Offering the absolute pinnacle in bespoke service as well as an amazing selection of wines rated RP90 and above, Park90 is a new wine bar at Regent Singapore which offers over 800 labels of fine wine.

Sharing the same space as Tea Lounge, the colonial lounge transforms to Park90 at 6pm, offering stellar vino and wine-drinking experiences unlike any other.

At Park90, it is much more than a wine bar. Led by Head Sommelier Mason Ng (previously from Les Amis & Atlas), guests will be well guided through the various collections on offer, from beautiful to the rare. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned connoisseur, there’s a bottle to suit all preferences and expectations.

Crafted specially to meet all the finest standards and expectations of wine lovers, the 40-seater wine bar will offer access to over 800 labels, primarily those which are rated RP90 and above by Robert Parker Wine Advocate—who, for the uninitiated, is the world’s most trusted authority in wine for over 30 years now, and a huge deal where fine wine is concerned.

In name, wine selection and branding, the Park90 concept is inspired by the world’s most influential buyer’s guide for fine wine, Robert Parker Wine Advocate. The key here is educating both novices and experts about the elegance that is fine wine, allowing people to truly enjoy a vino to the fullest.

Park90
1 Cuscaden Road Singapore 249715
Regent Singapore, A Four Seasons Hotel
Tel: +65 9749 7049 / +65 6725 3246
Daily: 6pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Orchard

Whether you’re looking to get a little tipsy in a social setting, have yourself a romantic evening with a date or simply take the edge off a rough day at work, there will always be bars in Singapore for you to wine and dine.

But as fancy and as occasional as the notion surrounding wine drinking is, it really is something that can be had as frequently as a beer—just with a higher alcohol percentage and served in spiffier-looking glassware.

Drinking lavishly does not have to come with a hefty price tag in Singapore, you just need to know where to look. Here is our guide on 9 cheap places to drink wine in Singapore.

Photo Credit: Mercure Singapore Bugis

BARTISTRY@ONE22

Right smack in the lobby of Mercure Singapore Bugis, BARtistry@ONE22 is a casual bar offering everything from cocktails to beers and wines. 1-for-1 happy hour promotions run every day from 5pm to 8pm when house drinks are priced at two for one.

122 Middle Road
Singapore 188973
Tel: +65 65216088
Daily: 7am – 12am
Nearest station: Bugis

BISTRO 1855

With over 500 bottles of wine to choose from, Bistro 1855 is a joint where anyone who loves vino should definitely hit up. Be sure to make it in time for their happy hour deals between 5pm to 8pm, where selected wines go for as low as S$6 per glass.

3 Temasek Boulevard, 01-643,
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 6836 5994
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon & Tue: 11am – 11pm
Wed to Fri: 11am until late
Sat: 5pm until late
Nearest Station: Esplanade

Photo Credit: Drinks & Co.

DRINKS & CO.

As a retail shop with limited seating, Drinks & Co primarily sells wines by the bottle from as low as S$7 and S$9 by the glass, but feel free to prop yourself down and knock back a couple as you bask in the vibrant atmosphere that is Club Street after hours. Happy hour deals last all day, every day till 8pm with the exception of Fridays when it ends at 7pm.

If you’re looking for a nice, quiet spot, this probably wouldn’t be an ideal choice but what can you expect given they are one of the cheapest watering holes in Club Street?

81 Club Street
Singapore 069449
Tel: +65 6423 1773
Mon to Thu: 3pm – 12am
Fri: 3pm – 1am
Sat: 2pm – 1am
Sun: 2pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

KINKI

Kinki is a rooftop bar with an underground vibe that is excellent for the after-work drinks crowd who crave booze and a gorgeous setting to unwind.

With a plentiful selection of sake as well as Asian-inspired cocktails, wine and bar bites, be sure to stop by during happy hours from Monday to Saturday between 5pm and 8pm to take advantage of their 1-for-1 deals on their vino.

70 Collyer Quay, #02-02
Customs House,
Singapore 049323
Tel: +65 6533 3471
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

LOOF

If you fancy the idea of lounging about at a rooftop bar then there is no better place to down a few glasses of wine than Loof. The earlier you go, the cheaper your wine will cost you. At 5pm it’s S$5 a glass, increasing by a dollar with every hour that passes until 8pm.

331 North Bridge Road,
#03-07 Odeon Towers Extension Rooftop
Singapore 188720
Tel: +65 6337 9416
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Thu: 5pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 5pm – 2am
Nearest Station: Raffles City

NAPOLEAN

With the bar lined with wine dispenser machines in place of beer taps, you just know that you’re at the right place should you be more of a wine person.

Tasting glasses are available at S$2, and full glasses start as cheaply as S$8. Besides the wine, do spare some tummy space for their grub as well.

206 Telok Ayer Street,
Singapore 068641
Tel: +65 6221 9282
(Closed on Sundays)
Mon to Fri: 11.45am – 12am
Sat: 6pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

THE PELICAN

Whether you’re looking to take the edge off or simply have yourself some wine with a view, The Pelican’s daily happy hour 1-for-1 promotion is your best bet.

From Mondays to Thursdays, enjoy 1-for-1 deals for beers, spirits, and wines between 12pm to 3pm, 5pm to 9pm, and on Fridays between 12pm to 9pm—that’s 10 full hours of non-stop boozy indulgence!

1 Fullerton Road, #01-01
One Fullerton
Singapore 04921
Tel: +65 6438 0400
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 3.30pm, 6pm – 11.30pm
Sun: 12pm – 4pm, 6pm – 10pm
Nearest Station: Raffles Place

WINESTONE

A restaurant, boutique wine bar and wine retail store all rolled out into one, Winestone’s concept revolves around the keywords: simple, attractive, authentic and affordable, so one thing you can probably expect is quality wines at affordable prices, from S$10 for a glass and S$42 for a bottle.

Wine lovers will be spoiled for choice with so many different bottles to choose from, from well-known vineyards to some lesser known regions and appellations across Europe. Whether it’s a robust red or a crisp, bright white, there is bound to be a vino you will love.

30 Stevens Road, #01-09
Mercure Singapore on Stevens
Singapore 257840
Tel: +65 6491 6100
(Closed on Sundays)
Monday to Saturday: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Stevens / Orchard

Photo Credit: Wine Connection

WINE CONNECTION BAR & BISTRO

As far as wine is concerned, where else would most people’s minds gravitate to other than Wine Connection Bar & Bistro. Offering an extensive wine list with more than 30 varieties by the glass, Wine Connection’s various locations are a great spot for gathering with friends for a spot of vino. A glass of wine can be as cheap as just S$7 all day, while bottles typically start from S$25 onwards.

39 & 41 Cuppage Road,
Singapore 229462
Tel: +65 6836 9069
Mon to Thu: 4pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 2am
Sun: 12pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Somerset

Read: 16 Places in Singapore where you can get drinks for under S$10.

Speakeasy bars in Singapore are getting increasingly popular, well-loved for their sophisticated cocktail crafts or classy ambiences. But as much as we love indulging and feeling refined, every once in awhile it is always nice to hang out at a neighbourhood bar where you can have a cold one absent from any form of pretentiousness.

Never mind the dinginess, or the smelly toilets; neighbourhood pubs are where we head to when we want to kick back and crack open a beer with our buddies and the best part of these all is being able to wear slippers and shorts without being judged.

Here are 9 Neighbourhood Bars In Singapore you can wear slippers to without being judged.

#1 PRINCE OF WALES

Prince of Wales is a backpackers hostel that also happens to have a really cosy bar. Sticking true to its Aussie roots, this no-frills al fresco bar ticks all the right boxes with its affordable craft beers, live music, and a laid-back clientele of backpackers and locals alike.

101 Dunlop Street
Singapore 209420
Tel: +65 6299 0130
Mon: 5pm – 12am
Tue to Thu: 5pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 3pm – 2am
Sun: 3pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Rochor

Photo Credit: Lazy Lizard

#2 LAZY LIZARD

If you are looking for a bar with international food and drinks, a laid-back vibe and fun staff, you must pay Lazy Lizard a visit. Situated right on Sixth Avenue, this popular drinking spot sees a throng of regulars who flock here after working hours. It is a big hit with locals and visitors alike thanks to the affordable prices and fun atmosphere.

2 Sixth Ave
Singapore 276470
Tel: +65 6468 6289
Sun to Fri: 3pm – 1am
Sat: 3pm – 2am
Nearest Station: Sixth Avenue

Photo Credit: Sara’s At Upper Thomson

#3 SARA’S

One of the longest standing bars along Upper Thomson Road, Sara’s is hard to miss with its huge bright pink fluorescent sign board. This iconic bar may seem dodgy to first-timers, but to those who live around the area, it is pretty much home.

Sara’s has just about everything from the usual beer to wine and even killer cocktails that they created in-house. Be sure not to let anyone know if it is your birthday because chances are you will regret it the following morning.

217 Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 574350
Mon to Sat: 5pm – 3am
Sun: 5pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Marymount

Photo Credit: Trip Advisor

#4 THE CIDER PIT

The only thing better than an ice-cold bottle of cider on a sunny afternoon is a sweet deal. With selected ciders going for S$10 a pint, The Cider Pit has got your cider cravings covered. This Joo Chiat Bar stocks up on an impressive selection of imported craft ciders and beers—and even some rarities you probably would not be able to find elsewhere.

#01-03, 328 Joo Chiat Rd
Singapore 427585
Tel: +65 6440 0504
Mon to Fri: 3pm – 1am
Sat & Sun: 1pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: Nectars & Vine

#5 NECTARS & VINE

Serangoon residents who love to drink would probably have come across Nectars and Vine. This hole-in-the-wall dive bar may not be the most aesthetically pleasing but do not be fooled by its plain exterior. They carry an extensive selection of English craft beers and regular beers at really low prices.

Grab yourself an ice-cold Heineken at only S$7 per bottle and hang with your buddies till late.

752 Upper Serangoon Rd
Singapore 534623
Tel: +65 6372 1125
Sun to Thu: 5pm – 1am
Fri to Sat: 5pm – 2am
Nearest Station: Serangoon

Photo Credit: Thirsty Craft Beer Shop

#6 THIRSTY CRAFT BEER SHOP

Thirsty is pretty much like a candy store to all craft beer aficionados with an unbeatable selection of the most sought-after craft beers from around the world. You can either have your craft beer bottles to go or request for an ice-cold one and enjoy it on the spot.

#02-07B, 211 Holland Ave
Singapore 278967
Tel: +65 9354 1952
Daily: 10.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Holland Village

Photo Credit: Hogs Bar

#7 HOGS BAR & RESTAURANT

This is a joint that many would rather keep a secret. Hogs Bar is a biker-themed craft beer joint that many bikers and Easties head to after work; more so because of their ridiculous number of television screens that show a variety of sports from rugby to football and even tennis.

The bar also offers Tiger, Heineken, and Guinness on tap as well as a variety of Western dishes at pocket-friendly prices.

382 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427622
Mon to Fri: 5pm – 1am
Sat & Sun: 4pm – 1am
Nearest Station: Eunos

Photo Credit: The Dog And Bone Pub

#8 THE DOG AND BONE PUB

This neighbourhood bar is a bustling watering hole, especially during sports events screenings. The beers are cheap and the atmosphere is perfect to hang out with your colleagues after work. Feel free to swap out your work shoes for a pair of comfortable flip flops—it’ll be easier to remove them at the end of the night.

106 Upper East Coast Rd
Singapore 455296
Tel: +65 9178 9552
Mon to Sat: 4.30pm – 12am
Sun: 11.30am – 12am
Nearest Station: Bedok

Photo Credit: Coq & Balls

#9 COQ & BALLS

This cheekily-named bar sports a raw, gritty interior and offers a vast variety of spirits, wine, and beers that will cater to just about anyone. We absolutely love their Kung Fu-themed cocktails, with names like Chuck Norris and Enter the Dragon.

6 Kim Tian Road
Singapore 169246
Mon to Thu: 5pm – 12am
Fri: 4.30pm – 12am
Sat & Sun: 3pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Tiong Bahru

For more recommendations, read our guides to discover the best bars in Singapore.

It is the middle of the week, and the weekends feel so near yet so far. Keep calm, because Atrium at Pan Pacific Singapore has got your back.

Forget the ladies nights promotions elsewhere, because Atrium understands that both women AND men need their mid-week fix of drinks as well. Starting from 14 June 2017, men and women alike can unwind with Atrium’s WINESday promotion on every Wednesday. This unbelievable deal offers you FREE FLOW of house wines at only S$48++ per person.

From now until 29 Nov 2017, quote ‘ladyironchef’ upon making reservations to enjoy an additional 25% off and a complimentary platter of hand-crafted sausages for groups of 4 persons and above.

This ideal package offers you the opportunity to get a little tipsy with the impressive selection of red and white wines together with some delectable finger food. Wednesdays just got better, pals.

The Atrium is Pan Pacific Singapore’s elegant lounge, located in its lobby, much raved about for its modern decor and incredibly relaxing space.

WINESday is available every Wednesday from 6pm to 9pm. A night of tête-à-tête over great wines awaits.

On Wednesdays, both men and women can enjoy unlimited house wines at Atrium. With the countless amounts of ladies nights promotions out there, which makes this promotion one to really pay attention to because it does not exclude the men. All the wine you can drink for three whole hours at only S$48++ per person; it is really quite unbeatable!

Just think, a decent bottle of wine would easily cost you about S$40 to S$50 so allow us to help you with the math. THIS PROMOTION IS A STEAL.

MILD FRUITY WHITES

You can look forward to the mild and tangy flavours of the Australian and Chilean white wines.

For connoisseurs who relish the light, crisp and fruity flavours of wine, the Heart of Hearts Chardonnay from South Australia will tickle your senses with its fresh and energetic notes of honeydew melon and lemon.

For a tinge of exoticness and revitalisation, the Miguel Torres San Medin Sauvignon Blanc is the ideal bottle for those who are willing to appreciate the zesty fusion of passion fruit and grapefruit.

Alternatively, you will also find delight in the tropical, intense flavours of the Chilean’s Heritage Vale Sauvignon Blanc that will get you in the mood for summer.

ROBUST LOVELY REDS

If you are looking for a stronger, sapid touch to your perfect WINESday, the choice of reds will make your night.

For a warmer, spicier tone with a dash of liquorice, relish the Miguel Torres San Medin Cabernet Sauvignon.

For a more full-bodied and robust alternative, go for the McGuigan Private Bin Merlot from Merlot, France. It possesses a subtle sweetness stemming from red berries and ripe plums. Allow it to captivate your palette with a hint of spicy and smoky notes derived from cinnamon and vanilla as well.

Or for something a little less complexity, consider the Australian Heart of Hearts Shiraz with its rich aroma of blackcurrants.

TAPAS FOR YOUR WINE

That’s not all. Enhance your wine experience by pairing them with Atrium’s sharing dishes, inspired by the cuisines from the Nordic Provence and Middle East regions.

With most white wines, they tend to be a tad bit crisp and dry, so why not pair it with the Cheese Platter or the Warm Alaskan King Crab Leg?

To balance out the bold, robust notes of the reds, consider the Mini Wagyu Beef Sliders, their Sausage Platter or even the wine-steeped French Black Mussels. All sharing dishes start from S$12++.

EXCLUSIVE PROMOTION FOR LADYIRONCHEF’S READERS

In addition to this already unbelievable promotion, we would like to extend an even better deal to you!

From 14 Jun to 29 Nov 2017, simply quote ‘ladyironchef’ upon making your reservations to enjoy 25% savings and a homemade sausage platter if you are going in a group of at least 4 persons.

The homemade sausage platter comes with four varieties of sausages handcrafted by the Master Butcher himself.

What are the odds that an evening of never-ending wines at an alluring and chic bar is actually more affordable than you think? Well, Atrium is making that happen just for you loyal readers of Ladyironchef. Just don’t come to us “wining” when you wake up with a hangover the following day.

WINESday is available every Wednesday, between 6pm to 9pm at Atrium at only S$48++ per person from now until 29 November 2017. Not valid on eve of or on Public Holidays. Prices are subject to 10% GST service charge and 7% GST.

Atrium
Pan Pacific Singapore, Level One
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Reservations: +65 6826 8240 / celebrate.sin@panpacific.com
Sun to Thu: 10am – 1am
Fri and Sat: 10am – 2am
Nearest MRT Station: Promenade

This post is brought to you by Pan Pacific Singapore.

WANT TO VISIT NAPA VALLEY?

Have you ever dreamt of visiting Napa Valley and the endless vineyards that stretch out into the horizon? Or experiencing how wine is transformed from a grape into the palatable bottle? Exciting news! Beringer wine is looking for someone to enjoy an all-expense paid trip for 2 to visit their vineyard in Napa Valley, California!

• Take a picture of the flavours that inspire you with a glass of wine.
• Upload your picture on Instagram (don’t forget to make your profile public).
• Include the hashtags #BetterBeckons #BeringerSG in your caption to complete your submission.

The most creative image that shows why certain flavours fill you with optimism will win the trip for two to Napa Valley. The contest ends on 31 January 2017, and every week from now until the end of January, there will be other prizes to be won too! You can learn more about the contest at http://bit.ly/BeringerBetterBeckons.

Wine inspires us in so many ways. Wine is more than just a beverage. Beyond that sophistication is layers of inspiration and realisation; wine is not only a good pairing for food but a “tool” to help us discover many other perspectives in life.

AGAINST ALL ODDS

Back in 1876, brothers Jacob and Frederick Beringer established Beringer Vineyards with a dream of making wines that would rival the finest wines from Europe.

But their journey wasn’t a smooth one. It was just a plot of bare land that they had, but a dream so big that it would conquer them all.

The brothers were firm on the decision of making good wines and they believed they could; they were optimistic as much as they believed in themselves.

That was a spirit worth applauding, and today, Beringer Wines is California’s longest continually operating winery and one of Napa’s finest producers.

BETTER BECKONS

Just like life, we always believe in a better tomorrow, and everything we do is to progress. We seek inspiration continually; we hold on to optimism and faith.

It is like a glass of wine; it takes time and a lot of effort to produce a solid bottle. It doesn’t come easy, but which good thing ever comes easy?

Despite Beringer Wines being one of the most appreciated wineries in the world today, the family is constantly challenging themselves to improve. It was optimism that led them to where they are today, but an even bigger passion to make the best wines even better.

Beringer Wines is of premium quality, and every bottle boasts a very smooth texture that is so easy to drink, even for beginners. The wines are conveniently stocked in Cold Storage Singapore and can be ordered via numerous wine delivery websites as well.

WINE AND CHRISTMAS

This Christmas, we are stocking up on red and white wines for our house parties. We always look forward to spending time with our loved ones and all the incredible flavours that come to life this season. Christmas is such a magical season, and it is our favourite time of the year. It always inspires us—to love and to give.

Christmas parties mean lots of roasts, turkey and chestnut stuffing, Christmas puddings and log cakes. The yuletide flavours are wonderful, but they are not complete without a glass of beautiful wine. No party is complete without some fine wines.

WINE AND DESSERTS

After the main courses of turkey and stuffing come dessert. And we are such lovers of desserts. Sweets are our Archille’s heel as much as it is our happy pill. Cakes, cookies, eclairs, loaves, puddings… these are what make us happy.

Because nobody said desserts cannot be paired with wine, we picked up the habit of sipping white wine with every bite into the chocolate cake.

Don’t forget to submit your entry for the Beringer Better Beckons contest and you could win a trip for 2 to Napa Valley, California to experience Beringer vineyards in person. Look forward to the New Year and all the great things that are ahead.

This post is brought to you by Beringer Wines.

Located in the vicinity of horse stables at Turf Club Road, Tin Hill Social serves as a great hang-out spot to kick back with good food and drinks. The food, in general, is pretty hearty with meats and heavier sharing items, and a selection of alcoholic beverages from wines to cocktails.

The area is split up into a few sections – an indoor and alfresco area and a standalone bar.

The spacious and relaxing vibes of Tin Hill Social makes it a very popular spot for people of all ages. When night falls, the restaurant gets pretty romantic – perfect for couples to treat themselves to some good food and drinks too. Here is what you can look out for at Tin Hill Social.

There are small and big plates available, with a good selection of sharing items for big groups. Some of these items include Hay Smoked Quail Eggs with Quinoa and Caviar (S$14) and Australian Darling Downs BMS* 6+ Wagyu Tartare (S$26.50).

The latter is a party of flavours and is served on a hollowed bone marrow. The mixture of Italian black truffle, the fresh meat, grana padano, quail egg and the dressing, makes it a delicious bite when eaten with a crisp crostini.

For mains, go right for the Tin Hill Darling Downs BMS 4+ Wagyu Brisket Burger (S$28.50). If burger is not your thing, try the Risotto (S$28). The taste of Porcini mushroom in each bite was distinct and fragrant. Mix in the half-cooked egg and egg yolk for a creamy texture.

Dining at Tin Hill Social will not be complete without a glass of wine or cocktail.

Tin Hill Social
100 Turf Club Road
Singapore 287992
Tel: +65 6466 0966
Tue to Fri: 10am – 12am
Sat & Sun: 9am – 12am
Closed: Mon
Nearest Station: Sixth Avenue

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.

MUSEO Restaurant & Bar is a great masterpiece.

If you haven’t heard, there is this enchanting restaurant that sits on the mezzanine level of Quayside Isle at Sentosa Cove, and it is known as the “Art on the Isle”. The divine combination of art and culinary take our breath away every single time, and each visit still charms us like never before.

It is like Picasso and Warhol had joined forces and blessed this space with their artistic flares. Filled with magic and astounding surprises at every corner and in every detail, MUSEO is one of the most romantic restaurants in Singapore. Its notably fine culinary execution makes the restaurant a perfect venue for dining – celebrate a special occasion here, or treat yourselves to an unforgettable night of arm jamming and regale cuisine.

Because dining at MUSEO is one sexy choice that you must not miss for the world.

First up, a little fun fact about MUSEO that we recently learned about. MUSEO is a unique restaurant with an in-house creative director who is also a talented Interior Designer, and he has channelled his love to the conceptualization of the restaurant. Evidently contemporary with elegant European touches, MUSEO is predominantly black with notes of posh glassware and sparse florals.

The all-occasion venue is a recurrent choice for events, weddings, proposals and dates. And this is no surprise. You don’t always find a restaurant in Singapore that exudes such desirability and comes with a view of the Marina to boast. By day, the restaurant is filled with sunlight and the chinaware glistens like gems; by night, the low-light setting calls for a romantic dinner for two.

Like its sister restaurant, Arteastiq, MUSEO has a dedicated area for art jamming where you can put your inspirations and artistic talents to good use. Sit down with a pot of house tea and work your thing on a canvas that you get to bring home after; yes to couple activities, and no more boring afternoons, right?

And we have to tell you how addicted we are to their signature Lychee Tea (S$11). The cold option is a longstanding favourite. With a strong infusion of the subtropical fruit, this tea quenches thirst best, and the mild sweetness lingers like a sweet dream. If you need your dose of alcohol, there are several fascinating cocktail choices.

Before having dinner, have a cocktail by the bar. The presentations of the cocktails at MUSEO have been elevated to be visually striking in keeping with its Arts themeWe tried the Passionfruit Sling (S$18) and Autumn Sweater (S$20) – the former is a tropical-flavoured concoction with whole passion fruit, cachaca, lemongrass and lime, all from Brazil; the latter is mysterious with warm notes of apricot and maple, paired with whisky, and sits with autumn leaves and crisp dried flowers.

The refreshing cocktails aside, MUSEO has also just introduced a new wine list which features wines from Australia, France, New Zealand, Spain, Italy and America.

The food menu is no less impressive. The fusion selection is appealing beyond its mere fancy creations, for you would be no less impressed than we were when the dishes are served to you. MUSEO’s chefs have insanely fantastic plating skills! Every dish is like a work of art, and simply true to the brand’s philosophy on art.

For starters, get a pot of Black Mussels & Clam (S$28) to share. They toss pretty tasty salads too. The Mezzanine platter is outstanding – for S$42, you get a delightful mix of Singapore’s local favourites with a modern touch. Or customise your own set at S$44, where you get to choose four out of eight items. Our pick is Picasso’s Blues – deep fried prawns flavoured with Lavender.

Now, the main courses. Where do we begin from? We had quite a feast and every item left an impression on us. The Two Way Lobster (S$38) is new on the menu, and MUSEO gave the most popular crustacean a twist by preparing it ala “Thermidor” style and with seafood otah stuffing.

The Truffle Mushroom Risotto & Hokkaido Sea Scallop (S$35) is also new, and it is our newfound favourite at MUSEO – plump rice cooked in parmesan cheese and fragrant truffle, together with even plumper scallops that are seared with a slight char. Brilliant!

We also tried the Squid Ink Linguine & Octopus (S$38), and while there is nothing extraordinary about the linguine, we savoured every piece of the grilled octopus that was perfectly complemented with the salty egg cream sauce. Sauteed Spinach to complete, for a varied texture and, you know, Mom says we must have our greens.

Carnivores can opt for the Sous Vide Beef Short Rib – at S$40, you get a whole smokey rib to yourself. Definitely the most value-for-money option in the new menu! Also a dish that surprised us was the Grilled U.S. Short Rib Boneless of Beef (S$40), which the ladies might prefer over the whole rib. Generous chunks of short rib carefully prepared with a beautiful shade of pink, soft and almost fork-tender, served with stalks of crunchy asparagus, lumps of sushi rice and an addictive and sweet homemade teriyaki sauce.

And no one is leaving without desserts. We know how difficult it is to pick only one when everything on the menu is so tempting, but we’d help with your dilemma. Go for the Vodka Chocolate Lava Cake (S$13). It is a true crowd-pleaser, and worry not, that amount of hard liquor ain’t enough to get you drunk. The Caramelized Banana Custard (S$15) comes sitting pretty in a waffle tulip shell, so that makes a fair option too.

Else, we can always count on the MUSEO Cheese Cake on Chocolate Soil (S$15). Served with garden berries, this reminds us of a flowerpot dessert, and we truly enjoyed the copious amount of chocolate soil!

Fans of MUSEO would be pleased to learn about their 30% off all main courses during lunch hours on weekdays. More reasons to visit the restaurant again, because the substantial discount means we can dine to our hearts’ content without having our wallets take a beating. If the regular price for the lobster is S$38, it would then be S$26.60. And the whole rib would be only S$28!

On regular times on a daily basis, there are a couple of set menus for you to indulge in as well. Have an alternative afternoon tea over snacks and tea – at S$58 for 2, cosy up with a mezzanine signatures platter and choice of two beverages from the specialty teas range, coffee or cioccolata. Go for the $65 for 2 option if you want a dessert to share too.

MUSEO’s “Luscious Dinner” is a 4-course set at S$68++ per person, and you get to customize your set with your favourites from Mezzanine, Mezzanine Premium, Entrees and Desserts menu. Available daily from 6-9pm, this makes a pretty grand choice and your date will be very impressed.

If you haven’t had a chance to visit MUSEO before, here’s a video to show you how the gorgeous the restaurant is.

And for those who are planning ahead to celebrate Christmas, MUSEO is offering its Christmas menu — 4-course set at S$79++/pax, 5-course set at S$92++/pax — from 8 to 25 Dec 2014. Highlights include Lobster Bisque, MUSEO’s signature Mezzanine platter, Boston Lobster Thermidor, and Black Forest Log Cake.

For the latest updates, head over to mu-se-o.com and ‘like’ MUSEO on its Facebook page.

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MUSEO Restaurant 
31 Ocean Way #01-22
Quayside Isle, Sentosa Cove
Tel: +65 6734 8066
Sun to Thu: 11.30am – 10pm
Fri, Sat & Eve of PH: 11.30am – 1am
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

This post is brought to you by MUSEO Restaurant.

You don’t need to be an oenophile to know where the best wine drinking spots in Singapore are. We’ve done the groundwork for you. From where to find wine cocktails and tasting portions of exquisite wines, to a wine list proffering rare and exclusive bottles, this list of the best places to drink wine in Singapore is a wine novice’s secret to becoming well-versed in wine.

Caveau Wine Bar

With a name “Caveau” (which translates to “wine vault”), don’t be surprised to find exceptional French wines at affordable prices. Housing over 200 labels with an estimated 85% from France, Caveau is one of the few bars in Singapore with an enomatic wine dispenser that allows wines to be kept for up to two weeks.

A lovely citrusy wine (perfect for our humid weather) is the Anne Gros, Hautes Cotes de Nuits 2011 ($19 per glass; $90 per bottle) from the region of Bourgogne. Made of 100% Chardonnay, this dry white wine has blossoming aromas of citrus fruits that’s great with seafood. If you’re into reds, Rossignol Trapet, Gevrey Chambertin D.V. 2011 ($19 per glass) is a 100% Pinot noir from a small winery that has been producing wine since the 17th century.

1 Scotts Road
#01-10 Shaw Centre
Tel: +65 6737 2622
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 11pm
Fri to Sat: 12pm – 1am
Sun: 5pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Les Amis

Les Amis is home to the largest selection of wines in Singapore, carrying nearly 2,000 labels of wines (housed in two temperature-controlled wine cellars)—half of which are exclusive in Singapore. While wines predominantly hail from the Old World, there are a number of exotic options from the New World available in the list.

1 Scotts Road
#02-16 Shaw Centre
Tel: +65 6733 2225
Mon to Sat: 12pm – 2pm, 7pm – 9:30pm
Nearest Station: Orchard

Napoleon Food & Wine Bar

Giving you the option of ordering exquisite wines (without breaking the bank), Napoleon offers a stellar range of 32 European wines available on enomatic wine dispenser machines—one of which is the Châteauneuf-du-Pape Ancien Domaine des Pontifes 2011 ($18 per glass; $90 per bottle). This bio-organic wine is dense and dark, with a nose of ripe fruits (due to the purity of the soil).

A well-structured wine with fine tannins, we recommend pairing this with spicy dishes to fully savor its complexity. If you’re in the mood for something white, Graves blanc Château Claron 2010 ($13 per glass; $65 per bottle) is one of the best dry white wines in Bordeaux. Produced traditionally from a single grape variety of Sauvignon Blanc, this full-bodied wine flourishes with aromas of citrus fruits. We reckon this will go perfectly with the poached salmon ($21) and green pea purée.

206 Telok Ayer Street
Tel: +65 6221 9282
Mon to Fri: 11:30am – 12am
Sat: 6pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

Ô Batignolles Wine Bar

The French have a saying, ‘Life is too short to drink bad wine’. Believing in enjoying wine (without hefty price tags), French owner Antoine Rouland travels back to France three times each year to visit winemakers and vineyards, selecting wines from smaller producers.

Here, you’ll find vintages such as the Medoc 2001 Chasse Spleen at only $97 per bottle—a rare find in Singapore. Apart from a specially curated list of 100 wines on rotation (with 75 varieties available at any time), varieties of cheese are also available for pairing.

We recommend the cheese platter ($29) with our personal favorite, Cotes de Gascogne 2012 Domaine du Tariquet ($12 per glass; $55 per bottle). Made with four types of grapes, separately fermented before aging in French oak barrels, this white has an incredibly complex aroma profile of peach and vanilla with a subtle woody aftertaste—perfect with a floret of Tete de Moine (better known as “monk head”) cheese.

2 Gemmill Lane
Tel: +65 6438 3913
Mon to Sun: 12pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Telok Ayer

Taberna Wine Academy

If you’re a novice at wines, Taberna Wine Academy is the best place to learn the basics, and sample some exclusive wine labels while you’re at it. What’s really great about this spot is its extensive availability of wine verticals (wines from the same producer and vineyard with differing vintages).

Such is the German Riesling from Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt (from $81 per bottle) with a dozen wine verticals dating back as far as 1983. Beginners interested to learn the technique of wine tasting can attend the introduction to wine appreciation ($100) where you’ll get to taste and sample eight different styles of wine. A range of professional courses are also available for veterans looking to hone their skill.

17 Binjai Park
Tel: +65 6762 5570
Mon to Sun: 5pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Dover

Vida Vino

A fairly new entrant to the winery scene, Vida Vino (translating into “the wine life”) is about making merry without your wallet having to suffer. With a personal selection of 60 wines (by owner Aaron Olivera) that start from $12 per glass, this wine bar stands to give competitors a run for their money.

The Beronia ($85 per bottle) is such—opening with subtle notes of flowers and fruit before blossoming into a refreshingly crisp and spicy finish, this wine pairs extremely well with the iberico ham platter ($23)—a range of Joselito iberico ham (the best in Spain). As for sipping cocktails, Vida Vino has done an exceptional job in crafting some pretty smooth-drinking concoctions. From Spain with Love ($18) consists of “secret ingredients” that results in an edgy, bittersweet cocktail—we managed to make out notes of Spanish white wine and raspberry brandy.

29 Keong Saik Road
Tel: +65 6222 1963
Mon to Tue: 6pm – 11pm
Wed to Sat: 6pm – 12am
Nearest Station: Outram Park

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.