8 new bars in Singapore
We heard your plea for new watering holes, so we went scouting and drew up a list of cool new tippling spots for you folks. Cheers to an awesome 2014!
Mars Bar
Incorporating local flavours like kaya, chilli, crab, and rojak flowers into cocktails might seem like sheer absurdity, but we assure you – it’s better than you imagine. Mars Bar, a pop-up bar (till Oct 2014) in Duxton Hotel, takes pride in crafting the most ludicrous of concoctions, which often raise eyebrows at the start but win over fans after a sip. Fancy a private soiree? The trio of buddies that founded Mars Bar manage an event bartending company Mixes from Mars on the sidelines, so arrange to have them bartend at your party and wow your guests with their nifty tricks and customized tipples.
Mars Bar, The Duxton, 83 Duxton Road, Singapore 089540, p. 96516741. Open daily from 4pm-1am.
Jekyll & Hyde
Aptly named, this two-faced watering hole opened by the folks behind Manicurious, shares the retail space with their sister nail salon. Gals looking to spruce up their digits can head to Manicurious for a quick fix and then hop over to uber-cool Jekyll & Hyde in the evening for a wicked cocktail concocted by ex-Bar Stories mixologist Jeff Ho. Sounds like a plan!
Jekyll & Hyde, 49 Tras Street, Singapore 078988, p. 6222 3349
House of Dandy
Step into the Great Gatsby-esque House of Dandy and be charmed by the sleek dark furnishing. With Oscar Wilde quotes scrawled on the walls, Tom Dixon designers lamps, and British Airforce Spitfires-inspired chairs – the interior is great eye candy too. The poison of choice is whisky (cigar pairings available), but they also serve up a menu of boutique spirits and classic cocktails which are just as delightful. Gentlemen can also pick up a couple of goodies from Penhaligon’s luxe collection while they’re there.
House of Dandy, 74 Tras Street, Singapore 079013.Open Mon-Sat 5pm-late.
Shelter
The folk at pop-up bar Shelter are telling you to drop your inhibitions and let loose when you’re over at their place. Munch on all-you-can-eat peanuts, which you can throw onto the floor (or at each other), while chugging drinking a bottle of beer and chowing on their delish chix wings. Two thumbs up for no service charge!
Shelter, 79 Circular Road, Singapore 049433, p. 6225 0261. Open Mon-Sat 5pm-2am.
Scoops
A local journalists’ bar inspired by foreign correspondent clubs around the globe, this Ann Siang Road contender has our attention. Taking over the now-defunct Fred Perry boutique, Scoops draws a loyal crowd of PR folk and journalists (especially on Wed nights). Don’t be intimidated by the seemingly exclusive clientele, Scoops is a great spot for chill-out drinks with their reasonably-priced tipples (from $9) and bar grub ($8-20) like pizzas, burgers, and poutine (Canadians rejoice!)
Scoop, 19 Ann Siang Road, Singapre 069699, p. 6423 1213. Open Mon-Sun 5pm-12am
L’Aiglon
This sprawling 76-seater bar boasts lush Parisian and Asian furnishings, and of course, wicked drinks. Cocktails are prepared by local mixologists Louis Tan, who made his mark during Diageo Reserve World Class’s Singapore Edition. Apart from the mixed drinks, an impressive menu of gin, rare champagnes, and whiskies are available. L’Aiglon’s bar bites deserve a place in the spotlight too, with a selection of Asian French Fusion sharing plates like blue shrimp tartare and fancy mini burgers.
L’Aiglon, 69 Neil Road, Singapore 088899, p. 62200369.
Afterglow Bar
Glow Deli’s sneaky little brother opened its doors on New Year’s Eve, serving up handcrafted cocktails which register high on the health-o-meter. Concocted with fresh juices, herbs, flowers, and all things healthy, Afterglow’s cocktails are the answer all health-conscious folks, who just can’t resist their tipples, have been waiting for.
Afterglow Bar, 24 Keong Saik Street, Singapore 089131, p. 6224 8921. Open Mon-Sun 9pm-1am.
Breeze Bar
This (not so new) rooftop alfresco seafood grill and bar was closed (to our horror) for five months when The Scarlet boutique hotel went under renovations. All dolled up with a fresh new face, The Scarlet kick-started operations again in December last year, with Our Korner Bistro and Breeze Bar following suit. Now it’s time to ditch the bustling crowds down below and head to the top – we suggest making a beeline for daybed coves where you can lounge, drink in hand, and soak in the night’s revelry.
Breeze Bar, Scarlet Hotel, 33 Erskine Road, Singapore 089839, p. 6511 3333 Open Mon-Fri 6pm-1am, Sat 6pm-2am, Sun 5pm-11pm.
Top Image: Mars Bar (L), Jekyll & Hyde (R)