Singapore's Hidden Speakeasy Bars Offer a Nostalgic Journey Through Time

Singapore's speakeasy bars, hidden cocktail establishments that evoke a sense of nostalgia and innovation, are making waves in the city's drinking scene. These bars are often found in unlikely places, concealed behind peepholes, curtains, and unmarked doorways. A recent article highlights six such speakeasies in Singapore that transport visitors back in time.

The featured bars showcase diverse themes and concepts, ranging from a Japanese-inspired bar with a post-World War II vibe to an opium-den-themed bar that reflects colonial Singapore. Mizuwari, a Japanese-inspired speakeasy, features mid-century furniture and Japanese-inspired cocktails, while Chandu, an opium-den-themed bar, offers an intimate atmosphere and drinks with intriguing narratives, such as the 'Mata Hari' cocktail named after a Dutch dancer and spy.

Other notable speakeasies include Oriental Elixir, a quirky cocktail bar adorned with toys and antiques, and Junior the Pocket Bar, which reinvents itself every few months with new designs and cocktail menus. The Last Word, a hidden bar on Purvis Street, specializes in classic cocktails from the Prohibition era, providing a calm, candlelit atmosphere accompanied by slow, bluesy jazz melodies.

Why this matters: The rise of speakeasy bars in Singapore reflects a growing trend in the city's nightlife scene, where patrons seek unique and immersive drinking experiences. These hidden establishments not only offer a glimpse into the past but also showcase the creativity and innovation of Singapore's bartenders, who are pushing the boundaries of mixology while paying homage to different eras and cultures.

Singapore's speakeasy bars have become popular destinations for both locals and tourists seeking a nostalgic and exclusive drinking experience. As Aki Eguchi, the bar program director of Mizuwari, states, "We want our guests to feel like they have been transported to a different time and place, where they can enjoy carefully crafted cocktails in a setting that is both familiar and new." These hidden gems offer a unique way to explore Singapore's history and cultural influences through the art of mixology.

Key Takeaways

• Singapore's speakeasy bars offer nostalgic, innovative drinking experiences.
• Bars feature diverse themes, from Japanese to colonial-era opium dens.
• Bars showcase creativity of Singapore's bartenders and mixology.
• Speakeasies attract both locals and tourists seeking exclusive experiences.
• Bars transport guests to different eras and cultures through cocktails.