About ikigai izakaya the riverwalk
Ikigai Izakaya @ The Riverwalk is a contemporary Japanese restaurant and entertainment venue in Singapore’s Clarke Quay district. It opened in 2021 and prides itself on blending authentic izakaya dining with live music and performance. The venue occupies a scenic riverside spot – it features a large alfresco terrace overlooking the Singapore River and an industrial-chic, air-conditioned indoor dining area . Owners say the space was designed for harmony – a “perfect balance between Yin and Yang,” with nature (river views) and urban design coming together . In short, ikigai izakaya offers high-quality Japanese cuisine (yakitori skewers, sushi, sashimi, ramen and more) in a unique atmosphere that emphasizes food, friends and fun .
The total seating capacity is moderate: it can handle about 146 seated guests for dinner (around 70 indoors and 76 outdoors) or roughly 226 people in a standing-room “club” setup . Every detail reflects the ikigai philosophy (“reason for being”), from the Japanese-inspired decor to the name on the door. The name and concept encourage guests to enjoy life’s pleasures – good food, good drink, good company. Ikigai’s spirited approach to dining and entertainment has made it a notable addition to Singapore’s riverfront nightlife .
Events and programming
Ikigai at The Riverwalk is not just a restaurant – it’s also a live entertainment venue. The venue hosts regular performances nearly every night of the week. For example, the Monday night slot is famously filled by “The Kumar Show,” a stand-up comedy act by local celebrity Kumar – billed as Singapore’s “Queen of Comedy” – and sometimes runs on Tuesday as well . On Wednesday evenings a live band (Hadi & Al) performs soulful covers, and on Thursdays local duo Rahila & Sures provide live music . These weekly residencies mean there is often live entertainment during dinner hours.
Monday (and select Tuesdays): The Kumar Show – a comedy night featuring Singaporean comedian Kumar . (Tickets for Kumar shows have been around S$35–45 in past listings .)Wednesday: Live band performances (Hadi & Al) with pop/soul music . Live music sets usually start around 7–8pm and complement dinner.Thursday: Duo performance by Rahila & Sures (malaboom, pop, jazz standards) . Thursday is also when the restaurant typically starts offering its 2-hour free-flow sake promotion (see below).Friday & Saturday: Club iKi – late-night DJ dance parties from around 10–11pm onward. On weekends the indoor area turns into a nightclub featuring local and international DJs. Ikigai regularly hosts DJs like Sébastian Léger, Gui Boratto, and Sasha www.ticketfairy.com , often in partnership with Singapore dance collectives. These are all-ages (open to anyone) events, though patrons typically must be 18+ by 11pm. Special events such as New Year’s Eve also happen here.Off-days: The venue is closed on Sundays (as reported by venue rental listings) . During the day Ikigai may also host special events or bookings, but its regular schedule revolves around the nights listed above.
In addition to recurring events, Ikigai occasionally hosts one-off or seasonal events (DJ nights, guest performers, launch parties). For instance, in late 2023 they held a “Ritual” closing party headlined by Henrik Schwarz www.ticketfairy.com . Concerts and festivals sometimes book Ikigai as a venue. Overall, expect a lively program: local bands, stand-up comedy on weekdays, and dance/DJ sets on weekends. Ticket prices vary by event, typically ranging from free entry or a modest door cover for casual live music nights up to around S$20–$50 for headlining shows .
Tickets and Booking
Most events at Ikigai (comedy or club nights) recommend advance tickets because of limited capacity. Reservations for dinner (non-event nights) can also be made through the official website or by phone. Generally, look out for official announcements or social media posts about upcoming shows – tickets for these events are usually sold through online ticketing portals weeks in advance. For example, comedy show tickets were listed around S$34–45, reflecting early-bird versus door prices . Weekend club nights often have a cover charge, and promotions may apply (e.g. free entry for first arrivals or combo deals).
If a show is not sold out, a few tickets may be available at the door on event day, but there is no standard box office window at the club. For popular acts (like Kumar or big EDM DJs), tickets often sell out, so buying ahead is recommended. Use the venue’s official communications to find authorized sale channels – avoid third-party scalpers. When booking, note that seating for dinner shows is usually general admission (unreserved tables on a first-come basis), while some club packages may offer reserved tables. The restaurant itself generally takes table reservations during dining hours (even without an event), so callers and online bookings should specify if they need front-row or river-view seats.
Seating and layout
Ikigai Izakaya spans an indoor dining hall and an outdoor riverside terrace. The indoor area (about 70-seat capacity) is air-conditioned with a loft-like industrial décor (exposed concrete, wood accents, hanging lanterns) . A long bar and stage area anchor one end of the room, with tables and booths arranged toward the center and opposite side. The outdoor terrace (up to 76 seats) offers covered seating under an awning along the Singapore River. On clear evenings, these outdoor tables provide sunset views and open-air dining next to the water.
The venue converts to general admission standing when it hosts club events. In a typical club setup, up to 150 people can fit inside (DJ booth at one end) with an additional outdoor standing area. Tables along the river front become standing zones or are reserved for VIP bottle service on party nights. In total, Ikigai can hold ~226 guests in this mode .
Best seats: For a dining experience, river-facing tables on the terrace are most scenic, especially around sunset. Shelter along the terrace means you still feel the river breeze without direct sun. Indoors, mid-room tables give good sightlines to both the stage and the bar. At concerts, the strongest sound is near the center front by the DJ/stage. If you prefer a quieter dinner, sitting toward the back corners (and away from the bar speakers) helps.
Avoid: Seats right next to the DJ booth or main speakers can be very loud on dance nights. Also, tables immediately next to the restroom or near the entrance may experience more foot traffic. In short, aim for a balance: front-of-room if you want action, riverside patio for chill ambience.
Acoustics and production: Ikigai is equipped with professional sound and lighting for live shows. On music nights, expect club-quality DJs with subwoofers and dynamic lights indoors. Outdoor shows use amplifiers but are subject to ambient noise (you can still hear quite well under the covered terrace, though). The industrial interior tends to carry sound slightly, so expect lively acoustics indoors. (For live bands outside, the open-air setting gives a less boomy feel.) The venue’s modular design allows it to set up small stages or dance floors as needed.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Ikigai Izakaya is located at The Riverwalk , 20 Upper Circular Road, #B1-01/06, Singapore 058416 . This is in the Clarke Quay area along the Singapore River. The entrance is at basement level (so look for signage at the podium level of the building). Note that The Riverwalk is a multi-level complex set against Fort Canning Hill; Ikigai occupies part of the first basement.
MRT: The nearest station is Clarke Quay MRT (Downtown Line, DT17). The Riverwalk venue is only about 200 meters from the station exit, roughly a 3–5 minute walk . Alternatively, Fort Canning (DTL) or Chinatown (NE/TEL lines) are a few stops away on foot but Clarke Quay is most direct.Bus: Multiple bus services run along River Valley Road and Coleman Street nearby. If you arrive by bus, alight at the “Clarke Quay / River Walk” stop on Upper Circular Road or the “Havelock Road” stop on River Valley Road, both within a short walk.Taxi/Rideshare: Drop-off is convenient at The Riverwalk’s main entrance on Upper Circular Road. Taxis and grab rides can drive up to the covered drop-off point in front. It is recommended to set the destination as “The Riverwalk / Clarke Quay (20 Upper Circular Rd)” on your app to ensure the driver knows. A main taxi stand is also available near Clarke Quay Station.Car Parking: The Riverwalk building has a multi-storey car park (basement levels under the complex). The rates are roughly S$2.00 for the first hour and S$1.00 for each additional 30 minutes . (Evening flat rates may apply, but current listings show a typical per-hour charge.) Parking is shared with the mixed-use development, and spaces are on first-come basis. Note that Ikigai does not have its own exclusive lot, but there is an accessible parking space near the entrance .Bicycle: Bicycle parking stands are available at Clarke Quay station or along Circular Road – nothing dedicated at Ikigai itself, but the distance is short.
In summary, Ikigai is extremely accessible by public transit (especially MRT). If driving, plan time to navigate Clarke Quay’s one-way streets. There is no valet service listed, so self-park or curb-drop is used. The location in downtown means late-night cabs and ride-hails are abundant if needed (especially after MRT hours).
Inside the Venue
Entry & Security: When entering, staff may check tickets/IDs for event nights (especially after 10pm). Large bags are sometimes inspected on busy nights. During quieter dining hours, entry is via the restaurant entrance with no glares. There is no separate “VIP entrance” – all guests come through the same lobby area. The atmosphere is warm and energetic: during dinner hours you’ll hear soft music and clinking glasses, while as night falls, the vibe picks up with live tunes and club lighting.
Ambience: Ikigai is known for its lively, friendly crowd. Early evenings feel like a casual riverside pub – customers enjoy the sunset view with light jazz or Bossa Nova in the background (the venue often plays “sunset tunes” like acid jazz or Bossa Nova from late afternoon onward ). As the night progresses, colored lights and dance music take over, especially on weekends. The decor combines natural wood elements (barrels, wooden stools, tree-adorned areas) with modern metal and industrial touches. The result is a contemporary yet cozy space.
Food & Drink Options: The menu is full izakaya fare. Expect appetizers like edamame, karaage, salads, then grilled kushiyaki skewers (chicken, pork belly, seafood) and larger items. Signature dishes include the Gyu Saikoro Steak and creative sushi rolls. Prices are mid-range: for example, a pair of pork belly or chicken skewers costs about S$7–8 , and specialty noodles like a truffle-infused udon bowl run around S$22 . There are vegetarian-friendly options and rice/noodle dishes too. The bar serves sake (including premium Japanese imports), Japanese beer and a selection of cocktails. Of special note is Ikigai’s sake buffet promotion: on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings you can pay a fixed price (~S$50+) for two hours of unlimited sake . This has been a popular draw for sake enthusiasts. There’s also a range of cocktails and wines if you prefer something else.
Service: Staff (often wearing casual yukata-style uniforms) are trained in Japanese hospitality. Service is generally attentive and friendly. Menu recommendations are readily given, and staff can explain ingredients if you’re unfamiliar. Food is prepared to order, so during peak times allow a typical 15–20 minute wait for entrees. Water pitchers are on each table, and servers check on drink refills. Credit cards and cash are accepted; there are no QR-only payments. SN checks are not usually done unless it’s a large group.
Facilities: Restrooms are located near the restaurant entrance. They include standard and one accessible toilet (wheelchair-accessible restrooms are explicitly provided ). The venue offers free Wi-Fi to diners and has charging outlets by the bar. There is no formal coat check, but you can hang jackets on coat racks near the entrance. Smoking is not permitted inside (there is no indoor smoking area), though smoking is often allowed in designated outdoor areas at Clarke Quay.
Special Notes: During live shows, photography is usually allowed for personal use (no flashes near performers), but professional cameras or video recording devices may be discouraged by staff. Most shows run late – note that kitchen service ends around midnight on weeknights and 1–2am on weekends, so if you plan to order food at the very late hours you may find the menu limited. The venue typically has strong mobile network coverage given its central location, and keys details (Wi-Fi network) can be asked from staff if needed.
Nearby Amenities
Ikigai’s location in Clarke Quay means guests are surrounded by abundant dining and lodging options. Immediately around The Riverwalk are many restaurants and bars. For example, you’ll find Asian fusion, Portuguese, Italian and seafood restaurants within short walking distance (think Jumbo Seafood, TungLok, Asap Spanish tapas, etc.). Clarke Quay is a nightlife hub, so dozens of bars (Crazy Elephant, Lizard Lounge, Zouk, etc.) are nearby if you want pre-drinks or a hop to another club after Ikigai.
Restaurants: There are dozens of eateries around the riverfront. Options range from casual cafes and international chains to higher-end spots. (Local diners often recommend the waterfront Jumbo for seafood or Basilico for Italian, both a 3–5 minute walk away.) Many places accept reservations or walk-ins. With so many choices, you can easily have dinner elsewhere and then head to Ikigai in the evening for drinks or shows, or vice versa.Bars: Clarke Quay is lined with bars and nightspots. Popular nearby venues include Attica (dance club), Crazy Elephant (live rock bar) and Wine Connection (wine bar), among others. If Ikigai’s live program ends early, you can continue the night at neighboring pubs which stay open until very late.Hotels: Several hotels are within a short walk. The Swissôtel Merchant Court is literally next door to The Riverwalk. Other close picks include Village Hotel Clarke Quay, Novotel Clarke Quay, and M Social. These are convenient if you want to stay near nightlife. Most downtown hotels (like The Fullerton, Marina Bay Sands, or Orchard Road hotels) are 10–15 minutes drive away, or one MRT stop away (Rochor, City Hall).Transportation: Plan your arrival. If coming by MRT, the Downtown Line service runs until about midnight. Late-night travelers can use 24-hour bus routes (e.g. Service 141/143) or river taxis along Clarke Quay. Taxi/rideshare service is plentiful – in fact, the taxi queue near Clarke Quay MRT often extends out late into the night. Grab, Gojek or local Comfort Cabs are reliable for late rides back to hotels.
What Makes This Venue Special
Ikigai Izakaya @ The Riverwalk stands out by combining scenic dining with rich Japanese culture and high-energy entertainment. Its design deliberately evokes balance – the gentle flow of the river and surrounding greenery contrast with its modern, "industrial" interior . The venue’s name (“ikigai”) means “reason for being,” and management emphasizes creating a joyful lifestyle experience beyond just a meal . As one press release put it, “it’s not just about great food and awesome ambiance. It’s about family, friends, a sense of being and lifestyle!” . Practically speaking, Ikigai is unique because it regularly hosts well-known performers (like comedian Kumar every Monday) and international DJs (Sébastian Léger, Gui Boratto, Sasha) along with local music acts . Few other restaurants of its size in Singapore double as a mini concert or club venue.
The culinary offerings are also distinctive. Ikigai features authentic Japanese small plates and sushi in a riverside beer-garden setting – a combination not common in Singapore. Reviewers have highlighted its kushiyaki (grilled skewers) and creative rolls, often calling it “unlike any other Japanese izakaya” because of the live music and festive vibe . Another unusual draw is the weekend sake buffet: for a flat price, guests can enjoy two hours of unlimited premium sake selections . This has made Ikigai a popular spot for sake-enthusiasts.
In terms of local impact, Ikigai has added cultural diversity to the Clarke Quay scene. By collaborating with Singapore’s local nightlife collectives (Blackout, Darker Than Wax, etc.) and hosting comedy icons, it bridges different communities. The Riverwalk area was traditionally a quiet office zone by day; Ikigai helped transform it into a vibrant food-&-drink destination. In fact, media reports say the venue’s “unprecedented blend of mouthwatering food and soothing music” has brought new life to the riverfront . Both artists and patrons often praise it as a festive, high-quality spot – a place where you can enjoy a riverside cocktail, listen to live jazz at sunset, and later dance to house music all in one night. This multifaceted entertainment model has become a beloved part of Singapore’s nightlife.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Ikigai is wheelchair-accessible. The official facility notes confirm a ramped entrance, lift access and an accessible toilet . (Tip: the restaurant sits at basement level, but a lift connects the ground lobby to the dining area.) Upon arrival, you’ll find an accessible parking bay near the entrance and a flat pathway indoors. Staff are generally ready to assist. Because of this accessibility, families with strollers or guests with mobility needs usually report no major problems getting around.
Timing & Reservations: Weekend nights and special performances get busy. To avoid disappointment, arrive at least 15–30 minutes before the show or dinner rush. If you want a good river-view table for dinner, definitely make a reservation (through the official site) on Friday/Saturday; walk-ins are harder on those nights. For non-event dining on weeknights, reservations are still recommended but walk-ins often find a spot by 6pm. If you arrive very early (e.g. before 5pm), it can be quite peaceful for sunset drinks.
Doors and Age Policies: Ikigai’s events are generally all-ages, especially early in the evening. However, by late night there is an implicit 18+ club atmosphere. Plan to bring an ID (passport or NRIC) if you’re staying past 10pm, as door staff may ask. One ticket listing even noted “All Ages” entry www.ticketfairy.com , but if you have minors, note that seating is family-friendly only before the music amps up. After 11pm the crowd skews adult. There are no explicit “5+ age” rules, but very young children are rarely present on loud nightlife nights.
What to Bring: Carry a valid photo ID, comfortable shoes and attire for the night. Smart casual is ideal: many patrons wear collared shirts, nice jeans or dresses. There is no strict dress code (no uniforms or ties needed), but avoid beachwear or flip-flops at night. If planning to dance, wear something you can stay cool in – the indoor dance floor gets warm. A light jacket might be handy on breezy evenings outside. There is no coat check counter, but there are racks to hang coats. Feel free to bring a camera or smartphone for photos (just be discrete during performances).
Prohibited Items: Outside food and drink are not allowed, as Ikigai provides its full menu and bar. Smoking is prohibited indoors (there are no indoor smoking rooms), and vaping follows the same rule. Large professional cameras and recording gear might be restricted, especially at live shows – standard point-and-shoot or phone photography is fine for personal use. Also, be aware of any umbrella or bad weather: the riverside terrace has partial cover but no full roof, so outdoor seating is subject to weather conditions.
Costs & Coupons: In addition to a la carte ordering, check for special promotions. For example, the sake buffet on Fri/Sat may be a package deal, and occasionally Ikigai runs drink specials early in the week. Many guests also take advantage of Happy Hour deals on select drinks by arriving around 4–6pm. If you have a large group, ask about group menus or set packages – the staff can often accommodate parties with fixed-price multi-course menus if booked in advance.
Common Mistakes: A common mistake is assuming Ikigai closes early. On Fridays and Saturdays it actually stays open until 3–4am, so don’t expect to be rushed out too early. Another pitfall is not bringing cash – some smaller bills are useful for quick bar tabs or tips, even though cards work everywhere. Also, underestimating travel time: Clarke Quay traffic can be slow, so plan extra time for a taxi or bus on Friday nights.
Insider tips: The best times to come are weekday evenings (for a relaxed dinner) or weekends after 10pm (for the full party experience). If you want a combination, try Thursday: dinner crowds with music and the beginning of the late-night scene. Reserve a riverside table if you can, and watch the sunset before the night’s main act. Lastly, chat with the bartenders – they often suggest the newest Japanese whisky or sake and can mix off-menu cocktails if you mention your preferences.
What is the exact address of Ikigai Izakaya @ The Riverwalk?
Ikigai Izakaya @ The Riverwalk is at 20 Upper Circular Road, #B1-01/06, The Riverwalk, Singapore 058416 . This is a basement-level unit in The Riverwalk complex by Clarke Quay. (The venue is one level below ground.)
Which MRT station is closest to Ikigai Izakaya?
The nearest MRT is Clarke Quay on the Downtown Line. The Riverwalk (Ikigai) is only about 200 meters from Clarke Quay station – roughly a 3-5 minute walk . Just exit towards Upper Circular Road and follow signs for Clarke Quay/Havelock Road; Ikigai will be the basement-level entrance under The Riverwalk.
Is parking available at Ikigai Izakaya?
Yes, The Riverwalk building has a multi-storey car park shared with Ikigai. Current rates are about S$2.00 for the first hour and S$1.00 for each additional 30 minutes . There is no separate valet; just park in the basement ramp. An accessible parking space is located near the entrance . During peak evenings it can fill up, so allow extra time.
How do I get tickets for shows at Ikigai Izakaya?
Event tickets (for comedy nights or club nights) are usually sold online after being announced on Ikigai’s official channels or event listings. Tickets often go on sale a few weeks before popular shows. Check Ikigai’s social media or event pages for booking links. For smaller events, limited tickets may be available at the door, but major events often sell out in advance . There is no physical box office, so plan to purchase through official online channels.
What are typical ticket prices or cover charges?
Pricing varies by event. For instance, a stand-up comedy show in 2022 was listed at around S$34–45 for early-bird vs on-the-day tickets. Club events and DJ nights often charge a cover (usually in the S$15–30 range early and S$30+ on special nights). Weekday live music sets and casual bands can be free or a nominal fee. Always check the specific event details. (Booking early often saves money.)
Is there a dress code at Ikigai Izakaya?
There’s no strict dress code, but patrons typically wear smart-casual attire. Men often wear collared shirts or nice tees and jeans; women wear dresses or nice tops and pants. It’s not a formal fine-dining spot, but many guests prefer to be tidy. **Casual comfort** is fine – no need for suits or ties. For evening club nights, avoid flip-flops or beachwear. Layering (light jacket or shawl) is wise in case of air-conditioning.
Are outside food or drinks allowed inside?
No. Outside food and beverages are not permitted. Ikigai has a full Japanese menu and drinks list for guests. They do not allow personal food/drink items (like cake, alcohol, soft drinks, etc.) to be brought in. This is standard for restaurants and clubs. Smoking is also banned indoors (it’s only allowed at designated outdoor spots).
Does Ikigai Izakaya have wheelchair access?
Yes. The venue is wheelchair-accessible. It has ground-level entry with a ramp and lift access to all floors . The restrooms include at least one accessible toilet . The dining area is on level floors, so wheelchairs and strollers can navigate. (Ikigai is listed as having “accessible parking, lift, and accessible toilets” on accessibility directories .)
What are Ikigai Izakaya’s operating hours?
Ikigai typically opens in the late afternoon and stays open until late night. According to published schedules, it generally runs Monday–Thursday from 3:00pm to midnight, and Friday–Saturday from 3:00pm to about 11:00pm for dining (with club hours extending 11:00pm–3:00am on Fridays and 11:00pm–4:00am on Saturdays) . It is not open on Sundays. Always double-check if you plan an off-peak visit, as some grant occasional closures or private bookings.
Are children allowed at Ikigai Izakaya?
Children are welcome during early dinner hours as it is essentially a restaurant then. There’s ample seating and a casual atmosphere for families until about 10pm. However, after dark the venue transitions into an adult nightlife spot. Late-night comedy or dance events may not be appropriate for young kids. If bringing children, stick to the dinner period and be mindful that the environment will become loud and club-like after 10–11pm.
Does Ikigai offer any special promotions?
Yes, Ikigai regularly runs promotions. A notable ongoing one is the 2-hour free-flow sake buffet available Thursday through Saturday evenings . This allows guests to sample unlimited premium sakes for a flat fee during time slots. They also often have drink happy hours (late afternoons/wearly evenings) and occasional food specials tied to events. Keep an eye on their announcements – promos are usually advertised on their social pages or the venue walls.
Is Ikigai a cashless venue? What payment methods are accepted?
Ikigai accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) as well as mobile payment e-wallets. They do not strictly require cash. However, as with many nightlife spots, it's a good idea to have a bit of cash on hand for small tips or incidentals. If you use cash, ATMs are available nearby in Clarke Quay.
Can I reserve a table in advance at Ikigai Izakaya?
Yes, table reservations are recommended, especially for Friday/Saturday dinner or special events. You can reserve through Ikigai’s official booking channels (their website or phone). For major events or group bookings, mention any preferences (e.g. riverside table). Walk-in seating is possible on quieter nights, but weekend nights often fill up. Note: reservations usually cover dinner dining; for late-night club parties, there’s typically no reserved seating (those events are first-come/first-serve unless a private table is specifically arranged).
