We may be equal-opportunity drinkers, but that’s not to say all bars are created equal.
There’s a place for everything – first dates, post-work commiserations, niche spirits, etcetera – just like you wouldn’t take your love interest to a rowdy, live music venue unless the conversation is over. So, we’ve pigeonholed our favourite hidden watering holes (they’re still all the rage) according to various important occasions, in case you need some fresh ideas.
What’s even better is that these bars are also offering a slew of Chillax privileges (read: complimentary drinks, one-for-one deals and exclusive offers) for American Express Platinum Reserve and Platinum Credit Cardmembers. If you have it, hit up these spots. If you don’t, it most definitely won’t hurt to sign up – offers end 14 October 2015!
For first dates
Just beside the cash counter of Uma Uma Ramen is a door. Behind that door (no it’s not a staff-only room) is a dark staircase that leads to The Horse’s Mouth, polished, dimly lit underground bar perfect for a romantic disappearing act with a glass of fine whisky, obscure sake or an excellent cocktail in hand. Windowless speakeasies aren’t quite what you have in mind? Then reserve a table at Orgo, located at the rooftop of Esplanade, for beautiful views and some innovative concoctions.
Horse’s Mouth, #B1-39 Forum The Shopping Mall, 583 Orchard Road, Singapore, 238884, p. 6235-1088; Open Mon-Thu 6pm-12am; Fri-Sat 6pm-1am.
Orgo, #04-01 Esplanade Theaters on the Bay, 8 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039802, p. 6336 9366; Open daily 6pm-2am.
For after-work drinks
So The Mad Men Attic Bar doesn’t quite look like it jumped out of the television series of the same name, but we love it nonetheless. Perpetually crowded with yuppies (especially on Fridays) despite the hard-to-find location, the rambunctious and unpretentious CBD hideout is big on live music, and drinks are impressive – with whiskies and cocktails taking centrestage. An alternative spot to hustle for a stiff drink or two is Gem Bar, probably the most boisterous establishment on Ann Siang Hill. Booze, great music, addictive grub and stellar service – what more can you ask for?
The Mad Men Attic Bar, #03-02, 11 North Canal Road, Singapore 048824, p. 6222 3529; Open Mon-Thu 5pm-1am; Fri-Sat 5pm-3am.
Gem Bar, 10 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069789, p. 6423 9562; Open Mon-Sat 12pm-2am.
For niche spirits
A Japanese eatery by day and a bar and liquor store by night, The Secret Mermaid counts over 45 spirits in its booze library, and most of them come from small-batch distillery with names almost unheard of, like gin from New Deal Distillery and whisky from Pinckney Bend Distillery. It’s all about the thrill of discovery here; so go for the tasting flights and up your booze knowledge. Quaich Bar, on the other hand, specialises in whiskies, and there are over 100 different kinds from all over the world to sip, and perhaps fall in love with a new bottle.
The Secret Mermaid, B1-08 Ocean Financial Centre, 10 Collyer Quay Singapore, 049315; Open Mon-Fri 5-11pm.
Quaich Bar, #01-09 Waterfront Plaza, 390A Havelock Rd, Singapore 169664, p. 6732 3452; Open Mon-Thu 5pm-1am; Fri-Sat 5pm-2am; Sun 5pm-1am.
For girly get-togethers
Helmed by bartender Sam Wong (formerly at Jigger & Pony), Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall serves bespoke cocktails with a Singaporean flair in a homely, kitschy space on the second floor of a conserved shophouse. The bar’s rather small, but you and the girls will be well looked after, and controlled noise levels make for great catch-up sessions. If Ah Sam’s full, skip along next door to Spiffy Dapper – we like the Jazz Age references, the simple concept of clever drinks and laidback atmosphere, and how they are a little bit rough around the edges to keep things real.
Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall, 60A Boat Quay, Singapore 049848, p. 6535 0838; Open Mon-Thu 6pm-12am, Fri-Sat 6pm-3am.
Spiffy Dapper, Second Floor, 61 Boat Quay, Singapore 049849, p. 8233 9810; Open Mon-Fri 6pm-3am; Sat-Sun 8pm-3am.
Chill-out nights
Is there such a thing as alcoholic art? Apparently there is, and these complex mixes (like the Flame-tini and other sublime cocktails infused with herbs and spices) are served at Maison Ikkoku, a mellow, feel-at-home place located at a quiet corner of Kampong Glam. Those working in the CBD should find some well-deserved respite at bespoke cocktail bar Bitters & Love, where you can continue your post-work rants over unexpected concoctions and delish bites.
Maison Ikkoku, 20 Kandahar Street, Singapore 198885, p. 6294 0078; Open Sun-Thu 4pm-1am, Fri-Sat 4pm-2am.
Bitters & Love, 36 North Canal Road, Singapore 059292, p. 6438 1836; Open Mon-Thu 6pm-12am; Fri-Sat 6pm-2am.
Find out more about American Express Platinum Reserve Credit Card and its drink privileges here.
This article is sponsored by American Express Singapore.