Now that everyone’s home, most bars in Singapore have had no choice but to close temporarily. But, just because their shutters are down doesn’t mean their cellar doors and alcohol cabinets are closed.

These bars in Singapore are all ready to send over some of their cocktails to your doorstep for those nights when you just want to loosen up a little. Even if you’re not feeling wound up, these cocktails would make great additions to any intimate family celebrations at home.

We’ve rounded up 18 bars in Singapore that are delivering their cocktails islandwide during the circuit breaker!

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ATLAS

- Their Home Cocktail Sets feature a range of fine spirits and their classic cocktails.
- Free delivery for orders above S$100
- Order here

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EMPLOYEES ONLY

- Cocktails are sold in 350ml or 700ml bottles
- Bottled cocktails and cocktail packages available
- Order here

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FUNG KEE HOTDOGS

- Offering a promotional Organic Gin and Tonic set (S$108) with free delivery
- Islandwide delivery service within 1 hour
- WhatsApp +65 9838 0436 to order

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KIKI’S RESERVE

- Min. order of S$50 for islandwide delivery
- Free delivery for orders above S$150
- Order here

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JEKYLL & HYDE

- Weekly deliveries on Friday
- Cocktail menu changes every week
- Order by Thursday noon
- Minimum order of S$80 for free islandwide delivery
- Order here

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JIGGER & PONY

- Free islandwide delivery for orders that hit S$150
- Otherwise, delivery charge of S$15 applies
- Order here

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MANHATTAN

- Minimum order of S$30 for delivery
- Free delivery for orders above S$100
- Order here

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NATIVE BAR

- Bottled cocktail line-up features four signature drinks — Hibiscus, Peranakan, Forager’s Garden and Pineapple Arrack
- Free islandwide delivery
- Order here: https://www.tribenative.shop/

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NUTMEG & CLOVE

- Menu includes Chrissy Negroni and Smoky Rum Old-Fashioned
- Free delivery for a minimum order of S$80 nett
- Whatsapp + 8245 9262 to order

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OPERATION DAGGER

- Free standard delivery for orders above S$100
- Otherwise, fixed delivery fee of S$12 applies
- Order here

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PAPI’S TACOS

- Pre-mix margaritas in 1-litre bottles available
- Prices start from S$60+
- Order here

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POTATO HEAD FOLK

- Bottled cocktails (S$69+) available in 3 flavours — Sangria, Gingerly and Island In The Sun
- Each bottle can serve 6 to 8 pax.
- Islandwide delivery via Deliveroo
- Flat delivery fee of S$5 with a minimum order of S$50

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SHIN GI TAI

- Each cocktail contains about 50ml – 75ml.
- The 300ml bottle is equivalent to approximately 4 cocktails and the 500ml bottle is equivalent to approximately 7 cocktails.
- Mon to Sat: 12pm – 10pm
- Order here

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SUNDAY PUNCH

- Bottled cocktails come in 200ml and 500ml
- Flavours range from grapefruit vodkas to Negroni-style cocktails
- Order here

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THE ELEPHANT ROOM

- No minimum order for alcohol
- Free islandwide delivery
- Orders open from 12pm – 9pm daily
- Order here

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THE OLD MAN

- Menu features seven signature experimental cocktails
- Hard liquors are available in 750ml bottles
- Order here

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THE SECRET MERMAID

- Each serving of cocktail is good for 2 pax.
- Delivery charge of S$15
- Daily: 4pm – 12am
- Order here

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TIPPLING CLUB

- Islandwide delivery for orders within a 3km radius of Tippling Club
- Flat delivery fee of S$10 for orders beyond the 3km radius
- Order here

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.

Very often, we are strapped of choices when it comes to dining at tourists’ attractions. The restaurants are either too expensive, or the food just isn’t good altogether. Sometimes, they are not family-friendly, and kids have nothing suitable to eat. But being here in Singapore means we do not have to worry about all that, because we have trusty establishments to always bring the bests to us.

The newly opened PISCO South American Kitchen & Bar at Resorts World Sentosa is one that has made it to our chart of best family-friendly restaurants. Managed by Deliciae Hospitality Management in partnership with Resorts World Sentosa, this 76-seat outlet sits in the heart of the Integrated Resort.

Dishing out quality South American food, PISCO resembles a carnival – the happy colours of the interior and furnishing make it a joy to dine at, and has an extensive menu that is sure to whet everyone’s appetite. Here are some of their signatures, and our favourites from the menu.

PISCO features traditional dishes from Peru, Chile, and other countries in the South American continent, and the menu is divided into several categories: Bocadillos (homemade light snacks), Ceviches, Los Pinchos (grilled skewers), A La Parrilla (the grill), and Postres (desserts). In short, expect a good mix of dishes with a melange of textures, colours and flavours influenced by the Native American cuisine.

With so many dishes on PISCO’s menu, you should certainly pace yourself so that you can try a bit of everything.

Start off with snacks like Nachos (S$11) with spicy guacamole, and Empanadas (S$14) – minced beef in corn dough parcels. We would also suggest going for the Quesadillas (S$9.50 for 2 pcs), tortilla of manchego cheese that is simply done, and a great way to kick start your meal. Oh, if you are up for trying something different, go for the Arepas Venzolanas (S$13 – S$15) – Venezuelan sandwiches made of corn flat bread filled with toppings like shredded beef, black beans and corn.

Having a cocktail (or two) is the best way to enjoy the snacks. Pisco is the national drink for Peruvians, and with this, the drinks to order at PISCO is its variety of pisco cocktails – like Cocoloco Flip, Negroni Pisco, and the iconic Pisco Sour – which gives the restaurant its name. Besides pisco cocktails, the bar also offers delicious daiquiris, margaritas and mojitos in exhilarating variations. On Thursday to Saturday nights, you can enjoy the cocktails while listening to music from a live band.

Ceviches, for the uninitiated, are chilled seafood dishes. They are hugely popular, and is considered one of the staples in South American cuisine. Made from raw fish marinated in a tangy citrus juice, and spiced with chilli peppers, ceviches are as appetising as they look. PISCO offers six different variations; each with something to offer.

Amongst the ones that we have tried, we love the Gambas (S$13) – prawns dunked with mixed citrus fruits- and the result is a refreshing and tantalising combination of freshness and tanginess. The other noteworthy ceviche is Conchas Borrachas (S$15) – sea scallops drowned with Pisco and passionfruit sauce. This is another great example of how a simple dish done well can be so addictive. Octopus lovers must not miss out on the Pulpo (S$13) – octopus in olive oil and capers sauce.

Served with three sauces – mint salsa, salsa criolla, and amarillo chili – the grilled kebabs is the star of PISCO, and a meal here would not be complete without at least a serving of these perfectly grilled meat that come hanging gloriously on shiny metal skewers.

The meat options include Chicken Thigh (S$13), Pork Belly (S$14), Lamb Shoulder (S$18), and Beef Ribeye (S$23). There are also seafood choices such as Squid (S$15), Salmon (S$16), Seabass (S$17), and Octopus (S$23). The easiest way is to go for a combo (S$45++) – which gives you one meat, one seafood, and one vegetarian kebab.

The Chicken Thigh was succulent and juicy, and the Pork Belly proved to be even better. We were also impressed by how the Salmon was grilled to a perfect texture with the fish’s moisture retained. But the limelight was stolen by the Beef Ribeye – well-marinated and every bite tasted like heaven.

If you are with a big group, order the mains from the grill. Grilled Ribeye Steak (S$39), Whole Red Snapper (S$30) cooked in banana leaves, and Grilled Lamb Chop (S$24) are some satisfying options to fill your tummies.

To complete your meal, well, it has got to be desserts. And while the list may not be longer than your typical algebra equation, every one weighs a significant impact. If there could only be one pick, we’d say go for the Churros (S$9). Fans of Sabio Spanish Tapas Bar will be delighted to know that this is the exact same recipe, the legendary recipe that we might just proclaim it to be the best in Singapore.

Another pleasing dessert is the Encenelado de Pisco – a cake with pisco and cinnamon syrup baked to a sponge-like texture. It sounds more than simple and less than impressive, but it ticked all the right boxes. Else, the adventurous ones can try the Spicy Rice Pudding (S$9), which gives your palate a punch with its dimensional flavours.

PISCO has an excellent value-for-money set lunch available daily from 11.30am – 3pm. For S$18++, it comes with a soup of the day or Quesadillas, a Chicken/Salmon skewer, and steamed olive rice or grilled corn. There is an option of adding S$5 for the to-die-for churros.

‘Like’ PISCO on facebook for more updates. See you there!

PISCO South American Kitchen & Bar
26 Sentosa Gateway, The Forum #01-231/232
Resorts World Sentosa Singapore
Tel: +65 6795 4720
Sun to Wed: 11.30am – 12 midnight
Thu to Sat: 11.30am – 1am
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

This post is brought to you by PISCO.

A classic cocktail is defined as a cocktail that originated before the end of Prohibition in the United States in 1934. As with most cocktails, the origins are hazy, and many (recipes) have since evolved over the years with each bartenders’ rendition. One thing remains: the most important factor of a classic cocktail is quality.

Have you ever thought about what goes into that drink in your hand? What defines a classic cocktail? How do you differentiate a classic cocktail from cocktails?

This beginners guide to classic cocktails explains some of the most classic cocktails from six main spirits—brandy, gin, rum, tequila, vodka and whiskey.

Brandy

One of the most classic brandy cocktails is the Sidecar. Making its way into some of the most posh watering holes of London and Paris in the 1920s, this enticing mix of brandy, orange liqueur and a dabble of lemon juice is simply structured but complex enough to liberate jaded palates. Other variations include adding aged rum or green Chartreuse to the recipe.

Gin

“Shaken, not stirred.” James Bond has made martinis famous with his catchphrase when ordering a Vesper martini. The most classic gin cocktail is a martini—made with gin and vermouth, garnished with an olive or a twist of lemon. First concocted back in the early 1910s, the ease of manufacturing gin led to the rise of the martini as a predominant cocktail in the mid 20th century.

Rum

A common classic rum cocktail, the mojito requires five ingredients: white rum, sugar (or simple syrup), lime juice, soda water and mint. The combination results in a refreshing, citrusy sweetness that complements the sharp acidity of rum. Countless variations of the mojito make it difficult to accurately trace back its roots, but the early 19th century sees similarities in one of the world’s oldest cocktails El Draque—using wine in place of rum.

Tequila

One of world’s most popular cocktails, a margarita (tequila, triple sec and lime juice) is so simple to make, it’s practically impossible to screw up. All ingredients are added into a shaker and filled with ice before being shaken and strained into a cocktail glass rimmed with salt. While the moniker was first made known in the late 1940s by socialite Margarita Sames, its concoction has been dated prior.

Feverishly sprouting up around the island are cocktails bars dotting the nightlife scene. But what’s hot and what’s not? Here’s our pick of 5 hot new bars in Singapore that up the ante.

Vodka

Having been consumed for over 600 years in Eastern and Northern Europe, the history of classic vodka cocktails (or rather, the lack of one) stretches back a century or more to the early 20th century. An unstoppable classic vodka cocktail, Balalaika has a relatively strong taste of alcohol that may seem harsh at first, but gradually blossoms into a refreshing and tart drink. All it takes is vodka, triple sec and lemon juice—three simple ingredients for this lethal concoction.

Whisky

The early 1800s called upon the (very first) cocktail as “hair of the dog”—consisting of water, sugar and bitters. The term “old fashioned” was used loosely in the late 19th century to describe the old fashioned way of making a cocktail—choice of spirit, sugar and a dash of bitters. One of the early common spirits, bourbon (a type of American whiskey) was widely used in cocktails. Put two and two together, and the Old Fashioned was born. There’s a reason it’s called an ‘Old Fashioned’.

About the writer
Mandy Lynn is a former I-S Magazine nightlife writer and current editor of Nookmag; her dining and nightlife features have been published in Appetite Asia and Catalog Magazine. For on-the-go food recommendations, follow her on Instagram and Facebook, or join her on a Gourmet Adventure.