There’s a certain feeling that sweeps over you after a night of yakitori and sake at a lively izakaya; an undeniable, almost primal craving for something soothing, something warm to cap off the evening. It’s a craving for ramen, the comforting bowl of noodles that seems to quiet the soul after a busy night of grilled skewers and chilled drinks. In a city like Singapore, where Japanese bars and izakaya establishments abound, the search for a place that can do both: serve top-notch drinks and grilled meat, yet also offer a bowl of deeply flavorful ramen, can feel like an elusive treasure hunt.
It wasn’t until we ventured across 20 izakayas over two years: each with its own flair, ambiance, and personality that we realized how rare this perfect balance truly is. Many izakayas treat ramen as an afterthought, a mere addition to their extensive menu, while ramen spots often lack the relaxed, social vibe that makes izakayas so beloved. Yet, in our quest to explore the best, we found five hidden gems that truly deliver both: izakayas where the drinks flow freely, the skewers hit the mark, and the ramen doesn’t just fill your stomach; it nourishes the spirit.
Fire Ramen by Menbaka (The Centrepoint) — A Japanese Bar with Fiery Flair
Nearest MRT: Orchard (3-minute walk)
Menbaka is not the izakaya for those seeking quiet contemplation over a bowl of ramen. It’s loud, it’s bright, and it’s unapologetically theatrical — a perfect spot for catching up with friends and indulging in an unforgettable night. I’m usually skeptical of places where the experience overshadows the food, but Menbaka’s Shoyu Fire Ramen ($24.90) is an exception. The chefs pour hot oil over your ramen, igniting a fiery spectacle right at your table, creating a scene straight out of Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife under the rising sun.
Beneath the drama, there’s substance. The intense heat chars the scallion oil, infusing the broth with a deep, smoky flavor that complements the fresh seafood and grilled meat bites that often accompany the meal. The broth itself is bold, heavily scallion-forward, with undeniable depth from the charred ingredients. This dish is a must-try for diners craving something flavourful and unique.
We visited here after a lively round of sake, shochu, and craft beer, and the fire ramen was the perfect follow-up — dramatic and satisfying. For those seeking a lively, social atmosphere with cocktails and grilled skewers during dinner service, Menbaka is the ideal spot. But if you’re after a traditional, contemplative ramen experience, you might want to look elsewhere.
Ideal for: Those looking for a vibrant, social atmosphere with a dramatic flair and an extensive menu of drinks and bites.
Not suited for: A quiet, intimate dinner or anyone seeking a traditional ramen experience.
Pro tip: For the best view of the fire show, grab a seat at the service station counter. And don’t forget to pair your ramen with a sake flight or Japanese wines to fully enjoy the experience.
Morinaga Izakaya Restaurant Singapore (Orchard) — A Cozy Hidden Gem for Authentic Miso Soup and Ramen
Nearest MRT: Somerset (2-minute walk)
Morinaga, unlike Menbaka, whispers its charms. It’s a small, cozy Japanese bar tucked away near Somerset, where wood-paneled walls and intimate seating create a nostalgic, calming atmosphere reminiscent of izakayas in Tokyo. The Tonkotsu Ramen ($18.00) here is everything you want after a few cold beers: a rich, milky pork broth that coats your throat, warming you from the inside out. The meal is complemented by classic miso soup and freshly grilled chicken thigh skewers, delivering a balance of flavours that speaks of tradition and time spent perfecting the craft.
There’s no gimmick here — just a solid bowl of ramen and must-try dishes that highlight the perfection of Japanese comfort food. The atmosphere is casual, and the service, though slow when busy, feels purposeful and relaxed — ideal for those who want to linger and enjoy the evening at a slower pace.
For those who crave authenticity and crave to indulge in classic dishes like gyoza and tsukune, Morinaga is the place. It’s not flashy, but it’s comforting and steeped in tradition, making it a perfect spot for diners seeking a genuine Japanese izakaya experience.
Perfect for: Those craving an authentic, nostalgic izakaya experience where you can relax, sip your drink, and savor soul-warming ramen and fresh seafood dishes.
Not ideal if: You’re pressed for time — the service is slow, especially during peak hours, so it’s better to come prepared to take things easy.
Insider advice: Stick around until late at night when the atmosphere is most relaxed, and the crowd is winding down.
Izakaya Yoppi (Dhoby Ghaut) — A Lively Japanese Bar with Fresh Seafood and Grilled Meat
Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (5-minute walk)
If variety is the spice of life, then Izakaya Yoppi is a true feast. With a menu brimming with options from fresh sashimi to yakitori and ramen, it’s the ultimate place for groups with differing appetites. The Spicy Miso Ramen ($16.00) stands out — earthy, thick, and robust, with a sharp chili kick that cuts through the richness of the grilled meat and seafood skewers. It’s not the most complex ramen you’ll find, but it’s exactly what you want when you’ve been snacking on skewers and need something to balance out the flavors.
The energy here is lively and welcoming, with chefs who prepare each dish to perfection and staff who are friendly and always ready with a smile. It’s the kind of place that feels effortlessly fun, with a drink in one hand and a bowl of ramen in the other, complemented by an extensive menu of sake, shochu, and cocktails.
Great for: Groups with diverse tastes who want to explore a wide range of Japanese food items and drinks.
Not a good choice if: You’re seeking a focused, high-end ramen experience. The ramen here is good but doesn’t have the depth of a dedicated ramen shop.
Tip to remember: Arrive early around 6 pm to snag counter seating and get a front-row view of the chefs at work while you enjoy your ramen and sake.
Izakaya Hikari (Bugis) — A Budget-Friendly Hidden Gem with Authentic Japanese Flavours
Nearest MRT: Bugis (8-minute walk)
Izakaya Hikari, tucked inside Fortune Centre, is a budget-friendly local favourite. The Chashu Ramen ($14.90) is simple yet satisfying, with a lighter broth that pairs well with fresh sashimi, grilled chicken thigh skewers, and the creamy kani tama gratin — a signature dish with snow crab and a touch of foie gras richness.
The space is small and often cramped, but that bustling energy adds to its authentic charm. While it lacks extravagant broths or fancy presentations, the friendly chefs make the experience personal, happily sharing their techniques. It feels like a place passed down through generations, where the food tells a story.
Perfect for: Budget-conscious diners craving authentic izakaya vibes with good ramen and warm hospitality.
Not recommended if: You prefer spacious, polished dining rooms or gourmet, specialized ramen broths.
Pro tip: Sit at the counter to chat with the chefs about grilling techniques while sipping your beer or sake.
Ume San 100 (Orchard / River Valley) — An Inventive Izakaya for Fresh Seafood and Unique Ramen
Nearest MRT: Orchard (10-minute walk)
Ume San 100 is the most inventive izakaya on this list, blending the world of ramen with a speakeasy vibe. The Angry Asari Soup Ramen ($19.00) is a revelation — a pork-miso base loaded with fresh clams and a chili paste that numbs and excites. It’s a bowl of ramen like no other, offering a deep oceanic flavor that complements the sweet, fruity notes of their signature umeshu plum wines and cocktails.
This establishment is perfect for adventurous diners who want to indulge in unique dishes and explore the boundaries of ramen and Japanese cuisine. The moody and cool ambiance is a far cry from traditional izakayas, making it an ideal spot for a night out with friends or a special occasion.
Best for: Adventurous eaters looking to push the boundaries of ramen and enjoy fresh seafood dishes paired with sake and cocktails.
Avoid if: You’re in the mood for a traditional, purist bowl of ramen.
Insider recommendation: Don’t settle for a standard beer — ask the bartender to recommend a plum wine or shochu cocktail that pairs perfectly with the briny, spicy broth of the Asari ramen.
Wrapping Up the Journey: The Perfect Spot to Dine and Sip in Singapore’s Izakayas
In the end, finding an izakaya in Singapore that serves both stellar drinks and ramen is a rare treasure. But in these five restaurants, we found the perfect balance. So, next time you find yourself craving a bowl of ramen after a night of drinking alcohol, you won’t need to leave your izakaya — these spots prove you can have the best of both worlds, all in one place.
Whether you’re catching the sunset on a Friday, indulging in grilled chicken thigh skewers on a Saturday, or sipping sake on a Sunday, these izakayas invite you to explore the rich tapestry of Japanese food and drink culture right here in Singapore.
So gather your friends, raise a glass, and dive into the extensive menus that celebrate the essence of Japan’s izakaya tradition, whether during lunch or dinner service. Each course promises a memorable experience, tailored for every person who walks through the door, with the head chefs often personally overseeing the quality and preparation of every dish, ensuring that every meal feels special and authentic. And if you’re craving more ramen inspiration, be sure to explore Ramen Tale, where we share our top picks and hidden ramen gems to satisfy every craving.
