UNWINDING after a hard day’s work is always better with a tipple or three in hand. You’re pretty spoiled for choice if you happen to be based in the CBD, so here’s the second of our many guides profiling promising new entrants and the longest-lived watering holes in the area. Check out the first guide here.
Jigger and Pony
The reliable workhorse is back in a swankier spot in Amara Hotel, and boy is the new layout exciting. Dual bars, swivel chairs and a mezzanine floor added all the missing dynamism that the old Amoy Street spot made up for with the strength of its cocktail programme.
It’s kept the communal table where many of our memories were made, but subbed in 27 new concoctions to fuel new ones. For many, this’ll be a new house, but the same home.
Smoke and Mirrors
No better way to impress that visiting colleague / friend / summer fling from overseas than with a trip to a rooftop bar atop the stately National Gallery.
Go right for the Al fresco area; the sixth-storey hideout overlooks the Padang, which in turn affords sweeping views of the CBD skyline. That’s framed by the sensible tones of wood, chrome and copper, and makes for great photos.
The Other Roof
If you’ve ever met the effervescent Dario Knox, you’ll already have been sold on exploring the latest libations out of his bottomless thinking cap. Tea’s the next experimental chapter in the unfolding novel (it’s preceded by the wildly successful Other Room).
Where else can you down a Bohemian Raspberry after nursing 50 Shades of Earl? The best part is, your non-drinking friends can finally partake without excuse – plain old tea is served here as well.
Le Bon Funk
Literal meaning: ‘The Good Funk’; funk here refers to the pungency that sometimes emanates from the biodynamic / organic vinos that the wine bar specialises in.
Make no mistake – this entirely natural aspect of winemaking and the plethora of exciting new options available are Le Bon Funk’s calling cards – but you’ll love the nosh here as well (microplaned frozen foie, anyone?)
Southbridge
Joining the ranks of Boat Quay’s stalwarts is new rooftop bar Southbridge. The bar sports a commanding view of the Singapore River, but tops it off with some superb oyster options. Go for the ones spritzed with ponzu, and pair it with one of the small batch sakes.
Better get here early – many come here for the breathtaking view and stay put the entire night.