Khaizuran RashidSingapore’s nightlife holds more than just glitzy clubs and mainstream bars. Hidden away in secret nooks and crannies are speakeasies that blend local heritage with quirky, inventive cocktails. Indeed, for Singaporeans with a taste for adventure and a love of all things unconventional, these hidden bars offer an escape from the ordinary.
Prepare to be whisked away on a journey where every sip tells a story and every venue is a cheeky nod to Singapore’s colourful past and vibrant present!
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1. Oriental Elixir
Image credit: Oriental Elixir | Official Facebook
Address: 19A Bukit Pasoh Rd, Second Floor, Singapore 089833
Tucked behind an unmarked door on a creaky stairwell, Oriental Elixir defies convention. This hidden watering hole nestles within a charming Peranakan rowhouse, where dim lighting, vintage toys, and antique cigarette ads set a nostalgic scene.
Moreover, patrons will delight in the playful experimentation behind the bar, where imaginative cocktails such as the Malabar Tamarind – blending roasted cherry tomato gin with dry vermouth – offer a unique twist on the classics. Once the laughter and clink of glasses reach you, you’ll know you’ve discovered something truly special.
2. Mama Diam
Image credit: Mama Diam | Official Website
Address: 38 Prinsep St, #01-01, Singapore 188665
At first glance, Mama Diam appears as a nostalgic mama shop brimming with old-school snacks and vintage furnishings. However, a clever nudge past an unassuming “magazine stand” reveals a modern, dimly lit haven where heritage meets innovation.
Hence, culinary creations pay homage to Singapore’s cultural tapestry with a modern twist. From inventive dishes like Chicken Curry KPT with Coconut Foam to cocktails such as Run Fast, Ride Slow – a nod to the bygone era of rickshaw pullers – Mama Diam offers an unforgettable experience that excites both the palate and the imagination.
3. Ume San 100
Image credit: Ume San 100 | Official Facebook
Address: 190 Middle Road, Fortune Centre, #02-07, Singapore 188979
Beyond the flashy retro vending machines at Fortune Centre lies Ume San 100. Now, this is truly a hidden gem inspired by the traditional Japanese izakaya. Patrons will find themselves enchanted by the extensive collection of umeshu and the inventive cocktail menu.
Notably, a standout is the ethereal Sea Garden cocktail – a sparkling fusion of Plymouth gin, Genever, prosecco, and butterfly pea flower, complete with a sprinkle of edible fairy dust to create a galaxy of colour in your glass. This bar effortlessly blends the allure of the East with a dash of modern flair. Undoubtedly, it is truly a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique drinking experience.
4. Taylor Adam
Image credit: Taylor Adam | Official Website
Address: 1 Raffles Pl, #01-03, Singapore 048616
Disguised as an antique tailor shop, Taylor Adam in Raffles Place transports you back to the 1950s with its timeless charm. Yet, don’t expect a fitting – step inside to discover a classy speakeasy brimming with Asian-inspired cocktails.
Meanwhile, bold concoctions like the signature Waddling to Taipei, which mixes smoked duck fatwash whisky with oolong tea and port wine, and the daring Wabi-Sabi, laced with genuine wasabi, ensure an evening of delightful surprises for the adventurous Singaporean.
5. The Hidden Story
Image credit: The Hidden Story | Official Website
Address: 115A East Coast Road, Singapore 428804
True to its name, The Hidden Story is as elusive as it is intriguing. Located in the Katong area and accessed through the freezer door of a local steakhouse, this bar pays homage to America’s prohibition era with its vintage decor and cosy ambience.
Thus, patrons can enjoy cocktails rich in narrative and flavour – such as Kampong Amber, inspired by the old Malay kampongs, and Peranakan Enclave, which marries delicate notes of rose and lychee in a brilliant tribute to local culture. Every detail here invites you to step back in time while enjoying the modern comforts of a well-crafted cocktail.
Unearthing Singapore’s Hidden Watering Holes
As night falls over Singapore, these hidden bars offer more than just a place to enjoy a cocktail. They provide a passport to an eclectic world where tradition meets innovation. Each venue, from the elusive Oriental Elixir to the story-rich ambience of The Hidden Story, is a testament to Singapore’s unique ability to blend the old with the new.
Whether you’re a local seeking a quirky night out or an adventurous spirit keen to explore the unconventional side of Singapore’s nightlife, these spots promise an experience as memorable as it is delicious. Therefore, gather your friends and set off on a night of exploration that celebrates the very best of Singapore’s hidden watering holes. Cheers to unearthing the unexpected!
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