The format of sharing small plates of food among good company in order for conversation to flow freely is found in almost every culture. In Spain, it’s called a tapas bar. In Japanese culture, it’s called an izakaya. City News checks out the latest offerings from Tomo Izakaya.
Having established itself as an izakaya destination where the format of having drinks accompanied by small bites takes prominence over larger, single-portion dishes, Tomo Izakaya has souped up its menu to include not just more variety but healthier choices as well.
The rice-wine simmered Pumpkin (S$6) oozes a natural sweetness, while the powdery texture of Homemade Sesame Tofu (S$6.50) is a brilliant improvisation on the typical tofu—eaten with a pinch of wasabi, it brings out the lovely roasted flavor of the sesame even more. Another interesting, delightful creation is the Deep Fried Yam With Seaweed (S$8). Served with a dip of salted green tea powder, each bite gave a surprisingly palatable combination of flavors—sweet, salty and slightly tart. The Deepfried Eggplant With Soup Stock And Ginger (S$7.30), a cold dish, does not disappoint too. The eggplant, after being fried to a golden brown, is immediately run through cold water to preserve its crispness.
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| PHOTO COURTESY OF TOMO IZAKAYA |
The restaurant also prides itself on having its supplies directly delivered twice weekly from the famous Tsukiji Market in Tokyo. From the yaki mono menu of grilled items, the Cod Fish Sweet Miso Flavor (S$18) is melt-in-your-mouth tender, with the miso marinade adding a new dimension to the natural flavor of the fish.
Another crowd favorite, especially among the ladies, is the Seaweed With Simmered Soya Beans Salad (S$9). Drizzled with a sweet-tangy onion-based sauce, it is a wonderful accompaniment to the meat-based dishes. Of course, the usual sushi, sashimi and kushiyaki (skewers) are also available, should one wish to have a heavier meal. To top it all off, its traditional, rustic ambience, and location at Clarke Quay makes this a fantastic choice for an after-work wind down.
From Sep. to Oct., one lady dines for free with every three paying female guests.
Tomo Izakaya@Clarke Quay
3A River Valley Road
#01-04 Clarke Quay
Singapore 179020
Tel: +65 6333 0100
