Located in far-flung Punggol East lies a hip foodie enclave formed entirely out of containers that are used to house interesting bars and bistros. Each of the seven container-restaurants you can find there boasts its own type of speciality cuisine.

Whether its crispy fish and crisps you are craving for, a good ol’ BBQ stingray or even Korean fried chicken, there is bound to be something that will tempt your taste buds over at the Punggol East Container Park.

For all of you BTO-dwellers living at the far end of Punggol, here is a list of what you can expect at Punggol East Container Park.

#1 BIG FISH SMALL FISH

Big Fish Small Fish is a humble eatery that serves up a tantalising array of fish and crisps—that’s right, crisps, not chips—that come with free-flow sauces such as cheese, curry mayo, XO mayo, tartar and more!

Choose from five different types of fish such as Dory, Tilapia, Sea Bass, Salmon and Arrow Tooth Flounder—all of which are reasonably priced.

50 Punggol East, #01-K35,
Singapore 828826
Tel: +65 9438 7623
Sun to Thu: 12pm – 12am
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Punggol

#2 BOOST @ BANKS

After a meal at either one of the container-restaurants nearby pop over to Boost @ Banks, a watering hole that doubles up as an electronic darts joint as well. Have yourself a good time with your pals as you sip on a pint of beer and possibly score some bullseyes while you’re at it.

Some of the beer choices you can get at Boost @ Banks include popular favourites such as Stella Artois, Hoegaarden and Heineken.

50 Punggol East #01-K33
Singapore 828826
Sun to Thu: 3pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 3pm – 2am
Nearest Station: Punggol

#3 D’GRILL

At first glance, the name might make you think of a meat-driven grill house but contrary to our initial assumption, D’Grill actually specialises in zi char fare—with a twist of course. Expect a variety of hotplate dishes from stingray to squid—all slathered in piping hot sambal sauce—and even some never-before-seen innovations such as their Hot Plate Pasta.

They also whip up a pretty satisfying chendol dessert that we assume would be perfect for rounding off the fiery meal.

50 Punggol East #01-K38
Singapore 828826
Tel: +65 9670 9279
Sun to Thu: 4.30pm – 12am
Fri & Sat: 4.30pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Punggol

#4 L’CHAIM BISTRO

If you are desperately in need of a substantial meal, then perhaps L’Chaim Bistro is not the ideal place to go to given that they only have a limited range of finger foods available.

If, however, all you want is a beer to cool off from the sweltering heat, then you will be happy to know that they carry a pretty impressive range of craft beers on tap in the likes of Bohemian Lager, Summer IPA and more.

50 Punggol East #01-K37
Singapore 828826
Daily: 5pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Punggol

#5 MIAMI BISTRO

The one thing that makes Miami Bistro stand out (apart from its Miami-themed interior) is its excellent service.

Besides serving up an array of delicious food—ranging from grilled dishes to bentos—and affordable tipples, you would be most impressed by how attentive the wait staff are and the conscious effort made by the owners to check up on customers from time to time.

50 Punggol East #01-K34,
Singapore 828824
Tel: +65 9005 9381
Nearest Station: Punggol

#6 PUMP STATION 1965 BAR & BISTRO

The second F&B venture for Macs Fong, an ex-convict-turned-restaurateur, Pump Station 1965 Bar & Bistro is a bar-restaurant modelled to look like a gas station.

This retro joint dishes out an eclectic menu of mains and tapas with a hodgepodge of local, Thai, Chinese and Japanese influences. Savour their best-sellers such as their Pump Grilled Chicken or their Smoked Duck Aglio Olio.

50 Punggol East #01-K32
Singapore 828826
Tel: +65 9459 7703
Mon to Sat: 5pm – 1am
Sun: 3pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Punggol

#7 SEOUL GOOD

Specialising in all things Korean, this humble establishment takes pride in keeping things a hundred percent authentic—all their ingredients and products are shipped directly from Korea.

If you are yearning for something sweet, sticky and fried, we suggest going for their Korean fried chicken. Boasting sweet-savoury qualities, this bar snack is best washed down with an ice-cold beer— or even a bingsu for those of you who are not so keen on alcohol.

50 Punggol East #01-K36
Singapore 828826
Sun – Thu: 12pm – 10pm
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Punggol

There’s always a reason to drink (alcohol): hectic schedules, never-ending deadlines, overbearing workloads, overbearing bosses. Another reason? Shopping in town all day is hard work. We’re here to make it easier.

Forget cafés. Let’s get you properly acquainted with the (right) alcoholic libations. Here are 5 bars in Orchard Road to go for drinks after your shopping spree.

#1 ELIXIR BAR AT KUVO

Tucked away on the second level of Orchard Shopping Centre is a sleek new outpost (of a 40-seater bar) waiting to be unearthed. Japanese head bartender, Yukata Nakashima, runs the show at Kuvo, and ‘bespoke cocktails’ is the name of the game. Send your cocktail preferences his way and leave fate to abate your (alcoholic) cravings.

Adventurous drinkers, this spot will light your fire. A preposterous concoction that tastes uncannily like assam laksa arrives in the form of Auchentoshan 12 year old, garam masala and calamansi. It’s sour, savory and bittersweet with a tinge of exotic spice. Oh, and sidebar; there’s an option for a prawn noodle cocktail—who says you can drink your dinner?

If you’re leaving it to the bartender’s fancy, bespoke concoctions run along the path with concoctions like tequila-based beauty of Don Julio Blanco, Sambuca, martini rosso, Fernet Branca and Nikka-infused coffee beans that births a perfumed, bittersweet palate.

It’s safe to assume that your pre-dinner drinking is in capable hands.

321 Orchard Road
#02-01 Orchard Shopping Centre
Singapore 238866
Tel: +65 6733 8272
Sun to Thu: 12pm to 1am
Fri to Sat: 12pm to 2am
Nearest Station: Somerset

#2 JIBIRU CRAFT BEER BAR

This is where you and 10 like-minded beer appreciators will go to take command of the bar, and focus on what’s important. Things with the words “ale” and “lager”. Because those are the things that they excel at here, alongside some pretty darn good yakitori to prep your stomach for a boozy night. We reckon the Hibiki set (S$36.50 for 12 skewers) will set you straight.

If you’re new to beer, opt for the tasting flights (S$18) where you’ll get a tasting portion of four of their rotating draft beers, explained to you in great detail—these guys sure know their stuff—before proceeding to drown your short-lived beer education.

Do so with Kinshachi red miso lager Nagoya (S$13.90) that’s got minimal head (if that rocks your boat), malty caramel tones, and hoppy bitterness with a mild miso twist, or Owa beer (S$13.50)—a Belgian style pale ale with robust notes of toffee, dark malt, earth and spice. There’s also a range of Hitachino beers catered for easy drinking—we’ve got our vote on the refreshingly malty Saison Du (S$12.90) and hoppy, bittersweet lager (S$13.90). Yes, lager. Like we said, we focus on what’s important.

313 Orchard Road
#01-26 313@Somerset
Singapore 238895
Tel: +65 6732 6884
Mon to Thu: 11:30am to 11pm
Fri to Sat: 11:30am to 1am
Sun: 11:30am to 11pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

#3 MANHATTAN BAR

This sleek, dark and sexy bar is exactly the kind of place where you’ll refuse to call it a night, which would be for the best, since your refusal will be met with a number of discreetly potent cocktails. Or you could give them a wild-card route (layman’s term: bespoke)—tell them your poison of choice, serving style and whatever preferences pop into your head, and watch them do their magic.

Things you cannot do without: a solera-aged negroni (S$25) and single-cask cocktail (S$25) from their rickhouse; which happens to be the world’s first in-hotel rickhouse—an interesting piece of information you can boast to your date. You can thank us later.

If you’re not (seated) by the bar, sink yourself deep into one of their plush couch seats and decide between an Avaition (S$23) made with Citadelle gin, or Penicillin (S$23) with Monkey Shoulder scotch—the former soft floral and herbaceous notes, the latter; a smoky upgrade of the classic whiskey sour with a twist of lemon and ginger. Those are the toughest decisions you should be making for the night.

1 Cuscaden Road
Regent Singapore
Singapore 249715
Tel: +65 6725 3377
Mon to Sun: 5pm to 1am
Nearest Station: Orchard

#4 THE HORSE’S MOUTH

You’ll come here for one of two reasons: to impress someone of your knowledge of the best well-hidden bar in Singapore, or to ensure your night ends well. Maybe both. Either way, you’ll be in the good hands of head bartender, Byron Tan. But before he leads you down the path of denial (of drunkenness), pad down your stomach with the Wagyu tongue with yuzu pepper (S$12) and braised duck breast (S$12) that’s so flavorfully delicious it makes you wonder if you might have accidentally walked into a restaurant.

Employing our favorite spirit, mezcal, is the Beetroot Bonanza (S$25) that simmers beetroot concentrate with chili tincture before combining it with green Chartreuse to emanate the sweetness and smokiness of chargrilled beetroot. Another remarkable ‘all-star’ is the Gentlemen’s Tip (S$25) where the malty smokiness of Monkey Shoulder meets Carpano Antica Formula’s herbaceous fruity sweetness, blended with oloroso and amontillado to birth a beautifully complex concoction that layers sweet, bitter and citrus notes. You’ll take to this like a fat kid to cake.

583 Orchard Road
Singapore 238884
Tel: +65 6235 1088
Mon to Thu: 6pm to 12am
Fri to Sat: 6pm to 1am
Nearest Station: Orchard

#5 5 ON EMERALD HILL

Possibly the oldest cocktail bar in Singapore, 5 on Emerald Hill has been taking residence in an old Peranakan-styled shop house near the outskirts of town since the early 1990s. The two-level bar exudes an air of nostalgia that envelops you into thinking you’re in the 1990s—think oak wood paneling, worn out furniture and walls covered in black and white pictures of customers and celebrities from that era.

Cocktails here won’t burn a hole in your wallet (prices start from S$15), but its No. 5 original chili vodka just might. Signature vodkas and gin infusions are featured in their house-signature martinis like the No. 5 dry gin martini (S$15) that leaves a lingering burning sensation reminiscent of chili padi, or Bangkok martini (S$15) where lemongrass, lime juice and Grey Goose coconut cream is infused with chili to exude a taste of Thailand. While cocktails here don’t veer too far off in imagination, its nostalgic aura easily transports you back to the 1990s. Sometimes, old is gold.

Let’s just call it the Ol’ 5.

5 Emerald Hill
Singapore 229289
Tel: +65 6732 0818
Mon to Thu: 12pm to 2am
Fri to Sat: 12pm to 3am
Sun: 5pm to 2am
Nearest Station: Somerset

Here is the Ultimate Orchard Road Food Guide - Top 95 Places to dine at Orchard Road, Somerset and Dhoby Ghaut.

About the writer
Mandy Lynn is a former I-S Magazine writer and current columnist at Nookmag; her dining and nightlife features are published in Men’s Folio, Singapore Tatler Dining and The Drinks Business, amongst others. For bite-sized food recommendations, follow her on Instagram and Facebook, or join her Gourmet Adventures to keep up with the latest dining and nightlife news.

One of best places for a fun night out in Singapore is Ann Siang Hill. With its innovative string of watering holes, one will never ever go thirsty here. From bars specializing in craft spirits to bespoke cocktails, Ann Siang Hill is where you’ll go to get to your ‘happy place’.

Here are the top 5 bars in Ann Siang Hill, Singapore.

B28

Stemmed from its discreet venue, B28 refers to the basement of 28 Ann Siang Hill. Sophisticated warm amber hues light up a narrow flight of stairs that lead to the basement, opening into a lounge filled with cream leather armchairs and shelves of rare single malt whiskies—there’s even small oak casks for barrel-aging. Adorning the walls are original jazz artworks and mahogany cupboards exclusively for members to store their spirits—all very gentlemen’s club-like.

Whiskey’s the name of the game, with B28 ringing them in. Offering over 200 whiskies—mostly exclusive single cask Scottish labels—including highly sought-after whiskies The Single Cask 1990 (S$58 per dram) that hides a smoky sweetness beneath hints of oak and spice, and mildly peaty The Single Cask 1984 (S$48 per dram) perfumed with orange and a tinge of nut and malt. If you’re in the mood to indulge, the incredibly smooth and spicy Macallan 1969 bottled by Duncan Taylor (S$800 per dram) is highly recommended. They’ve even got a 1965 Macallan by Carn Mor (est. S$8,000; price to be re-appraised)—one of the two last bottles in the world. Talk about exclusive.

Basement, 28 Ann Siang Hill
The Club Hotel
Tel: +65 9637 3545
Mon to Thu: 6pm to 2am
Fri to Sat: 8pm to 2am
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

LOLLA

Reincarnated after guerilla-style underground supper club, Lolla’s Secret Supper, founded in 2008 by co-owner Pang Hian Tee, Lolla encourages dining with strangers—its basement communal table seats 22—both individuals and large groups. Making it onto Zagat’s coveted list of 10 Hottest Restaurants in the World 2013, it’s a no-brainer that Lolla’s got impeccable taste, and rightfully so when it comes to champagnes.

The only champagne bar in Singapore, Lolla is an extension of Pang’s champagne distribution business, fronting a wine list of over 90 labels, including a list of rare champagnes exclusive to Lolla, such as the alluring Legras et Haas, Cuvee Exigence NV (S$228) that’s complex and luxuriously sophisticated on the palate, showcasing excellent finesse and balance between lightness and body. One of the best rose champagnes ever produced, Paul Bara, Grand Rose NV (S$188) is a Burgundy-style champagne that seduces with aromas of fresh strawberries and pepper before finishing with hints of baked pastry and candied cherries.

22 Ann Siang Hill
Tel: +65 6423 1228
Mon to Sat: 12pm to 2pm; 6pm to 11:45pm
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

MANOR BAR

Tucked away on level two of Gem Bar (take the flight of stairs to the right of the entrance), there are no signs to this secluded speakeasy—it’s for people in the know. Offering a list of bespoke cocktails specially crafted by former Bitters & Love head bartender, Din Hassan (who has since left the Manor Bar) and current head bartender, Alfee Zulkiflee, these boys have only one rule—keep the guests happy. Which isn’t difficult with a drinks list of over 40 artisanal whiskies and more than a dozen craft gins.

There are no bad cocktails here, so you’ll want to have one of everything. Each of these concoctions are crafted with thought-provoking detail—one can tell from the very first sip. An excellent choice is Asian inspired rum-based cocktail Nourishing Soup (S$20) that pairs Yellow Chartreuse with fresh lime juice to bring out distinct notes of violet and honey accented by star anise. For a multi-layered experience, The Curator (S$20) delicately balances nuances of caramel and burnt vanilla, against an oaky peatiness with subtle finishes of mint and citrus fruit. A piece of advice: eat something (lessens the next-day wallop).

2/F, 8 Ann Siang Hill
Tel: +65 9646 6160
Mon to Thu: 6pm to 1am
Fri to Sat: 6pm to 2am
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

NUTMEG & CLOVE

Paying homage to the rich history of Ann Siang Hill is Nutmeg & Clove, housed in a heritage building owned by one of Singapore’s oldest Cantonese clan associations. Fun fact: Ann Siang Hill used to be a nutmeg and clove plantation—hence its moniker. Featured widely in its menu are Asian flavors and spices, and of course, nutmeg and cloves. Inside, the bar resembles a traditional Chinese medicine shop with marked cabinets featuring bottles of craft spirits in place of Chinese herbs.

Pick your poison from the selection of curated cocktails by Marian Beke, renowned mixologist from the famed Nightjar in London that snagged the #3 spot on World’s 50 Best Bars 2014. Head bartender, Kae Yin, Asia Pacific’s World Class Bartender 2012, recently joined by Singapore World Class 2013 Finalist Bannie Kang run the ship, serving potent classic cocktails with a twist; barrel aged Singapura Sling (S$20) with bittersweet herbaceous notes of red dates and goji berries, and dirty Chinese martini (S$20) of gin, whiskey, vodka and dry vermouth, that’s bound to knock you off your feet.

17 Ann Siang Hill
Tel: +65 6423 9885
Tue to Sat: 5pm to 12am
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

OPERATION DAGGER

Probably the closest thing we’ve got to an old fashioned speakeasy is Operation Dagger. Don’t bother trying to find them online—they don’t dig mainstream social media—yep, it’s that cool. Even with an address, locating the bar is a task in itself. This under-the-radar speakeasy has no signs, so keep your eyes peeled for their logo scrawled on the wall. You’ll feel a little apprehensive—you should. Venture down a dark flight of steps and arrive at an open space with a smorgasbord of light bulbs dangling above. That’s when you’ll see the bar—and behind it, rows of brown glass bottles tagged with handwritten labels—you won’t recognize any; all their spirits are distilled in-house.

Just when you think this is as cool as it gets, head bartender Luke Whearty will whip out a stunning array of cocktails that’s a feast for the eyes, and your palate. Drink mulled wine (S$22). It’s good for you. Or at least, it’ll feel like it is. Warm, soothing and bittersweet with a hint of citrus and dried mandarin that will leave your insides feeling warm and fuzzy. Next, order an egg (S$25), where the yolks are vacuum-sealed overnight with dark rum and sugar before adding in house-made salted egg yolk liqueur and salted caramel, and smoked with star anise and toasted hay. Sweet, savory and salty (with a kick of alcohol)—just how we like our eggs done. You’ll want to bring your friends here—they’ll worship you for it. You can thank us later.

7 Ann Siang Hill
Tel: +65 9296 4704
Tue to Sat: 6pm to 12am
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

For more recommendations on the best bars in Singapore, read the following guides: Top 5 Bars at Tanjong Pagar || Top 5 Bars at Raffles Place || Top 5 Bars at Club Street.

Mandy Lynn is a former I-S Magazine writer and current columnist at Nookmag; her dining and nightlife features are published in Men’s Folio, Singapore Tatler Dining and The Drinks Business, amongst others. For bite-sized food recommendations, follow her on Instagram and Facebook, or join her Gourmet Adventures to keep up with the latest dining and nightlife news.

Home to the largest crowd of PMEBs, Raffles Place is one the most populated vicinities where corporates are constantly in need of after-work drinks. We’ve sussed out the best bars for your every need. So go on, eliminate your work blues and quell your thirst at these top five bars in Raffles Place.

AH SAM COLD DRINK STALL – BEST FOR STIFF TIPPLES

Ah yes, the stiff one; that liquid concoction one craves for ever so once in a while when the toil of work bares down on you—hard. Located along Boat Quay, Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall welcomes all who seeks a good tipple (or two) to lounge on level two as you take in tranquil views of the Singapore River.

Formerly of Jigger & Pony, owner-bartender Samuel Wong (better known as ‘Ah Sam’) helms the bar with Diplomatico World Tournament 2013 Singapore winner, Eugene Chua, to deliver classic-driven bespoke cocktails that are intoxicatingly potent—it seems they don’t hold back on tipping the bottle over (but we ain’t complaining). A saving grace that liberates one from the stress of work is Old Pal (S$20)—bringing together subtle bitter and herbaceous notes of Campari and dry vermouth, and the toasty nuttiness of rye whiskey. Disclaimer: if you’re a lightweight (drinker), this probably isn’t the place for you.

60A Boat Quay
Tel: +65 6535 0838
Mon to Thu: 6pm – 12am
Fri to Sat 6pm – 3am
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

FIVE BAR IZAKAYA – BEST FOR CHEAP DRINKS & LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

A common misconception: working in a corporate-driven environment (and dressing well) does not necessarily mean one earns more than average. If you’re looking for a watering hole that understands your needs; having a drink without burning a hole in the wallet, this is it. The extensive menu may cease to overwhelm—there’s 13 beers; bottled and on tap, and over 30 spirits available—even sake, wine and bubbly are not spared from the list.

Having said that, quantity does not truncate quality. Premium spirits such as Hendrick’s Gin, Macallan 18 years, Martell Cordon Bleu, Nikka From The Barrel, and The Glenlivet 18 years are also stocked at the bar. While that’s great, what really draws the crowd in are their prices—one of the lowest around. A glass (300ml) of Asahi Super Dry will set one back S$5, while a tower (3l) is priced at S$50. If beer’s not your thing, house pour reds, whites, and spirits are all priced at S$5 per glass. There’s also live music performances Monday to Friday from 7pm. Heads up: it gets busy from 6:30pm, so make your way down early.

16 Collyer Quay
Tel: +65 6536 8955
Mon to Thu: 1pm – 12am
Fri: 12pm – 2am
Sat: 6pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

COOK AND BREW – WINES OF THE WORLD BY WESTIN

Cook & Brew at The Westin Singapore opens for the whole day, making it the perfect location for all occasions. Drop by during your lunch hour for a casual and relaxing meal, or pop by in the middle of afternoon to grab a beer and some light snacks. In the evening, it is a lovely place to have some pre-dinner drinks with your colleagues or friends before treating yourself to a well-deserved dinner.

It has a beverage list that promises a mind-boggling range, from your favourite cocktails and mocktails to the many kinds of beers to drink the night away. The third is the ever-popular Wines of The World by Westin, and who can say no to that?

The Westin Singapore
33/F Asia Square Tower 2
12 Marina View
Tel: +65 6922 6948
Mon to Thu: 11am – 12midnight
Fri: 11am – 1am
Sat: 6pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Downtown/Marina Bay

THE BANK BAR – BEST FOR AFTER-WORK DRINKS

Located in close proximity to numerous banks, themed bar The Bank Bar exudes a chic and premium vibe with its lofty bar area and high ceiling, private cigar lounge and quality cuisine. Happy hour runs from 11am to 8pm daily, saving you an average of 20% off your bill. Its wide selection of drinks—ranging from beer, wines, spirits, liqueurs and cocktails, make it a great spot for after-work drinks. Great with beer are the chicken and prawns Shanghai dumplings ($15) and the prawn and mango spring rolls ($16) with mango chili sauce.

In line with its moniker, signature cocktails are quirkily named after financial terms like ‘offshore account’; a twist on the mojito by adding raspberries and citrus to the concoction, and ‘liquidated damages’, consisting of Rémy Martin VSOP, lemon juice and simple syrup—thankfully priced affordably (both $18) so your wallet won’t experience either. We especially enjoyed the G&T ($19) with a touch of mint and grapefruit for a bittersweet yet refreshing profile, as well as the sweet and citrusy smash and grab ($18)—a rum-based cocktail of muddled pineapple, Italian basil and lime.

1 Shenton Way, #01-01
One Shenton
Tel: +65 6636 2188
Mon to Tue: 8am – 12am
Wed: 8am – 1am
Thu: 8am – 12am
Fri: 8am – 1am
Sat to Sun: 9am – 12am
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

THE SECRET MERMAID – BEST FOR QUALITY AMERICAN SPIRITS

There is work. There is play. And occasionally, (well, more than occasionally, actually,) you find yourself in need of a place that can effortlessly blend these two realms. A place that lets you take respite from the hustle and bustle of work. Located in the heart of the CBD; a mere five-minute stroll from Raffles Place station, is The Secret Mermaid. There’s no wheel reinventing here—just a muted list of American classics with a twist.

Heading the bar is bartender Kevin Petrie, who designs a straightforward cocktail list to enhance the flavors of the spirit. Read: no fancy garnishes here. Reigning high on our list is the Negroni ($15) of Alaska fireweed vodka, Campari and Aperol with a hint of grapefruit, and our swear-by after-work mood-lifter tequila Old Fashioned ($12)—Sparkle Donkey Reposado tequila and a touch of basement bitters. Also available are tasting flights (from $15) that come in a set of three spirits (15ml each)—choose from bourbon, gin, rum, vodka, infused vodka, and whiskey.

The secret is out. We’ve found the best spot in the CBD for quality American spirits.

10 Collyer Quay, #B1-08
Ocean Financial Centre
Mon to Fri: 5pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

For more recommendations on the best bars in Singapore, read the following guides: Top 5 Bars at Tanjong Pagar || Top 5 Bars at Club Street || Top 5 Bars at Ann Siang Hill.

About the writer:
Mandy Lynn is a former I-S Magazine writer and current columnist at Nookmag; her dining and nightlife features are published in Appetite Asia, Food & Travel, and Singapore Tatler Dining. For bite-sized food recommendations, follow her on Instagram and Facebook, or join her Gourmet Adventures to keep up with the latest openings in the dining scene.

Beer? Checked. Meats and sausages? Checked. Pasta and local delights? Checked. Wines of The World? Checked.

That is Cook & Brew at The Westin Singapore for you. The comforting gastrobar is a star addition to our local dining scene, one that has earned our loyalty with its extensive menu and addictive relaxing vibe. The cosy interior furnished with oak browns and wood elements is very much like a typical German living room where you can enjoy your comfort food and chill out with friends and families. Over good beers too, of course. There is a whopping 104 beers from 18 countries to choose from!

Unpretentious. Fuss-free. Chic. Sexy.

We love the huge space so much, though not as much as the chef who has recently put together a spanking new menu that leaves us mind-boggled and spoilt for choice so completely. And how can we not shout about the unobstructed view of the Marina, again?

Cook & Brew at The Westin Singapore www.facebook.com/thewestinsingapore opens for the whole day, making it the perfect location for all occasions. Drop by during your lunch hour for a casual and relaxing meal, or pop by in the middle of afternoon to grab a beer and some light snacks. In the evening, it is a lovely place to have some pre-dinner drinks with your colleagues or friends before treating yourself to a well-deserved dinner.

Here, we share with you our picks from Cook & Brew’s current repertoire, and please do not leave without trying the German Platter. Yes, we mean it.

First, please do not be intimidated by the stack of menus. A total of three sacred booklets, we’d call them. The main menu is divided into several sections – snacks that are great with beers; appetisers to whet the appetite; comfort food like burger, banger & mash, and fish & chips; large plates that are good for sharing; pastas for a simple and fuss-free meal; local delights executed well; and desserts for sweet tooth lovers.

The second is a beverage list that promises a mind-boggling range, from your favourite cocktails and mocktails to the many kinds of beers to drink the night away. The third is the ever-popular Wines of The World by Westin, and who can say no to that?

So we shall kick start a good time with some hearty appetisers. Go for the Chilli Con Carne Volcano (S$13) – topped with cheddar cheese, this is best enjoyed with a pint of Pure Blonde beer. Eat it fresh and warm, and polish them off before the cheese gets hardened up!

One dish that we really love and will go back for is the Sushi Bowl (S$18). This is a modern take on the popular Chirashi-don, or you can think of it as a deconstructed sushi bowl. Served with BBQ salmon, egg roll, avocado, and wasabi mayonnaise, this is so much comfort in one simple and unassuming bowl.

If you are hanging out with your pals, get the wings to go along with beer. Shrimp Paste Chicken Wings (S$12), Double Crispy Wings with blue cheese (S$12), and Hot Spicy Wings (S$12). Warning: one serving is not enough!

Equally good is Cook & Brew’s Fried Chicken (S$27), which comes with an addictive wasabi mayonnaise dip. Wash everything down with a pint of Brew Dog Punk, IPA.

Cook & Brew also has several dishes that are ideal for a quick lunch. Get the Pulled Steak Sandwich (S$19) or the Steak & Egg (S$17). If not, the Farmer’s Omelette (S$14) is also a good option for those who just want something light. How very reasonably priced and we really love how dining at five-star hotels is becoming less intimidating with friendly outlets like Cook & Brew!

A good burger is one that brings utmost satisfaction, and it lingers on your mind and keeps you happy throughout the day. It is something that cannot go wrong, and something that we turn to whenever we want something familiar.

Cook & Brew’s Burger (S$23) is one such dish. Sandwiched between two pita bread, the beef patty is topped with melting cheddar, crispy pancetta bacon, fried onion rings and a fried egg. Not forgetting the freshly battered onion rings that were so addictive, we gobbled those before we attacked the burger itself.

And the star of the show has got to be the German Butcher Platter (S$34). One huge serving of kassler ribs, pork sausage, schnitzel, sauerkraut, pickles and mash. Everything was tantalisingly good, and we could only rub our tummies with happy sighs and relish the moments of savour. It is good for two as a main, and perfect as a side dish to share when dining with a huge party. Don’t forget your favourite beers when you pig out with this platter!

Now on to sweet endings. We cannot decide if we prefer the Cook & Brew Cheese Stick (S$15) or Hot Chocolate Brownie (S$15). The former features Philadelphia cheese, apple gel and Granny Smith apple sorbet, while the latter is a rendition that comes complete with dark cherry sauce and homemade vanilla ice cream. I guess we can always do with more than one dessert, yes?

Cook & Brew opens throughout the day and till late at night, so the next time you need an after dark outlet to unwind, you know where to head to!

Also open to corporate bookings and private parties, this is one good location to hold your events. Throw a birthday bash, do a corporate luncheon, celebrate your anniversary; however the nature of your events are, Cook & Brew’s events team will be happy to put together something for that special occasion. Direct your enquiries to cookandbrew.singapore@westin.com or call (65) 6922 6948 for more information.

For the latest updates, go to The Westin Singapore’s website, ‘like’ The Westin Singapore on facebook, and follow them on Instagram.

Cook & Brew
The Westin Singapore
33/F Asia Square Tower 2
12 Marina View
Tel: +65 6922 6948
Mon to Thu: 11am – 12midnight
Fri: 11am – 1am
Sat: 6pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Downtown/Marina Bay

This post is brought to you by The Westin Singapore.

What constitutes to a good bar? Great drinks, tasty snacks, a hideout where you can relax after a long day at work, and ideally, it should play nice music that make you feel at home. Gravity Bar at Carlton Hotel Singapore, one of our favourite secret hideouts in town, is one such place.

With many tempting promotions, chill at Gravity Bar and celebrate Happy Hour with drinks from opening to 8 pm daily. Selected house wines are available at attractive prices, including draft beer from $8++ per half pint, house pours, martinis and cocktails from $10++ (U.P. S$14 – S$16). If not, go for a sparkling wine cocktail party – it is only S$15++ per glass (U.P. S$22++). Just typing these make me crave for a booze and I am thankful Gravity Bar is so centrally located and convenient.

And what marries good drink best? Better snacks, of course! Munch on mini portobello mushrooms and the classic local chicken wings marinated with prawn paste. Cheese lovers will fall head over heels in love with the crispy nachos that is served with three types of cheeses. Another favourite is the cheese fries that is generously sprinkled with shredded seaweed.

Photos credit: Carlton Hotel Singapore

The other reason why we love Gravity Bar is its resident band Kirk & Marsha playing live music. Enjoy the band’s acoustic rendition of contemporary pop songs, oldies and ballads all night long from Mon to Thu 7.15am – 11.15pm; and Fri, Sat & eve of PH 7.15pm – 12 Midnight.

Whether it is having an apéritif before heading elsewhere for dinner, or chilling out with friends, Gravity Bar is a sophisticated and elegant space that is good for all occasions. With the ongoing Happy Hour promotions, there is no reason not to drop by Gravity Bar. See you there!

For more details, visit their website www.carltonhotel.sg/gravitybar.html and find Carlton Hotel Singapore’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CarltonHotelSG

Gravity Bar
Lobby, Carlton Hotel Singapore
76 Bras Basah Road
Tel: +65 6311 8839
Sun to Thu & PH: 5pm – 1am
Fri, Sat & Eve of PH: 3pm – 1am
Nearest Station: City Hall

This post is brought to you by Carlton Hotel Singapore.