[Review] Raise a Glass to KeonBae: Kanpai Group’s Newest Fusion Spot Hits the CBD

The Central Business District (CBD) welcomes a new culinary playground with the launch of KeonBae, a Japanese-Korean fusion restaurant and bar from the Kanpai Group. Known for their popular gastrobars like Kanpai 2.0 and Yoasobi by Kanpai, the group introduces this fresh new concept with a promise of flavourful bites, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.

KeonBae, meaning “cheers” in Korean, boasts a curated menu that merges Korean comfort food with subtle Japanese influences. We sampled several dishes and drinks from KeonBae to see if it lives up to the hype:

KeonBae’s Fried Chicken: Available in four flavours – Original, Spicy, Garlic Soy Glaze and Yangnyeom Glaze ($13 for 3 pieces, $24 for 6 pieces), the chicken is marinated for 24 hours and triple-fried for that extra crunch. The crisp exterior and succulent inside deliver on both flavour and texture. You cannot go wrong with Korean fried chicken for comfort food!

Bossam ($30): The stewed Iberico pork belly is tender and flavourful, accompanied by Ssam leaves, a variety of kimchis, and XO ssamjang. This dish hits the mark as a satisfying communal platter, ideal for sharing with friends. Highly recommend this to enjoy with drinks.

Abalone-juk Risotto ($25): While the New Zealand Green Shell abalone and abalone liver sauce promised indulgence and the presentation is beautiful, the dish needed more seasoning to elevate its mild flavours. It’s rich and creamy but lacks a memorable punch.

Tteok and Cheese ($18): An unexpected fusion twist, this dish combines flat rice cake, elbow pasta, tiger prawn, and bacon with a medley of four cheeses. It’s a playful, carb-loaded delight that is both unique and comforting.

Soju Highballs ($6.80 each): These highballs are a steal, especially for the CBD’s competitive drinking scene. With eight different options like Grape, Green Apple, Peach, Lychee, Original, Lemon Sour, and Plum Honey, KeonBae’s drinks menu caters to both casual and seasoned drinkers. The affordability and refreshing nature of these cocktails are likely to make them a crowd favourite during after-work gatherings.

KeonBae’s 1,000-square-foot venue, located at 38 Pekin Street, features both indoor and alfresco seating. The design combines modern cosmopolitan aesthetics with the vibrant energy of a Korean “pocha” (night market tent). LED signage and bold colours evoke the bustling nightlife of Seoul, making it an inviting spot to unwind after a hectic workday.

With four successful gastrobars already dominating the area, Kanpai Group solidifies its hold on the drinking scene at the Far East Square stretch.

Whether you are here for the crispy fried chicken, the competitively priced highballs, or simply to soak in the fun atmosphere, KeonBae promises to be a dynamic new hotspot for CBD professionals and foodies alike.

KeonBae is open Monday to Thursday (3 PM to 11 PM) and Friday to Saturday (3 PM to 2 AM).