There’s a reason why Singapore’s cocktail scene is a perennial powerhouse on the global stage, commanding the spotlight on the world’s most prestigious bar lists each year. In the Lion City, mixology isn’t just craft; there is a certain pride and joy associated with showcasing the diversity of their culture and creativity through unique offerings. By imbuing local heritage and a flair for the unusual, these bars have transformed Singapore into a mandatory destination for those who know their tipple. Go for the drink; stay for the storytelling, as each cocktail introduces you to the soul of the city – complex, layered but never without its distinct identity.
Located in the bustling district of Chinatown, The Elephant Room has been going strong for six years now, bringing its unique blend of Indian spices to the fore in its drinks as well as in its dishes. It was a choice that co-founder Yugnes Susela made back in 2019, when he wanted to open a bar that not only paid a tribute to his identity – his parents are from Tamil Nadu, India – but also to showcase his culture through food, nostalgia and spices. The current menu at the culture-forward cocktail bar, which was crowned number 65 on the list of Asia’s Best Bars 2024, is a tribute to the hawkers, flower traders, and spice traders.
The drinks menu is playful with drinks such as the savoury Chicken Curry, the umami and sour Spiced Crab Rasam, and the fresh and spiced Briyani – yes, these are all names of drinks! If a good Negroni is what you are after, their Wild and Fresh with the sweetness of strawberries and the tartness of kokum would be right up your alley. From the food menu, which has ingredients sourced from Little India’s Tekka Market, the crunchy Okra Fries with grated Parmesan cheese, and the Chicken Masala Naan Pizza make great accompaniments to the drinks.
Charting Singapore’s rich history up till its modern, progressive avatar, Nutmeg & Clove takes great pride in its country’s deep roots. Swing open its doors at Purvis Street and step inside a cosy space that welcomes you into its fold, and celebrates modern Singaporean cocktails and food. Adjudged number 24 on the list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2025 and number 50 on World’s 50 Best Bars in 2025, Nutmeg & Clove has been wowing patrons since it opened its doors in 2014 with its modern twist on classic dishes and cocktails.
The menu is divided into two parts – the Hall of Fame section dedicated to showcasing some of their best creations in the last decade, and the new menu, which is an ode to their community and the age-old businesses that have stood the test of time. From the former, the Nutmeg & Clove, named after the bar, has been on their menu since they opened. Pasar Punch and Pin Cushion shouldn't be missed from the new menu.
The bar doesn't believe in doing anything small! With a 25-foot high gin tower as its showstopper displaying more than 1400 gins, a magnificent ceiling with murals and gold detailing, and art-deco inspired architecture, Atlas is as grand as they come. It’s hardly a surprise that they won the Rémy Martin Legend of the List Award and Bareksten Best Bar Design Award in 2024.
The current menu, Gazette Du Bon Ton, is designed as a French fashion journal from the 1920s, celebrating the revolutionary period of art, fashion, and beauty. Divided into chapters, Atlas Vintage is all about timeless classics, while En Vogue is for those who like something to drink that does not have alcohol. Try the sweetly floral Pas de Deux clarified with milk, the bold and refreshing Zaz Zuh Zaz with cognac, smoked green, Ashcombe House, and the gin and vodka-based, a Dash of Daring.