Sure we’re suckers for swanky new bars, but you don’t have to be a cocktail connoisseur to know that the magic is all in the bartender. Here are some of the city’s best.
Start the night in the heart of Chinatown at The Library, a hidden bar concept inspired by the Speakeasy bars around the world. Don’t forget this one needs a password! You can easily obtain it from the guys over at Keong Saik Snacks.
What to expect: Strong flavours, dramatic presentation, and an intriguing sense of mystery at this unnamed bar.
Bartender to know: Alvin Au Yong
Drink this: The Gambler’s Flip, which placed Alvin second runner-up at the Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS competition’s Retro Chic challenge.
Up the stakes with Catalunya, the glass-encased dome atop the waters of Marina Bay.
What to expect: Original, imaginative cocktails concocted with high-quality spirits using contemporary techniques.
Bartender to know: Hunky dory Adrian Batlle
Drink this: Stairway to Heaven, inspired by the legendary song of the same name by Led Zeppelin, was awarded the Bacardi Legacy 2012 Spanish Cocktail of the Year; The Singapore Star, a new addition that’s both sweet and sour with a lingering Star Anise aroma; and Willy Wonka’s Secret Recipe, which earned Adrian runner-up at the recent Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS competition’s Hollywood/ Bollywood challenge.
Now for the tipple topper. Head straight up to one of the city’s best vantage points at City Space, located on the top floor of Swissotel.
What to expect: Innovative cocktails, extravagant spirit selections, and – as with Swissotel’s track record – impeccable service.
Bartender to know: Bannie Kang (lookie, a female bartender!)
Drink this: Amber Tiger, Smokey Sensation, and Lord of the Rum – all of Bannie’s signature drinks.
Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS is the world’s largest and most respected bartending training programme. There are over 15,000 bartenders who are trained in key cities by industry veterans, master distillers and master bartenders every year.
All images by Diageo Reserve WORLD CLASS.