Imagine a long day at work rushing though deadlines and submissions, attending meetings in and out, all you need to wind down the work week is a glass of whisky. With whiskies becoming more popular, everyone wants to try out unique whiskies, from Scotch to Japanese to American and even Australian and Indian.
Whether you are a casual drinker or a zealous whisky lover, here’s our list of recommended whisky bars you must visit.
This bar is one of Singapore’s best kept secrets. Located in the basement of The Club along Ann Siang Road, B28 offers a bespoke selection of more than 200 different Scottish Single Malts. With live jazz performances ($15/person) from Thursdays to Saturdays, the ambience is more than perfect.
Known to have the largest collection of whiskies in Southeast Asia, The Auld Alliance has a comprehensive selection of over 1400 whiskies available for purchase with whiskies from every distillery in Scotland available. For those looking for an introduction, the bar has entry level whiskies from bigger distilleries like Talisker, Balvenie, The Glenlivet, Springbank and many others. There are also tasting sets to introduce you to different whiskies, so you can find your favourite.
If you’re not looking for whiskies, there is a fine selection of other Absinthes and cocktails available. So the next time you are around the Bras Basah area, be sure to pop by The Auld Alliance, you certainly won’t be disappointed!
Recognised as “a Great Whisky Bar of the World” by The Whisky Magazine, The Quaich bar is one of the most exquisite whisky bars you will find in Singapore. Be spoilt for choice as you wind down and enjoy more than 500 types of whiskies at the bar. To assist you in your journey to discover more whiskies, The Quaich bar has crafted distinctly-themed sampling sets of whiskies. Other than whiskies, they also offer a variety of beers, wines, tequilas, rums, and vodkas.
390A Havelock Road, #01-09/10 Waterfront Plaza Singapore 169663 Contact: 65 6732 3452 Opening Hours:Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am, Sun 5pm-1am
4. The Single Cask
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Located in the heart of the city at Chijmes, The Single Cask is a cosy destination for cafe goers and liquor lovers. This quaint joint operates as a cafe and liquor shop by day and whisky bar by night. Specialising in quality whisky and spirits, this whisky shop sells over 250 labels for take away from 11am to 10.30pm. Its bar opens at 6pm and you get to enjoy a range of whisky flights and drams as well. At the Single Cask, they offer lockers to store your unfinished bottles for a 2nd encounter.
The Single Cask
Address:390A Havelock Road, #01-09/10 Waterfront Plaza Singapore 169663 Contact: 65 6732 3452 Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am, Sun 5pm-1am
The Connoisseur Divan offers great acoustic live music. With its luxurious interior and charming bar setting, The Connoisseur’s bar houses more than 90 rare and exclusive premium single malt Scotch whisky, wine and champagnes. If you are into smoking cigar, The Connoisseur Divan has a cigar smoke room on the second floor. You may also purchase from their wide range of Cuba cigars. Outdoor seating is also available if that’s what you prefer.
The Connoisseur Divan
Address: 207 River Valley Road, #01-62 UE Square, Singapore 238275 Contact: 65 6733 7141 Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 2pm-1am, Sun 4pm-11pm, Closed on PH
Possibly the most anticipated pasar malam of the year, Geylang Serai Bazaar is here! From household products to apparels to mouth-watering snacks, the Bazaar offers practically everything. With more stalls than before, Geylang Serai Bazaar is back with awesome food that makes all the heat and queues worthwhile.
From fancy rainbow bagels to everyone’s favourite salted egg churros, here’s our list of must-try hipster snacks at this year’s Geylang Serai Bazaar. Be prepared by coming with empty stomachs!
1. Salted Egg Churros
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Hands up salted egg yolk lovers! Here’s a new rendition – Churros with Salted Egg Yolk Sauce. Try Locoloco‘s new creation – bite size churros drizzled with salted egg yolk sauce ($6) – for some eggy goodness. Don’t fret if salted egg yolk is not your thing as they offer a variety of flavours ranging from pandan with gula melaka to red velvet. Can’t really decide on a flavour? Get a platter with all the flavours and sauces with an additional dollar for the Salted Egg Yolk Sauce!
What’s more, Locoloco is serving soft serve ice cream with their churros this year – another must-try on our list!
Loco Loco Location: Next to Mr. Teh Tarik
Price: $4.50/cup, $16 (assortment), $6 (churros with soft serve/salted egg yolk sauce)
2. Rainbow Bagel
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Get your sugar fix from this pretty Rainbow Bagel! From the people of WORD., these bagels filled with strawberry cream cheese funfetti and tasty marshmallows are going at $8. A little tip from us: these bagels are best eaten fresh as they tend to turn a little soggy after a while! Queues are fairly long at WORD. but we’d say it’s worth the queueing.
WORD. Location: Booth 9 at the open space carpark along Engku Aman Road Price: $8
3. S’mores Dip
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These S’mores Dip from Happy Rollies will leave you wanting for more! Consisting of biscuits and marshmallows nested above a bed of chocolate, this snack definitely tastes as yummy as it looks.
This popular stall can be identified through its snaking queue. The waiting time can take as long as 30mins! That said, you can also take the chance to order the Fried Ice-Cream Rolls ($5) with toppings ranging from banana to maple cornflakes.
Happy Rollies Price: $3.50
4. Watermelon Volcano
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The perfect refresher for the sweltering heat, the Watermelon Volcano is a must have when browsing the bazaar. Topped with freshly scooped watermelon balls, condensed milk, syrup and ice served in a watermelon husk, this thirst quencher will definitely cool you down.
The medium Watermelon Volcano is priced at $6.90 and is a good size for sharing among 2-3 people.
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Up for a different yoghurt experience? This Spicy Korean Yoghurt is the perfect dessert for you. Topped with chopped almonds, cranberries and spicy Korean hot sauce, this Vanilla Yoghurt ($5) is definitely a new experience for all yoghurt lovers.
Location: Along Haig Road Price: $5
6. Macaron Ice Cream
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What’s better than Macarons and ice-cream? A Macaron Ice Cream obviously. Presented by the folks at Barakah-Fe, the macaron shells are crisp and chewy. Ice cream flavours are available in oreo, vanilla, nutella, chocolate or salted caramel. Not only do you get to taste the best of both worlds, this highly delightful dessert is also very instagram-worthy.
Barakah-Fe Location: Along Haig Road Price: $4
7. Fried Oreos
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What’s a pasar malam trip without fried food, right? Deep fried to perfection, this snack is a twist to everyone’s childhood snack. Besides its delicious melty chocolate on the inside, choose between icing sugar ($3) and chocolate sauce or condensed milk ($3.50) to complete your perfect dessert!
[caption id="attachment_9432" align="alignnone" width="747"] Image credit: Instagram user @_missyclaire_[/caption]
Think over-the-top milkshakes are too much? Think again. Offered by Backalley Bites, this novelty comes with different flavours of soda – Grape, Blueberry and Cherry. Top that off with sweet cotton candy and tadah, the sweetest drink of all time.
Backalley Bites Price: $3/$2 without cotton candy
Some tips from us for those visiting the bazaar:
Bring a portable fan, wear light clothing and arm yourself with a watermelon volcano. A fair bit of walking will be needed to search for these stalls so a comfortable pair of walking shoes is recommended.
That said, gather as many friends, head down to the Geylang Serai Bazaar this instant and soak up the Hari Raya spirit!
Geylang Serai Bazaar Date: 4 June – 6 July Time: 5pm till late Location: Along the stretch of Changi Road between Joo Chiat and Paya Lebar Road
(Paya Lebar MRT Exit A. Due to construction work this year, turn left and follow the crowd instead of heading in the direction of the Singapore Post Centre)
In the fast-pace, high-stress environment of Singapore, relaxation is essential to maintaining balance and calm for the body, mind and spirit. If you have some time to spare or are looking to rest your tired feet after a long day of shopping, it’s time to pamper your tired feet with some TLC (tender loving care)!
Here’s our ultimate guide to affordable foot reflexology under $35. They are not just cheap. They’re also good.
Awarded the Best Foot Massage by Harpers Bazaar Spa awards in 2013, 2015 and 2016, Feet Haven is the place to go to if you are chilling around or visiting the cafes and eateries around the quaint neighbourhood of Katong or Serangoon Gardens. Feet Haven is the sanctuary where you can rejuvenate and find rest.
Be greeted by the boutique’s calming aroma, sounds of dripping water and soothing music as you sink into one of their comfy couches for your massage. Besides their restful ambience, they’re also committed to hiring experienced masseurs with passion for their job.
Fret not if you are a late nighter, Feet Haven opens their doors till 6am. This massage boutique has definitely become one of the top on our list for a late night foot massage!
With its newly opened outlet located right in the city center at Orchard Point, check out Natureland if your feet are all tired from the shopping and eating in town! The quiet atmosphere and soothing decor are just right for a relaxing foot massage and they also provide a free iPad service, so you can shop away or watch some videos while you get your massage done.
With such services and a cosy ambience, Natureland is worth every buck.
Natureland Price: $32 for non-members/$28 for members, 30 mins of foot reflexology Address: 160 Orchard Road, Orchard Point #B1-12/13, Singapore 238842 Tel: 65 6235 6780 Opening Hours: Daily 9am-6am
3. Feet Press
For all workaholics or surfaholics, Feet Press provides free wi-fi! Don’t worry if your devices are running low on battery as beside every seat, there is a wall power point. Let their professional masseurs relieve the fatigue on your feet while you pick and read from the array of books displayed on the bookshelves.
Feet Press also serves commercial clients, and they are firm believers that foot reflexology will boost immunity, enhance health and wellness. If you are keen for more pampering, Feet Press is currently having a promotion for a 45 mins foot reflexology with a 15 mins back massage at only $38! Do note that it is available only from 11am to 4pm, excluding Public Holidays.
All in all, Feet Press provides traditional chinese-style foot reflexology with a modern touch and will definitely leave you with more than a pair of relieved feet.
Feet Press
Price: $26 for non-members/$24 for members, 30 mins of foot reflexology Address: 893 East Coast Road Singapore 459096 Tel: 65 6242 0320/65 6225 6225 Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-11pm; Sat,2pm-2am; Sun 12pm-11pm
Calling all residents in Frankel and Siglap! Step into the stylish yet relaxing ambience of Hands + Feet studio and spend your evening pampering your tired feet. This boutique nail and foot spa focuses on providing a contemporary spa experience. Its massage and nail services prove to be a winning combination. They even have their very own non-toxic nail polish, Coat Colours, which is made in the USA.
The beauty of Hands + Feet Studio allows families and couples to be relax together all under one roof. For busy individuals, you can even have your manicure and foot reflexology done at the same time!
Hands + Feet Studio
Price: $34 for a quick indulgence of foot reflexology Address: 44 Siglap Drive, Singapore 456169 Tel: 65 6448 71875 Opening Hours: Daily 11am-10pm
5. Le Spa
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Cannot sleep at night? We have the best solution for you! Who says late night indulgence must always include going to bars or supper places? Heads up for residents at Bukit Timah. Hop over to Le Spa to get your foot reflexology fix. Le Spa opens 24 hours.
Le Spa (Bukit Timah)
Price: $28 ($29.96 Including GST) for 30 mins foot reflexology Address: Upper Bukit Timah Road, 16A Chun Tin Road, Singapore 599603 Tel: 65 6222 6805 Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily
Le Spa (Club Street)
Price: $28 ($29.96 Including GST) for 30 mins foot reflexology Address: 14 Gemmil Lane, Singapore 069253 Tel: 65 6222 6803 Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily
Le Spa (River Valley)
Price: $28 ($29.96 Including GST) for 30 mins foot reflexology Address: 13 Mohamed Sultan Road, Singapore 238962 Tel: 65 6222 6806 Opening Hours: Open 24 hours daily
6. My Happy Feet
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Located at the buzzing Holland Village filled with food, beverage outlets and bars, My Happy Feet is the place to go to for foot reflexology sessions. With its resort-like ambience, customers are pampered with the best of traditional and contemporary foot therapies.
Pressure point techniques are used to focus on reflex points on your feet to release blocked energy channels and stimulate the body’s self-healing abilities. My Happy Feet also serves a wide range of clients, including business leaders, politicians, sports and media personalities. Do drop by to discover the perfect indulgence at My Happy Feet and get ready to kick off your shoes, sit back and relax after a long day at work.
My Happy Feet Price: $30 for ‘footloose’, 30 mins of foot reflexology Address: 21 Lorong Mambong, Singapore 277680 Tel: 65 6462 0525 Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 11am-9pm; Sat 10am-10pm; Sun 10am-9pm
Instead of burning a hole in your pocket at a luxury hotel spa, head down to one of these foot parlours and we are sure you’ll relieve some stress, relax and recharge for the next day ahead!
It’s Friday, Friday, gotta get down on Friday. Man are you going to get this song stuck in your head.
Our favourite day of the week is here and what better way to celebrate than chilling over a couple of cold ones? With the wide variety of beers and microbreweries now available, it’s tough just having to decide on a bar for some afterwork drinks. So from pubs to microbreweries, here’s our guide to 15 top beers and where you can get them.
If you’re nearby, check out The Alpine Restaurant & Microbrewery. Located on the second floor of Snow City, this is a cool place for you to dine and relax. Try their dark lager for a refreshing and smooth, malty taste. They have different types of beer including a green beer which is brewed with seaweed.
The Alpine Restaurant & Microbrewery Address: 2nd Floor, Snow City, 21 Jurong Town Hall Road, S609433 Tel: 65 6566 8389 Opening Hours: Tue-Sun: 3:30pm-midnight
We found this gem at On Tap at a little corner on the second floor of Chinatown’s food centre. Definitely one of the cheapest beer you can find anywhere (from $5.50 for 330ml)! Their English Bitter is packed with flavour.
On Tap Address: #02-075 Chinatown Complex Market and Food Centre, Blk 335 Smith Street Tel: 87221230 Opening Hours: Daily 4:30pm-midnight
3. Brewdog 5 A.M Red Ale
[caption id="attachment_7640" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Tap Brew Dog 5AM Image credit: Brewdog[/caption]
As the leading craft beer shop in Singapore, Thirsty offers a large selection of craft beers from around the world! We recommend Bell’s Amber Ale – a mixture of toasted grain, light caramel notes, subtle floral taste, capped with a clean bitterness. We love the balance of all the flavours, plus this drink goes superbly well with food.
Oxwell & Co is housed in a heritage shophouse along Ann Siang Hill. That’s also where they brew their drinks in-house. We tried the Oxhorn lager (an infusion of nutmeg leaf and nutmeg) and found a light citrusy note from its calamansi and orange ingredients. It may not be a beer, but their signature home-made G&T is also a must try.
[caption id="attachment_7895" align="aligncenter" width="481"] Credit: Calling all east siders! Situated along Joo Chiat Road is The Cider Pit. They import a large selection of ciders and beers from around the world.
Try their Kiasu Stout from Jungle Beer, an Imperial style beer brewed with five malts, three hops, chicory and cane sugar. The beer is great by itself or paired with dark chocolate. This beer has also been triple-crowned “Best in the World”, “Best in Singapore” and Gold in the Stout category at Beerfest Asia 2013.
There’s just no telling when the hunger pangs would start kicking in. Whether you had a super late day at work, or you’re just craving for a snack. Luckily, Singapore is in fact the food city that never sleeps.
No matter what time it is, come rain or snow (I wish), these places open all day err day to satisfy your tummy rumblings. So grab your nearest BFF and head down to these food joints for a sinful night of indulgence.
1. Fei Fei Wanton Mee
Undoubtedly one of the most raved about Wanton Mee in Singapore, it is perhaps unfortunate that portions are quite small. However, the springy texture and delicious flavor of the noodles make up for it. At ($4), I would recommend ordering it dry with added chilli sauce to complement the overall taste.
Fei Fei Wanton Mee
Location: Sin Wah Coffeeshop, 62 Joo Chiat Place, S (427785) Contact: 6345 7515
2. Diandin Leluk
Situated in Little Thailand, as it is affectionately known by locals, Diandin Leluk is the biggest Thai eatery in Golden Mile Complex. Popular dishes include Green Curry Chicken ($10) and Red Ruby ($3), a Thai coconut-milk dessert to cool off the spiciness. To sweeten the deal, there is also no service charge and GST!
Diandin Leluk Location: #01-67/68/69, Golden Mile Complex, 5001 Beach Road, S (199588) Contact: 6293 5101
3. RK Eating House
Regularly packed with a plethora of youths, especially late at night, RK House offers an extensive menu of North Indian Cuisine. Nestled in the boisterous Serangoon Gardens, give their crispy Plain Roti Prata ($1.20) a go. For drinks with friends, go for a Milo Tower ($12) to share.
RK Eating House
Location: 1A Kensington Park Road, S (557253) Contact: 6289 5379
4. 333 Bak Kut Teh
It’s a shame that this place doesn’t get nearly as much attention as compared to Founder’s Bak Kut Teh. Their Pork Ribs Soup ($6) is on par with Founder’s in terms of flavour and tenderness. The peppery aftertaste of the refillable soup really hits the spot too! I recommend completing your meal with Salted Vegetable ($2) and Tou Fu Skin ($2).
333 Bak Kut Teh
Location: 333 Balestier Road, S (329765) Contact: 6352 6192
5. Meng’s Kitchen
Aww yesss, this Bak Chor Mee ($4) is so good that it deserves visits at least 2-3 times a week. The chilli and vinegar base perfectly provides the platform for the bouncy and chewy noodles to truly shine. Don’t get me started on the meatballs. Trust me, a single bowl is never enough.
Located at a place synonymous with Singapore’s red light district, Yong He is the ideal place to try or reminisce Taiwanese delights at any time of the day. Their signature dishes include the Soya Bean Drink ($1.50), Beancurd ($2), and of course, who can leave out the silky vermicelli in a thick, flavorful broth – the savoury Mee Sua ($4) aka Taiwanese noodles.
Yong He Eating House
Location: 517 Geylang Road, S (389473) Contact: 6745 5682
7. Al-Ameen
The North has always been kind of a downer for supper, with almost a very limited selection of places that you could go for that 4am craving. Not anymore! Branching out from their origins in Bukit Timah, Al-Ameen serves up Thai Muslim favourites. For a gratifying experience, Butter Chicken ($7) with a side of Naan is the way to go.
We all know that Changi Airport houses many 24-hour food choices. There’s McDonalds, KFC, 1983, Swensens, and so on… But, for a true dining experience that showcases Singapore’s cultural diversity, look no further than the 24 Hr Food Gallery at T1. Hey, what can go wrong with a plate of chicken rice or a bowl of steaming Laksa?
One of my favourite places to go to for a quiet read, TCC at the International Building at Orchard Road is a quiet and cosy location for late night mugging or meet-ups. The food is delicious and portions are generous, albeit on the pricier side. I would recommend a Dark Devotion ($13) to go with a cup of House Blend ($5.80).
TCC at International Building
Location: #01-01, 360 Orchard Road, International Building, S (238869) Contact: 6732 3696
Closed for renovation from 3 May to 2 June 2016
10. 126 Dim Sum
As a regular patron, ‘Wan Dou Sek’ offers a no-frills dining experience of value for money dim sum. Usual delights include Carrot Cake ($4), Siew Mai ($3.20), and Man Tou with Chili Crab Sauce ($6). The major downside is that it may be hard to find a parking spot, and dishes may not be consistent from time to time.
126 Dim Sum
Location: 126 Sims Avenue, S (387449) Contact: 6746 4757
11. Al-Azhar
Another place that serves Indian cuisine, Al-Azhar also offers an extensive menu which includes some Western cuisine selections. A food rival with Al-Ameen, which coincidentally is a mere walking distance away, Al-Azhar has its own charm. Tuck in to popular dish Butter Chicken ($7), and complement it with a side of Egg Thosai ($2).
Al-Azhar
Location: 11/11A Cheong Chin Name Road, S (599736) Contact: 6466 5052
12. Wong Chiew Restaurant
Renamed from Wong Chiew Eating House, this humble food joint serves a ‘chapalang’ of dishes. They offer dim sum and porridge for a delicious light meal or roasted meat and plenty of zi-char style dishes for a satisfying heavy meal. Not forgetting to mention, Wong Chiew’s famous Kampong Bucket Chicken ($14for half-chicken), chicken served in herbal broth marinade. Till this day, the recipe remains a closely guarded secret.
Wong Chiew Restaurant
Location: 19 Sembawang Road, S (779075) Contact: 6456 6838
13. New Mahamoodiya
What better way to end off the list with yet another Prata place! Situated just outside the effervescent Simpang Bedok area, New Mahamoodiya emanates a rustic, kampong style atmosphere. Pratas are their specialty, which come freshly made and piping hot. Their Egg Prata ($1.50) comes with chopped onions, adding a distinctive taste to the dish.
New Mahamoodiya
Location: 335 Bedok Road, S (469510) Contact: 6243 2086
Ladies and gents, with such an avalanche of food options at your fingertips, there’s no need to be hungry at any time of the day anymore. I know I won’t be!
(Header image credit: Steel Wool, words by editor)
Hey you! Are you someone who spends most of your days indoors? Be it in school (poly & uni students) or at work, face it, we spent most of our time in an air-conditioned room!
(But Singapore’s so hot!)
Yup, I feel you, but shouldn’t we be making the most out of our limited time outdoors? Although it seems that our climate is like a curse, but other times, it can be a real blessing.
Especially after dark when Singapore gets amazing! There’s no better way to enjoy the nightlife than to chow down on delectable gastronomy while enjoying a chilled drink or two. Throw in a couple of hot tunes and there you have it, a night to remember!
Friends, I bring you, alfresco bars! What makes them different from other restaurants is that they provide a totally unique experience. Whether it’s celebrating a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or corporate gatherings, alfresco bars are your go-tos.
Here are some of our favorite places:
Timbre @ Arts House
Everyone should be familiar with the iconic and premier Timbre Group’s chain of live music restaurants. Timbre @ The Arts House is perhaps the most “atas” of them all. Enjoy the picturesque view of the Singapore River and hey, don’t forget to snap a picture with the statue of Singapore’s founding father, Sir Stamford Raffles.
Timbre @ Arts House
Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs: 6pm – 1am; Fri – Sat: 6pm – 2am
Live Music: Mon: 8pm – 11.15pm; Tues: 8.30pm – 11.45pm; Wed – Thurs: 8.15pm – 11.30pm; Fri: 7.15pm – 12.45am; Sat: 8.30pm – 12.45am; Closed on Sundays Location: #01-04, 1 Old Parliament Lane, S (179429) Contact: 6336 3386
Timbre @ The Substation
Located opposite SMU, Timbre @ The Substation is the older and more rustic brother of Timbre @ Arts House. Tucked away from the city crowd, rest your eyes on the idyllic teak furnishing and foliage, and drift away to tranquility and melodic tunes.
Timbre’s menus are nearly identical, but of course, there are popular dishes. For something light, there’s the Crispy Pork Belly ($16), and Timbre Chicken Wings ($14). Who can forget the famous Roasted Duck Pizza ($21), deliciously topped with hoisin sauce and crispy popiah skin. Don’t forget to drown them down with your favorite alcohol selection!
Timbre @ The Substation
Live Music: Tues – Wed: 8.30pm – 11.45pm; Thurs: 10.15pm – 12.45am; Fri – Sat: 10.15pm – 1.45am; Sun: 10.15pm – 12.30am Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs: 6pm – 1am; Fri – Sat: 6pm – 2am, Closed on Mondays Location: 45 Armenian Street, The Substation Garden, S (179936) Contact: 6338 8030
Wala Wala
Nestled in one of Singapore’s most exciting and entertaining nightlife district, Holland Village, Wala Wala Café Bar is often packed. Who can blame them? The ambience is always cheerful and relaxed, making it popular with foreigners. Food favourites include Spicy Blacken Wings aka Wala Buffalo Wings ($14), and Curly Potato Wedges ($7). Did we mention that the alcohol selection is really extensive as well?
Spruce deserves a spot on this list because of its location. Located at the former Bukit Timah Fire Station (yep, it’s true), Spruce serves as the perfect hideout to escape the bright lights of the city. Be sure to try their original creations – Spruce Hot Wings ($18), served with homemade hot sauce, and the succulent Spruce Burger ($19). (Psst, there’s free parking!)
Spruce
Live Music: Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sun: 7.30pm – 10.30pm Opening Hours: Tues – Thurs: 11.30am – 12.30am; Fri: 11.30am – 1am; Sat: 9am – 1am; Sun: 9am – 12.30am; Closed on Mondays Location: #01-01, Fire Station, 260 Upper Bukit Timah Road, S (588190) Contact: 6466 5582
Five Tapas @ Cuppage
My personal favourite place for a night of drinks with friends, Five Tapas @ Cuppage, is popular for their five dollar tipples (for the uninitiated, that’s liquor), and sing-along tunes. The only downside is that it’s always crowded and gets relatively humid. But hey, for tipples at such low prices, I have no complaints. My favourites from the food menu include Stuffed Mushrooms ($5), Spicy Pork Belly Cubes ($5), and Beer Battered Fish & Chips ($18).
Five Tapas @ Cuppage
Live Music: Daily: 8.00pm – 10pm (varies) Location: 25 Cuppage Road, Cuppage Terrace, S (229454) Opening Hours: Daily: 5pm – 12am Contact: 6733 8097
Going Om
Inspired by Hindu temples while travelling in the Himalayas, founders Barry and Oliver has delivered an almost meditative experience in their quaint little alfresco bar. Tucked in the corner of eclectic Haji Lane within the confines of a refurbished shophouse, Going Om is perhaps the most artsy and unique in this list. I personally vouch for the Pear N Apple Crumble ($7), which is heavenly. Fellow Ommies unite!
Going Om
Live Music: Tues, Thurs, 9.30pm Opening Hours: Tues – Thurs: 5.30pm – 1am; Fri: 5.30pm – 3am; Sat: 3.30pm – 3am; Sun: 3.30pm – 1am; Closed on Mondays Location: 63 Haji Lane, S (189256) Contact: 6396 3592
The Queen & Mangosteen
Offering a million-dollar view of neighbouring Sentosa, The Queen & Mangosteen is the quintessential gourmet British alfresco pub. With an unpretentious menu of appetising British food with an Asian twist, this chic establishment is the ideal spot to put your feet up after a long day of shopping and activities in Vivocity. Unlike other bars in this list, it’s also great for the kids! Must try: Fish & Chips ($26), and Shepherd’s Pie ($20).
Guys, guys, relax! This isn’t CMPB (Central Manpower Base), this is CM-PB. An acronym for Contemporary Melting-Pot & Bar, this café-bar-bistro is set against the evergreen scenery of Dempsey Hill in a bungalow setting. Albeit dishes are on the pricier side, the Truffle Fries ($15) is one of the best in Singapore. For an all-day breakfast selection, try the Eggs on Request ($24).
Situated near East Coast Park, Mel’s Place offers much needed reprieve after a day of exhausting activities and festivities. I’ve heard that they’ve revamped the main building and furnished it with a stylish new look. Upon setting foot in the bar, Mel’s Place welcomes you with a Hawaiian-ish décor. Also, from the grapevine are rave reviews for their Bangers & Mash ($18), a duo of sausages rested on mash potatoes with Mirepoix Sauce. Yummy!
Mel’s Place
Live Music: Mon – Sat: 7.30pm – 11pm Opening Hours: Mon – Thurs: 4pm – 1am; Fri – Sat: 4pm – 2am; Sun: 11am – 1am Location: 2A Kuo Chuan Avenue, S (426897) Contact: 6440 3573
The Mad Men Attic Bar
Boasting a stunning skyline of the Marina Bay Sands, Mad Men Attic Bar is fast gaining more prominence. Located in the concrete jungle of Singapore’s CBD, this place is highly beloved by white-collared workers after a hard day’s toil. Add to that a charming view of commercial skyscrapers, there’s no better word to describe this alfresco bar than “wow”. Tuck into delicious nibbles such as Luncheon Meat Fries ($12), Mini Beef Burgers ($12), and the Chili Cheese Dog ($14).
Does the 1 hour+++ wait at Hai Di Lao turn you off? After all, who has the time and patience to wait that long? Luckily, there are other equally great restaurants to satisfy your daily dose of steamboat and hotpot cravings. The team at Discover SG has scoured the land in search of the best alternative places to enjoy your favorite simmering stews and yummy ingredients.
1. Imperial Treasure Steamboat Restaurant
As its namesake suggests, Imperial Treasure Steamboat Restaurant is imperial and amongst the best in Singapore. A critic’s choice for its quality ingredients, this classy establishment boasts a selection of 10 soups and 12 sauces to fulfill your hotpot fantasies. Although more expensive than other places, it is money well-spent for a truly memorable and grand experience.
Outlet & Opening Hours ION Orchard 04-09
TripleOne Somerset 01-21
Daily: 11:00am – 3:00pm, 6:00pm – 11:00pm
2. Manbok Chinatown Korean BBQ & Steamboat
With Korean BBQ restaurants flooding our little red dot, a restaurant will have to be unique to make a name for itself. In the spotlight is Manbok, a quaint restaurant that combines BBQ with steamboat, all at a reasonable price. The cosy interior and wafts of delicious food cooking only served to heighten the senses, making this an ideal choice for a great night of food.
Tsukada Nojo is a Japanese-style steamboat restaurant synonymous with its collagen soup, BIJIN NABE. The broth gets its delectable flavours from a Jidori chicken. (Jidori chicken refers to a type of mixed-breed vegetarian free-range chicken imported from Japan within 24 hours of slaughter) The result is a special broth that is not only nutritious (great for your skin and hair!), but also savoury and fragrant. In addition, you may also enjoy a sinful selection of Japanese dishes that are available ala carte.
Nestled in fan-favourite Upper Thomson Road, Huay Kwang Thai Kitchen is a hidden Mookata gem. For the uninitiated, Mookata is a combination of hotpot and grill. Open until 2am on Friday & Saturday, this is a great place for supper with family and friends. This lovely Thai joint offers a simple yet appetising soup base (cabbage and pork bones) to satisfy your tastebuds.
Sunday to Thursday: 5:00pm – 11:00pm
Friday to Saturday: 5:00pm – 2:00am
5. JPOT Hotpot
This steamboat franchise from JUMBO Group (famous for excellent seafood) has consistently garnered rave reviews for its good service and food. Reward your palates with eight delicious types of soup base, a smorgasbord of fresh ingredients, and to top it all off, a DIY station to mix and match your favourite sauces. A dining experience without the nitty-gritty, JPOT Hotpot is the next best thing.