Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Singapore’s nightlife, aficionados often find themselves drawn to the best hidden bars Singapore has to offer, where unassuming facades disguise a world of curated cocktails and eclectic aesthetics. These clandestine watering holes are not just about drinks; they redefine the experience with innovation and intimacy.
28 HKS
Tucked away in a classic shophouse on Hong Kong Street, 28 HKS is a pioneer of Singapore’s speakeasy scene. Concealed behind an unmarked door, this bar impresses with its low lighting and plush decor. It’s well-regarded for its expertly mixed cocktails using premier spirits and bespoke ingredients. Popular concoctions feature an interplay of unique flavours, ensuring a delightful surprise even for the most seasoned connoisseur.
Operation Dagger
Operation Dagger, ensconced in the Bukit Pasoh area, dares you to find it. Behind an unadorned entrance in an alley, this bar welcomes patrons with a minimalistic interior dominated by a lightbulb installation resembling a storm cloud. Break away from conventional cocktails with their in-house fermentations and distillations, which align with the bar’s philosophy of avant-garde mixology. The menu is constantly evolving, showcasing combinations that push the boundaries of tradition.
The Other Room
Located within the Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel, The Other Room offers a clandestine escape with a nod to Prohibition-era secrecy. This intimate venue is known for its expertly crafted cocktails, which often feature meticulously aged spirits. Their signature Barrel-Aged Negroni exemplifies the bar’s pursuit of depth and complexity in flavours. The bar also hosts tasting sessions, where visitors can delve into the fine nuances of premium liquors and curious blends.
The Secret Mermaid
The Secret Mermaid is tucked beneath the land-bound confines of a shopping centre on Collyer Quay. This speakeasy is more of a treasure trove for spirits from American craft distilleries. Its eccentric decor, designed to mimic an underwater grotto, sets the tone for an evening of exploratory tasting. Sample their flight boards to embark on a spirited journey through unique bourbons and whiskies, essential for anyone keen on discovering unconventional flavours.
Employees Only
Drawing inspiration from its acclaimed New York predecessor, Employees Only Singapore is an accessible hidden bar located behind a tarot reader’s facade. Stepping in, guests are transported to an Art Deco setting that marries the glamour of a bygone era with contemporary hipness. The cocktail list heavily borrows from its US counterpart while incorporating local twists, offering a cocktail experience that is rich in heritage and blossoming with innovation.
The Spiffy Dapper
Residing on Amoy Street, The Spiffy Dapper’s unremarkable door gives no hint of the charm inside. Decorated with vintage furnishings and eccentric wall art, this bar emanates a bohemian vibe. Revered for its cocktail specials that play on tropical themes and seasonal ingredients, The Spiffy Dapper serves a potent Ambrosia with coconut rum and pineapple that delights in its simplicity yet profound taste.
D. Bespoke
Entering D.Bespoke is akin to being whisked away to a luxurious 1920s Kyoto bar. This appointment-only bar is a sanctuary for those who appreciate the finer things in life, including finely crafted cocktails and a serene atmosphere. The bartenders take pride in their precision and dedication to the Japanese service ritual, ensuring each drink is a personal and meticulous creation. The Omakase-style cocktail service is a must-try, with bartenders curating a bespoke experience based on individual tastes.
Gibson
Gibson, a chic establishment on the second floor of a restored shophouse in Chinatown, blends art deco influences with contemporary artistry. Celebrated for its namesake cocktail, the Gibson, a martini-like concoction served with a savoury pickled onion, this bar is ideal for those seeking a touch of elegance with their beverages. The menu frequently changes, ensuring there’s always something new to discover for returning guests.
Bitters & Love
At first glance, the simplicity of the Bitters & Love interior may deceive, yet it’s well-known amongst cocktail lovers for its passion-driven approach. Situated on Telok Ayer Street, it delivers on its promise of superb mixology with a menu that showcases both classic cocktails and creative inventiveness. Regular patrons will vouch for its custom cocktails service, where you can specify your spirit of choice and flavour preferences to receive a drink that’s uniquely yours.
1880
Nestled in the heart of Robertson Quay, 1880 is a social club that openly welcomes non-members to its secretive bar. Designed to evoke indulgence and exclusivity, the bar offers its guests a bold selection of cocktails that challenge the limits of creativity. Indulge in a taste experience that transcends the conventional, with offerings like the Porn Star Martini paired cleverly with a prosecco shot on the side.
These hidden bars illustrate the true spirit of Singapore’s cocktail scene, where creativity and surreptitious charm create a setting for unforgettable nights.