Secret bar alert! Some of you may recall a hidden izakaya-style bar in Bugis that only reveals itself once you “enter” a row of vending machines. The same folks behind that bar – Ume San 100 – have opened another bar of a similar concept but this time you’ll discover that the Japanese speakeasy is tucked behind a row of bookshelves.
You can find Ume Maru on the fifth floor of Far East Plaza and we highly recommend you add this place to your list of things to do in Orchard at night.
Image credit: @umemarusg via Instagram
For anyone unaware of its existence, Ume Maru looks like a typical Japanese bookstore from the outside. The floor-to-ceiling shelves feature popular titles on display such as Naruto, School Rumble, and Rave Master. If that visual has got you anime and manga lovers excited, just wait till you get inside.
Image credit: Eatbook
Simply push open the bookshelf right under the lighted up “Ume Maru” sign and you’ll find yourself in a bar themed after Jimbocho, Tokyo’s popular bookstore district. Video clips of popular anime series are projected on the walls and light features in the shape of books are hanging from the ceiling.
And yes, feel free to browse through the comic books while sipping on their cocktails.
Buta Kimchi Bento ($15.90).
Image credit: @umemarusg via Instagram
During the day, the establishment acts as a Bento Bar serving lunch sets (from $9.90) between 12pm and 2.30pm. Dishes include Chicken Teriyaki Bento ($9.90), Ebi Curry Bento ($15.90), and Happy Avocado Maki ($15).
Image credit: Eatbook
Come night, the place turns into a bar serving sharing dishes, mains, and plenty of drinks. To start off, the group can order Wagyu Kushi ($24) grilled skewers, Truffle Hotplate Maki ($20), and Crudo ($18) with salmon, tuna, and scallops.
Image adapted from: @umemarusg via Instagram
If a full-on dinner is on the cards, then continue the night with their signature Yuzu Soba ($24), Spicy Miso Dry Ramen ($18), or Sushi Moriawase ($28).
Image adapted from: @umemarusg via Instagram
Now, let’s talk about the drinks. It goes without saying that Ume Maru serves umeshu-based cocktails. The strawberry version of this plum wine is mixed with tequila in a cocktail known as Songbird ($22).
One you’ll see ordered consistently throughout the evening is Matxha, featuring matcha umeshu, of course. The concoction also contains matcha tea, elderflower, and yuzu marmalade.
Image credit: Eatbook
Light of Nara ($22) is another cocktail that features muscat umeshu, nashi pear umeshu, and rose vermouth. Paying homage to the city of Nara, the drink is served in a gorgeous deer-shaped glass too.
Apart from the cocktails, patrons will be able to savour highballs (from $16) and a vast collection of house craft whiskies (from $16). Choose to pair these with your food or with a curated selection of chocolate bonbons.
We love all things Japan and Ume Maru is yet another new restaurant and bar in Singapore to check out. Combined with the promise of a speakeasy adventure and manga theme, it’s the perfect recipe for a fun evening in Orchard.
For more new openings, check out:
Cover image adapted from: @umemarusg via Instagram
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