Review: Shunjuu Izakaya

Shunjuu Izakaya is a cosy Japanese restaurant known for its authentic izakaya dining experience in Singapore. Specialising in charcoal-grilled skewers and offering an extensive sake selection, it brings the flavours of traditional Japan to the Singapore River. With a relaxed ambience, riverside seating, and attentive service, Shunjuu has become a popular spot for both casual meals and evening drinks. Whether you’re a fan of yakitori, foie gras, or fresh sashimi, this Robertson Quay gem promises a memorable dining experience.

Let’s Start With a Quick Look

Location	30 Robertson Quay, #01-15 Riverside View, Singapore 238251
Restaurant Type	Japanese izakaya, specialising in sumiyaki (charcoal grill), kushiyaki and yakitori.
Menu Highlights	Foie gras, kaki buta maki (oysters rolled with pork), chicken wing (tebasaki), ox tongue, sashimi, garlic fried rice, pork belly, miso soup
Price Per Pax	Approximately SGD 40–60 per pax for dinner (skewer sets $19 – $25)
Operating Hours	Lunch: Daily 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM Dinner: Mon–Thu 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM Fri–Sat 6:00 PM – 11:30 PM Sun 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Dress Code	Smart casual
Website	https://shunjuu.com/
Contact Info	+65 8427 8155 res@shunjuu.com

What’s Their Story?

Shunjuu Izakaya, located at Robertson Quay, Riverside View Singapore, has been a staple of authentic Japanese dining in Singapore since its establishment in 2003. Nestled along the tranquil Singapore River, this restaurant has long been cherished for offering a genuine slice of Japanese izakaya culture in the heart of the Robertson Quay area. Its founders envisioned a vibrant, casual space where diners could enjoy premium sumiyaki, or charcoal grill skewers, paired with excellent sake, and they delivered just that.

Over the years, Shunjuu has developed a devoted following among both locals and Japanese expatriates, becoming one of the most respected restaurants in Singapore offering the izakaya dining experience. A large part of its enduring appeal comes from the meticulous preparation of each dish: skewers are grilled over imported Binchotan charcoal, a high-quality white charcoal from Japan, which imparts a distinctive smoky aroma without overwhelming the natural flavours of the meat or vegetables. These skewers are brushed with a house-made tare, a sauce that has been aged and perfected for over 20 years, creating an exceptional depth of flavour.

The restaurant itself occupies a cosy and modern space within the Riverside View development. Its riverside-facing alfresco dining area is a strong draw, especially for those seeking a relaxing evening out with a view of the Singapore River. Inside, the minimalist wooden decor and warm lighting create an intimate setting that reflects traditional Japanese design while offering a sense of comfort and informality. It’s a place where diners can unwind over drinks and grilled dishes, just as they would at a classic izakaya in Japan.

Why You’ll Love It Here

There’s a lot to love about Shunjuu Izakaya, but it starts with the overall vibe. The setting, overlooking the gentle flow of the Singapore River, creates a unique sense of tranquillity that is hard to find in the bustle of city life. Whether you’re seated indoors or along the Robertson Quay promenade, the relaxed ambience makes every meal feel like a short escape to Japan. Patrons frequently comment on the calming effect of the riverside view, making it a favourite spot not just for meals but also for casual after-work drinks and long, comfortable dinners.

What consistently stands out in reviews is the quality of service. Diners often express their appreciation for the friendly and attentive staff who go out of their way to explain the menu, recommend sake pairings, and ensure a smooth dining experience. Even with the introduction of a digital ordering system, many customers report that the staff’s warm demeanour helps balance the technological interface. It’s this personal attention that has helped Shunjuu maintain its loyal customer base over the years.

The food is, of course, another major reason why people fall in love with this place. Many patrons call it their go-to restaurant for yakitori, kushiyaki, and other tapas-style skewers, highlighting the balanced flavours, quality of ingredients, and that signature charcoal grill finish. One diner described the chicken wings as “irresistibly crispy on the outside with the juiciest bite inside”, while another raved about the foie gras skewer, calling it “a bite of indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth heaven”.

Regulars also mention the sense of discovery that comes from trying something new with every visit. whether it’s the bold umami of ox tongue, the richness of kaki buta maki (oysters wrapped in pork), or the elegant simplicity of asparagus wrapped in pork belly.

What’s on the Menu?

The menu at Shunjuu Izakaya is a tribute to the versatility of Japanese charcoal grilling, boasting an extensive array of skewers and small plates designed to be shared. These range from familiar favourites like tebasaki (grilled chicken wing) and pork belly, to more adventurous items such as chicken skin, foie gras, and ox tongue. A must-try is the kaki buta maki, where plump oysters are lovingly wrapped in fatty pork, grilled to a slight crisp, and glazed in that same rich tare sauce that gives so many of Shunjuu’s skewers their signature taste.

The variety on offer makes every meal feel like a personalised tasting course, and the flexibility of the menu allows diners to customise their experience. If you’re feeling hungry, opt for one of the skewer sets, which feature six or more items including meats, seafood, and vegetables. These sets often come with fragrant garlic fried rice and a bowl of miso soup, adding both comfort and completeness to the meal.

Beyond the grill, Shunjuu also offers traditional sashimi, with the Sashimi Moriawase platter being a popular choice. Other items like mushroom-stuffed minced chicken, scallop pork rolls, and grilled rice cakes round out the menu, ensuring there’s something for everyone, from meat lovers to pescatarians and even vegetarians.

To complement the food, the drinks selection is particularly noteworthy. Shunjuu houses over 50 labels in its sake selection, with styles ranging from light and fruity to bold and dry. Each bottle comes with a sake meter rating, helping diners find the right balance to match their skewers. Whether you’re a novice or a connoisseur, the friendly staff are more than happy to assist with a pairing recommendation. Those who are more beer-inclined will also find a satisfying selection of Japanese brews that go well with the smoky flavours of the charcoal grill.

Our Recommendations

When visiting Shunjuu Izakaya, it’s hard to go wrong, but certain dishes truly stand out as crowd favourites. The tebasaki remains one of the most popular items, its skin blistered to crispy perfection and its meat tender and juicy. Equally beloved is the chicken skin, which crackles with every bite, especially when enjoyed alongside a cold beer or light-bodied sake. For those seeking something luxurious, the foie gras skewer is a standout, its rich, buttery texture elevated by the gentle char of the charcoal grill.

The kaki buta maki is another top-tier choice. This skewer showcases the indulgence of oysters combined with the savoury, fatty decadence of pork belly, offering a unique and satisfying mouthful. The ox tongue, too, is a must-try, particularly for those who enjoy meat cuts with a bit of texture and bold flavour.

Vegetable options like the asparagus wrapped in pork belly are well-balanced and refreshing amidst the heavier skewers, while the garlic fried rice offers a fragrant, comforting addition to any combination of dishes.

As for drinks, we recommend exploring the sake selection in depth. Whether you prefer your sake dry, floral, or full-bodied, there’s a bottle to suit your preferences, and the sake meter is there to guide your choice. If you’re adventurous, consider trying the fuguzake, a rare infusion made with puffer fish, offering a bold and unforgettable flavour that’s deeply tied to Japan’s culinary heritage.

Conclusion

Shunjuu Izakaya, located at 30 Robertson Quay, Riverside View, offers an authentic Japanese izakaya experience with expertly grilled skewers, a warm atmosphere, and an impressive sake selection by the Singapore River. Signature dishes like tebasaki, foie gras, and kaki buta maki showcase rich flavours and tradition. It’s a popular choice for casual dinners, after-work drinks, or weekend meals in the heart of Robertson Quay. In a city full of options, Shunjuu continues to be a favourite for its food, setting, and genuine charm.