CQ @ Clarke Quay has long been synonymous with high-energy nights out, but its culinary landscape is quietly transforming. Enter LIORA, a contemporary restaurant that opened beside the complex’s taxi stand, reimagining Korean flavors through modern European techniques. Open daily for lunch and dinner, the venue offers a polished yet accessible option for pre-party dinners, date nights, and post-work catch-ups—just steps from the riverside bustle.
An Entrance That Sets the Tone
Before diners even step inside, a softly lit arched doorway signals something special. Inside, the intimate dining room glows with warm amber lighting, natural textures, and curved architectural details. Wood-fired touches and understated elegance create a space that feels both refined and welcoming.
The open kitchen takes center stage. Counter seats offer front-row views of Michelin-experienced chefs at work, turning meal preparation into a performance. The kitchen’s controlled energy makes the experience feel immersive without being intrusive.
A Menu That Redefines Korean Classics
LIORA’s culinary identity shines brightest on the plate. Rather than serving familiar Korean staples, the kitchen spotlights house-made ferments, layered sauces, and seasonal produce. Each dish transforms beloved ingredients into refined, produce-driven plates that feel inventive without losing their soul.
Starters demonstrate this philosophy immediately. The “Mulhwae” reimagines Korea’s cold seafood dish: seasonal yellowtail sashimi meets omija ponzu, cucamelon, and kombu oil for a refreshing, lightly sweet balance. The yukhwe tartlet combines finely diced Westholme petite tender with crisp pastry in a sophisticated one-bite opener. Warm house-made brioche with charred spring onion butter could easily ruin other bread baskets.
The tofu hummus deserves special mention. Silky tofu lends airy lightness to chickpeas, served with warm house-made pita and finished with bursts of pomegranate and fragrant sumac—creamy, fresh, and addictive.
Hearty plates include smoky steak cube roll with garlic mustard and perilla-coriander chimichurri, plus comforting abalone risoni elevated by liver sauce, leek, and shio kombu. Desserts like makgeolli panna cotta topped with roasted chestnut and yuzu snow, or chewy tteok paired with injeolmi, blackened banana, and tofu ice cream, round things off memorably.
Drinks That Follow the Same Philosophy
The beverage program weaves Korean ingredients into familiar classics with a light touch. The Kimchi Old Fashioned brings savory depth to Fujikinran whisky without overpowering it. 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—an excellent companion to dessert.
The Bottom Line
LIORA borrows from Korean culinary traditions but confidently charts its own course. With its convenient location, refined yet approachable menu, and warm atmosphere, it’s poised to become one of CQ’s go-to dining destinations—well worth booking a table for.
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. Reservations available via their online booking system.