[category]
[title]
CQ @ Clarke Quay has long been the go-to spot for big nights out, but its dining scene is now becoming a destination in its own right. Among its newest additions is LIORA, a contemporary restaurant that reimagines Korean flavours through modern European techniques. Rather than serving familiar Korean classics, the kitchen spotlights house-made ferments, carefully layered sauces and seasonal produce, transforming beloved ingredients into refined, produce-driven plates that feel inventive without losing their soul.
Its location couldn't be more convenient either. Sitting right beside CQ's taxi stand, LIORA is an easy choice for everything from pre-party dinners and post-work catch-ups to date nights and special occasions. Here’s our experience.
The vibe
It all begins before you've even stepped inside. A softly illuminated arched entrance makes for a striking first impression, while warm amber lighting, natural textures, woodfire touches and curved architectural details create an intimate, understated dining room.
Nab one of the coveted counter seats overlooking the open kitchen for a front-row view of the Michelin-experienced chefs at work. Watching each dish come together adds another layer to the experience, with the lively yet controlled energy of the kitchen making the meal feel all the more immersive.
The food
The menu is where LIORA really comes into its own. Start with the “Mulhwae”, LIORA's elegant take on the Korean cold seafood dish. Seasonal fish like the yellowtail (hiramasa) sashimi is paired with omija ponzu, cucamelon and kombu oil for something refreshing, lightly sweet and beautifully balanced. The yukhwe tartlet combines finely diced Westholme petite tender with crisp pastry for a sophisticated one-bite opener, while the warm house-made brioche with charred spring onion butter is reason enough to skip the bread basket elsewhere.
We also loved the tofu hummus, where silky tofu lends an airy lightness to chickpeas. Scooped up with warm house-made pita and finished with bursts of pomegranate and fragrant sumac, it's creamy, fresh and addictive.
Heartier plates are just as compelling, from the smoky steak cube roll served with garlic mustard and perilla-coriander chimichurri to the comforting abalone risoni, elevated with liver sauce, leek and shio kombu. Round things off with desserts like makgeolli panna cotta topped with roasted chestnut and yuzu snow, or chewy tteok paired with injeolmi, blackened banana and tofu ice cream.
The drinks
The drinks programme follows the same philosophy, weaving Korean ingredients into familiar classics with a light touch. The Kimchi Old Fashioned brings savoury depth to Fujikinran whisky without overpowering it, while the Seoul Sour balances Bohae soju with honey, yuja and bitters for a bright, refreshing sip. Coffee lovers should order the K-espressotini, where soju's clean finish allows roasted espresso notes to shine, making it an excellent companion to dessert.
Overall, LIORA feels poised to become one of CQ's go-to dining destinations. It may borrow from Korean culinary traditions, but it confidently charts its own course – one that's well worth booking a table for. Book yours here.
LIORA is open daily, from 11.30am to 2.30pm and 5.30pm to 11pm at 3B River Valley Road, #01-09, CQ @ Clarke Quay, Singapore 179021