Iconic cocktails with a local twist, tipples with the craziest ingredients and creations by renowned bartenders – you’ll find ‘em at the best cocktail bars in Singapore.
Love a good drink? We’ve got everything from happy hour promos to non-alcoholic spirits so everyone can join in the fun. But if you’re borderline snobbish about your martini, gin and tonic or negroni, you’ve come to the right place. From whiskey watering holes to sake hotspots and award-winning names, you’ll find the perfect place for your drinking needs in our complete guide to the best cocktail bars in Singapore. Cheers to that!
Best cocktail bars in Singapore
1. Writers Bar
Mixology meets literary heritage in this charming bar. You’ll be floored by gorgeous textured walls, bookshelves adorned with stylish mementos and books, a dazzling solid brass bar counter and an alluring chandelier centrepiece. This sophisticated spot is an ode to the illustrious authors who have graced Raffles Hotel Singapore over the years, including the likes of Rudyard Kipling and Andre Malraux. From wine cocktails to negronis, the handcrafted tipples are the brainchild of beverage manager Nicholas Alexander – an earnest literature fan, no less!
Try the bar’s special cocktails that pay homage to poetry collection, How to Build a Lux Hotel, by Madeleine Lee – the first Singaporean writer-in-residence under the Raffles Writers’ Residency programme. Or, sip on timeless tipples like the gin-based Million Dollar cocktail, a heritage classic created by Ngiam Tong Boon, the bartender behind the famed Singapore Sling.
For an elevated experience, try the Billion Dollar cocktail for an exceptional blend of hand-batched craft gin and artisanal barrel-aged vermouth. We’re saying cheers to this cocktail experience for the books!
Writers Bar, Raffles Hotel Singapore, 1 Beach Road, Singapore 189673
2. The Lobby Lounge
The Lobby Lounge at InterContinental Singapore wows with its refreshed cocktail menu created by head mixologist Rhodora Amurao and collaborating mixologist Jesse Vida. Pulling inspiration from the gorgeous Bras Basah and Bugis neighbourhoods, each libation is a distillation of the district’s rich history. From Chijmes to Haji Lane, you’ll be treated to a lineup of cocktails that go from day to night, following the bar’s dawn-to-dusk evolution.
Your journey begins at Sultan Gate Gardens with Royal Rosales, a fruity gin-based concoction topped with pink pepper and sea salt. On the sweet side, try the unique twist on a pina colada inspired by the National Library. Featuring our beloved local kopi, the aptly named Kopi Colada is a delectable drink topped with kopi foam gula melaka and dried pineapple. For those who need something strong to end the night, our pick has to be the Heritage Martini. This elegant sipper leans on the savoury side with the depth of Baba Nyonya spices and refreshing pickled onion and carrot.
The Lobby Lounge, InterContinental Singapore, 80 Middle Road, Singapore 188966
3. Tamba
A taste of West Africa awaits at this hidden oasis of a restaurant. A tribute to the founder’s late adoptive brother Tamba, this concept created by the same brains behind Kafe Utu brings elevated African plates to our diverse food scene. The cocktails are another story. A bar filled with African spirits, the flavours you get at Tamba are unique and strong, inspired by people and stages in Tamba’s life.
Tamba, 101 Duxton Road, Singapore 089964
4. Sago House
Previously located on Sago Street, the bar has now set up home in the bustling enclave of Duxton Hill. Swing by its eclectic yet cosy nook for a quick escape from the daily grind of life. Not sure what to get? These folks will give you the full spiel. But trust us when we say the cocktails are anything but pedestrian.
Sago House, 37 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089615
5. Spectre
Cocktails but make it mental wellness – that’s the name of the game at Spectre. This vintage apothecary inspired space is all about mindfulness with a cocktail menu inspired by traditional Chinese medicine. Even its zero-proof drinks are thoughtfully crafted, which we love. The funkiest thing you should try? The Bonseki cocktail, made with snake and chicken broth.
Spectre, #02-01, 120 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088532
6. Side Door
Casual, no frills, and perfect vibes are what you get when you visit this cocktail bar in Singapore. When you walk into Side Door, it feels like stepping into someone’s home for the first time, with warm welcomes and energetic service. The cocktails here may seem deceptively simple, but trust us when we say the nuances and flavours involved will wow you.
Side Door, 3 Neil Road, Singapore 088805
7. Parliament Bar
Get ready to rock and roll at this retro dive bar situated in the charming Keong Saik neighbourhood. Featuring leather booths and snazzy red lighting, alongside vintage signs and posters, you’ll be immediately transported to the roaring ‘80s in America. Enjoy a range of wallet-friendly drinks here, from cocktails to beers and spirits. Not forgetting some classic American fare too. We hear the fried chicken burger is a crowd favourite!
Parliament Bar, #02-01, 18 Teck Lim Road, Singapore 088390
8. Cat Bite Club
Pop by this little nook along Duxton Road for a quick tipple or two. Specialising in agave and rice spirits, Cat Bite Club offers delish concoctions like Cat Bite margarita and soju sprint, as well as the usual fixes of negronis and martinis. If you wanna level up your spirits knowledge, sign up for the masterclasses to dive deep into the world of agave and rice distillation. Psst: each 45-minute sesh entails a tasting experience with light bites, too!
Cat Bite Club, 75 Duxton Road, Singapore 089534
9. Barbary Coast & Deadfall Cantina
Two vastly different experiences, one fab location. That’s exactly what you get at Barbary Coast, set up by Michael Callahan, the founding bartender of 28 HongKong Street. Looking for a casual, no-frills spot? Take a seat at Deadfall Cantina, a watering hole inspired by all things Mexico, and be prepared for cheeky cocktails. The second-floor Barbary Coast Ballroom is for discerning drinkers who have a keen eye for details. Each drink is concocted with finesse, from the spirits to the garnishes.
Barbary Coast & Deadfall Cantina, #01-01, 16 North Canal Road, Singapore 048828
10. The Dragon Chamber
Reaching The Dragon Chamber is an adventure in itself. You’ll never guess it’s hidden safely behind the beer fridge of a kopitiam. Adventure-seekers who wander into the dragon’s lair will find themselves faced with an unconventional guerilla-style menu, where dishes are made with unusual Chinese techniques. The cocktails are nothing to scoff at either. You’ll find a range of signature concoctions and classics available for all tastebuds.
The Dragon Chamber, 2 Circular Road, Singapore 049358
11. D.bespoke
If you’re looking to be spoiled, this is the place. At this Ginza-style speakeasy, your experience starts off with refreshing hot towels and tea. Bespoke tipples are hand-crafted with care and attention, and customised to suit your personal tastes. What a treat!
D.bespoke, 2 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089816
12. The Elephant Room
Tucked away in the bustling neighbourhood of Tanjong Pagar, The Elephant Room brings a slice of Little India to this charming district. Think vermillion-coloured walls, lattice or jaali-patterned surfaces and traditional sarong or lungi-embroidered coasters for decor. Each cocktail is inspired by Little India, and you’ll be amazed at the innovative way the team infuses spices in each sip.
The Elephant Room, #01-02, 33 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088456
13. Stay Gold Flamingo
Cafe by day, bar by night, Stay Gold Flamingo serves good food and even better cocktails. Founded by cocktail duo Jerrold Khoo and Bai Jiawei, this day-to-night location promises a relaxing morning followed by feral nights. Lovers of rock and roll must stop by because the music program is thoughtfully and intentionally curated for the best vibes.
Stay Gold Flamingo, 69 Amoy Street, Singapore 069888
14. Atlas
The Art Deco and Gotham City-esque exterior of Parkview Square makes it one of Singapore’s most spectacular buildings, and its gin-focused bar is an extension of that theme. Taking inspiration from the Roaring Twenties, Atlas aims to be a luxurious interpretation of the grand European lobby bars of the Art Deco age. The open atrium-style space offers masterfully crafted cocktails, as well as what is perhaps Singapore’s largest gin collection. Atlas features over 1,300 bottles of gin, and it’s set to grow… in its magnificent gin tower, no less!
Atlas, Parkview Square, 600 North Bridge Road, Singapore 188778
15. Taylor Adam
Concealed behind the facade of a bespoke tailor at Raffles Place, Taylor Adam is another hidden cocktail bar to add to your must-visit list. This covert speakeasy is sequestered behind a wall of mirrors and offers a selection of signature tipples to choose from. You might not be able to get a suit at this tailor, but drinks can be customised to “suit” your fancy.
Taylor Adam, #01-03, One Raffles Place, 1 Raffles Place, Singapore 048616
16. Club 5
Tucked within the culturally-rich neighbourhood of Kampong Glam, Club 5 serves hand-crafted cocktails inspired by the diverse history of Arab Street, Bugis Street and Beach Road. This stylish cocktail bar exudes an old-world charm and incorporates local flavours into the menu for a uniquely Singaporean experience. Imbibers can pair drinks with bar bites such as their signature chicken wings and deep-fried soft shell crab with Singapore chilli sauce.
Club 5, Parkroyal on Beach Road, 7500 Beach Road, Singapore 199591
17. Jigger & Pony
Say hello to the #3 bar in Asia! (Yup, Jigger & Pony is second in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list and has been a fixture on the list since its inception in 2016). Skillful, attentive, and extremely creative, the bartenders at Jigger & Pony concoct some of the best bespoke cocktails in town. With more than 20 cocktails on the menu, no two (or three or four) visits are ever the same. Plus, you can get up to speed with the menu, which provides detailed descriptions of the cocktails and their flavour profiles.
Jigger & Pony, Lobby Level, Amara Singapore, 165 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088539
18. Neon Pigeon
Located along Carpenter Street, Neon Pigeon is a modern izakaya with artsy, gritty interiors. Kick off the evening with tipples served in bird-shaped glassware, along with small plates from the raw bar that features seasonal catches. Its menu also puts a modern spin on Japanese dishes, with intriguing creations such as the Tokyo hummus – a creamy blend of edamame and curry chips that’s fast become a crowd favourite.
Neon Pigeon, #01-01, 36 Carpenter Street, Singapore 059915
19. Nutmeg & Clove
Trust this cocktail bar to be constantly at the forefront and serving up new innovative menus. Founded by industry powerhouse Colin Chia, this restaurant and cocktail bar in Singapore draws inspiration from Singapore’s rich history. From the food menu to the drinks, Nutmeg & Clove weaves Singaporean inflections into its menu, interpreting several elements of Singapore in each taste and flavour profile.
Nutmeg & Clove, 8 Purvis Street, Singapore 188587
20. Aniba
Up for an imbibing experience like no other? Make your way to this swanky cocktail bar tucked away in an eclectic restaurant. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by a gorgeous circle bar adorned with unique lamps and reminiscent of an enchanting cosmic forest. Coupled with mirrors above the lamps, it makes a playful and imaginative setting to knock back a tipple or two. Inspired by flavours and ingredients of the Middle East, Mediterranean and Asia, the multi-continental cocktails and spirits are equally alluring, too.
Aniba, #05-03, 6 Battery Road, Singapore 049909
21. Employees Only Singapore
In a nutshell, expect a bespoke cocktail experience with an ambience that’s neither stuffy nor exclusive. The menu uses regional ingredients like basil, mango, ginger and pineapple. And don’t even get us started on the bites! We’ve been stoked about this place for a long time.
Employees Only Singapore, 112 Amoy Street, Singapore 069932
22. Smoke & Mirrors
This bar atop the National Gallery oozes sophistication with its skyline view overlooking The Padang, The Esplanade and Marina Bay Sands. Just as impressive is its modern decor with warm wood and metal accents. Grab a seat by the balcony and drink in the view while sipping on some delectable cocktails.
Smoke & Mirrors, #06-01, National Gallery Singapore, 1 St. Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957
23. Fish Pool at The NCO Club
If you’re on the search for a unique cocktail bar, head to Fish Pool at The NCO Club. The highlight? Underwater performances by Syrena, Singapore’s first mermaid. Expect an unforgettable experience as Syrena interacts with diners while holding her breath and swimming in 3.85m-deep water. Pair that off with tropical cocktails and bites from the raw bar to make it a relaxing night.
Fish Pool at The NCO Club, 32 Beach Road, Singapore 189764
24. Alleybar
Having been open for over 20 years at Emerald Hill, Alleybar needs no introduction. At the helm of the bar is Milan native Matteo Arrigoni, who has zhushed up the drinks menu with his years of experience in the local and international drinks scene. The cocktail maestro puts a twist on a trio of classic tipples using the intricate process of milk clarification. The end result? Clear cocktails that boast mesmerising hues.
Alleybar, Peranakan Place, 2 Emerald Hill Road, Singapore 229287
25. Anouska’s
Anouska’s is an ode to Bond girl turned interior designer Anouska Hempel, and fittingly, this bar showcases her favourite drinks from the disco era of the 70s and 90s. Swing by this chic bar, designed with Eastern touches and striking hues of black, gold and yellow, featuring oriental screens and calligraphy wallpaper from Anouska’s personal collection. You can’t leave without snapping a picture!
Anouska’s, Duxton Reserve, Autograph Collection, 83 Duxton Road, Singapore 089540
26. Origin Bar
Forget about run-of-the-mill tipples. Origin Bar is all about pushing the boundaries of cocktail creation, while ensuring its drinks connect with people from diverse cultures and walks of life. Its intriguing cocktail menu features future-forward creations, drawn from different ideas and inventions and recreating them with infinite possibilities.
Origin Bar, Lobby Level, Shangri-La Hotel Singapore, Tower Wing, 22 Orange Grove Road, Singapore 258350
27. Live Twice
The folks behind Jigger and Pony present a new-style Japanese cocktail bar – Live Twice. The menu is divided into two categories: one life for yourself and one for your dreams (inspired by Nancy Sinatra’s “You Only Live Twice”). For the classicist, go for the mizuwari, a blend of Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky and Nikka Coffey Malt Whisky that’s steeped in a pot with Hokkaido soft water for a minimum of three days.
Live Twice, 18-20 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089834
28. Junior The Pocket Bar
Having moved to the Ann Siang Hill enclave, this pocket bar sports a bigger space while still retaining its nondescript, speakeasy demeanour. It’s the ideal space for date nights, or very cosy get together because of the small space. Its concept rotates frequently, so you’ll be treated to something new every time you visit. So far, we’ve seen the space inspired by cartoons, Korea, and Shanghai.
Junior The Pocket Bar, 6 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069787
29. Mobomoga
This eclectic bar will transport you to the streets of Tokyo. Select your preferred poison from a wide drinks menu – or ask for recommendations from the bar manager if you need a little help deciding! Whether you like your drinks smooth, light or fruity, there’s something on the menu for you. Don’t forget to pair your drinks with divine izakaya snacks like the kushiage or chicken meatball.
Mobomoga, #01-58, UE Square, 207 River Valley Road, Singapore 238275
30. Native
Now, after a few twists and turns, no thanks to Google maps, we found this gem of a bar. Located on the second floor of an unassuming shophouse, Native has a succinct cocktail menu that changes from time to time. Vijay Mudaliar, the audacious fellow behind Native and its creations, focuses on foraging from his surroundings. Oh, did we mention? You can have a quick tour of the microdistillery located above the bar for some boozy education.
Native, 52A Amoy Street, Singapore 069878
31. No Sleep Club
Another reason to hang at the Keong Saik enclave? We ain’t complaining. This one’s neither a bar nor cafe nor restaurant, yet all of the above. No Sleep Club was coined with the intention to curate an environment that focuses on the people that inhabit it. Co-owners Juan Yi Jun and Jessica ‘Hutch’ Hutchinson are familiar faces in the industry with experiences working at Operation Dagger, 1880 and 28 Hong Kong Street.
No Sleep Club, 20 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089127
32. Bar Stories
Bar Stories is one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it cocktail bars located at the lively Haji Lane. It’s one of the first bespoke cocktail bars to open in Singapore. There’s no menu here and every drink is specially made for your palette. Also, the bartenders don’t skim on the presentation. Not sure what to get? Just ask the friendly team and they’ll whip up the perfect tipple for you.
Bar Stories, 55-57A Haji Lane, Singapore 189248
33. Cin Cin
Oasia Hotel Downtown is already stunning as an architectural wonder, but just wait till you hop into its gorgeous ground-floor bar! Adorned throughout with debonair emerald hues and gold, metallic accents, Cin Cin evokes a nostalgic trip into the past with its Prohibition Era theme. Gin is its specialty, so arm your appetites for martinis, negronis, and other bespoke cocktails. Go ahead and toast “cin cin!” to this ritzy city bar.
Cin Cin, #01-02, Oasia Hotel Downtown Singapore, 100 Peck Seah Street, Singapore 079333
34. The Other Room
“Speakeasy” is a description thrown around a lot these days, but The Other Room is probably one of the few cocktail bars that’s really hidden away, with only the scantest online presence. This “drinking house for the discerning” offers expertly crafted cocktails that pay homage to classic drinks while adding contemporary twists.
The Other Room, #01-05, Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel, 320 Orchard Road, Singapore 238865
35. Colbar
Travel back to the 50s at this quaint colonial bar. Previously a canteen for the British Army back in 1953, Colbar is tucked along Whitchurch Road. Serving up a wide selection of craft beers and comforting Hainanese and Western grub, this bar’s selling point is its charming atmosphere. From a vintage weighing machine to historic photos of Colbar Football Club, the casual watering hole delivers a slice of old Singapore.
Colbar, 9A Whitchurch Road, Singapore 138839
36. Isabel Bar
Take a stylish swig of your tipple at the stunning Isabel Bar located within Maxwell Reserve. Step inside for hand-painted wallpaper, African ebony herringbone floors, Persian silk hand-knotted rugs, banquettes clad in plush red velvets and textured French fabrics – all that to set a beautiful scene for a night of socialising. Check out the stunning pink onyx bar counter which is the main feature. Timeless elegance is the name of the game here!
The menu is also a highlight: all wines, champagnes, spirits and liquors on the menu are curated from around the world. From original classics to modern reinterpretations, there’ll be something for everyone. Our recommendation? Order the cocktails or after-dinner digestifs. Each drink is carefully handcrafted and designed to match Isabel’s elegant interior and vibe.
Isabel Bar, Maxwell Reserve, Autograph Collection, 2 Cook Street, Singapore 078857
37. The Secret Mermaid
It’s easy to miss this 16-seater bar, especially with its lack of signage, but keep your ears peeled for groovy beats, chatter and the distinct clanking of glasses. That’s how you’ll know you’re in the right place. A Japanese eatery by day turned bar and liquor store by night, this one is all about the thrill of discovery so go for the tasting flights and up your booze knowledge.
The Secret Mermaid, B1-09, Ocean Financial Centre, 10 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049315
38. Hopscotch
Prefer quirky to classic? Head to this delightfully kitschy little bar tucked away in Gillman Barracks. Pick from an incredible variety of absolutely zany Singaporean-inspired cocktail offerings. If Gillman Barracks is too much of a journey, just pop over to its other branches at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore or Gardens by the Bay.
Hopscotch, multiple locations including Gillman Barracks and Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
39. Gibson Bar
While the gold-accented interior may insinuate upmarket, a tipsy trip to Gibson is far from a formal, stuffy bar experience. The award-winning Gibson prides itself on its wide selection of potent tipples in its drinks menu, pleasing even the most discerning drinker. Cocktails aside, Gibson also lets you enjoy a modest selection of seafood dishes.
Gibson Bar, Level 2, 20 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089834
40. Tess Bar & Kitchen
Not sure where to go on a Friday night? Savour creative concoctions at this bar. It aims to be a platform for its team of young Asian mixologists to experiment and hone their craft, so you can expect nothing short of a casual, welcoming and highly interactive experience.
Tess Bar & Kitchen, 36 Seah Street, Singapore 188392
41. Mo Bar
Sometimes we have to pinch ourselves when we catch the breathtaking views of Marina Bay, but we recommend you do it with a drink in hand at Mo Bar. Located on the third floor of Mandarin Oriental, this spiffy bar spotlights progressive techniques through bespoke cocktails. From refreshing flavours to spirit-forward mixes, each one is artfully created by its team of talented mixologists, and pair perfectly with eclectic bites.
Mo Bar, Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, Marina Square, 5 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039797
42. Oriental Elixir
Walk on the wild side with Oriental Elixir. This bar is a collab between Tanglin Gin and The Spiffy Dapper, and it has all the makings of a speakeasy. Dim lights, shelves of non-descript liquor bottles and jars, and a hodgepodge of antiques and experimental cocktails. Just tell the bartender your choice of poison, and they’ll whip up something that’s as interesting as the ambience.
Oriental Elixir, Second Floor, 19A Bukit Pasoh, Singapore 089833
43. Mama Diam
As you might have guessed, Mama Diam is quite unlike the little convenience stores located under HDB blocks. This speakeasy evokes a sense of nostalgia specific to Singapore’s cultural heritage, with contemporary spins on local flavours. Sip on tipples with noticeable hints of pandan or sour plum in an old school setting. You’ll find an outdoor area complete with HDB stools and vintage knick knacks to whisk you back in time.
Mama Diam, #01-01, 38 Prinsep Street, Singapore 188665
44. 28 HongKong Street
Sans PR fanfare and signage out front, 28 HongKong Street is notorious for snubbing the system in the most radical way when it first opened its doors. The place screams privacy and quiet with the non-descript entrance, but once inside, it’s safe to be social with a group of friends! The best part for tippleholics is the larger standard shot served here (as compared to the usual 30ml). Reservations are required, ‘cos tables get snapped up faster than free ice cream – no kidding.
28 HongKong Street, 28 Hong Kong Street, Singapore 059667
45. Bitters & Love
The folks at Bitters & Love will concoct something from the drink profile you provide. Plus, its whimsical food menu makes sure you’re never hungry at this place, ever. We also love the DIY cocktail sets that can be delivered to your doorstep.
Bitters & Love, 118 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068587
46. Anti:dote
Anti:dote’s selection of cleverly concocted cocktails will appeal to even the most discerning. Combining the artistry of classic cocktail-making with modern mixology, it uses only premium spirits, house-made bitters and liqueurs, and herbs from the hotel’s very own herb garden.
Anti:dote, Level 1, Fairmont Singapore, 80 Bras Basah Road, Singapore 189560
47. BeGin
Tucked away on the second floor of English pub Penny Black, this speakeasy (thanks to its dim lighting and hidden location) is a haven for gin lovers. Don’t know where to begin? (Sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves.) Don’t worry; the bartenders are more than willing to guide you through the dizzying world of gin.
BeGin, 27a Boat Quay, Above The Penny Black, Singapore 049817
48. Manhattan
Conrad Singapore Orchard’s luxurious bar offers a slice of 19th-century New York. Check out the world’s first in-hotel rickhouse – a workshop space featuring over 100 American oak barrels of imported whisky for experimentation. Manhattan also has a collection of unusual ingredients like wildcherry bark and shisandra berries – and signature drinks like the barrel-aged Manhattan and solera-aged negroni. If you’re savvy with your bar buzz, you’ll also know that Manhattan is one of the best bars in the world, according to The World’s 50 Best Bars list.
Manhattan, Level 2, Conrad Singapore Orchard, 1 Cuscaden Road, Singapore 249715
49. Roxy
Be transported to the rock-and-roll nightclubs of Manhattan in the 70s when you step into Roxy. This hidden enclave is located in the back of Miss Fitz Kitchen & Bar and serves New York-inspired bar bites and cocktails. Its selection of spirit-forward tipples will rock you. Don’t believe us? Just make your reservation and you’ll see what we mean.
Roxy, #01-19, The Sail at Marina Bay, 6 Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018985
Time to paint the town red with our massive list of the best cocktail bars in Singapore!
