Singapore’s vibrant nightlife offers something for every kind of drink enthusiast. From inventive mixology to luxurious lounges, the best cocktail bars in Singapore are destinations where creativity and atmosphere meet. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a devoted cocktail lover, discovering these bars allows you to enjoy the city’s unique flavors and elegant ambiance. For those drawn to secretive and intimate settings, check out hidden speakeasy bars that offer not just drinks but an experience full of charm and intrigue.
With so many options, it can be hard to decide where to start. Below, we summarize the top spots to visit before diving deeper into what makes Singapore’s cocktail scene truly exceptional.
Singapore’s Best Cocktail Bars at a Glance
Singapore has cocktail bars to suit every mood, from rooftop views to hidden lounges. Here’s a quick look at some must-visit venues:
- 1-Altitude – Enjoy panoramic city views and classic cocktails.
- Ce La Vi – Luxurious rooftop with inventive drinks.
- Atlas Bar – Iconic venue with grand Art Deco design and premium spirits.
- Manhattan – Known for Old World glamour and award-winning cocktails.
- Jigger & Pony – A local favorite with consistently creative offerings.
- Employees Only – Hidden speakeasy with an intimate vibe.
- Operation Dagger – Innovative cocktails with experimental flavors.
- Nutmeg & Clove – Tucked-away gem mixing local ingredients in creative drinks.
These selections provide a variety of experiences that showcase why the best cocktail bars in Singapore continue to attract locals and tourists alike.
The Best Cocktail Bars in Singapore for Every Mood
Singapore’s cocktail scene is incredibly diverse. Whether you prefer luxurious settings or smaller, more experimental spaces, these bars offer unforgettable experiences.
Rooftop Bars with Stunning Views
Rooftop bars provide not only great drinks but also breathtaking city skyline views.
- 1-Altitude features a multi-level terrace and rooftop dining, offering a wide selection of cocktails perfect for watching the sunset over the city. Its lively atmosphere often includes live DJs and events, making it a hotspot for both locals and tourists.
- Ce La Vi, atop Marina Bay Sands, combines contemporary design with innovative drinks, including signature cocktails inspired by Asian flavors. Guests can enjoy sweeping skyline views while sipping on expertly crafted beverages in a chic, modern setting.
- Level33, located at the Marina Bay Financial Centre, is the world’s highest urban microbrewery, pairing craft beers with cocktails and panoramic harbor views. The venue also offers seasonal menus and small bites, perfect for a relaxing evening above the city.
Sip a handcrafted drink while enjoying the city at one of the best rooftop bars, where every visit feels special and memorable.
Iconic Cocktail Bars That Shaped the Scene
Some bars have earned global recognition and helped define Singapore’s cocktail reputation.
- Atlas Bar impresses with its grand Art Deco interiors, one of the world’s largest gin collections, and expertly crafted classic cocktails. Its opulent design and luxurious atmosphere make it a destination for both casual visitors and cocktail connoisseurs.
- Manhattan delivers cocktails inspired by the golden age of New York mixology, with precise technique and elegant presentation. The bar also offers a refined dining menu, making it ideal for an evening of sophistication and indulgence.
- Jigger & Pony blends tradition with creativity, offering cocktails that often feature local ingredients for a unique Singaporean twist. Its approachable yet stylish setting makes it perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned cocktail lovers.
These venues not only serve exquisite drinks but also provide insight into Singapore’s rich bar culture.
Neighborhood Gems and Hidden Lounges
For a more intimate experience, Singapore’s neighborhoods host hidden bars that combine creativity and charm.
- Employees Only is a speakeasy-style venue offering a cozy environment, inventive cocktails, and a menu that changes with seasonal ingredients. Its unique mixology approach and warm, inviting vibe make it a favorite among locals and visitors looking for something off the beaten path.
- Operation Dagger focuses on experimental drinks using local flavors such as pandan and calamansi, with artistic presentations that surprise the senses. The bar’s minimalistic décor contrasts with its bold, imaginative cocktails, creating a memorable experience.
- Nutmeg & Clove, tucked away in Chinatown, crafts artisanal cocktails that feel personalized, often incorporating herbs and spices to create distinctive flavor profiles. The intimate setting and attention to detail ensure each visit feels like a special occasion.
Discovering these hidden gems allows visitors to experience the best cocktail bars in Singapore beyond the main districts, offering unique flavors and atmospheres.
Where to Find the Best Cocktail Bars in Singapore
Singapore’s bars are spread across vibrant districts and quiet neighborhoods, giving visitors plenty of options.
Clarke Quay and the Central District
Clarke Quay is a hub of riverside nightlife. Here, live music, energetic crowds, and a variety of bars create a lively environment. If you’re planning a night out by the river, explore the bars in Clarke Quay for endless cocktail options and vibrant energy. Walking along the quay, you’ll find both casual lounges and sophisticated venues, each pairing unique drinks with dynamic surroundings.
Events Celebrating Singapore’s Cocktail Culture
Singapore’s cocktail culture is celebrated in annual festivals, offering a glimpse into the city’s innovative mixology.
- The Singapore Cocktail Festival features workshops, tasting sessions, and pop-ups hosted by top bars, including some of the venues mentioned above. Visitors can try exclusive drinks and meet the talented mixologists behind them. The festival also highlights some of the best cocktail bars in Singapore through collaborative events and curated experiences.
Enjoy the Best Cocktail Bars in Singapore Yourself
Singapore’s cocktail culture blends elegance, creativity, and local flavor, ensuring every visit is memorable. Whether you’re enjoying a sunset at a rooftop bar, discovering a hidden speakeasy, or attending a lively festival, the city offers something for every taste and style.
For official updates on nightlife, events, and recommendations, the Singapore Tourism Board provides trusted information to help plan your nights out. By exploring these bars and participating in local events, you can enjoy some of the most exceptional cocktails Asia has to offer while experiencing the charm and energy of Singapore’s neighborhoods. With so many options, your nights in the city can be as dynamic or intimate as you like. The best cocktail bars in Singapore continue to push boundaries in flavor, presentation, and atmosphere, ensuring that every visit is unique and unforgettable.
