Taking advantage of sophisticated exhaust systems that free-up floor to ceiling space, their design concept tells the story of charcoal and the art of yakiniku. Metal mesh comes to life in three different scales. The most refined clads the columns and screens the glass facade. The second, larger-scale one creates semi-transparent partitions that hide the service stations. The oversized mesh turns into a feature lighting above the bar, where the metal structure captures the glow of tungsten bulbs like the embers of a hot charcoal roaster.

Charcoal and all its hues and characters pulse through. You’ll see it on the matte, rough texture of the tiles on certain parts of the bar. You’ll also see black binchotan filling the central mesh feature screen. Inspired by the traditional gabion wall design, it breaks up the interior, adding dynamism to the space and offering diners privacy. Running through the two walls is off-white, handtextured plaster resembling the swirling cracks and ashy white surface of burnt charcoal.

With the irresistible aroma of grilling meat and the underlying essence of yakiniku in mind, the bar’s Alicante red marble countertop calls to mind a sublime cut of beef on its charcoal backdrop. The visual impact is alluring. Adding to the ambient warmth are the walnut floors. The furniture has sandy beige and caramel tones, and the mesh in the main dining area glistens with shades of copper.

Turning up the luxe factor, the Private Dining Room pays homage to its renowned sister restaurant Yen Yakiniku. With a unique menu and a special tableware collection, the atmosphere is also more intimate and softer. While the finest cuts of meat are grilled to perfection by a dedicated, skilled chef, gold is the primary colour of the metal in this private dining area to reflect the aesthetic of the original Yen Yakiniku.

Golden inserts also accent the opulent, dark wallcovering with its charcoal-inspired texture. At the same time, a striking feature pendant hangs in the arched cove, echoing the elements of the roaster grill over a burning fire. The central table in rich empress green is even more stunning when paired with the dark teal upholstery of the surrounding chairs.

Yen Social is indeed the epitome of present-day Singapore’s F&B scene – envisioned by global tradition and executed with local flair.

Yen Social is located at #01-25/26, Duo Galleria. Visit www.theyengroup.com.sg/yen-social for reservations.

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