With its whimsical cat mascot setting the tone, Thirsty Neko is the newest culinary gem at CSC @ Tessensohn. This poolside izakaya, opened in October 2024, blends playful charm with unforgettable dining and drinking experiences. Ideal for gatherings, it offers a menu packed with creative Japanese fusion dishes, a tranquil alfresco setting by the pool, karaoke fun and a wide selection of beverages. To top it off, every Friday evening features a live music duo serenading diners with soulful tunes, making it the perfect spot to relax and kickstart the weekend.

“We’ve always been passionate about blending different culinary traditions, especially Japanese flavours with global influences. Opening Thirsty Neko was a way for us to share this passion and create a space where food is not just about taste but a complete sensory experience,” shares Mr Zac Lam, founder and experience curator of Thirsty Neko. He adds that CSC is a vibrant community filled with diverse, creative individuals who appreciate quality food and unique concepts. “It felt like the perfect location to bring something fresh and exciting to the table.” 

Find your perfect vibe

Enjoy air-conditioned comfort, surrounded by quirky cat murals that stretch across the cosy 45-seater indoor space — even the ceiling gets a feline touch! For those in the mood, a karaoke screen invites you to belt out your favourite tunes while savouring your meal or drink.

If you prefer dining alfresco by the pool, the outdoor area offers seating for up to 100. As dusk falls, fairy lights twinkle and the neon Thirsty Neko mascot sign lights up, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Adding to the magic, live performers Nana and Zee take the stage every Friday from 7pm to 10pm, delighting diners with soulful tunes and taking song requests.

A playful bar with a serious culinary edge

While Thirsty Neko radiates a casual and playful charm, its culinary offerings reveal a thoughtful and refined approach. The talented kitchen team combines expertise and creativity to craft dishes that both surprise and satisfy.

The menu is extensive, featuring over 100 items to cater to a wide variety of tastes. Highlights include Neko Bites & Nibbles for finger foods, a Raw Bar brimming with fresh sashimi, hearty rice and noodle dishes, vibrant salads, comforting soups, shareable plates, indulgent desserts and skewers grilled to perfection over aromatic binchotan (Japanese charcoal).

The drink menu is equally noteworthy. Designated drivers can enjoy refreshing mocktails and juices, while those looking for a stronger kick can choose from a well-stocked list of wines, sake, spirits and beers on tap. Signature cocktails such as the Lychee Mojito ($20), crafted with Venezuela’s multi-award-winning Diplomatico Rum, and the Golden Goose ($18), featuring a zesty blend of Grey Goose vodka and honey yuzu syrup, are must-tries.

At the helm of the kitchen is head chef Mr Darren Chua, whose impressive résumé includes tenures at Marina Bay Sands and Esquina, as well as renowned dining establishments in Hong Kong. His culinary philosophy focuses on sourcing the best ingredients while keeping dishes accessible and affordable. 

“Thirsty Neko is all about balance — honouring traditional Japanese flavours while infusing them with local ingredients and global culinary trends. “We prioritise high-quality, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring that every dish strikes the perfect chord between comforting and innovative,” shares Mr Lam. “Our Japanese fusion creations bridge the gap between the familiar and adventurous, offering a truly crave-worthy experience.”

Start your meal with a round of Oyster Shooters ($5 each, or buy two and get one free at $10). These briny gems, imported from Hyogo, Japan, are presented in shot glasses with homemade ponzu and sake, then topped with black tobiko for an extra burst of flavour and texture.

Another raw indulgent is the Smoked Beef Yukke ($24). This delicately seasoned Angus tenderloin tartare features a harmonious blend of wholegrain mustard and sesame shoyu, enriched with a luscious Hinata egg yolk, French shallots and chives, and finished with an aromatic smoky touch that elevates every bite.

A flavour-packed experience awaits meat lovers. The Wing Pockets ($12 for 3 pieces) are a labour of love — chicken wings that are carefully deboned, marinated, air-dried and cooked to perfection. Hidden inside is a delightful surprise: Lup Cheong Fried Rice, adding an aromatic and savoury twist to every bite.

Another standout is the Grilled Pork Jowl ($14), made with premium Iberico pork known for its nutty, rich flavour. Sous vide (vacuum-sealing and cooking in temperature-controlled water) for six hours, the pork is melt-in-your-mouth tender without being overly fatty.

Fans of Tsukune Chicken Meat Balls ($4 each) will find Thirsty Neko’s rendition irresistible. Made with hand-chopped chicken and crunchy cartilage, each piece delivers a satisfying texture. Served with a raw egg yolk for dipping, this dish stays true to authentic Japanese culinary traditions.

Sakamushi, a traditional Japanese cooking technique, involves steaming seafood — typically shellfish — with sake, aromatics and its own natural juices. At Thirsty Neko, this technique shines in its Smoked Mussel Pot ($28). The secret lies in the use of Belgian mussels, prized for their softer, sweeter profile compared to the local variety. Enhanced with shio kombu (kelp seasoned with soy sauce and salt) and butter for a rich depth of flavour, the dish is served with binchotan-toasted Hokkaido milk bread — perfect for mopping up every last drop of the aromatic broth.

Another standout is the Laksa Udon ($16), a creamy, fusion masterpiece crafted entirely from scratch. Topped with crisp sakura ebi, a large akagai (reminiscent of cockles but meatier), a Japanese marinated egg and fresh prawns sourced from Jurong market, this dish is a harmonious blend of Japanese and local flavours, delivering a familiar yet exciting twist.

Thirsty Neko is more than just a place to eat and drink — it’s a space where great food, vibrant vibes and creative experiences come together. “We’re always seeking ways to keep things fresh and exciting. Guests can anticipate seasonal specials celebrating the flavours of the moment, along with collaborations with local artists, musicians and creatives,” says Mr Lam. “We’re also expanding our menu with new dishes and drinks, and hope to host events that combine food with cultural experiences.”

Whether you're a fan of Japanese fusion cuisine, live music or simply relaxing by the pool, this unique izakaya at CSC @ Tessensohn —also open to the public — promises something special for everyone.

Thirsty Neko is located at:
CSC @ Tessensohn
60 Tessensohn Road,
Singapore 217664 
Tel: 8010 6060

Opening hours:
Sun to Thu, 11am-12am
Fri and Sat, 11am-1am

Sip, Savour and Save

From now till 31 December 2024, full-time staff of any Ministry or Statutory Board can enjoy 1 FREE watermelon juice or beer with every main course ordered. Simply present your government agency staff pass to redeem this exclusive offer. Terms and conditions apply. Plus, for CSC members, dining in at Thirsty Neko comes with an extra perk — enjoy 10% OFF your meal during your visit.