The Asia’s 50 Best Bars list for 2023 is out! Here are the local hotspots that do us proud.
We can never get over the excitement of this yearly boozy affair – the anticipation, the joy, and the celebrations. For those who aren’t in the know – Asia’s 50 Best Bars was launched in 2016 to showcase the very best the drinks industry has to offer. Annual rankings are based on votes from 260 of the most knowledgeable minds in the world of bars, drinks, and mixology. From luxurious hotel bars to quaint speakeasies, here are the Singapore establishments that ranked on this year’s Asia’s 50 Best Bars list.
Singapore champs that ranked in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023
1. Jigger & Pony
Placing second in this year’s Asia’s 50 Best Bars (and 12th in World’s 50 Best Bars), Jigger & Pony is an iconic establishment in Singapore’s cocktail scene. Opened in 2012, the team constantly holds true to its values of convivial hospitality. It’s always a great vibe when you pop by for signature drinks and a lively atmosphere. This year, we celebrate its latest magazine-style menu. The three-part cocktail list serves as both a menu and an encompassment of the ethos and values the bar conveys. Must-tries include the yuzu whisky sour and Ugly Tomatoes cocktail.
Jigger & Pony, Amara Singapore, 165 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088539
2. Nutmeg & Clove
Founded by veteran Clon Chia, Nutmeg & Clove pays homage to Singapore’s rich history. With its menu and cocktail program, it ranks seventh on the list. This bar reimagines the country’s progression by reinterpreting classic dishes and drinks. You can find the use of familiar local ingredients in drinks like For the Love of Kueh and Fried Rice Paradigm. This year’s menu celebrates Singapore through 12 innovative drinks. Some are inspired by local icons like Malcolm Lee from Candlenut, and Dick Lee, our local singer-songwriter.
Nutmeg & Clove, 8 Purvis Street, Singapore 188587
3. Sago House
Famous for its ever-changing menu, Sago House is synonymous with innovation in our local cocktail scene. Despite being born during the pandemic in 2020, we’ve seen this spot thrive with its unique drinks and vibe. Besides nabbing this year’s Nichter’s Art of Hospitality award, Sago House claims the 10th spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars. There’s a steady showcase of six classic cocktail styles on the menu. But we’ll always come back for fresh new ideas created based on the local produce available at markets.
Sago House, 40B Sago Street, Singapore 059029
4. Analogue Initiative
Centring around the idea of transforming the drinks and dining experience with a sustainable edge, Analogue Initiative proudly takes 15th spot on the list. And that’s on top of its Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award! You can see its sustainable mission through unique elements within the establishment. For example, the bar table is 3D-printed from recycled plastic and there are those gorgeous recycled coasters. The menu features a list of meat-free dishes and cocktails that use alternative ingredients like carob and chicory.
Analogue Initiative, #01-31, Chijmes, 30 Victoria Street, Singapore 187996
5. Republic
Despite its fresh launch in November 2022, Republic is a force to be reckoned with. It ranks 16th on this year’s list, which is an absolute triumph. The team delves deeply into music, fashion, and cinema. It’s all about celebrating freedom, expression, and individuality. Cocktails are inspired by the hallmarks of pop culture in the 1960s. Order tipples with the essence of personalities like Andy Warhol and movies like Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Republic, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, 7 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039799
6. Manhattan
Seek out the hay days of the Golden Age at this grand hotel bar. Manhattan’s modern elements with the spice of old New York glamour score it the 21st spot. You can see it in the velvet armchairs and deep mahogany tables. Explore the world of American whiskey with its selection of over 200 bottles, including rare labels. But you can’t skip out on the cocktails. The Manhattan trolley offers cocktail variations, or order a drink from the Hall of Fame inspired by individuals like Anthony Bourdain and Vera Wang.
Manhattan, Level 2, Conrad Singapore Orchard, 1 Cuscaden Road, Singapore 249715
7. 28 HongKong Street
Ranking 24th, 28 HongKong Street carries the essence of a speakeasy. Hidden behind wooden doors without a sign, it exudes charm in its secrecy. It’s definitely part of the allure for us! It may be hard to find, but it’s all worth it once you step into the intimate space. The solid cocktail menu and knowledgeable staff only amplify its fun and laid-back vibe.
28 HongKong Street, 28 Hongkong Street, Singapore 059667
8. Atlas
Walking into Atlas and being greeted by the grand lobby and bar never gets old. It’s probably what helped the bar to clinch spot 27! In the heart of Parkview Square, Atlas is all about bringing the 1920s into the modern world. Relish the Art Deco interior and glamorous design. Oh, and it houses one of the largest gin collections sourced from around the world. Channel your inner Gatsby with its selection of cocktails – this includes endless variations of G&Ts, vintage collections, and unique martinis.
Atlas, Parkview Square, 600 North Bridge Road, Singapore 188778
9. Employees Only
Disguised behind a fortune teller’s window, this Singapore outpost of Employees Only has gained endless recognition. Not only is it a must-visit nighttime destination, but it also ranks 30th on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. Head upstairs and be greeted by a sensual bar with an alluring back dining room. Start your evening with original cocktails that have stood the test of time. We’re big fans of Amelia and Mr. Big. Once the sun sets, be prepared for a burst of song and dance as the team’s infectious energy takes over. They’ll have you dancing the night away!
Employees Only, 112 Amoy Street, Singapore 069932
10. Stay Gold Flamingo
Ranking 32nd, Stay Gold Flamingo aims to inject energy back into the jaded. It’s to remind everyone to “stay gold” in the fast-paced world we live in. At night, the space’s modern rock and roll bar takes over full with invigorating energy and attitude. Founders Jerrold Khoo and Bai Jia Wei combine their American and Japanese styles of bartending to create distinct cocktails. You can see it in the likes of Hanamachi and the Gentlemen’s Club, which are inspired by Japanese and American entertainment districts.
Stay Gold Flamingo, 69 Amoy Street, Singapore 069888
11. Native
With an intimate restaurant on the first floor and a cosy bar on the second, Native is guided by sustainability. Placing 42nd on the list, it spotlights local and regional ingredients in crafting some of the city’s most unique tipples. The team pays homage to artisans from regional distilleries, which means you can find some gems at Native’s back bar. There’s even an in-house lab that’s dedicated to thorough research. Top cocktail choices include the oolong highball, Peranakan, and Pandan. You can also order a flight of Native ferments featuring local ingredients.
Native, 52A Amoy Street, Singapore 069878
Congrats to all our fab winners of Asia’s 50 Best Bars – we’re excited to see what next year holds!