Players Table is one of Singapore’s newest speakeasies, and it’s hidden where you least expect it. We’ve got a hint on where to find it, plus what you must order once you enter the black door.
I caught wind of Players Table a few weeks before its soft launch, and snapped a seat faster than you could say speakeasy. This new bar in Singapore joins the ranks in our local bar scene, hiding within Aliwal Street. When the sun sets, this neighbourhood comes alive with a quiet hum if you know where you’re going. The next time you’re in the Bugis area, make this your stop for the night.
Players Table review: Details at a glance
Must-tries: Bell Pepper x Melon; Osmanthus x Cognac; Sencha x Yuzu; Espresso x Guinness
Price: From $23 per cocktail; bar bites start from $8
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 6pm to 12am; closed on Monday and Sunday
Address: Players Table, inside Witbier, 14 Aliwal Street, Singapore 199907
The vibe: Elevated cocktails with the lively beer pub energy
Don’t worry if you get a little lost trying to find your way to Players Table, because I did too. Once you find Witbier, feel free to ask any of the staff where the door is because they’ll know exactly what you’re talking about.
I’m warmly greeted by cofounders Marcus Liow and Jasper Tan, and a bar space illuminated by warm amber candlelight. The door unveils a completely different space from the lively pub environment outside – something more relaxed and elegant. You’d never think something like this could exist within a beer place!
What I loved is the way the regulars would weave between the two locations. Some start with beers in Witbier before ending on a tipple at Players Table. Between cocktails, some patrons disappeared outside for a game of pool, and others lingered until it was time for a beer with friends who finally arrived. To me, you get the best of both worlds in one space. Whether that’s a casual gathering, a much-needed after-work beer, or a cocktail to wrap up date night.
Two ingredients tango in a delicious way
The overarching theme of the Players Table cocktail menu is all about two-player chemistry. And in this case, we’re talking about ingredients. Each signature drink centers around two core ingredients (the “players”, if you will), chosen deliberately for contrast, tension, and balance.
I’m proud to say I’ve drank my way through this bar’s whole menu, so lets talk about some favourite I think you have to get.
As someone who’s constantly on the hunt for the best espresso martini in the city, I couldn’t say no to the Espresso x Guinness ($24). It tastes just like an alcoholic cold brew, with a subtle creaminess from the stout.
Two drinks I wouldn’t have ordered myself were the Mugicha x Shiso ($23) and the Bell Pepper x Melon ($23). Purely from an ingredient standpoint, these were not normally flavours I would go for first. But after a regular at the bar insisted I give it a go, I found myself enamoured. Both drinks had clean tastes with subtle hints of the ingredients’ flavours coming through.
The Osmanthus x Cognac ($26) is a spirit-forward pick reminiscent of a Manhattan. It’s strong but maintains some fruity flavour without being too sharp. I also really loved the thoughtful touch the team put in because the drink comes in its own little carafe and a dish of ice. This keeps your drink cold without diluting it.
Bar grub but make it elevated
The drinks here may be good, but the food menu is nothing to scoff at either. From classic pub grub to elevated bar snacks, there’s something to satisfy all appetites.
I’m a fan of the signature cheeseburger ($23) made with angus beef and served with fries. Marcus tells me they consider this a “proper” cheeseburger – one without any soggy veggies getting in the way. It’s fuss-free and juicy, everything you could possibly want.
The gyoza-stuffed wings ($18) were a pleasant surprise for me. I used to be obsessed with the idea of stuffed wings, and to see something like this on a bar menu thrilled me. The flavours may be a little confusing when you first bite into them, but if you love gyoza I’d highly recommend this. The stuffing’s flavour comes through immediately, and you get a delightfully crisp bite from the chicken skin.
If you’re a prawn lover, order the ama ebi karaage and thank me later. Little sweet shrimp are fried to crispy perfection, making it a surprisingly addictive treat to snack on. Do beware if you get squicked out by the prawn shells because these come with the shells and tail intact.
Is Players Table worth a visit?
I won’t lie – I ended up spending over five hours at Players Table because I was having such a good time. Between the hearty dishes and the delightfully balanced cocktails, I already had a brilliant start to my night. Couple that with the lovely conversation I was having with Marcus, Jasper, and fellow bar patrons, I felt right at home.
I’d consider Players Table one of those places you seek out when you’re looking for something elevated, but casual enough for convivial conversation. And I plan on being back with my drink-loving friends immediately.
On the lookout for another cool bar to bring friends to? Here are some recommendations:
- Orh Gao Peh Gao: A modern kopitiam turns into a bar spot at night
- Bartenders of Pony: The world’s favourite bartender’s love letter to Korean drinking
- Coach Restaurant: A classy New York-themed restaurant
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Players Table located?
Players Table is hidden inside Witbier, a beer pub along Aliwal Street. Keep your eye out for a black door marked by a red sign.
Is this a good place for first-time drinkers?
Yes! Cocktails at Players Table are well-balanced, with a plethora of lighter and fruitier options. And if you aren't keen on cocktails, you can have a beer outside.
Is this good for date night?
With the cosy space and warm atmosphere, we'd highly recommend it for a date night. It's also elevated but casual enough for a low-stakes first date.
Does Players Table serve food?
Yes! The menu is concise but hearty, so you can feel free to drop by for both dinner and a drink.
Is this suitable for groups?
The 21-seater bar is on the smaller end, but can host groups at some of the lower tables. We'd recommend coming in a group of four or less. If you come in a bigger group, be prepared to be seated separately if the bar is busy.
