So, you got yourself a Tinder date. Good job. But here comes the problem of figuring out where to go. While a romantic dinner is a must, you also need a game plan for afterwards in case he or she turns out to be so super awesome you don’t wanna leave.
For all the lucky ones out there, we’ve got you covered with 10 modern speakeasies that’ll charm your date once and for all. Speakeasies were secret bars in America during the prohibition-era where alcohol was banned, and even though they no longer exist, many modern bars have adopted a similar style to create a sense of exclusivity.
Bringing your date to one of these places says you know where the good stuff are and you’re willing to share it with him or her – always a plus. Some of these bars don’t even have a menu, so just tell the bartenders what kind of drink you’re feeling and they’ll gladly concoct a one-of-a-kind moonshine for you.
With wooden tables and soft couches, Bar Stories’ decor looks more like a cafe than bar. But that shouldn’t stop you from going hard because their drinks pack a solid punch. Don’t hold back on your order here, as they’re ready for anything you’re craving with ingredients like sour plum and Nutella right behind the bar. P.S. You can even get a flaming drink!
Address: 55-57 Haji Lane, Singapore 189248
Opening hours: Mon-Thur 4pm to 1am, Fri-Sat 4pm to 2am, Sun 4pm to 1am
Tel: 6298 0838
Known for their Kaya Toast Cocktail ($26), Bitters and Love has drinks that not only taste good, but look fantastic too. If bread is not your thing, customise something by choosing a base alcohol and flavour. They’re also known for bar food, so remember to get something to munch on while you’re there.
Address: 118 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068587
Opening hours: Mon-Thur 6pm to 12am, Fri-Sun 6pm to 2am
Tel: 6438 1836
Salted egg yolk and chicken rice are not dishes at Hopscotch; they’re cocktails that actually taste like the real deal. Quirky is the word to describe this hidden bar inside Red Dot Traffic Building at Maxwell Road, and if these local dishes in a drink don’t dazzle your date, then we suggest you get another date. JK, just get him or her a bespoke cocktail.
Address: 28 Maxwell Road, #01-04, Red Dot Traffic Building, Singapore 069120
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 4pm to 1am
Tel: 6327 4820
Menu
Pop by Operation Dagger to show off your extensive knowledge of the bar scene – if you can find it. This modern speakeasy has no signboard, and you’ll find quirky symbols nearby that’ll lead to its apothecary-like interior. They’ve got a list of drinks to choose from, but you’re welcome to get the knowledgeable bartenders to concoct anything you fancy.
Address: 7 Ann Siang Hill, Singapore 069791
Opening hours: Tue-Sat 6pm to 12am
Tel: 6438 4057
Menu
Here’s to all the ‘90s kids who can’t get over Britney. With a nondescript entrance by the side of The Sultan hotel, Fresh can easily pass off as a speakeasy on the outside. But don’t be fooled ‘cause the people here sure know how to party with refreshing cocktails – bespoke or not – and a playlist fit for everyone who grew up with Justin, Britney and Christina.
Address: 101 Jalan Sultan, #02-01, The Sultan, Singapore 199002
Opening hours: Mon-Thur 7pm to 12am, Fri-Sat 7pm to 2am
Tel: 8828 7084
Menu
Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall has one of the most laid-back ambiences of the lot. It’s surrounded by touristy restaurants at Boat Quay, and entering this watering hole feels like a little escape from it all. Opened by award-winning bartender Sam Wong, who was previously from Jigger & Pony, you can be sure the alcoholic concoctions here live up to your standards.
Address: 60 Boat Quay, Singapore 049848
Opening hours: Mon-Thur 6pm to 12am, Fri-Sat 6pm to 3am
Tel: 6535 0838
CBD folks, this is where you can hang out all day, err’day. Pop by Dapper Coffee before work for a cuppa, and head back to The Spiffy Dapper after a day of hustling for a tipple with bae. Even though they share the same cosy space, they’re run by separate teams and serve completely different drinks. Feel free to order anything you want, but we highly recommend their wide and fine selection of gin.
Address: 73 Amoy Street, Singapore 069892
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 5pm till late, Sat-Sun 6pm till late
Tel: 8233 9810
This one’s an oldie but goodie. Rooftop bar Orgo has been around since 2009, and they stand out by using fresh ingredients in all their drinks. So don’t expect syrups or liqueurs ‘cause all the sweetness in your drink comes from natural sources. Choose from their list of cocktails or get their mixologists to create something special as you spend a romantic night atop the Esplanade.
Address: 8 Raffles Avenue, #04-01, Esplanade – Theaters on the Bay, Singapore 039802
Opening hours: Mon-Sun 6pm to 2am
Tel: 6336 9366
Posh is the word for D.Bespoke and it’s definitely reserved for those who’re looking for a high-end experience. Mixologists are donned in dapper suits and you’ll get ultra-ilovetsL123fine service as well as drinks from them. Of course, the price tag is equally luxe, with bespoke drinks starting from $27. And don’t play play, because there’s a minimum spending of $60 here.
Address: 2 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089816
Opening hours: Mon-Thur 6pm to 1am, Fri-Sat 6pm to 2am, Sun 4pm to 11pm
Tel: 8141 5741
Maison Ikkoku whips up a sumptuous plate of Eggs Benedict ($22) in the day, and fine drinks in the evening. There’s no menu for the bar, so go ahead and let your imagination go wild. Located at the edge of Kampong Glam, we advise you to follow the dot on GMaps closely otherwise you might just miss this quiet spot.
Address: 20 Kandahar Street, Singapore 198885
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 4pm to 1am, Fri-Sat 4pm to 2am
Tel: 6294 0078
Whether you’re looking to impress a date or just chilling with friends, we hope these bars will help you have a wonderful night out. Let us know if you’ve got any other recommendations in the comments down below!
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