16 Must-Visit Singapore Bars: An Insider's Guide to the Lion City's Vibrant Nightlife

Monster Day Tours
May 22
5 min read

Singapore's bar scene has evolved dramatically over the past decade, transforming from a handful of hotel lounges to a globally recognized cocktail destination. As someone who regularly guides visitors through the street food and night tours of this vibrant city, I've had the privilege of witnessing Singapore's meteoric rise as a world-class drinking destination. The contrast between sipping craft cocktails in sleek lounges and savoring local beer at hawker centers is just one facet of what makes nightlife in Singapore so uniquely captivating. Having spent countless evenings exploring these establishments, I'm excited to share my personal list of 20 must-visit Singapore bars that showcase the city's impressive range of drinking establishments.

1. Atlas

Elegant bar with tall gold shelves of bottles, spiral staircase, art deco decor with intricate patterns, warm lighting, luxurious ambiance. — Atlas

Located in the magnificent Parkview Square (affectionately known as Singapore's "Gotham Building"), Atlas is nothing short of spectacular. I'm always awestruck by its three-story gin tower housing over 1,100 different gins—including vintage bottles dating back to the 1910s. The art deco grandeur, brass fixtures, and velvet furnishings transport me to the Gilded Age every time I visit. Their vintage martinis are legendary, and the precision of their cocktail presentation reflects Singapore's meticulous approach to craft bartending.

2. Jigger & Pony

Cozy, dimly lit bar with cushy velvet seating and amber lighting. A stocked bar counter is in the background, exuding a warm ambiance. — Jigger & Pony

Currently ranked No. 5 on The World's 50 Best Bars list, Jigger & Pony represents Singapore's cocktail excellence on the global stage. What I appreciate most is how they've maintained their boutique feel despite international acclaim. Their inventive drinks program continues to evolve, and their bartenders consistently rank among the best I've encountered. The sophisticated atmosphere makes it perfect for both casual drinks and special occasions.

3. 28 HongKong Street

Dimly lit bar with shelves full of various liquor bottles, amber tones, reflective surfaces, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. — 28 HongKong Street

One of my favorite spots to take visitors during our street food and night tours is this pioneering speakeasy that helped establish Singapore's cocktail credibility. Hidden behind an unassuming 1960s shophouse façade, 28 HongKong Street remains Singapore's best-known cocktail venue and continues to be one of the most awarded bars in Asia. I love how they've maintained their mystique despite their reputation.

4. Manhattan

Elegant bar interior with brown leather seating, dim lighting, and a ceiling with geometric patterns. Central bar with bottles. Cozy ambiance. — Manhattan Bar

When I'm looking to impress visitors with Singapore's cosmopolitan side, Manhattan at Regent Singapore never disappoints. Their barrel-aged cocktails are exceptional, and the venue's New York-inspired glamour offers a perfect backdrop for sophisticated evening conversations. The ingredients library and in-house rickhouse demonstrate their commitment to craft.

5. CÉ LA VI

Rooftop bar with red umbrellas, wicker seating, and tables under a twilight sky. City skyline with skyscrapers in the background. Relaxed mood. — Ce La Vi

Perched atop Marina Bay Sands, CÉ LA VI combines stunning views, excellent cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere. I've spent countless evenings here watching the sunset transform into the spectacular Garden Rhapsody light show at Gardens by the Bay. The fusion of Asian-inspired cocktails perfectly complements the panoramic city views.

6. Mr. Stork

Rooftop bar at sunset with two bartenders serving. Ocean view, wooden tables, chairs, umbrellas. Warm lighting creates a relaxed ambiance. — Mr. Stork

Located on the 39th floor of Andaz Singapore, Mr. Stork offers a unique rooftop experience with its teepee huts and circular pathway designed for strolling. Their botanical cocktails showcase local ingredients, and the 360-degree views of Singapore's skyline make it one of my favorite places to begin an evening of nightlife in Singapore.

7. Lion Brewery Co

Bartender pours beer while a woman smiles at a lively bar. People gather in the background. Warm lighting and exit sign visible. — Lion Brewery Co Tapbar

As an avid supporter of local businesses, I'm particularly fond of Lion Brewery Co's efforts to revive Singapore's brewing heritage. Their taproom in the CBD allows visitors to witness the brewing process while enjoying their impressive selection of 25 craft beers on tap. The pool table and live sports screenings make it a perfect afternoon hangout before transitioning to evening explorations.

8. The Autobus

People chatting and dining in a bustling bar with a long tap wall and menu boards, creating a lively atmosphere. Natural light filters in. — The Autobus

When visitors ask me for recommendations that combine great beer with healthy food options, Autobus is my go-to suggestion. Located in OUE Downtown, their extensive craft beer selection paired with nutritious lunch bowls provides a perfectly balanced experience—something increasingly important in Singapore's wellness-conscious drinking scene.

9. Black Tap

Modern restaurant interior with geometric glass ceiling, black and wood decor, and tables set with condiments and bottles. Bright, open atmosphere. — Black Tap

For the classic combination of burgers and beer, I frequently recommend Black Tap at Marina Bay Sands. Their impressive selection of craft beers on tap complements their indulgent burgers perfectly. It's an ideal spot to fuel up before exploring more of what nightlife in Singapore has to offer.

10. Cat Bite Club

Cozy, dimly-lit bar interior with high tables and stools, long wooden bar counter, and shelves of various liquor bottles. Warm ambiance. — Cat Bite Club

One of Singapore's newer additions to the cocktail scene that I'm eager to introduce to visitors on our street food and night tours. This feline-themed speakeasy combines playful décor with serious cocktail craftsmanship. Their signature drinks incorporate unexpected local ingredients that provide visitors with a taste of Singapore's creative mixology.

11. The Elephant Room

Bar interior with wooden stools and a stocked backlit shelf. Two blurred bartenders mix drinks. A chalkboard reads, "You are only as good as the last drink you serve." — The Elephant Room

I love bringing guests here to experience cocktails inspired by Little India's vibrant culture and ingredients. Each drink tells a story of Singapore's Indian heritage through carefully sourced spices, fruits, and spirits. The intimate space encourages conversation with the bartenders, who passionately explain the cultural significance behind each creation.

12. Live Twice

Warm, wooden bar interior with a stocked shelf of bottles and glasses. Soft, yellow grid lights enhance the cozy, modern ambiance. — Live Twice

Inspired by mid-century modern Japanese aesthetics, Live Twice offers what I consider the perfect balance of minimalism and warmth. Their precision in classic cocktail execution is unmatched in Singapore, particularly their Vesper martinis. The bar's intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for meaningful conversations or quiet contemplation.

13. Studio 1939

Cozy bar with dim lighting, red chairs, wooden tables, and decorative shelves filled with bottles. Warm ambiance with modern lamps. — Studio 1939

Behind this multi-concept space's distinctive façade lies Studio 1939, a hidden rooftop bar that I frequently recommend to visitors seeking an authentic taste of Singapore's creative cocktail culture. Their tropical-inspired drinks feature Southeast Asian ingredients in surprising combinations. The lush greenery and quirky design elements create an atmosphere unlike any other in the city.

14. LeVeL33

Busy rooftop bar with city skyline view, people socializing and ordering drinks, warm lighting, wooden and copper decor create a vibrant mood. — LeVeL33

As the world's highest urban microbrewery, LeVeL33 combines spectacular views with exceptional craft beer. I particularly enjoy explaining their brewing process to visitors while sampling their beer paddle flight. The contemporary copper brewing kettles make for great conversation pieces, and their beer-infused cocktails offer an interesting hybrid for those torn between craft beer and mixology.

15. Altro Zafferano Italian Restaurant

Modern restaurant interior with elegant brown chairs and set tables. Large windows offer a view of greenery. Warm lighting creates a cozy ambiance. — Altro Zafferano

Offering breathtaking views from the 43rd floor of Ocean Financial Centre, Zafferano combines Italian culinary excellence with a sophisticated cocktail program. I often recommend their terrace for sunset drinks before dinner, as the panoramic views of Marina Bay provide a spectacular backdrop for evening cocktails.

16. Vue

A luxurious restaurant interior with elegant tables, orange lighting, and large windows showcasing a city skyline at dusk. Mood is sophisticated. — Vue

Perched atop OUE Bayfront, Vue offers one of my favorite views of Marina Bay. Their focus on rare spirits, particularly their extensive whisky collection, makes it a must-visit for connoisseurs. I particularly appreciate their binchotan grill food pairing suggestions, which complement their spirit-forward cocktails perfectly.

Exploring Singapore's Bar Scene

Singapore's compact size makes it entirely possible to visit several of these establishments in one evening, especially since many are clustered in neighborhoods like Tanjong Pagar, Marina Bay, and Chinatown. For first-time visitors, I highly recommend joining our street food and night tours to get oriented before venturing out independently.

What makes Singapore's bar scene truly special is the diversity of experiences available within such a small geographic area. From world-class cocktail bars to hidden speakeasies, from spectacular rooftop venues to homegrown craft breweries, Singapore offers an impressive range of drinking establishments that cater to every preference and occasion.

As someone who regularly guides visitors through the vibrant nightlife in Singapore, I can attest that the city's drinking culture represents a perfect blend of international influences and local innovation. So whether you're a serious cocktail enthusiast or simply looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing, Singapore's bar scene has something special waiting for you. Cheers to your Singapore bar adventure!