing food (all of it amazing but the bacon wrapped enoki were A++ and the smoky quail eggs were 🧑🍳 💋 ) and a cold beer. …
Savan
After attending the NDP, we were starving and decided to drop by for a late dinner. We ordered the skewers platter, two sticks of deep-fried chicken skin, my …
Leon Kwang
One of favorite hang outs for a beer, small group to bigger ones (~12 pax). It's fast becoming our HQ/ home turf for our Talent Acquisition gatherings in Singapore. Good happy hour deals till 8pm on weekdays (1-for-1) and all day on weekends/ public holidays. I don't eat here much but food was decent whenever someone else ordered. Not much not to like.
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Photo Gallery
The Modern Izakaya
The Modern Izakaya
The exterior of a modern izakaya with large glass windows. The restaurant's name, "the modern izakaya," is displayed in large yellow lettering on the window. Below the name, the address "30 Victoria St, #01-18 CHIJMES, Singapore 187996" and "Indoor & Outdoor seating" are visible. Various posters and advertisements are displayed on the windows, including one for Asahi beer and another for FUJI with a price of $188. Tables and chairs are set up both inside and outside the establishment.
The Modern Izakaya
The exterior of a modern izakaya with neon signage. Inside, tables and chairs are visible, along with a bar area stocked with bottles and glasses. Promotional posters for Asahi beer and Francois Dion wine are displayed on the glass facade.
Kome Bar
The exterior of Kome Bar, a Japanese izakaya, with its prominent signage. A large sign above the entrance reads "KOME BAR" in English and Japanese. Below the sign, a window display features advertisements for Asahi beer and a "Happy Hour 1 for 1 Beer" promotion. The entrance is accessed via a set of stairs.
The Modern Izakaya
A neon sign that reads 'the modern izakaya' is visible above a storefront window. Inside, promotional posters for wine and a dish called 'ladyfinger with sesame sauce' are displayed. A digital screen shows an image of the dish. The interior of the establishment, including a bar area with staff, is visible through the window.
Sake Pouring
A hand pours sake from a bottle into a small glass, which sits in a wooden sake cup. Another glass and cup are visible in the background.
Rack of Lamb with Roasted Vegetables
A white plate holds a serving of rack of lamb, accompanied by roasted potato wedges and a medley of colorful vegetables including zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The dish is garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs and drizzled with a rich brown sauce. Two wine corks, one with visible text
Assorted Skewers and Pickled Ginger
A close-up shot of a variety of skewers served on a dark, textured platter. The skewers include what appears to be grilled meat, possibly beef or lamb, seasoned with spices. Another skewer features small, round, cooked items, possibly cherry tomatoes or quail eggs. A third type of skewer contains green vegetables wrapped in thinly sliced meat, likely pork belly. A small dish of pickled ginger, a common accompaniment to Japanese cuisine, is visible on the left side of the platter. In the background, a white oblong dish holds more skewers of a crispy, coiled food item, also garnished with pickled ginger. A smartphone is visible in the upper right corner of the image.
Beer in a tall glass
A tall glass of beer with a frothy head sits on a coaster on a wooden table. The glass has a distinctive textured design and the Asahi logo is visible. In the background, people are seated at tables in a dimly lit establishment, with reflections of signs and lights visible on a glass partition.
Bottles and Glasses on Shelves
A bar shelf displaying various bottles of alcohol, including Japanese sake and Scotch whisky. On the top shelf, there are several white ceramic jars with Japanese characters and rows of Aberlour 12 Year Old whisky tubes. The middle shelf features Japanese sake bottles, a large bottle of sake with yellow labeling, and several bottles of Chivas Regal 18 Year Old whisky. Below, rows of wine glasses hang from hooks.
Fried Shrimp with Lemon
A close-up shot of a white container filled with small, fried shrimp. A wedge of lemon is placed on top of the shrimp. The shrimp appear crispy and golden brown.
Food and Drinks
A table with various skewers of food, two glasses of dark liquid with ice and straws, and a happy hour promotion. The skewers include chicken wings, meatballs, and bacon-wrapped items. Text overlays indicate menu items and prices.
Grilled Squid and Skewers
A white platter holds a grilled squid, sliced and arranged with tentacles and a lemon wedge. In the background, chicken skewers and other grilled meat skewers are visible on a dark plate.
Skewers grilling over coals
A close-up shot of various food items on skewers being grilled over glowing coals. The skewers feature shiitake mushrooms, green peppers, and what appear to be quail eggs or small onions. The grill grates are visible, with flames and embers beneath. The lighting is warm and atmospheric, highlighting the food and the grilling process.
Crispy Chicken Skin Appetizer
A close-up shot of a plate of crispy fried chicken skin served on a bed of lettuce with a small dish of white sauce topped with red seasoning. The plate has a textured black design.
Assortment of Sushi Rolls
A close-up shot showcases several platters of sushi rolls arranged on a wooden table. The sushi includes various types, such as salmon rolls with black caviar on top, rolls with orange roe and a creamy orange sauce, and rolls with sesame seeds and orange roe. Wasabi is served as a condiment on the side of some platters.
Dried Fish Snack with Roe and Mayonnaise
A white rectangular plate holds a serving of dried fish snacks and a dollop of mayonnaise topped with bright orange roe. The dried fish pieces are thin, crispy, and have a golden-brown hue, some showing char marks. The mayonnaise is creamy and white, with the roe scattered on top, adding a pop of color and texture. The plate is set on a dark wooden surface.
Sake Bottle and Shot Glass
A blue bottle of Japanese sake labeled "BORN SPECIAL" sits on a wooden table next to a shot glass filled with sake. A large, frosted pitcher of ice is behind the bottle. In the background, a person wearing a black shirt is visible, along with shelves and lighting.
Bar Interior with Oyster Display
The image shows the interior of a bar or restaurant. A long bar counter is visible, stocked with bottles of alcohol on shelves behind it. A bartender is working behind the counter. A television screen mounted above the bar displays a picture of oysters with a side of sauce. Several patrons are seated at the bar and at tables. The lighting is dim, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Donburi with Egg and Toppings
A close-up shot of a donburi dish in a black bowl. The dish features white rice topped with pieces of grilled meat, a poached egg with a runny yolk, pickled ginger, fried garlic chips, and shredded nori seaweed. Green onions are sprinkled over the meat and egg.
Fried Crispy Chicken Skin with Salad
A close-up shot of a plate of crispy fried chicken skin served with a side of fresh green lettuce and radicchio salad. The chicken skin is golden brown and appears to be seasoned. The salad provides a fresh contrast to the fried dish.
Sake Bottle and Glass
A bottle of sake and a glass filled with sake sit on a dark wooden table. The bottle has a black label with Japanese characters and a yellow label with red text. The glass has the brand name "HAKUSHIKA" printed on it. The background is blurred, showing reflections of lights and figures, suggesting an indoor setting like a restaurant or bar.
Fried Shrimp Appetizer
A white rectangular dish filled with a generous portion of small, whole fried shrimp. The shrimp are golden brown and appear crispy. The dish is placed on a dark wooden surface, and the scene is illuminated with blue lighting.
Crispy Pork Belly Appetizer
A white rectangular plate holds a serving of crispy pork belly strips, garnished with a sprig of parsley and a dollop of white sauce topped with bright orange roe. The pork belly appears to be thinly sliced and grilled or fried to a crisp, with some pieces showing char marks. The roe adds a pop of color and texture to the dish.
Grilled Squid and Skewers
A white rectangular plate holds grilled squid tentacles and sliced squid body, garnished with pickled ginger and a lemon wedge. In the background, another plate contains grilled meat skewers.
Izakaya Restaurant Interior
A lively izakaya restaurant interior with patrons seated at tables and a bar. The decor features hanging lanterns, greenery, and ambient lighting. A menu stand is visible in the foreground.
Salmon Rolls and Sushi
A close-up shot of two plates of sushi rolls. The top plate features several salmon rolls topped with black caviar, served on a dark rectangular platter with a side of wasabi. The bottom plate shows two sushi rolls, one with sesame seeds and crispy bits on the outside, and the other with visible shrimp and lettuce inside, also with a side of wasabi. The background suggests a restaurant setting with wooden tables and some blurred elements.
Chicken Donburi with Sushi and Tempura
A close-up shot of a Japanese meal. In the foreground, a black bowl contains rice topped with sliced teriyaki chicken, a soft-boiled egg with a runny yolk, shredded nori, pickled ginger, and crispy fried garlic. A dark spoon rests on the side of the bowl. In the background, a plate of sushi rolls and a white dish of tempura are visible.
Two glasses of sake on a table
Two glasses of sake are placed on a dark wooden table. The glass in the foreground has the brand name "HAKUSHIKA" and a deer logo printed on it. Both glasses are sweating due to the cold liquid inside. In the background, blurred figures of people can be seen, suggesting a restaurant or bar setting.
Beer Tower and Glass
A close-up of a beer tower with the Asahi logo is in the foreground. A glass of beer is to the right. In the background, people are seated at tables in a dimly lit establishment, with an "EXIT" sign visible.
Oysters with Lemon and Sauce
A plate of fresh oysters served with lemon wedges, a small dish of dipping sauce, and cucumber garnish. A spoon is in the sauce dish. The oysters are arranged on a white plate, with a beaded glass dish holding the sauce. The setting appears to be a restaurant with a marble-patterned table.
Assorted Grilled Skewers
A platter of assorted grilled skewers, including what appears to be beef and chicken, served with pickled ginger. The skewers are arranged on a decorative white platter with floral motifs.
Restaurant Interior with Bar and Dining Area
The image shows the interior of a restaurant with a bar area and dining tables. A woman is standing behind a counter, and two men are working in the kitchen area. There are many glasses hanging above the bar. The dining area has tables set with plates and chopsticks. A sign that says "No Pets Allowed" is visible on the counter.
Night view of a historic building with lights
A white, octagonal building with a cross on top, resembling a chapel or church, is illuminated at night. It features arched windows with stained glass and decorative architectural details. The building is surrounded by greenery adorned with fairy lights, and escalators are visible on either side. In the background, other buildings, including one with the "SMU" logo, are also visible.
Fried Tofu Dish
A close-up shot of a fried tofu dish served in a dark sauce on a blue, textured plate. The tofu is topped with shredded white flakes and chopped green onions.
Two glasses of beer on a table
Two tall glasses of beer with foam sit on a wooden table. The glass in the foreground has a large, stylized logo on it. In the background, people are visible, and bar shelves with glasses are behind them.
Skewers and Appetizers
A close-up shot of several skewers of grilled meat, including what appears to be chicken and meatballs, served on a dark platter. A slice of lemon garnishes one of the skewers. In the background, a plate of fried appetizers and a glass of beer are visible on a table with a marble-like surface.
Assorted Skewers on a Plate
A light blue plate with a wavy pattern holds an assortment of grilled skewers. From left to right, there are several small, brown, quail eggs on skewers, followed by skewers of grilled meat that appear to be pork and beef. A small pile of shredded pickled ginger is placed on the right side of the plate. The skewers are arranged on a wooden table.
Oysters with Lemon and Dipping Sauce
A plate of fresh oysters served with lemon wedges, shredded daikon radish, cucumber garnish, and a small dish of dipping sauce. A smartphone is visible in the lower right corner, displaying the time as 5:58 PM on Friday, February 17th.
Japanese Food Platter
A close-up shot of a Japanese meal featuring a dish of fried tofu with sauce and toppings, and a platter of sushi rolls. A coaster with the Asahi logo is visible on the left.
Bar Interior with Shelves of Bottles and Glasses
The image shows the interior of a bar with shelves stocked with various bottles of alcohol, including whiskey and sake. Wine glasses are hung upside down above the bar counter. The counter itself has various items, including a large pot, stacks of plates, and a television screen displaying a scene with text. A person is partially visible behind the counter on the left side.
Modern Izakaya Interior
An interior view of a modern izakaya with neon signage, patrons dining, and a bar area. Red lanterns hang from the ceiling, and greenery is draped around the exterior. A screen displays a dish called Braised Pork Belly.
Asahi Beer Happy Hour Promotion
A promotional poster for Asahi Super Dry and Asahi Black Draft Beer, advertising a 'Happy Hour 1 for 1 Beer!' deal available all day on weekends and public holidays. The poster features images of two glasses of beer and lists prices for pints, jugs, and towers of both beer types.
Sushi Roll
A close-up shot of a sushi roll served on a black rectangular plate. The sushi is topped with tempura flakes, tobiko (flying fish roe), and chopped scallions, and drizzled with two types of sauces, one green and one orange-brown. A small dollop of green paste, likely wasabi or avocado, is on the side of the plate. The background shows a glimpse of a restaurant interior with dark tables and chairs.
Asahi Beer Promotion
An A-frame sign displays a happy hour promotion for Asahi beer, offering 1-for-1 deals on draft and black draft beers in pint, jug, and tower sizes. The sign also features the slogan "Quick Peak, Clean Finish." Behind the sign, a large black panel with the Asahi Super Dry logo is visible, along with a wooden counter and glass facade.
Asahi Beer Happy Hour Promotion
A promotional poster for Asahi Super Dry and Asahi Black draft beer, advertising a 'Happy Hour 1 for 1 Beer' deal available all day on weekends and public holidays. The poster features images of two glasses of beer and lists prices for pints, jugs, and towers of both beer types.
Wine Promotion
A promotional flyer for two wines: Terrazas Reserva Malbec 2019 and Cape Mentelle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2021. Prices are listed for happy hour and non-happy hour. Descriptions of the wines and images of the bottles are included.
Happy Hour Special
A wooden A-frame sign advertises a happy hour special of "1 FOR 1 BEER!" from 6-8pm daily. It lists prices for Asahi Super Dry Draft Beer and Asahi Black Draft Beer in pint, jug, and tower sizes. The sign also features the logo "the modern izakaya". In the background, the interior of a restaurant or bar is visible with shelves of bottles and staff members.
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