A lot of things have changed because of the pandemic. But one thing remains the same: there is no shortage of world-class bars in Singapore. The health and safety protocols implemented may have limited the people from enjoying happy hours, yet these did not stop them from enjoying their favorite drinks.
And now, Singaporeans have more reasons to raise their glasses as the government eased some restrictions allowing them to gather and dine-in to their favorite restaurants in groups of five as long as all are fully vaccinated (Eligible fully vaccinated people must be 2 weeks past from their 2nd dose shot). Truly, this calls for a celebration. Finally, after months of waiting, people can once again experience the country’s buzzing night scene while enjoying their favorite cold mixes.
If you’re planning to enjoy the night with your friends and family, then you have come to the right place! We have specifically handpicked 3 of Singapore’s absolute best bars that you can check out. Get to know how these places have evolved to accommodate the standards of the new normal – as well as the amazing cocktails and drinks that you have to look out for.
You don’t want to miss these stellar places as soon as you get your vaccinated icon on your trace together app ticked.
The Bar @ Kempinski Singapore
Located within an ambient space of The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore on Stamford Road is a sophisticated bar known for providing premium quality of both drinks and experience. The Bar has always been one of the top choices when one is looking for a luxurious celebration.
Q: Dining-out restrictions ease at least for vaccinated people in groups of 5. As guests come back to visit, what is that one unique drink the patrons surely miss?
[Edriane Lim, Bar Manager]: Our signature Plantation 1840 has been our go-to cocktail which our guests love. It is a showcase that is a must-try for all connoisseurs of handcrafted and rum-based cocktails at The Bar at 15 Stamford.
Q: Amidst all the negative impact the pandemic has brought to your business, what is one thing you can consider as a silver lining above it? (in terms of positive changes, developments, etc)
The camaraderie and teamwork that we have here at The Bar at 15 Stamford and The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore are inspiring and what keep us all focused on providing our guests with the best experience at every opportunity. We’ve also optimised the down times by honing our mixology knowledge by creating more innovative rum-based cocktails and drinks for our guests to enjoy.
Atlas Bar
Coined as one of the world’s best bars, ATLAS BAR has always exceed expectations interms of service and ambience. Located at the iconic Parkview Square in Bugis, ATLAS BAR boasts a stunning interior design and is known as one of the most …
Not only have they impressed many with their majestic high tower bar with gin bottles arranged up to the ceiling, ATLAS BAR guarantee nothing but the best service and cocktails in town.
Q: Dining-out restrictions ease at least for vaccinated people in groups of 5. As guests come back to visit, what is that one unique drink the patrons surely miss?
[Jesse Vida, Head Bartender]: I’m going to cheat here and say there are two drinks to come back to ATLAS for. Being a house of gin, two of our unique takes on classic gin cocktails have become staples of our drinks offerings. Firstly our signature cocktail, the ATLAS Martini, a crisp and savoury Martini with Champagne Vinegar. Secondly, for those who prefer something a little more light, fruity, and effervescent, our ATLAS French 75 is a must.
ATLAS also embarks on flight 012 in their world ATLAS series, where we collaborate with some of the world’s best bars for a transportive experience. Last August, we take off to the Clumsies in Athens, Greece, and their cocktail will be a spin on the classic Greek Salad.
Q: Amidst all the negative impact the pandemic has brought to your business, what is one thing you can consider as a silver lining above it? (in terms of positive changes, developments, etc)
I actually do see a lot of silver lining amongst all of the negative aspects of the pandemic. In short, I’d say we have shown ourselves our resilient nature, willingness to adapt and change on the fly, and an ability to execute these changes at a high level in short order. I also think we’ve had an opportunity to be more present and hands-on with our staff, and I would say the same when it comes to being more high-touch with our guests. Naturally, when we’ve been forced to reduce our numbers, while this hurts revenue, it does gives us the ability to give a different kind of service experience.
Tippling Club
Talking about excellent bars, spectacular interior, and one-of-a-kind drinking and dining experience, there’s one located in CBD area known for its award-winning modernist cuisine & innovative cocktails- TIPPLING BAR. Its progressive modern food, inventive cocktails, and excellent customer service have made them one of the top bars in Asia. Both gastronomy and beverage make it into one of the best bars in the world.
Q: Dining-out restrictions ease at least for vaccinated people in groups of 5. As guests come back to visit, what is that one unique drink the patrons surely miss?
[Andrew Loudon, Head Bartender & Group Bar Manager]: We have just launched our new cocktail menu at Tippling Club. Patrons can check it here.
Q: Amidst all the negative impact the pandemic has brought to your business, what is one thing you can consider as a silver lining above it? (in terms of positive changes, developments, etc)
The main silver lining that I will hold close to myself over time will be the way that we were able to keep connecting with our core guest database through the use of our social media platforms and our online content such as our cocktail masterclasses and cooking classes. These were hugely successful in keeping our business moving and also in keeping Tippling Club in the minds of our guests. They also were key in attracting a new clientele into our bar and restaurant.
The lockdowns and the way we, as a business, pivoted to deal with the restrictions meant that we were in a constant state of creativity which we used in favour to keep creating unique online content.
It’s about time that we reward ourselves for staying motivated despite the challenges of this pandemic. Reconnect with your friends and loved ones and check out the abovementioned bars. Don’t forget to still follow the protocols and always stay safe. Cheers!