Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a chill spot to unwind, these hot new bars in Singapore promise to shake, stir, and pour their way into your hearts.
Singapore’s vibrant nightlife has just welcomed a dazzling array of hot new bars that are set to elevate your drinking experience to a whole new level. From hidden gems with secret entrances to places where mixology meets artistry, we’ve scoured the Lion City to bring you the freshest additions to its buzzing bar scene. This month, we’re spoilt with choice as iconic bars around Singapore refresh their lineup with exciting new tipples. Give it up for Singapore’s hot new bars and menus in October.
Hot new bars in Singapore: October 2024
New bar: The Pineapple Room
Housed in the heritage Tanah Merah building of the five-star hotel, this bar pays tribute to Sentosa’s history as a thriving pineapple plantation in the 1880s – hence its fitting name. Cosy up to classic and contemporary cocktails that champion local botanicals and fruits.
Its signature, Triple P ($26), has pineapple written all over it, complemented by reposado, agave nectar, lime, orange bitters, and a sprinkle of chilli salt. For something more elegant, the Scarlet Rouge ($24) is a sultry twist on the Mary Pickford, blending warm rum, cherry liqueur, pineapple, pomegranate, bitters, and a touch of edible gold.
The Pineapple Room, Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, Sentosa, Singapore 098297
New bar: Bar Madame
Step inside this bar at Tras Street and you’ll find more than expertly crafted cocktails, rare spirits, and a selection of over 150 wines. It’s the warm ambience, witty bartenders, and flawless service that keep guests coming back. Whether you’re here for a cosy date or to meet new people, you’ll always feel at home. The Bees Knees ($26), Marilyn ($30) and Grace ($27) are standout cocktails, offering refreshing and unique flavours, perfect for sipping in Madame’s relaxed yet energetic vibe.
Bar Madame, 69 Tras Street, Singapore 079008
New bar: Ida’s
Ida’s in Gillman Barracks is the perfect spot for summer hangouts, combining a relaxed alfresco vibe with delicious drinks. By day, it’s a calm oasis, but come evening, the space transforms into the lively Ida’s Bar.
With a menu curated by the Cat Bite Crew (the folks at Cat Bite Club), enjoy a range of botanical cocktails and tasty bites. Try unique options like Café Nanas ($24) for coffee lovers, which combines coffee liqueur, rum, Cointreau and nutmeg.
The Tequila Sunset ($22) is an Asian twist on the classic with coconut, chilli liqueur, mango, lime and a gorgeous layer of blue pea lychee syrup. For classic cocktail lovers, the Sloe Gin Fizz ($24) and Paloma ($26) are refreshing picks, while the Penicillin ($26), New York Sour ($24), and Old Fashioned ($24) provide modern twists on timeless favourites.
Ida’s, #02-21, Gillman Barracks, 9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937
New menu: Smoke & Mirrors
Smoke & Mirrors is dropping The Real Art of Drinking: Vol IV, and it’s all about creative, colourful cocktails inspired by a painter’s palette. Expect 12 unique drinks that bring bold flavours and a bit of fun. Check out Dazzling Pop! ($32) – a sweet, bubbly mix of Roku Gin, watermelon, and Prosecco, or go for The Milky Way ($32), a light and aromatic cocktail inspired by burbur cha cha with rum, purple sweet potato, and yoghurt. For a full-bodied option with a sweet finish, go for The Great Wave ($32), with a trio of bourbon, sake and mezcal.
Smoke & Mirrors, #06-01, National Gallery, 1 St. Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957
New menu: Cat Bite Club
Cat Bite Club is shaking things up with its biggest revamp yet, offering fresh takes on classics like the Cat Bite Margarita and Soju Sprint – to help you get acquainted with these unique spirits.
On the menu, you’ll find playful creations like the Hulk Splash ($28), a tangy, savoury carbonated concoction with tequila, kiwi, citrus blend, bitters, and roasted broccoli (yes, really!). Sippin’ Shrooms ($27), is an absolute delight. The bamboo cocktail iteration is spirit-forward yet light, with nutty sesame notes and a smooth, earthy mushroom finish. It’s a unique sip and our favourite for the night.
For something fun and fresh, the tiki-style 🥭🥔💥 ($27) blends tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and sweet potato sochu. Served in a quirky Merlion-shaped glass, the layers of flavour grow on you with every sip. The unexpected addition of coffee balances the sweet-citrusy notes, adding an intriguing twist. If you’re in the mood for classics, you can’t go wrong with the Paloma ($26) or the spicy Ghost’Een ($24).
Cat Bite Club, 75 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089534
Hot new bars in Singapore: September 2024
New bar: Baia
Esplanade Mall welcomes its newest star, Baia, in late September. It’s a swanky, 5,000 sq ft rooftop lounge bar opened by the legendary Beppe De Vito of ilLido Group. Nestled on the fourth level, Baia screams luxury with a side of jaw-dropping views of the Marina Bay waterfront. Inspired by an ancient Roman holiday spot, the bar boasts plush interiors that mix maroon, gold, and green, along with a chill outdoor patio for sipping cocktails under the stars. Speaking of cocktails, the menu is a masterpiece.
Try the Strombolian, a refreshing aperitif that combines Campari, blood orange and mandarin, topped with Aer for a zesty kick. The Singapolitan is as Singaporean as it gets – think plum wine, salted strawberry, Prosecco and our very own Brass Lion Singapore dry gin. Feeling bold? The Eclipse, with its Cognac and espresso blend, is the ultimate nightcap. All cocktails are priced at $24.
Gather your crew of three or more for the Oasis Punch ($188), concocted with St. Germain, Prosecco, grapefruit marmalade, butterfly pea, lemon, and fresh garden herbs. Baia isn’t just about the drinks, though. Fuel up with small plates like seared bluefin tuna with caviar ($26), lobster lollipops ($22), and truffle fonduta pizza ($22).
Baia, Level 4, Esplanade Mall, 8 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039802
New Bar: Bar Bon Funk
Bar Bon Funk, the latest venture by chef-owner Keirin Buck, opens in the buzzing New Bahru. This 47-seater cocktail bar blends Buck’s “never fussy, always tasty” culinary philosophy with a passion for Hi-Fi sound. The bar’s cocktail program, led by head bartender Josiah Chee, showcases a blend of innovative techniques like fermentation, distillation, and fat-washing to create drinks that look simple but are packed with flavour.
Highlights include A Glass of Milk ($26), a nostalgic nod to cereal milk with small-batched Avallen Calvados, and the Lean Green Salad, a savoury mix of Herencia Mezcal and clarified miso. The classics aren’t forgotten, with drinks like the Negroni ($28), which is elevated by Bon Funk’s own amaro and vermouth, ultrasonic-aged with charred American oak for a smoother finish, and the Vesper ($28), which uses Mua sake for a refined twist on the traditional vodka base.
Bar Bon Funk, #02-01, 46 Kim Yam Road, New Bahru Singapore 239351
New Bar: Bae’s Cocktail Club
Sleek, sexy, and drenched in red – all eyes are on the newest club along Tanjong Pagar. Inspired by the heart-thumping nightlife in Gangnam and the decadent parties in west Los Angeles, Bae’s might just be the up-and-coming club to get your bump and grind on. The drinks flow early here with a cocktail menu put together by Vijay Mudaliar of Asia’s 50 Best Bars Native and Analogue. Alternatively, you can indulge in a selection of popular Korean spirits and bubbly.
When 10.30pm hits and the lights start to dim, the space transforms into a high-energy club where you can dance your troubles away till the wee hours of the morning. P.S. the music slaps.
Bae’s Cocktail Club, #01-04/05, 21 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088444
New menu: Deadfall Cantina
Remember when Deadfall (the sister brand of Barbary Coast) took us on a wild ride through the world of Prohibition-era cocktails? Well, they’ve just had a spicy makeover, and now it’s all about Mexico! This agave-forward bar showcases one of the city’s largest collection of agave-based spirits. The bulk of their shelves are loaded with mezcal, tequila, and even some raicilla, with the remaining dedicated to usual favourites like whisky, bourbon, rum, gin, and vodka.
Deadfall Cantina’s revamped menu is a fiesta of flavours, highlighting beloved Mexican ingredients in the most ingenious ways – think pasilla chilli infusions, mole fat washes, coriander salt rims, and prickly pear mash.
Sip on the Código Tequila Frozen Watermelon ($23) for a sweet, refreshing treat, or try the Horchata-Rita ($23), a cooling blend of Del Maguey Mezcal with vanilla-spiked almond and rice milk, kissed with cinnamon. For a spicy twist, the Pasilla Mole Negroni ($25) is a must-try, offering a taste of Oaxaca with mole fat-washed Beefeater Gin and Campari. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Buttered Paloma ($24) adds a nutty, caramelised edge to the classic Paloma with browned butter. For the true spirit aficionados, there’s also a library of rare-varietal mezcal and other agave-based gems available in small pours.
Deadfall Cantina, #02-01, 16 North Canal Road, Singapore 048828
New menu: Sugarhall
Your post-work drinks might just inspire you to hop on a plane, thanks to Sugarhall’s new cocktail menu. Cocktail Getaway features 18 fab cocktails, punch bowls and rum flights inspired by different types of vacays.
For something fruity and fun, the Passion Fruit Daiquiri, with Bacardi 4 YO Aged Rum and a dash of green tea, is a bear-y good time with its gummy bear garnish. Or venture into the rice terraces with the Makgeolli “Mai Tai,” blending Korean rice wine with earthy mezcal and pineapple for a tropical twist. All cocktails are priced at $26.
Coming with a group? Sugarhall’s signature punch bowls are designed for sharing, each featuring a full bottle of premium spirit for a vacation-worthy party in a glass. The One Punch Rum ($310) is a tropical showstopper with Angostura 5 YO Rum, passion fruit, coconut, and spices. For rum lovers, embark on a Rum Flight journey (from $35) with options ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-level, including rare varietals and premium selections from around the world.
Sugarhall’s food menu is all about comfort and sharing. The Pu Pu Party Platter ($38) is a playful take on Hawaiian appetisers, featuring sour plum glazed pork ribs, spicy wings, and beef murtabak. Oh, and don’t miss the Indomie Mi Goreng ($18), a must-try dish that combines crispy ayam penyet, sambal matah, and a perfectly fried egg.
Sugarhall, Level 2, 19 Cecil Street, Singapore 049704
Hot new bars in Singapore: August 2024
New bar: Idle Hands
Does anyone else get extra excited when you spot a hidden bar? It feels like your little secret. Well, we’re letting you in on Idle Bar. Located above Low Tide and opened by cocktail whiz Jay Gray of Sago House fame, this place exudes casual, homey vibes perfect for a post-office hangout. The small but mighty menu elevates simple ingredients into classic concoctions, split into three broad groups: refreshing “smashable sours,” stiff brown spirits for a nightcap, and even a non-alcoholic mix.
Sip on the Thiccboi Martini ($23), crafted with coconut oil gin and pine vermouth, or the Disco Revival ($21), featuring gin, Lillet Blanc, Oloroso sherry, grapefruit, and pink peppercorn.
Idle Hands, 3 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069785
New menu: Abura Kappo
Hop over to Abura Kappo for a global culinary adventure with a Japanese twist! Chef-owner Kenjiro “Hatch” Hashida leads this imaginative restaurant-in-restaurant concept, which features a fresh lineup of cocktails and mocktails.
Sip on the refreshing Kinkan Highball, which is bursting with citrusy Japanese kumquat and the subtly smoky finish of Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve Single Malt whisky, topped with bubbly soda. Or feel the heat with the spicy Bloody Mea-rī, a bold twist on the classic Bloody Mary, featuring sweet mandarin, kaffir lime, Japanese Amela tomatoes, shoyu, and a pinch of yuzu kosho mixed with gin. Cocktails are priced at $25 each.
Abura Kappo, 77 Amoy Street, Singapore 069896
New menu: The Elephant Room
In case you missed it, The Elephant Room has moved to a new location in Tanjong Pagar. The former speakeasy den has been upgraded to a more sophisticated space while retaining its signature charm. You’ll notice a photo wall showcasing the bar’s journey before entering the cosy venue, which also features a spice corner where you can see, smell, and learn about the spices used in the cocktails.
The fifth menu iteration continues to draw inspiration from Little India, balancing savoury, spicy, and umami flavours. We loved the Spiced Crab Rasam ($27), a tangy dirty martini reimagined with flower crab and vodka distillate, rasam, and tamarind, with a hint of kaffir lime and ghee sake to cut through any overpowering seafood flavours. If a traditional Negroni is too stiff, try Wild and Fresh ($27), featuring a sour plum profile from kokum (wild mangosteens from India) and gentle bitters. Though the Chicken Biryani ($26) could use bolder flavours, the concept and technique shine, blending homemade briyani tincture with basmati makgeolli and ghee sake, finished off with shaved cured masala egg with papadum.
We recommend you skip dinner reservations and dine here instead. The food menu, with its mix of small and large elevated Indian dishes, will fill you up nicely. Our top picks: spice-crusted cauliflower ($18), spiced Kerala beef ($26), and the Indian fried chicken burger ($25). They’re all perfectly paired with any drink of choice.
The Elephant Room, #01-02, 33 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088456
New menu: Potato Head Singapore
After a month of anniversary celebrations, Potato Head Singapore is back to introduce its new Good Times Happy Hour. Available from Monday to Friday, enjoy drink specials from 12pm to 7pm at The Dining Hall and 5pm to 7pm at Studio 1939 and the Rooftop Bar.
Sip on classic cocktails like Aperol Spritz and Sangria from $12, spirits from $14, and more. Pair your drinks with delicious bites like Naughty Junior loaded fries, crispy chicken bites, and vegetarian-friendly options like House Fries Junior and Broc Party Junior.
Potato Head Singapore, 36 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089143
Hot new bars in Singapore: July 2024
New bar: Another Bar
Discover Another Bar, a snazzy enclave in the city’s heart – it’s perfect for a casual night out or a lively evening. With its modern industrial design, playful neon signs, and plush seating, it’s an adult playground. Inspired by timeless pop culture moments, each drink evokes nostalgic connections to beloved references. Tuck into mod-Asian fare and a vast selection of cheeky cocktails like I Hate My Boss ($24), with bourbon, yuzu and lemon; Solulu To Your Delulu ($24) featuring gin, shiso, umeshu, lemon and bubbly, and – wait for it – a flaming waterfall called No, Really, You Can ($58).
Worked up an appetite? Fuel up with okonomiyaki quesadilla ($20) or spicy sesame miso chashu ramen ($22). It’s a one-stop spot for dining, drinks, and a whole lot of dancing.
Another Bar, #02-03, 9 Bras Basah Road, Singapore 189559
New bar: Dragonfly
Fly away to an otherworldly universe at Dragonfly, the whimsical bar from Hong Kong now dazzling Singapore. Designed by the renowned Ashley Sutton, it features a mesmerising stained-glass dragonfly centrepiece and hundreds of hand-blown lamps.
But it’s not just the ethereal teal ambience that’ll leave you floored. Bar manager Morgan Raelin Barron, who’s showcased her skills at Jigger & Pony and 28 HongKong Street, presents the ‘Cause and Effect’ menu. This cohesive line-up celebrates classic and inventive cocktails, exploring how one event creates ripples that influence widespread effects.
Choose from seven spirit sections, from vodka to gin and rum to whiskey. Highlights include the High Mountain ($25), with oolong-infused vodka, liquore strega, fortified vermouth, and a milk foam chip garnish. The Hazy Spring ($25) under agave is a refreshing, crisp tipple with clarified guava and a hint of smokiness from mezcal. Eau De Vie features the spirit-forward Right Chance ($25), with cognac, port wine, beetroot, cacao, and American and French oak, served with a tart meringue coated with raspberry powder.
Dragonfly, #01-05, 24 Mount Elizabeth, Singapore 228518
New bar: Big Wine Freaks
Wine snobs, enthusiasts and freaks gather ‘round. This chic champagne and wine bar is just for you. Featuring over 500 labels and 2,000 bottles, the wine list has champagnes, burgundies, and natural wines from renowned French regions and micro-farms. If you’d like to try something out of the ordinary, there’s a selection of rare wines that can be purchased by the glass.
The food menu is no oversight. Helmed by chef de cuisine Ash, formerly of Sago House and Burnt Ends, it’s packed with delights like Japanese tuna, oysters, caviar, and braised lamb shoulder for sharing.
Big Wine Freaks, 44 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089857
New menu: Tippling Club
Take a walk down memory lane, one sip at a time, with Tippling Club’s A Guide to Modern Drinking, Volume 4. Inspired by the different ‘first times’ in our lives, the menu turns cocktails into conversation starters. Think of your first love, first job, first party, first phone and even first pet.
For starters, First Party ($30) means business with Parton Silver as the base, zested up with kaffir-lime to give it a neon colour finish. We also love the white chocolate garnish disguised as ‘pills’. Do you remember your First Kiss ($26)? This tipple might just take you back. The clarified milk punch featuring Nuet Aquavit, raspberry, sake, and grapefruit is garnished with strawberry-chocolate lips for a playful touch. Of course, there’s also an NSFW one on the menu that’s actually served with a condom from the world’s first condom speciality shop in Amsterdam.
Tippling Club, 38 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088461
New menu: 28 HongKong Street
28 HongKong Street unveils its new DR-INK! menu, created in collaboration with four local tattoo artists. Twelve signature cocktails are inspired by the artists’ designs, reflecting personal experiences and nostalgic influences from Singapore. Head bartender Tamaryn Cooper and her team crafted these unique drinks, celebrating the bar’s heritage and modern cocktail culture.
Highlights include Petals, Pincers and Parallels ($27), an amethyst drink featuring Butterfly Pea Gin, lemongrass cordial, and vermouth, with a fried rice paper and tahini garnish. Inspired by an orchid crab tattoo, it’s a light and refreshing aperitif. Next, move on to the trendy (#IYKYK) Samsui Synthwave ($26), a rich cocktail with matcha Ilchiko shochu, horchata liqueur, Amaro Lucano, coconut milk, and egg white. Served in a porcelain cup, it honours Singapore’s samsui women, with a boom-box brandishing frog tattoo.
28 HongKong Street, Singapore 059667
Hot new bars in Singapore: June 2024
New bar: Ume Maru
This hidden bar, brought to you by the team behind Ume San 100, is touted as Singapore’s first hidden craft whisky and bespoke cocktail bar inspired by Japan’s bookish Jimbocho district.
All cocktails are as creative as they come – they’re influenced by renowned anime and manga titles. The Matxha is inspired by a drink in the anime Hyouka, where characters often enjoy matcha green tea in their after-school music club. The Songbird, inspired by the anime Belle, celebrates the character’s journey of overcoming her fear of singing in public. There are also whisky flights ranging from Japanese to Scotch.
Ume Maru, #05-26/26A, Far East Plaza, Singapore 228213
New bar: Laut Singapore
Remember Laut, the bar that opened during the dreaded year of the pandemic? Unfortunately, they had to close prematurely but now they’ve returned with a swanky new space and concept.
A nod to orang laut (seafaring ethnic groups and tribes), the bar dives deep into the flavours of Southeast Asia, creating seasonal experiences that honour the region’s rich diversity without overindulging. The ever-evolving menu also highlights Asian spirits and reinvented classics such as the Negroni and Old Fashioned.
Laut Singapore, #03-05, 190 Middle Road, Singapore 188979
New bar: Nowhere Bar at Nook
This three-level multi-concept hotspot serves contemporary European cuisine with a twist of Asian flavours, alongside a curated wine and cocktail selection, and cool art installations. But the real gem for bar hunters is Nowhere on level two. Expertly crafted cocktails meet an eclectic ambience featuring repurposed, mismatched furniture from Thailand.
Surrender to the tropical allure of Chichi, a blend of smooth vodka, watermelon, coconut, pineapple, and lime. Feeling a bit peachy? Opt for the Side Peach, a sweet and zesty escape featuring infused cognac, peach liqueur, Cointreau, and lemon. Or go for classics like the espresso martini, whiskey sour, Negroni, and more, all at $22 each.
Nowhere Bar, Nook, 11 Craig Road, Singapore 089671
New bar: The Coup Bar
If you’re looking for a laidback spot to catch up with your crew, drop by The Coup Bar. Located in the basement where Operation Dagger used to be, the bar offers a decent range of craft beers, wines, sake, cocktails and even kombucha. Pair them with small plates like Japanese oysters with a lactose-fermented tomato slush topping, slow-cooked beef short ribs, sausage platters and more.
The Coup Bar, 7 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069791
New menu: Tamba
You may have heard about this new space from the creators behind Kafe Utu. Singapore’s first West African restaurant, Tamba, also boasts an elite cocktail program featuring African spirits you won’t find elsewhere. The Next Pele has a mix of Brazilian and West African flavours, concocted with cachaca distilled tamarind for an earthy nuttiness and a spicy kick from long peppers. Dad’s Wallet is an amped-up version of an Old Fashioned, featuring bourbon, peated whiskey and Amaro Averna for a tannic feel of leather, and a slight sweetness from vanilla bitters.
Tamba, 101 Duxton Road, Singapore 089964
New menu: Taylor Adam
Taylor Adam is spicing things up with a fresh, Latin American-inspired cocktail and food menu. Chapter 7 is a delightful fusion of traditional and contemporary Latin flavours. Sip on bespoke cocktails like the zesty La Paloma with Rosa Tequila and melon liqueur, the smoky Nature’s Gift concocted with mezcal, banana liqueur, yogurt and maple syrup; and the refreshing Caipirinha De Manga with caipirinha, orange liqueur and mango, all crafted to perfection.
Taylor Adam, #01-03, 1 Raffles Place, Singapore 048616
Hot new bars in Singapore: May 2024
New menu: Gibson
Gibson brings a fresh twist to its cocktail lineup with the latest creation: Cocktail Supermarket. The menu transforms the ordinary act of grocery shopping into a delightful drinking adventure, featuring 15 signature cocktails that celebrate everyday supermarket finds.
Juicy watermelon meets the malty goodness of Monkey Shoulder Whisky, Aperol and Moscato wine in the refreshing Watermelon Spritz, with a surprising touch of crumbled feta cheese. Experience the innovative Born To Be Corn, blending steamed and roasted sweet corn with Maker’s Mark Bourbon, popcorn-infused flavours, and carbonated corn silk tea, garnished with a playful buttered popcorn skewer.
The whimsical Very Blue Bananas, which adds colour to the lineup, is a tropical delight featuring Codigo Blanco Tequila, spirulina, burnt banana peel, homemade banana wine, and coconut-vanilla foam. And don’t miss out on the Swanky Panky, a twist on the classic Hanky Panky, infused with the vibrant flavours of strawberry, basil, Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru Gin, amontillado sherry, and a hint of Fernet Branca. Get your cocktails at $28++ each.
Gibson, 2nd Floor, 20 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089834
New menu: Stay Gold Flamingo
Stay Gold Flamingo’s latest masterpiece, ‘That’s A Nice Jacket’ menu, features 20 meticulously crafted concoctions, each inspired by the bartending team’s unique hand-painted uniform jackets. Divided into six sections, including Stay Gold signatures, low-ABV options, and interactive delights, there’s something for every cocktail lover.
Explore the colourful journey through White for familiar flavours. Minions ($25), is a whimsical concoction blending almond-infused gin with delightful notes of banana, courtesy of a fizzy soda twist and a dash of banana peel oleo syrup. Blue is for interactive fun and includes Purple Haze ($25), where the enchanting blend of Remy Martin 1738 Cognac delights with an edible bath bomb and a shimmering touch of glittery lustre dust.
Purple offers bold and complex tastes such as the veggie-forward Lucky Bunny ($25), a refreshing concoction brimming with crisp, pepper-kissed cold-pressed vegetable elixirs, perfectly paired with a generous splash of Grey Goose Vodka. Red features revamped classics like Bitter Lover($25), an inventive take on the classic Negroni, enhanced with the refined notes of an eight-year-old Bacardi.
Stay Gold Flamingo, 69 Amoy Street, Singapore 069888
New menu: Puffy Bois
Whether you’re unwinding with pals or craving the perfect pairing for your pizza feast, Puffy Bois’ latest menu has something for everyone. Start with What What ($23++), a customisable sour-style cocktail bursting with citrusy goodness. Craft your concoction by selecting your spirit of choice and style of serve, and if you’re feeling bold, add some extra flair with bitters, modifiers, or fresh herbs.
For a refreshing aperitivo with a twist, look no further than the Pillar to Post ($22++), a blend of Alpine Amaro, French Vermouth, and a housemade Australian botanical soda infused with Strawberry Gum. Then, indulge in nostalgia with Ok Go ($23++), a childhood-inspired tipple featuring coconut fat-washed gin, clarified milk tea, and a carbonated jackfruit ice cream soda. It’s a sweet reminder of simpler times. The Box of Stars ($23++), is a playful twist on the classic champagne cocktail, featuring Galangal, Ya pear, and a touch of agave for a fruity and spice-driven delight.
Puffy Bois, 20A Bali Lane, Singapore 189856
New menu: Junior the Pocket Bar
Inspired by the sparkling city of Shanghai, Junior the Pocket Bar’s latest concept is titled Volume 11: The Bund. Exploring the tumultuous 20s and 30s, its food and drinks tell a story of the city’s growth with the sudden influx of wealthy expatriates and the beginning of an East meets West blend of cultural practices. We’re in love with the stories and thoughtful creation of each drink and menu item. Intentionally crafted to highlight various aspects of the team’s learnings and trip to Shanghai, you’ll be treated to vibrant flavours and fantastical stories.
The highlight of the new menu is the Cow Noods ($25) inspired by the Shanghai-style borscht soup known as luo song tang. The 48-hour consomme is ladled over egg noodles and housemade truffle mushroom wontons. Remember to dip the braised wagyu shank into the spicy peanut sauce for an extra umami bite. We know no one thinks about salads at a bar, but the Port Salad ($25) might change your mind. Highlighting Shanghai’s role as a port and the delicious seafood, this refreshing dish is generously peppered with diamond clams, jumbo crab meat, and cockle clams drizzled with a Shanghainese soy dressing.
Drinks-wise, give the Farewell My Concubine (a cross between a pornstar martini and white negroni) or Raspberry Soiree (the bar’s take on a Ramos gin fizz) a try. Our favourite of the night? The Cafe Sonata, which highlights the uptick in coffee-drinking culture and the introduction of apple strudel. This spin on an espresso martini comes with a refreshing and crisp apple flavour thanks to the Calvados and Cloudy Apple juice.
Junior the Pocket Bar, 6 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069787
New menu: Jigger & Pony
Smash those cocktail cravings with Jigger & Pony’s latest menu. Crafted by the genius minds of creative director Uno Jang and the talented bar team, Smash is all about bringing the focus back to what truly matters – an unforgettable bar experience. Discover cocktails designed to be smashed up just the way you like it with categories like “Anytime, Any Day”, “More Than Once”, and “Basic Wants”.
The Lycheetini is a deceptively easy to drink; but as with any Jigger & Pony creation, the booze hits you before you know it. Lychee puree is distilled at a low temperature to lock in all the flavours. The lychee vermouth is then crafted with Japanese sweet potato shochu, and shaken with citrus-forward Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru Gin. The red lychee jelly garnish adds a pop of colour.
Ask any bartender for a Ramos Gin Fizz and you might just get a cheeky glare back. Because the Jigger team loves a challenge, they’ve taken it up a notch with the Champagne Ramos Fizz, a four-layered tipple with five different textures – thanks to Botanist Gin, Telmont Brut Reserve Champagne ruby port wine, a fizzy soda foam and light-as-a-cloud meringue. You’re subsequently drinking four cocktails for the price of one.
Margarita lovers, rejoice! The team has put their own spin on the iconic tipple. We hear this baby has nine ingredients including barrel-aged Codigo 1530 Reposado Tequila and Mexican chile liqueur diluted with Seedlip instead of water. Here’s the fun part: you get to pick your spice levels (none, standard or extra spicy) with a spiced beer foam. Because licking salt off your glass is far from classy, they’ve created an agave lollipop coated with Japanese snowflake salt for a gentle hit of flavour. All cocktails are priced at $28++.
Jigger & Pony, Level 1, 165 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088539
Hot new bars in Singapore: April 2024
New bar: Higher Ground
Take your dining experience to new heights with Higher Ground, the latest venture from the masterminds behind Thugshop. Situated atop Boat Quay, this rooftop bar and diner offers more than just stunning panoramic views of the Singapore skyline. Come here for elevated cuisine, carefully crafted drinks and one helluva good time. Have your fill on acclaimed wines, craft beers, and a decent spirit collection.
Indulge in dishes like the locally-inspired bak kut teh spring rolls, the salmon rillette brioche or the hand-stretched pizzas if you’re feeling peckish. But it’s not just about the food and drinks – Higher Ground exudes an understated charm with its industrial-chic decor and hybrid seating.
Higher Ground, Level 4, 64 Boat Quay, Singapore 049852
New bar: Lobby Bar at Amara Singapore
Warm, intimate, and elegant – you won’t want to leave the Lobby Bar at Amara Singapore. This day-to-night spot welcomes guests at (almost) any hour. Take your business meetings over a coffee or tea in the morning before moving on to wines at night. The bar boasts a curated selection of vino from Grand Vin, featuring winemakers like Domaines Barons de Rothschild and Domaine Faiveley. For those that love bubbly, you’re in for a treat. Lobby Bar also houses Singapore’s most extensive collection of Champagne Louis Roederer.
Lobby Bar at Amara Singapore, 165 Tanjong Pagar, Singapore 088539
New menu: Altro Zafferano
Italian rooftop restaurant Altro Zafferano wants us to reimagine classic Italian aperitivos with its new menu. Inspired by both traditional Italian flavours and modern trends, the menu is packed with elevated aperitivo staples like the classic Negroni ($28) and Americano 2.0 ($22), alongside reinvented favourites like the Nutty Nut ($28) – a delicious twist on the Old Fashioned, boasting bourbon, frangelico, fresh lemon, simple syrup, chocolate bitters, and almond milk.
Feeling adventurous? Try the Sunset Martini ($24), a fiery blend of chilli-infused vodka, Aperol, bitter melon, and fresh lemon, capturing the essence of a stunning sunset. And if you’re craving something exotic, sip on our Mango Tango ($20), a mix of chilli vodka, mango puree, lemon juice, and Indian tonic, offering the perfect fusion of spice and refreshment. Pair them with artisanal snacks like crescentine ($22), whipped mortadella and pistachio, and Cantabrian anchovies ($24), with alpine butter, bread and confit lemon. Yup, not your average bar snacks, for sure.
Altro Zafferano, Level 43, Ocean Financial Centre, 10 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049315
New menu: Cat Bite Club
Agave aficionados, elevate your spirits knowledge with Cat Bite Club’s Agave La and Rice Academy masterclasses. Priced at $75 per person and available for groups of two to eight, these immersive sessions delve deep into the world of agave and rice distillation. Led by the expert team at Cat Bite Club, each 45-minute tasting session features four unique products paired with delightful light bites. Explore a wide range of flavour profiles, production methods, and cocktail applications while earning a personalised certificate of completion. Class in session!
As for its new menu, the Negroni iterations are retiring, paving the way for three new cocktails. First up is the classic Chrysanthemum ($26), boasting Avallen Calvados, Absinthe, dry vermouth, and Benedictine. For those craving a taste of the tropics, dive into the Desert Island ($27) with its potent blend of Patron Blanco tequila, Sotol Texano, and hints of St. Germain Elderflower liqueur ($27), pine, and grapefruit bitters.
Feeling adventurous? Try the Martini Peas ($28), featuring The Hachi Rice Shochu, snap pea, aquavit, and blanc vermouth.
Cat Bite Club, 75 Duxton Road, Singapore 089534
Hot new bars in Singapore: March 2024
New bar: Cha Chaan Teng
Cha Chaan Teng brings the charm of 1990s Hong Kong cinema and the delectable flavours of cha chaan tengs to the heart of Jalan Besar. Enter the nondescript entrance as you’re welcomed by founders Mirul and BK. The cocktail menu, inspired by the golden era of Hong Kong, offers highballs on tap and craft cocktails cheekily named after popular movies and Cantonese phrases.
We started light and easy with the aptly named Sup Sup Sui (it translates to “no big deal”, $18), a crisp thirst-quencher with gin, soursop, calamansi, soda and tonic. Next, Tong Pak Fu ($18) brings out smoky and umami notes, thanks to roasted duck fat trimmings (repurposed from the duck breast dish), rum, smoked plum and Coke.
If an herbaceous concoction is calling out to you, how about a tea egg-inspired concoction? Mo Wan (named after Tony Leung in the HK classic In The Mood for Love, $25), combines rye, pineapple liqueur and bitters, and tea-egg foam. Yat Gau Gau (meaning simply gibberish, $23), wakes you up with a hit of rum, Irish whiskey, coffee Campari, almost-burnt bread, and espresso. Take its name seriously ‘cos the gau is gau-ing hard.
Save for Yat Gau Gau, we found the cocktails to be a little light on the booze, but the fab dinner menu won our hearts. The Hong Kong cuisine with modern twists had us going for seconds. Be sure to order the siu yuk (roasted pork belly, $13.90), har cheong tin gai (fried frog legs doused in fermented shrimp paste, $13.90), hung siu hgau yuk (slow-braised beef brisket, $15.90), and chun gyun (open-faced spring rolls, $10.90).
Have them with zyu jau bun faan ($3.90), fried rice served with a generous portion of crispy pork lard. Oh, and ordering the wu tau gou ($8.90), yam cake served in the form of fries with hae bee hiam salt, for the table is a must.
Cha Chaan Teng, 284 Lavender Street, Singapore 338802
New menu: Nutmeg & Clove
The celebrated Singaporean bar consistently rocking the charts on the World’s and Asia’s 50 Best Bars is gearing up to celebrate its 10th anniversary in May 2024. To mark its journey, it’s unleashing a brand new look, along with a fresh cocktail and food menu. Dubbed Ten, the revamped cocktail menu offers 25 crafted drinks ($25 each) by head bartender Gavin Teravasan, taking you on a trip down memory lane to recall key events and crowd favourites over the past decade.
The Agnes’ Requiem (named after the woman who bred Singapore’s national flower) steals the show with floral, dry, and fruity notes, shaking things up with Monkey 47 gin, raspberry brandy, rhubarb, galangal, orchid, jasmine and lemon. The aromatic and refreshing Oriental 50 features Johnnie Walker Gold Label scotch whisky, dried mandarin orange peel, ginger flower, and hibiscus, and a splash of carbonated water for that extra kick. Plus, there’s a selection of Bartender’s Choice to add an extra sprinkle of fun to your evening.
Nutmeg & Clove, 8 Purvis Street, Singapore 188587
New bar: Exit Stage Left
A swirl of romance and history with a dash of local spirits – that’s Exit Stage Left for you. The new immersive bar concept is created by OH! Stories as a unique final stop on its Jalan Besar audio tour, New World’s End. Of course, you can also visit the watering hole as a standalone and head back in time to the 1960s, where the decor is eclectic and the vibes are mysterious. Inspired by stories from this era, the joint is the first in Singapore to only use locally distilled spirits from Tanglin Gin, Brass Lion Distillery, Compendium Spirits, and Singapore Distillery.
Step through the hidden bar’s alleyway entrance and let the allure of the space embrace you. The bartenders are friendly and happy to recommend you a tipple of your liking. We loved the Haw House Sour ($22), a light, citrusy mix of Tanglin gin, hawthorn berries, nutmeg pericarp, preserved orange peel, and lemon.
For something bolder and darker, try The Song Bird ($24). It’s a tropical blend of Compendium dark rum, Campari, pineapple and mango wine, Infidel lime, grapefruit, and a spice medley. Other drinks on the menu include G&Ts, a gin tasting flight, and mocktails for the teetotallers in your group. P.S. if you’ve got the munchies, dole out $6 for free-flow kacang puteh that you can grab from self-serve containers by the bar. It’s all pretty casual and fuss-free, so you know where to go for your next chill session!
Exit Stage Left, 85 Desker Road, Singapore 209646
New bar: Trifecta
Hold on to your boards, because Trifecta Bar is making waves at Orchard Road as the ultimate surf-snow-skate hangout. Nestled within Trifecta Singapore, it’s the wild child of the Trifecta family and the creative minds behind Butter by Two Men Bagel House.
Ritz Ang, the maestro behind the bar and former co-founder of Golden Mile’s iconic Enclave, leads the charge with a drink program that’s as rad as it gets. Think house-crafted cocktails, signature sips, and crowd favourites. Try the whisky sour Smoke & Mirrors ($20) for an infusion of heated whiskey. Or Blood and Sand ($20), a concoction of Monkey Shoulder Whiskey with cherry liqueur, sweet vermouth and orange.
The bar is also teaming up with local legends like art collective Gofy and music maestros EmonightSG and Eatmepoptart for some seriously fun parties, so watch this space.
Trifecta, 10A Exeter Road, Singapore 239958
New menu: Club 5
Club 5 is turning the spotlight onto the talented masters behind the bar with their new Bartenders’ Choice of Cocktails. True to its name, it’s all about the bartender’s personal touch, with three unique concoctions that mirror the personalities and vibes of the creative minds.
Meet the genius trio: head bartender Richard Li serves up the Choco Sesame ($25), a martini riff infused with chocolate and sesame; Rino is the mastermind behind the rum banana Old Fashioned ($24), a blend of premium rum, banana saccharum, and bitters; and Amy is the magic maker behind Hawthorn ($25), a premium gin mix with herbs and hawthorn. These new additions join the ranks of the existing cocktail line-up, featuring delights like Chrysanthemum ($18), Kaya Pandan ($18), Okinawa Winter Flower ($20), and Fizzy Tiger ($22).
Club 5, ParkRoyal on Beach Road, 7500 Beach Road, Singapore 199591
New menu: White Shades
White Shades, the four-storey modern cocktail and dining haven on Boon Tat Street, welcomes its new drinks menu: Colours. Inspired by the venue’s name, ‘white shades,’ Colours brings 22 drinks to life, each a vibrant expression like strokes on a canvas. Founder Jiawei Bai and the team infuse individual hues into four themes: Clear, Mark, Mood, and Flavours.
In the Clear realm, sip on Clear Yellow, a masterpiece blending Maker’s Mark bourbon, sweet corn, and a milk-washed mango corn leather that pays homage to the local sweet corn mango dessert. Venture into the Mood section and indulge in Fresh Pink, a refreshing tequila concoction featuring rhubarb and sparkling pink coconut water, garnished with a crunchy stick of rhubarb.
Flavours, the playful influencer, offers Sparkling Pearl, a champagne-based briny cocktail with pickled onion, fruits, and herbs. For a warm and earthy experience, Woody Cedar beckons with whisky, dry vermouth, agave, and Hinoki, offering flavours of green vetiver.
But that’s not all – Level 2 now boasts a thoughtfully curated wine selection, including a delightful prosecco rosé from Scavi & Ray and robust options like a velvety pinot noir from New Zealand’s Central Otago region. A perfect match for your alfresco dining experience.
White Shades, 25 Boon Tat Street, Singapore 069622
New bar: Fura
Cricket dukkah and grasshopper crumble, anyone? Don’t deny it before you try it. After a successful run with Mallow, the innovative gastrobar, spearheaded by power couple Christina Rasmussen and Sasha Wijidessa, continues to revolutionise sustainable dining. It utilises ingredients that have a low carbon footprint, are abundant in nature, or are out of balance in the ecosystem.
The cocktail menu, with a bonus of not-your-ordinary bar bites, focuses on fermentation and pickling. Sip on the whimsically named Beans, Beans, the Musical Fruit ($24), a delightful concoction featuring Soka, tonka bean, peas, and peas vermouth, accompanied by house-made butter bean koji. The opulent Caviar Papi ($28) boasts black garlic caviar and tantalising kombu ice cream.
Jellyfish Martini ($25) is a futuristic cocktail which transforms invasive ingredients like jellyfish into a delicious solution. Crafted with gin, jellyfish, fish leaf, spirulina, dry vermouth, and a hint of kombu oil, the Jellyfish Martini plays with your taste buds and, quite honestly, your mind.
Pad your stomach with inventive delights like Peas in Threes ($15), a refreshing blend of hydroponic pea shoots, sweet peas, silken tofu dressing, and peanut and cricket dukkah. For a hearty indulgence, savour What Would Mirko Do? ($24), a pasta masterpiece by chef Mirko Febbrile of Fico, complemented by lacto-fermented romesco tomato sauce, smoked almonds, and yeast garum cream.
Fura, 74A Amoy Street, Singapore 069893
Bombay Sapphire launches a new spirit with a citrusy twist
Bombay Sapphire introduces a new party starter – the Premier Cru Murcian Lemon. Crafted to perfection, this premium gin takes you on a journey to the vibrant region of Murcia in Spain, home to the world’s zestiest citrus. With bright notes of mandarins and sweet Navel oranges, it’s an upgrade for any occasion, especially in Singapore’s tropical weather.
Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru Murcian Lemon, available at Amazon and Lazada
So, which one of these new bar openings in Singapore will you visit next?
