Over the past three years, I have made it my personal mission to explore Singapore bars and cocktail bars, visiting over 50 different venues across the island. From tiny pocket bars to world-renowned luxury lounges, the best bars in Singapore all share one thing: flawless drinks, genuine service, and an atmosphere that pulls you in the second you walk through the door.
Singapore’s vibrant nightlife scene boasts some of the best bars in Asia, and over the past few years, I’ve made it my mission to explore this dynamic world of cocktail bars. From intimate pocket bars to grand venues like the Atlas Bar at Parkview Square, each spot offers a unique experience with expertly crafted classic cocktails and innovative cocktail menus. Whether you’re after a perfectly balanced espresso martini, a refreshing strawberry daiquiri, or a creative drink featuring native ingredients like sour plum or pink guava, Singapore bars never disappoint.
An Influencer’s Picks for The Best Cocktail Bars in Singapore
I created this list because, as a food influencer, friends constantly ask me for suggestions of the best cocktail bars in Singapore as they plan their birthday or graduation celebrations. Admittedly, I’ve felt pressure in trying to make sure I’m not responsible for recommending somewhere mid. Instead of a generic list, I wanted to share my favourite bars that truly live up to the hype, representing completely different experiences. Having tried all of these personally, I can tell you exactly what makes them worth your time and money.
This curated bars list includes long-standing favorites. For those who enjoy a good drink with a side of history, join me as we dive into my picks for the best bars in Singapore, each offering a distinct vibe, exceptional drinks, and a food menu that perfectly pairs with their innovative cocktail creations. This is your ultimate guide to the best bars and cocktail bars in Singapore, where every sip tells a story and every visit is an experience to remember.
1. ATLAS Bar (Bugis)
Stepping into ATLAS at Parkview Square is like entering a roaring twenties dream. This cocktail bar is famous for its grand Art Deco design and an extensive collection of vintage spirits, including an 8-meter-tall gin tower housing over 1,300 bottles. It’s a history lesson in itself, with bartenders eager to share stories behind the extensive collection.
The cocktail menu here is a masterclass in classics and inventive twists, with the signature ATLAS Martini (around $28) a must-try. The drinks are crisp, well-balanced, and served with elegance matching the stunning setting.
This bar is best suited for special occasions, impressing a date, or treating yourself to a luxury cocktail experience. If you’re on a tight budget or looking for a casual pub vibe, this might not be the spot for you. For the full experience, try to sit at the bar counter facing the gin tower for an interactive session with the bartenders.
2. Jigger & Pony (Tanjong Pagar)
Jigger & Pony, located inside the Amara Hotel, has been a staple on Asia’s bars list for over a decade. Known for its stylish ambiance and expertly crafted craft cocktails, this bar offers a cocktail programme that balances modern interpretations of classic cocktails with seasonal specials.
Their drink menu features crowd-pleasers like the Pony Star Martini ($26), alongside custom off-menu creations tailored to your flavor preferences. The food menu complements the drinks perfectly, making it one of the best bars in Singapore for after-work drinks and intimate gatherings.
Ideal for after-work drinks and celebrations with friends, Jigger & Pony might not be the best choice if you want a cheap pint of beer. To get the most personalized experience, tell the bartender your favorite flavor profiles for a bespoke cocktail creation.
3. Employees Only Singapore (Amoy Street)
For those seeking a lively night out, Employees Only is a New York-style speakeasy bringing high energy and late-night fun to Singapore bars. Hidden behind a psychic’s window on Amoy Street, this cocktail bar is known for its vibrant party atmosphere and skilled bartenders who thrive on creating custom drinks amid the chaos.
Must-tries include the EO Gimlet and Amelia ($26 each), paired with their famous late-night steak sandwich ($20). This spot is perfect for groups looking to party hard.
Employees Only is best for late-night cocktail sessions and groups wanting a fun night out. If you prefer a quiet, intimate date setting, this bar is best avoided. For a unique experience, ask for the “Bartender’s Choice” to enjoy a one-of-a-kind custom cocktail.
4. Manhattan Bar (Regent Singapore)
Manhattan Bar at the Conrad Singapore Orchard is a luxurious cocktail bar known for its barrel-aged classics and Gatsby-like appeal. With an in-house rickhouse storing vintage spirits, this bar offers a tasting menu that includes the incredibly smooth Barrel-Aged Manhattan ($30), rich with complex wood and vanilla notes.
The sophisticated atmosphere and attentive service make it ideal for romantic dates or indulgent Sunday brunches with a cocktail programme that blends old-world glamour with modern finesse.
This bar is perfect for luxury cocktail lovers and romantic dates but may not suit those seeking a casual drop-in spot. For a prime view of barrel-aging, request a seat near the bartender’s station.
5. Native (Amoy Street)
Native is a standout among Singapore bars for its commitment to sustainable, zero-waste mixology using local ingredients and regional spirits. Their new cocktail menu is a culinary adventure featuring unique flavors like pandan, coconut arrack, and curry leaf. Cocktails typically cost around $26.
The minimal, cozy interior focuses attention on the drink experience, perfect for adventurous drinkers wanting to explore authentic Southeast Asian flavors beyond classic cocktails.
Native is best for sustainability enthusiasts and curious drinkers but may not appeal to those who prefer traditional Western cocktails. For a full experience, ask for a tasting journey to sample a progression of cocktails highlighting local ingredients.
My Honorable Mentions: More Must-Visit Bars in Singapore
Beyond the top five, Singapore’s bar scene is rich with unique concepts and standout venues that would be a crime not to mention.
Sago House
Sago House is a vibrant spot known for its rotating cocktail menu that changes weekly, focusing on seasonal ingredients and comfort food. This bar offers a great balance of classics and inventive twists, with a food menu featuring grilled sandwiches and mac and cheese. Its welcoming atmosphere and award-winning hospitality make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Bar Bon Funk and Le Bon Funk
These sibling bars in New Bahru offer contrasting yet equally compelling experiences. Bar Bon Funk is known for creative cocktails like the Lean Green Salad, made with mezcal, avocado, and miso, while Le Bon Funk serves natural wines in a sophisticated setting. Both bars emphasize quality ingredients and innovative drink menus.
Elephant Room
Inspired by Indian culture, Elephant Room crafts cocktails infused with spices and flavors from Indian cuisine. Signature drinks like the Chicken Curry cocktail showcase the bar’s inventive twists on classic recipes. It’s a unique concept that brings a new dimension to Singapore’s best bars list.
Last Word
Located in City Hall, Last Word is celebrated for its cocktails executed to perfection. The minimalist yet elegant setting is ideal for intimate gatherings. Don’t miss their signature Last Word cocktail or a well-made Bloody Mary.
Iconic Singapore Cocktails and Where to Find Them
No exploration of bars in Singapore is complete without sampling some of the city’s iconic drinks.
Singapore Sling: Originating at the Long Bar in Raffles Arcade, this gin-based cocktail remains a must-try. The original Singapore Sling is served at the Long Bar, a historic venue that embodies Singapore’s cocktail heritage.
Cat Bite Margarita: Found at Cat Bite Club, this unique margarita combines agave spirits with citrusy freshness and is a standout on the cocktail menu.
Lychee Martini and Oolong Tea Collins: These drinks showcase the inventive twists popular in Singapore bars, blending local flavors like lychee and oolong tea with classic cocktail techniques.
The Icons of Rooftop Bars with Stunning Views
For those who want to enjoy drinks with a view of Marina Bay and the city skyline, bars like Stay Gold Flamingo and Gold Flamingo offer vibrant atmospheres and creative cocktails. These spots are perfect for happy hour or a nightcap after exploring the city’s best bars.
Tips for Visiting Bars in Singapore
Opening Hours: Most bars in Singapore open from early evening until late at night, but it’s always wise to check specific opening hours and book ahead, especially for popular venues like Atlas Bar and Jigger & Pony.
Happy Hour: Many bars offer happy hour specials that are great for sampling one drink or two without breaking the bank.
Unique Concepts: Don’t hesitate to explore bars with unique concepts, such as mental wellness bars or vegan cocktail bars like Analogue, to diversify your experience.
Food Pairings: Many bars now offer food menus designed to complement their cocktail menus, so consider enjoying a bite alongside your drinks for a fuller experience.
Ready to Explore and Find Your Favourite Bars?
Singapore truly boasts some of the best cocktail bars in Asia. Whether sipping an espresso martini under the towering gin collection at Atlas Bar, enjoying the lean green salad alongside craft cocktails at Jigger & Pony, dancing late at Employees Only, savoring barrel-aged vintage spirits at Manhattan Bar, or embarking on a tasting menu of local flavors at Native, there’s a perfect spot for every mood and occasion.
Step out of your comfort zone, grab friends, and start your own adventure through Singapore’s vibrant bar scene.
See you there. Cheers!