Enter the dazzling world of Singapore's nightlife, where opulent lounges, bright lights, and delectable drinks come together to produce an unmatched sensory experience. We showcase the eight top bars in Singapore in this listicle, which has been meticulously chosen to appeal to even the most sophisticated drink connoisseurs. These bars represent the pinnacle of Singapore's bar scene.
Explore a hypnotic tapestry of flavours as world-class mixologists create liquid works of art that stretch the limits of imagination. Enjoy creative combinations influenced by regional ingredients and culture, or indulge in time-tested favourites that have been given a modern makeover. Each bar on our select list provides patrons a world of elegance, charm, and refinement through its immersive atmosphere in addition to its great selection of alcoholic beverages.
These pubs beg you to savour the spirit of Singapore's nightlife with every amazing sip, whether you're an experienced traveller or a curious local. Enjoy our exploration of the most sought-after bars and clubs, where creativity and passion converge to produce unforgettable cocktail experiences. Join us as we explore Singapore's top eight bars, each of which has left its mark on the city's dynamic nightlife. Image Credit: Jigger and Pony Facebook Page
Employees Only
'Authenticity' is the cornerstone of Employees Only, and it serves as their business card. You can be sure that you're in for something unique when Steve Schneider, a seasoned veteran with 13 years of experience and multiple distinctions, is in charge of the bar team. A true tribute to their commitment to upholding their legendary brand, this outpost is virtually an exact replica of the game-changing original in New York City. Here, too, you may feel the energetic and dynamic atmosphere for which Employees Only is renowned.
The bartenders are the life of the party, and they teach new hires as apprentices how to make drinks in their free-pouring style. Employees Only has gained a devoted following for their superb New American cuisine in addition to their top-notch bar programme, which is sought after by aspiring bartenders everywhere. Inspired by Executive Chef Julia Jaksic's Croatian origin, the food has a delicate Eastern European flavour that makes it unique and delicious.
The Ginger Smash, the Amelia, and their take on the Manhattan are a few of the bar's innovations that have gone on to become industry standards. The kitchen is still serving devoted favourites like Hand Cut Steak Tartare, Bone Marrow Poppers, and Skate Paprikas in the interim. Employees Only is a destination that should not be missed by anyone looking for a genuine and unforgettable experience. It offers top-notch beverages, delicious food, and a buzzing ambiance. Image Credit: Employees Only Facebook Page
a. 112 Amoy St, Singapore 069932
Gibson
At Gibson, a hidden gem on the second story of a historic building in Singapore's Chinatown, encounter seamless class and personality. Gibson offers top-notch quality in cocktails, hospitality, and interior design with a focus on Asian ingredients and contemporary mixology methods. If you go to Gibson, you must try the Gibson, the bar's signature drink. This boozy pleasure, expertly prepared with Roku gin and their house-made Ginjo sake-vermouth, pays homage to Japan with its chic simplicity and dry finish.
Each sip is enhanced by the addition of delicious umami flavours from the skewers of smoked quail eggs, pickled onion, and radish that are served alongside it. The Coffee Shochu Martini is a standout that will undoubtedly draw attention. This sumptuous drink features a dry coffee shochu from Tsubosaka Brewery as the star, along with a combination of salted caramel rum and quirky South African Mhoba rum.
This intriguing espresso martini-style beverage is the ideal nightcap and is garnished with shiitake powder. In Gibson, the drinks are the stars of the show. Although the food is wonderful, the fun beverages, lively atmosphere, and welcoming staff are what make a visit on a Friday night or any time so much fun. Image Credit: Gibson Facebook Page
a. 20 Bukit Pasoh Rd, 2nd Floor, Singapore 089834
Jigger and Pony
Jigger & Pony, one of Asia's top bars for a decade offering classic cocktails, is back with their fifth menu-zine, which has a chic new appearance and a fantastic reflection on their journey. This menu-zine celebrates their accomplishments and development throughout the years as it takes us on a trip down memory lane.
They also have a brand-new assortment of fantastic cocktails, so that's not all. Jigger & Pony continue to impress with their technical mastery and storytelling talent, making every taste a special occasion. The Super Lemon Highball, a seemingly straightforward yet highly sophisticated mix, is one remarkable cocktail. The lemon water is extracted by freezing freshly squeezed lemon juice, which is then blended with Hokkaido ultra soft water and Suntory World Whisky AO and allowed to marry for 72 hours.
The outcome? A tasty, effervescent beverage that pays homage to the traditional drink of the salaryman. Jigger & Pony is tackling the zero-waste and upcycling challenges as well, demonstrating that they are not only mixology experts but also environmental advocates. It is understandable why they have received recognition and keep captivating guests with their excellent hospitality. Image Credit: Jigger and Pony Facebook Page
a. 165 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore
Live Twice
When you enter Live Twice, you'll see that it's not just another imitation Japanese bar. The decor is stylishly mid-century modern and evokes a bygone Japanese age. But what distinguishes it is how they mix drinks, which strays from the conventional pristine principles of Japanese bars. Elegant furnishings and a warm amber glow in the decor beckon you inside as you move through the narrow passageway. David Kim, a Diageo World Class finalist who has been with the team since the start of 2022, is in charge.
His beverages strike the ideal balance between being playful, refined, and creative without being unduly pricey. Instead, than using flashy demonstrations, the emphasis is on the taste and experience. The cocktails are presented in stunning Kimura glassware, highlighting their elegance and clarity. There are 14 drinks on the menu, the first half of which are classics found in Japanese artisan cocktail establishments. For instance, their inventive spin on the traditional bamboo cocktail uses vodka that has been infused with palo santo and fino sherry.
Despite its apparent simplicity, the drink stuns with a masterful balancing act of woodsy and umami aromas that radiate refinement. The service is prompt, the beverage menu is bursting with flavour, and the cuisine combines modern culinary sensibilities with Japanese sensibilities. It's understandable how Live Twice earned a spot on the extended list of Asia's 50 Best Bars for the previous year; Live Twice provided a truly amazing bar experience, deserving of such recognition. Image Credit: Live Twice Facebook Page
a. 20 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore
w. livetwice.sg
Neon Pigeon
When Neon Pigeon chose to call Carpenter Street their home, it was given new life, and they haven't turned back since! This contemporary izakaya loves to keep things interesting and new, and they have made some exciting modifications. Sean Mell, a former executive chef at Nobu, is now in charge of the kitchen, bringing his culinary skills to the already inventive mix. The bar also welcomes Mario la Pietra, a talented mixologist from London's award-winning Luggage Room Bar.
Neon Pigeon's approach is a mix of misfits, bringing unique twists to traditional Japanese flavors and cooking techniques. They're taking it to a whole new level of adventure with Neon Pigeon 2.0. The cocktail menu features intriguing concoctions like the gin-based Japanese Drifter, which nicely balances the sharpness of the lemon with the velvety melon flavour. Kambei's Anger, which combines smoky mezcal, bourbon, and vermouth with the lovely aroma of umeshu, is a punchy option for people who enjoy a smoky kick.
Additionally, Neon Pigeon 2.0 introduces the Raw Bar, which, in traditional Japanese style, highlights the beauty of seasonal Japanese delicacies. Of course, the cocktail bar has grown and now offers a wider selection of beverages with a Tokyo-inspired flavour. Although there are crushable beverages made with Japanese alcohol and additives, sake still reigns supreme. So go to Neon Pigeon on Carpenter Street if you're searching for a flavour and cocktail adventure. Your taste buds will definitely be delighted by them, and you'll keep going back for more! Image Credit: Neon Pigeon Facebook Page
a. 36 Carpenter St, 01-01, Singapore 059915
Night Hawk
Night Hawk is the place to go whether you love Edward Hopper's artwork or are just searching for an exciting new hangout! A modest, 22-seat pub with a hidden location between Tras Street and Tanjong Pagar. Unique and cutting-edge cocktails are served at this bar with a touch of urban ambiance. Peter Chua, a seasoned professional who also shares ownership of Nemesis and Junior the Pocket Bar, is the man behind Night Hawk. Their menu combines both contemporary and traditional cooking methods, with an emphasis on minimising waste.
A cool mid-century matchbook with a QR menu and even a mint for a refreshing touch will be waiting for you when you go in. The Night Hawks, one of their specialty drinks, is named after Edward Hopper's well-known picture "Nighthawks." This drink is the ideal combination of coffee, rum, vodka, and amaro, with a delicious coconut and gula melaka foam on top. It combines warm and cold flavours in one. True professionals, the people working behind the bar have some tricks up their sleeves. Simply ask if you have any questions, and they'll be pleased to share some Easter eggs that will make your nice evening even better! Image Credit: Night Hawk Facebook Page
a. 43 Tanjong Pagar Rd Singapore 088464
The Elephant Room
Introducing The Elephant Room, the creation of former Smoke & Mirrors head barman Yugnes Susela! This time, he has left the flashy rooftop in search of fresh ideas for discovering unusual flavours. He chose Singapore's bustling Little India for his debut menu, and it's a genuine treat! Seven cocktails are offered, each with a name from one of Little India's well-known landmarks, including Tekka, Jothi's Flower Shop, and Buffalo Road. Each one embodies the rich culture and heritage of the region.
The bar's signature drink, Tekka, pays homage to the vibrant food centre and wet market, which serve as the heart and spirit of the neighbourhood. This delicious mixture combines coconut, lacto-fermented bananas, and Old Monk rum. You'll discover a delicate slice of dehydrated banana skin on top of the glass, along with lime cream and caramel seasoned with chicken 65; it's the perfect combination of sweet, funky, and savoury flavours!
Another standout is Buffalo Road, which combines pink guava-infused gin with vetiver and tonic to produce a herbaceous and reviving G&T. Through contemporary and inventive cocktails and nibbles, The Elephant Room proudly celebrates Indian heritage. The bartenders go above and beyond in terms of customer service, and it really shows in the attention to detail they pay to things like selecting textiles and aiming for a waste-free environment. The Elephant Room is a fantastic new bar that you shouldn't miss out on! Image Credit: The Elephant Room Facebook Page
a. 20A Teck Lim Rd, Singapore 088391
Tippling Club
Looking for a spot where crafting drinks is considered a fine art? To taste some of the best beverages in Asia, look no farther than Tippling Club. Their most recent menu, "A Guide to Modern Drinking, Volume II," pays homage to some of the most well-known modern painters' most famous pieces. Famous paintings, cartoons, and other works of art serve as the inspiration for Chef Ryan Clift and Head Barman Andrew London as they create 26 incredible cocktails that transport you across time and history.
Champagne is the star of the elegantly-themed first menu. The drink-making method in "Ad Parnassum" bears homage to Paul Klee's artwork and is equally as exacting as the time-consuming Pointillism movement. In a sous vide machine, lime is cooked for seven days before being blended with bubbly and blackcurrant sorbet. The end product is a delicious and simple-to-drink beverage that is evocative of Ribena and is refreshing.
A team of dedicated young professionals who can accommodate every taste can be found behind the bar. Even their non-alcoholic lemonades are excellent, making them the ideal counterbalance to Singapore's frequently stifling humidity. Tippling Club focuses on high concept drinking and dining at its best, and the thought and creativity put into it is hard not to be amazed by. Tippling Club is the place to go, then, if you want an outstanding and memorable dining and drinking experience in Singapore. There isn't a better way to spend a long, tranquil lunch than sipping on cocktails with an artistic theme. Image Credit: Tippling Club Facebook Page
a. 38 Tg Pagar Rd, Singapore 088461
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