Check out the hottest new bars in Singapore shaking up the nightlife scene. Sip, sip, hooray!
We’ve got the intel on new bars in Singapore! The bar scene is buzzing with fresh energy, from swanky cocktail bars in Singapore to bold menus that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Some even double as live music restaurants in Singapore where you can sip, dine, and groove the night away. We’ve also been busy checking out the new restaurants in Singapore making waves across the city. Ready to drink your way through the crème de la crème with us?
Hot new bars in Singapore: January 2026
New bar: Ignite Bistro & Bar
Tucked away in Balestier, Ignite Bistro & Bar is a buzzy new hang for inventive Chinese-inspired cocktails and all-around good vibes. It’s cosy but buzzing, fun enough to keep you energised, yet chill enough for your social battery to last past 8pm.
The menu is a joy to browse through and even better to try a few. There’s the quirky Quacka‑Cola ($22), with duck‑fat‑washed Jack Daniel’s, five‑spice, plum and house cola, or the intriguing Hot & Cold ($22), a baijiu‑tropical mix layered with pineapple, lime and cacao butter. Mirepoix ($22) is a savoury-spicy mix with Hendrick’s gin, Szechuan peppercorn, litsea cubeba and clarified tomato juice. Each drink has its own personality, and there are low‑ABV options if you’re in the mood to sip lightly.
Must-try drink: Hot & Cold, Quacka-Cola
Expect to spend: From $22 for cocktails
Opening hours: Daily, 5pm – late; closed on Tuesdays
Address: Ignite Bistro & Bar, #01-07, One Dusun Residences, 1 Jln Dusun, Singapore 329363
New bar: Pop City x Pony
We were genuinely bummed when Sugarhall closed its doors at Cecil Street, but that disappointment didn’t last long. Enter Pop City x Pony, the Jigger & Pony Group’s Japanese-inspired bar that channels the retro cool of the City Pop era. Set right in the CBD, the space feels like a stylish living room you actually want to hang out in. It’s split into a few distinct zones, so whether you’re here for serious cocktail appreciation, vinyl-led DJ sessions or relaxed catch-ups, there’s a corner that fits the mood.
Cocktails take cues from Japanese flavours like yuzu, hojicha, dashi and shiso, resulting in drinks that are modern, balanced and easy to enjoy. Expect house favourites like the Pop City Sour alongside seasonal specials that keep things fresh. I’ve shared more about my standout picks in my full review of Pop City x Pony. Food-wise, there’s plenty to graze on too, from truffle edamame and mochi cheese nuggets to comforting bowls of tonkotsu ramen.
Must-try drink: Hojicha Espresso Martini, Pop City Sour
Expect to spend: Cocktails from $24; non-alcoholic cocktails from $18; happy hour from $15; food and bar bites from $6
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Saturdays, 5.30pm – 12am, Mondays, Sundays and public holidays, closed
Address: Pop City x Pony, 19 Cecil Street, Level 2, Singapore 049704
New menu: Cherki
Named after a forgotten Peranakan card game, Cherki is dealing a full house with its new cocktail menu. Each drink is a little sip of Peranakan culture, cleverly blending heritage, flavour and storytelling in every pour.
Take Duck Soup for the Soul ($23), for instance. It’s a cosy nod to the beloved Nyonya Duck Soup traditionally served on special occasions. Smoked duck–washed brandy, tomato juice, homemade Itek Tim and coriander come together for a comforting, heartwarming sip that feels like a warm hug.
Then there’s The Fore Father ($25), a tribute to Lee Kuan Yew. Earthy Buah Keluak–infused scotch channels his favourite Peranakan dish, Ayam Buah Keluak, while brandy, amaretto and cassis round it off. Savoury, layered and just a touch sweet.
Must-try drink: The Fore Father, Ready to Mingle
Expect to spend: From $23 for each cocktail
Opening hours: Monday – Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, 12pm – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10pm, Friday, 12pm – 2.30pm, 5pm – 11.30pm
Address: Cherki, #01-02, Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, 1 Straits Boulevard, Singapore 018906
Hot new bars in Singapore: December 2025
New bar: The Champagnery
Step inside The Champagnery, a new speakeasy in Singapore where bubbles are king and luxury feels effortless. Think velvet sofas and moody lighting. Champagne connoisseur or not, you’ll get a taste of classics such as Champagne Louis Roederer, one of the last major independent, family-owned Champagne houses, and rare grower selections at this social sanctuary. There’s also a selection of cocktails, beers, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks for variety.
As for the beats, music director Erin Khan sets the vibe for a smooth and sultry early evening, moving into house, R&B, or soul-house as the night rolls on. Perfect for lingering chats or just soaking in the atmosphere. Stay tuned for our full review!
Must-try drink: TBC
Expect to spend: TBC
Opening hours: Tuesdays – Thursday, 6pm till late; Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays, 7pm till late; Eve of PH & Public holidays, 7pm – 4am; Sunday & Mondays, closed
Address: The Champagnery, 94 Amoy Street, Singapore 069914
New bar: Gaudí Room
Tucked behind the lively hum of Carlitos is Gaudí Room, a cosy speakeasy inspired by the whimsical genius of architect and designer Antoni Gaudí. Step inside, and the vibe instantly shifts: dimmed lights, curving walls, and an intimate atmosphere that makes you want to linger all night.
The space is a love letter to Gaudí – think mosaic tables, butterfly lattice woodwork, and sinuous lines that feel almost alive. Cocktails are just as inspired as the interiors, from the summery La Sagrada Paloma to a silky Espresso Martini or the zesty El Mojito Nouveau.
Must-try drink: El Mojito Nouveau
Expect to spend: $30 – $40
Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 6pm-12am
Address: Gaudí Room, 350 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427598
Hot new bars in Singapore: September & October 2025
New bar: Horatio
Chock-full of premium-tier spirits, Horatio’s retail emporium is the ultimate playground for any whisky lover. You’ll find bottles of Hibiki, Nikka, Macallan, and even Jung & Wulff rum from Trinidad. But what lies beyond this little alcove? Solve a riddle and you’ll be welcomed to a speakeasy hidden behind a mirrored wall.
While the bar focuses on whisky, it offers a handful of cocktails with gin and tequila bases, so there’s something for everyone. We started strong with the Dragon’s Breath ($26), a spirit-forward cognac-based drink with a mild herbal flavour. It’s the kind of drink you can sip on all night.
For something on the sweet side, the Kueh-Kueh Spirits ($26) brings together gula melaka, coconut, winter melon, and calamansi served in an adorable Peranakan-style teacup. The real treat is the salted egg chocolate sitting playfully on top of it! The flavours of the drink change drastically after taking a bite – it’s almost like magic. (Review by Ashe Liao, Lifestyle Writer)
Must-try drink: Maestro’s Daughter, Dragon’s Breath, The Lost Caravan
Expect to spend: Cocktails start from $26
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 5pm to 11pm
Address: Horatio, Level 2, Crockfords Tower, 26 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098140
New bar: Silly Goose
If you’re in the mood for cocktails with a side of cheek, make your way to Silly Goose, Telok Ayer’s playful new hidden bar, where nothing is taken too seriously (except the drinks). Behind a red door, you’ll find neon signs and all things geese and ducks.
The volume two menu is filled with cheeky plays on the team’s favourite childhood cartoons like SpongeBob SquarePants and Rugrats. Think cocktails like Cereal Killers, a boozy nostalgia trip with Stranger & Sons gin, fruity pebbles milk, and a cheeky citrus kick. Also, look out for the monthly specials – September is all about strawberries!
The food menu serves hearty comfort eats like pulled beef sandwiches and sambal-kissed Brussels sprouts. This just proves that your go-to bar doesn’t always have to be polished; it can be silly, too.
Must-try drink: Cereal Killers, drink of the month
Expect to spend: $30 – $40 per pax
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 6pm-12am
Address: Silly Goose, 9A Stanley Street, Singapore 068728
New bar: Dutch Door
When we stumbled upon this concept on social media, we thought to ourselves, “Nothing this cool would be in Singapore”. To our delighted surprise, Dutch Door is actually located within the buzzing Joo Chiat! Created by Brandon Grusd (former general manager of Proof & Company) and Tom Hogan (co-founder of Winemouth), this cocktail window is only open for three hours a day on weekends. The philosophy: do one thing and do it well. Think of it like Kyo Kohee’s coffee window, but for day drinking.
It’s situated within Winemouth, so take the stairs up and you’ll see the light at the end – a refreshing cocktail shaken up in front of you and a complimentary snack. We recommend pre-ordering to secure your drinks before you visit the space. It’s a takeaway situation, but you’re more than welcome to chat with Brandon and Tom about anything under the sun. The drinks and snacks will change every month, so be sure to keep an eye out on the brand’s social media to find out what’s in store. (Review by Ashe Liao, Lifestyle Writer)
Must-try drink: Changes every month
Expect to spend: $20 for a cocktail and a snack
Opening hours: Saturday to Sunday, 12pm to 3pm
Address: Dutch Door, 432A Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427647
New bar: Bar.ter
Just off Boat Quay, you’ll find Bar.ter, a space with a split personality (in the best way possible). By day, it’s all about chill vibes and quality brews, thanks to a collab with Kōhī Coffee. But when the sun goes down, the lights dim, the bottles come alive, and suddenly you’re in a cosy bottleshop-meets-bar playground.
Shelves are stacked like liquid treasure chests: rare bourbons, elegant Scotches, smooth agaves, and a few unexpected gems you definitely won’t see in your average bar line-up. Feeling overwhelmed? No stress. Joseph Seah (yes, he’s an actual Scotch whisky ambassador) and his friendly crew are more than happy to steer you through a few drams until you find “the one.” Sip, learn, maybe even snag a bottle for later.
Must-try drink: The choice is yours
Expect to spend: From $20
Opening hours: Daily, 2pm – 12am (bar and retail store)
Address: Bar.ter, #01-01, 42 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058676
Hot new bars in Singapore: August 2025
New bar: Casper Bar
There’s a new haunt in Duxton Hill shaking up the bar scene – and no, it’s not your usual cocktail spot. This vibey new bar ditches the usual spirit-led menu for one that’s all about taste. Flavours include “Tomato” ($26), “Cake” ($26), and “Mushroom” ($26) served in seriously inventive cocktails that surprise with every sip.
The vibe is cool and creative, with stacked sambos for snacking, rotating pickleback shots (yes, really), and a killer house soundtrack courtesy of the in-house DJ and monthly Frequency Nights. Safe to say, this one’s a friendly ghost you’ll want to catch.
Must-try drink: Mushroom, Watermelon
Expect to spend: from $24 for a cocktail
Opening hours: Wednesday – Friday, 4pm – 12am; Sunday, 7pm – 12am
Address: Casper Bar, #01-01, 59 Duxton Road, Singapore 08952
New bar: Mad & Midas
We’ve heard countless recommendations for this hidden cocktail bar nestled in the back alleys of Ann Siang Hill, so this is one spot not to miss. Designed as a playful love letter to childhood nostalgia, the retro-cool Mad & Midas is where ’90s tunes, vintage toys, and inventive mixology collide in a fun, cosy space. Each cocktail is an experience served with a side of quirky toys, clever garnishes, or even tabletop surprises.
Must-tries include whimsical sips like Panic at the Pisco (reminiscent of the Qoo White Grape drink we loved as kids, $23) and Duck Dive (topped with a savoury chicken skin garnish, $23). With its speakeasy vibe and friendly owner-bartender Naz, Mad & Midas is our favourite for playful, flavour-forward nights out.
Must-try drink: Panic at the Pisco, Duck Dive
Expect to spend: from $23 for a cocktail
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 6pm – 12am
Address: Mad & Midas, B1-01, 14 Ann Siang Road, Singapore 069694
Hot new bars in Singapore: July 2025
New location: The Magic Bar
Do you believe in magic? The folks behind The Magic Bar sure do, and they’re making it more accessible with a new home in Clarke Quay. After charming guests in Ubi, Singapore’s only magic bar is now in the heart of town.
Our enchanted evening started with clever cocktails crafted right before your eyes. We kicked off with Taro Town ($22), a dessert-like pour made with Ube Cream Liqueur, Beefeater Gin, star anise liqueur, cacao, and a dusting of nutmeg. It’s sweet, creamy, and a little whimsical. Prefer a punchier sip? Sze Chuan Goodbye ($22) brings the heat. It’s a whisky sour meets mala spice, with Sze Chuan-infused vodka and rye whisky delivering a fiery, lip-tingling kick.
But the real magic? That happens after dark. A rotating cast of top-notch magicians like Kai Emmanuel, Nique Tan, Stefan Ebinger, and Alexander Y perform intimate sets for just 15 guests a night. Nab a seat at the long table for a front-row experience you won’t forget. Pro tip: check the schedule before booking ‘cos each night brings a different kind of wonder.
Must-try drink: Taro Town, Sze Chuan Goodbye
Expect to spend: $22 for each cocktail, from $54 for Magic Shows
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 6.30pm – 12am
Address: The Magic Bar, #01-11, 2 Havelock Road, Singapore 059763
New bar: The Cocktail Office
Tucked away above Clarke Quay, this intimate speakeasy offers a unique escape, quite literally, as it’s the highest hidden bar in the area. Built with repurposed materials, the space exudes character and warmth, making it a perfect hideout for low-key nights or date-worthy hangs.
Come for the bespoke cocktail experience: think creative concoctions tailored to your preferences. The menu rotates often, but you’ll find well-balanced pours and clever infusions alongside a bartending team that knows their spirits (and your palate) well. Spot familiar faces like the French 75 ($22), Old Fashioned ($28) and Pisco Sour ($25) on the lineup.
But it’s The Cocktail Office exclusives we’re eyeing. Start easy with Black The Affair, a broody and nostalgic mix of Hennessy VSOP, Sarsi, lime, and ginger ale – think root beer float, but all grown up. Shift gears with Night Brief, a playful riff on an espresso martini made with Tim Horton’s cold brew.
Finally, Smoke Signal is the one to end with – a hefty, smoky Negroni layered with mezcal and pink peppercorn that might help you forget your work woes. Each cocktail is priced from $25 per glass, but for the full experience, opt for two hours of free-flow cocktails from $80 per person.
Must-try drink: Night Brief, Smoke Signal
Expect to spend: from $22 for cocktails
Opening hours: Thursday – Sunday, 7.30pm – 11.45pm, reservations required
Address: The Cocktail Office, #12-04A, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, Singapore River, Singapore 059815
New Bar: Goodbye, Alibi
Goodbye, Alibi isn’t here for predictable cocktails or a cookie cutter night out. Sitting on Duxton Road, this intimate bar is known for two things: bold, savoury drinks and walls plastered with anonymous confessions. We call it a cocktail bar and a therapy session rolled into one.
Standouts like the tea-forward Sado ($24), musky Haw Yea ($24), and Yuzu Whiskey Sour ($24) are balanced, bold, and original. The service is also sharp and sincere; bartenders are known to offer warm, knowledgeable recommendations with just the right amount of flair.
Must-try drink: Sado, Haw Yea
Expect to spend: from $22 for a cocktail
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday, 5pm – 12am
Address: Goodbye, Alibi, 53A Duxton Road, Singapore 089517
Hot new bars in Singapore: June 2025
New bar: 1-Alfaro
Mark your calendars, 1-Alfaro’s about to shake up Singapore’s rooftop scene. Brought to you by the team behind Monti, this sky-high stunner crowns the 34th floor of Labrador Tower, a sleek new spot on the southern shore. At its heart, 1-Alfaro is all about la dolce vita. It brings together La Torre, an Italian restaurant, and La Luna, an alfresco bar where sunsets and DJ beats collide.
Each signature cocktail (from $18++) pays tribute to an iconic Italian figure. There’s the bold and brooding Enzo Robutti, a theatrical mix of scotch, Amaretto, Bologna-grown Amarena cherry and basil. It’s a flavour-packed nod to the Godfather actor himself. The Enzo Ferrari sparkles with Prosecco, Lambrusco grapes and sage, capturing the spirit (and speed) of Modena’s legendary carmaker.
For something bittersweet and sculpted to perfection, Antonio Canova blends amaro, peach, tonic and thyme in a spritz-style sipper that’s as refined as its Venetian namesake.
Must-try drink: Enzo Robutti, Antonio Canova
Expect to spend: from $16 per cocktail
Opening hours: Opens on 2 June, Monday – Friday, 8am – 1am; Saturday, 10am – 1am; Sunday, 10am – 12am
Address: 1-Alfaro, Level 34, Labrador Tower, 1 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore 118479
Hot new bars in Singapore: May 2025
New bar: Enclave Bar
Tucked away in a shophouse on Neil Road, Enclave is the kind of spot you stumble upon once and never forget. Born in the gritty basement of the old Golden Mile Complex, it now brings its Thai-inspired flair to a fresh, offbeat setting – think Bangkok meets underground creative haven. Expect Thai-inspired bar bites, live music, DJs spinning underground beats, and cocktails that tell a story with every sip.
Take the Thai Auntie – a spicy-sweet slow burner with chilli-infused bourbon, lemon, orgeat, and cardamom elderflower. Prefer something savoury? The Thai Punch hits hard with housemade tomato water, mezcal, umami bitters, and sesame oil. Or, go rogue with a bespoke drink crafted to your taste – just name your spirit and flavour vibe. All specialty cocktails go for $25, but swing by from 6pm to 8.30pm for one-for-one deals.
Must-try drink: Thai Auntie, Thai Punch
Expect to spend: $25/cocktail
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 6pm – 12am
Address: Enclave Bar, 2nd Level, 55A Neil Road, Singapore 088892
New bar: Hup San Social Club
Slip down to the basement and into Hup San Social Club, a vibey 12-seater bar where three’s a party and four’s a full-blown mood. Helmed by award-winning beverage director June Baek, this hidden gem is where you want to be seen. The debut menu, Do What Brings You Joy, flips the script on standard drinks with cheeky, feeling-driven concoctions.
Curious sips await: the Purple Bubble ($26) delivers a fizzy, floral kick with Hendrick’s Flora Adora, umeshu, and lacto purple cabbage. Craving something quirky? The French Fries cocktail ($26) is exactly that. It’s Monkey Shoulder meets Heinz tomato, chilli, and salt. Or go bold with the Low Manhattan ($26), where tequila mingles with pu-er tea, black garlic, and gula melaka. Doors open Tues to Sat, 6pm till midnight. Come thirsty.
Must-try drink: The French Fries 2.0, Purple Bubble
Expect to spend: from $25/cocktail
Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 6pm – 12am
Address: Hup San Social Club, #01-01, 98 Club Street, Singapore, 069467
Hot new bars in Singapore: April 2025
New Bar: Dirty Sips
Just when I thought I knew all the hidden bars in Singapore, Dirty Sips came along and proved me wrong. Tucked away behind Dirty Supper (which moonlights as Hua Bee Restaurant by day), this cosy new bar in Singapore is doing something seriously cool – turning kitchen discards into next-level cocktails.
This zero-waste approach isn’t just smart, it’s downright delicious. The Dirty Boulevardier ($18) is a prime example, with duck fat-washed bourbon, sweet vermouth, and a house-made bitter blend that’s rich, velvety, and packs a punch. Prefer something lighter? The Apple Highball ($18) is a total winner, blending Scotch whisky, freshly pressed apple juice, and a sliver of citrus for a crisp, refreshing sip.
Must-try drink: Dirty Boulevardier, Black Garlic and Honey Sour
Expect to spend: from $18
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday, 6pm – 12am
Address: Dirty Sips, 78 Moh Guan Terrace, #01-19, Dirty Supper, Singapore 162078
Hot new bars in Singapore: March 2025
New menu and concept: Highhouse
Is nightlife dead, or have we just outgrown the way we used to party? The scene has definitely evolved, with venues finding fresh ways to keep the after-hours alive. One spot shaking things up? HighHouse, the luxe rooftop bar and restaurant, now serving up a brand-new dining concept with a glamorous twist.
Enter Dinner & Dance, a cheeky nod to those company parties of the past, but with way more sparkle. Think burlesque and carnival dancers on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and live musicians – from violinists to saxophonists – setting the vibe on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Plus, DJs keep the beats going all week long. I even had a quick “omg” moment with a mentalist and glamorous burlesque dancers, making the night better.
The food may lean on the pricier side, but trust me, it delivers. Modern pan-Asian flavours take centre stage, with elegant bites like Kingfish carpaccio ($18) and saikyo miso foie gras ($28) setting the tone. The showstopper? Squid ink fried rice ($58) served with a fiery sambal that practically guarantees a return visit.
The drinks menu is a global affair, drawing inspiration from six coastal countries: Australia, Malaysia, Peru, Thailand, and the USA. Each cocktail is crafted with a distinct harmony of flavours. Seoul Side ($22) is a refreshing twist on the classic South Side. It features perilla-infused gin, black pepper saline, and a house-made syrup that gives it just the right amount of kick. Meanwhile, Soi Sky ($22) turns tom yum into a cocktail, blending galangal, lemongrass, chilli, and Chinese parsley into a perfectly balanced aromatic syrup.
The service? Impeccable. I mean, when your server circles back four times with complimentary shots, you know they’re serious about keeping the vibes alive.
Must-try drink: Soi Sky (bonus: the squid ink fried rice)
Expect to spend: from $50 (cocktails and food, if you’re sharing)
Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: 11.30am – 1am; Wednesday and Friday: 11.30am – 3am; Saturday: 5pm – 3am; Closed on Sundays
Address: HighHouse, L61-62, 1 Raffles Place, Singapore 048616
New Bar: Luni
By day, Luni is a peaceful retreat: think fragrant brews, bespoke essential oil workshops, and a quiet nook for those who love a little tranquillity with their caffeine fix. But when the sun dips, this unassuming cafe undergoes a stunning transformation. The lights soften, the energy shifts, and suddenly, you’re in Southeast Asia’s first-ever scented cocktail bar, where aroma and flavour work in perfect harmony.
Each of the eight scent-forward creations takes you on a multi-sensory journey, where taste, presentation, and aroma collide. Take Ruxiang ($25), for instance. This bold, musky concoction transforms frankincense into a heady mix of gin, fortified wine, shiitake, thyme, dried chillies, olive, and anchovies. Then there’s Ember ($25), a smoky floral explosion featuring Machetazo mezcal, Campari, fortified wine, dried banana chips, lemon peel, and delicate skeleton leaves.
Prefer something classic? They’ve got all the usual suspects, from a smooth whiskey sour ($18) to a rich espresso martini ($20). And because no good cocktail should fly solo, the menu has an impressive lineup of bites. Think juicy duck meatball skewers ($22), briny sakura clams ($28), and flame-kissed beef ($35) that’s straight-up irresistible.
Must-try drink: Ember, Old Street
Expect to spend: from $20 (cocktails)
Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday: 3pm – 12am, Friday – Saturday: 3pm – 1am, closed on Mondays
Address: Luni, #01-12, 161 Lavender Street, Singapore 338750
Hot new bars in Singapore: February 2025
New bar: 85 Amoy
Tucked away on Amoy Street, 85 Amoy Bar is the kind of spot that feels like a secret worth sharing. Dim lighting, smooth jazz, and a stylish crowd set the tone for a night that’s equal parts sophisticated and intimate. The cocktail menu? Pure genius. From savoury to sweet, every drink is a carefully crafted masterpiece designed to match your mood and palate.
We’re still thinking about the Burnt Grasshopper ($30), a surprising standout for those who don’t lean toward sweet drinks. Think white cocoa, green mint, and a luscious burnt coconut foam. For something extra indulgent, try the Lobster and Cognac ($38), a luxe concoction with lobster-infused spirit, cognac, bitters, and caviar. Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but when the cocktails are this balanced and bold, it’s worth every cent.
Must-try drink: Burnt Grasshopper
Expect to spend: From $20++
Opening hours: Monday-Thursday: 11.30am-2.30pm and 5.30pm-2am; Friday and Saturday: 11.30am-2.30pm and 5.30pm-3am; closed on Sundays
Address: 85 Amoy Street, Singapore 069904
Hot New Bars in Singapore: January 2025
New bar: Somma Bar
Tucked in the buzzing enclave of New Bahru, Somma brings to life a fine dining and cocktail experience rolled into one. And trust us, you’ll want to savour both experiences on separate visits. If you’re reading this, you’re probably interested in Somma Bar on the lower level. Housed in a former school library, it’s all cosy nooks and laidback scenes. Except no one’s going to shush you for chatting too loudly (good thing, too, because you’ll have plenty of questions about the intriguing menu).
At the helm is Mel Chavez, formerly of Smoke & Mirrors, who reimagines forgotten cocktails from the golden age (19th and 20th centuries) with a dash of innovation. The result? Aperitivo, savoury sips, and reimagined classics that wow with every mouthful. If you fancy a bold start, try Margarita for Mel, a coconut-infused twist with Espolón Tequila, crème de cacao, and lime cordial. Feeling adventurous? The Bolognese Muse blends Scotch whisky with beef consommé and vegetables for a savoury, surprising sip.
The bar bites are no afterthought. Think yellow amberjack crudo with pine nut milk and leek oil, or indulgent pasta dishes like radiatori with river crab and capocollo di martina franca. Each dish pairs effortlessly with the cocktails, so you’re in for a flavour-packed evening.
Must-try drink: Bolognese Muse, an innovative savoury cocktail
Expect to spend: $70 – $80 per person
Opening hours: 6pm – 11pm (Tuesdays and Wednesdays); 6pm – 12am (Thursdays – Saturdays); closed on Mondays and Sundays; walk-ins welcome
Address: Somma Bar, #04-02, New Bahru (Big Block), 46 Kim Yam Road, Singapore 239351
New Bar: Vino Tinto
Dull after-work plans? We don’t know her. Vino Tinto is here to shake up Singapore’s CBD with a splash of Spanish flair. If the success of power couple chefs Daniel and Tamara Chavez’s other ventures – Canchita Peruvian Cuisine and Tinto Spanish Restaurant – is any indication, this is one opening you won’t want to miss. Named after the Spanish word for red wine, Vino Tinto combines easy elegance with a tempting menu of Spanish coffee, wines (from just $14 a glass), and cocktails.
Over 30 tapas start at $6 – think crispy tostas ramona, smoky pulpo la brasa, and indulgent Vino Tinto Bikini (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds). Pair your bites with a glass of sangria or a bold Rioja, or enjoy an impressive list of over 40 Spanish reds, whites, and house-pour cocktails. To keep things chill, the menu highlights flavour profiles and finishes for each drink – no stress, just good vibes. After all, you’re here to unwind, not overthink.
Must-try drink: Las Pisadas 2019, Familia Torres ($18/glass; $88/bottle), raspberries, dried dates with spices with an oaky finish
Expect to spend: $50 – $60 per person
Opening hours: Lunch: 11.30am to 2pm (last order); dinner: 5.30pm to 9pm (last order); closed on Saturdays and Sundays
Address: Vino Tinto, 1 Raffles Quay, #01-10/K1, South Tower, Singapore 048583
New bar: KeonBae
KeonBae is here to redefine your nights out. Brought to you by the Kanpai Group (the folks behind crowd-favourites like Kanpai 2.0 and Yoasobi by Kanpai) this vibrant highball bar fuses Japanese and Korean flavours with flair.
Named after the Korean toast for “cheers,” KeonBae serves a wide range of soju, shochu, and whisky highballs from just $6.80 all day, alongside a killer cocktail line-up. Take a sip of Me, You, Breakfast? (yes, that’s the name), a genius mix of French toast, maple syrup, decaf espresso, and Haku vodka. Or go bold with the Plum Honey Shochu Highball, a refreshing nod to Japan’s iconic drinking culture.
This sleek space channels the electric vibe of Seoul’s nightlife with bold colours, neon lights, and playful pocha-inspired energy. Come for the highballs, stay for the vibes!
Must-try drink: Me, You, Breakfast? ($15++)
Expect to spend: $20 – $30 per person
Opening hours: Monday – Thursday (3pm – 11pm), Friday and Saturday (3pm – 2am), closed on Sundays
Address: KeonBae, #01-01, 38 Pekin Street, Singapore 048768
New bar: The Winery Gourmet Bar
Nestled in the streets of Siglap, The Winery Gourmet Bar is a gem that combines medieval charm with a love for exceptional wines and whiskies. With stone walls, warm lighting, and rustic wooden accents, the space transports you to an old-world castle while offering a cosy spot for romantic dinners, lively gatherings, or solo dates. The walk-in retail cellar boasts over 150 carefully curated labels, featuring standout names like Pierre Andre Pommard, a Burgundy gem, and Chateau La Patache Pomerol, a luxurious Merlot-based Bordeaux.
Whisky enthusiasts, you’ll love rare finds like the Macallan 30 YO Sherry Oak and the uniquely matured Dalmore King Alexander. The bar also offers irresistible deals like Wine Buffet Mondays with two hours of free-flow wines for $38, and Wine Wednesdays, offering two select bottles for $88.
Must-try drink: Go for the bang-for-your-buck wine buffet on Mondays
Expect to spend: $100 per person (including food)
Opening hours: 3pm – 12am (Monday – Friday); 12pm – 12am (Saturdays); 12pm – 10pm (Sundays)
Address: The Winery Gourmet Bar, #01-03, Springvale, 907 East Coast Road, Singapore 459107
We love how the bar scene is ever-evolving. The next time someone asks where to drink in Singapore, direct them to these new bars!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are reservations needed at new bars in Singapore?
It depends on the venue. Popular openings and intimate cocktail bars often fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so booking ahead is recommended when possible.
What’s the best time to visit a new bar in Singapore?
Early evenings are great for happy hour and quieter vibes, while later nights suit bars with DJs, live music or a more social atmosphere.
Do new bars in Singapore serve food as well?
Many do. It’s increasingly common for new bars to offer bar snacks or full menus, making them suitable for both drinks-only plans and casual dinners.
Are new bars in Singapore usually more expensive?
Not always. While some new cocktail bars sit in the mid-to-high price range, many offer happy hour deals, approachable house pours or value-driven menus.
How do I choose the right new bar in Singapore for my night out?
Consider the vibe you’re after. Some new bars focus on craft cocktails and quiet conversations, while others lean into music, social energy or food-friendly menus.
