Singapore has one of the densest cocktail scenes in Asia, and its bartenders are a large part of the reason. Several local venues appear on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list year after year, and the city’s bar community is known for recommending rival venues to guests, so a visit often leads to a trail of other good places to drink. That culture of camaraderie among bartenders makes the city easy to explore for both visitors and residents.
The range is wide. Hotel institutions sit alongside hidden speakeasies, whisky rooms, rooftop lounges and late-night neighbourhood spots, and some cocktail bars operate from restored historical buildings. Choosing between them depends on the occasion, the budget and the style of drinking you prefer.
The bars below were ranked on communication, service quality, pricing, reputation and reliability, using Google ratings and review volume as a guide. The venues listed hold ratings between 4.4 and 4.9 out of 5, and each is presented with its strengths and drawbacks so you can match a bar to your plans.
1. Tess Bar & Kitchen, Singapore
Popular bar and kitchen with a strong overall rating
Tess Bar & Kitchen holds a 4.7 out of 5 rating, which places it among the better-reviewed venues in the city. It combines a food menu with a full bar programme, which suits groups who want to eat and drink in one place rather than moving between venues.
The kitchen-led format makes it a practical choice for dinner that runs into the evening. Guests looking for a more relaxed setting than a formal cocktail room will find it approachable.
Pros
- Strong 4.7 out of 5 rating
- Food and drinks under one roof
- Suits groups and casual evenings
Cons
- Less focused on experimental cocktail craft than specialist bars
- Can be busy at weekends, so booking ahead is sensible
Best for: Dinner and drinks with friends or colleagues
Website: tessbar.com
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
2. Quaich Bar Wanderlust
Whisky-focused bar with the highest rating on this list
Quaich Bar Wanderlust carries a 4.9 out of 5 rating, the highest of the 15 venues here. The name refers to the traditional Scottish drinking cup, and the bar is known for its attention to whisky alongside a wider cocktail menu.
The strong score points to consistent service and a knowledgeable team. It suits guests who want to explore spirits with staff who can guide the selection.
Pros
- Top rating on the list at 4.9 out of 5
- Good choice for whisky exploration
- Guidance available for guests new to spirits
Cons
- A spirits-led focus may not suit guests who prefer light, fruity drinks
- Popular, so peak nights fill quickly
Best for: Whisky drinkers and guests who value expert recommendations
Website: quaichbar.com.sg
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
3. Origin Bar
Hotel bar inside Shangri-La Singapore
Origin Bar sits within the Shangri-La hotel and holds a 4.7 out of 5 rating. Hotel bars tend to offer reliable service standards and comfortable surroundings, and this venue follows that pattern.
It works well for business drinks, hotel guests and anyone who wants a polished setting without a long wait for service.
Pros
- Consistent hotel-standard service
- Comfortable, spacious surroundings
- 4.7 out of 5 rating
Cons
- Hotel pricing is usually higher than independent bars
- Less of a neighbourhood feel
Best for: Business meetings and hotel guests
Website: shangri-la.com
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
4. Jigger & Pony
Relaxed hangout for classic craft cocktails and whisky
Jigger & Pony is a cool, relaxed bar serving classic craft cocktails and a long list of whiskies, with a small bar menu for snacks. It holds a 4.6 out of 5 rating and has built a reputation among Singapore’s cocktail community.
The classic-driven approach means well-executed standards rather than novelty drinks, which appeals to guests who know what they like.
Pros
- Strong classic cocktail menu
- Wide whisky selection
- Relaxed atmosphere without formality
Cons
- Small food menu, so plan dinner elsewhere
- Classic focus may feel familiar to seasoned cocktail drinkers
Best for: Classic cocktail lovers and whisky fans
Website: jiggerandpony.com
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
5. Bar Stories
Intimate bar with original cocktails made to order
Bar Stories offers original cocktails created in a relaxed, minimalist setting with an intimate bar counter. It carries a 4.6 out of 5 rating, and the format encourages conversation between guests and bartenders.
The cocktails are often built around guest preferences, which makes it a good option for people who prefer a personal recommendation over a fixed menu.
Pros
- Personalised, original drinks
- Intimate bar counter experience
- Minimalist, calm setting
Cons
- Small space limits capacity
- Large groups may find it restrictive
Best for: Couples and small groups who enjoy bartender conversation
Website: barstories.sg
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
6. Manhattan
Hotel cocktail bar at Conrad Singapore Orchard
Manhattan operates from Conrad Singapore Orchard and holds a 4.7 out of 5 rating. The bar is recognised on regional rankings and draws guests who want a formal, American-style cocktail room.
Its hotel location puts it close to Orchard Road, which is convenient for visitors staying in the area.
Pros
- High 4.7 out of 5 rating
- Central Orchard location
- Polished service and setting
Cons
- Premium pricing compared with independent venues
- Formal feel may not suit casual nights out
Best for: Special occasions and cocktail enthusiasts
Website: conradsingaporeorchard.com
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
7. Republic Bar Singapore
Lively bar with a 4.7 rating
Republic Bar Singapore holds a 4.7 out of 5 rating and offers a more energetic setting than many of the quieter cocktail rooms on this list. It suits groups looking for a social night out.
The consistent rating suggests dependable service even during busy periods.
Pros
- Social, energetic atmosphere
- 4.7 out of 5 rating
- Works well for groups
Cons
- Louder than the intimate cocktail bars
- Less suited to quiet conversation
Best for: Group outings and social evenings
Website: republicbar.com.sg
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
8. ATLAS
1920s-inspired venue with art deco interiors
ATLAS is a luxurious 1920s-inspired venue serving European cuisine, afternoon tea and cocktails in an art deco setting. It holds a 4.5 out of 5 rating and is known for its dramatic interiors and extensive gin collection.
The venue works as a destination in itself, suited to celebrations and visitors who want the setting to be part of the experience.
Pros
- Striking art deco interiors
- Food, afternoon tea and cocktails in one venue
- Good for celebrations
Cons
- Higher price point than casual bars
- Rating is lower than several competitors on this list
Best for: Celebrations and visitors seeking a standout setting
Website: atlasbar.sg
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
9. Night Hawk
Late-night bar with a 4.5 rating
Night Hawk holds a 4.5 out of 5 rating and appeals to guests who want a drink later in the evening. Late opening hours are useful in a city where many venues wind down earlier.
It suits those finishing dinner elsewhere and looking for a place to continue the night.
Pros
- Suits late-night visits
- Good option after dinner elsewhere
- 4.5 out of 5 rating
Cons
- Lower rating than the top-ranked venues
- Check opening hours before visiting
Best for: Late-night drinks
Website: nighthawk.sg
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
10. 28 HongKong Street
Established speakeasy-style cocktail bar
28 HongKong Street is an established name in Singapore’s cocktail scene and holds a 4.4 out of 5 rating. The bar has been a fixture of the Boat Quay area for years and has trained many bartenders who now work across the city.
Its place in the local bar community gives it standing beyond its rating alone.
Pros
- Long-standing reputation in the local scene
- Respected among bartenders
- Speakeasy-style atmosphere
Cons
- Lowest rating on this list at 4.4 out of 5
- Can be crowded at peak times
Best for: Guests interested in Singapore’s cocktail heritage
Website: 28hks.com
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
11. Nutmeg & Clove
Cosy bar with cocktails inspired by Singapore history
Nutmeg & Clove is a low-key, cosy bar serving artisanal cocktails with creative names drawn from Singapore’s history. It holds a 4.6 out of 5 rating and is often recommended by other bartenders.
The local storytelling in the menu gives visitors a way to learn about the city while they drink.
Pros
- Cocktails inspired by local history
- Cosy, unpretentious setting
- 4.6 out of 5 rating
Cons
- Compact space fills quickly
- Not suited to large groups
Best for: Visitors who want a local story with their drink
Website: nutmegclove.com
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
12. Long Bar
Historic Raffles Hotel bar, home of the Singapore Sling
Long Bar sits inside Raffles Hotel and is the birthplace of the Singapore Sling. It holds a 4.4 out of 5 rating and attracts a steady flow of visitors who want to try the drink where it originated.
The colonial-era setting and tradition of peanut shells on the floor make it a landmark as much as a bar.
Pros
- Historic setting and Singapore Sling heritage
- Recognisable landmark for visitors
- Central location
Cons
- Tourist-heavy, with higher prices
- Rating sits at the lower end of this list
Best for: First-time visitors and Singapore Sling pilgrims
Website: raffles.com
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
13. Taylor Adam
Well-rated cocktail bar with a 4.7 score
Taylor Adam holds a 4.7 out of 5 rating, placing it alongside several of the stronger venues in the city. The score reflects consistent guest satisfaction across drinks and service.
It suits guests who want a quality cocktail experience without the premium of a hotel bar.
Pros
- High 4.7 out of 5 rating
- Independent venue feel
- Consistent guest feedback
Cons
- Less name recognition among international visitors
- Limited published detail, so check the website for current menus
Best for: Locals and cocktail drinkers seeking an independent bar
Website: tayloradamsg.com
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
14. Cat Bite Club
Award-recognised bar known for a considered approach
Cat Bite Club holds a 4.7 out of 5 rating and has earned recognition within Singapore’s bar community. Its co-founder Gabriel Lowe has spoken publicly about the value of doing less, favouring restraint and focus over elaborate presentation.
That philosophy shows in a menu built around quality rather than spectacle.
Pros
- Respected within the bartending community
- Focused, restrained approach to drinks
- 4.7 out of 5 rating
Cons
- Demand can make walk-in seating difficult
- Minimalist style may not suit guests wanting theatre
Best for: Serious cocktail drinkers and industry-minded guests
Website: catbiteclub.com
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
15. Alleybar
Neighbourhood-style bar with a 4.6 rating
Alleybar holds a 4.6 out of 5 rating and offers a more laid-back drinking experience than the formal hotel venues. Its alley-style setting gives it a casual, local feel.
It works for relaxed evenings where the aim is good drinks without dressing up.
Pros
- Casual, local atmosphere
- 4.6 out of 5 rating
- Good for unplanned evenings
Cons
- Fewer published details than larger venues
- Seating can be limited
Best for: Relaxed nights out and casual catch-ups
Website: alleybar.sg
Full listing: View on Best of Singapore
Who is the best bars in Singapore?
Quaich Bar Wanderlust holds the highest rating on this list at 4.9 out of 5, followed by a group of venues at 4.7 including Tess Bar & Kitchen, Origin Bar, Manhattan, Republic Bar Singapore, Taylor Adam and Cat Bite Club. The best choice depends on the occasion, since a whisky bar, a hotel lounge and a late-night spot each suit different plans.
How much does a bar cost in Singapore?
Prices vary by venue type and are best confirmed on each bar’s website or menu. Hotel bars and landmark venues generally charge more per drink than independent neighbourhood bars. Many bars also add service charge and GST to the bill, so check the final total before ordering a round.
How do I choose a bar in Singapore?
Start with the occasion. Intimate counters such as Bar Stories suit conversation, hotel bars such as Origin Bar and Manhattan suit business drinks, and venues such as Republic Bar Singapore suit groups. Check ratings, opening hours and whether a reservation is needed, as popular bars fill quickly at weekends.
What should I look for in a bar?
Look for consistent reviews, knowledgeable staff, a menu that matches your taste and a setting that fits your plans. Bartenders who can recommend drinks and point you to other good venues are a sign of a bar that values its guests and its community.
Are there good bars for small businesses in Singapore?
Yes. Hotel bars such as Origin Bar and Manhattan offer comfortable settings for client meetings, while venues with food, such as Tess Bar & Kitchen and ATLAS, suit team dinners. For larger events, contact the venue directly to ask about private bookings and group arrangements.
Singapore’s bars cover a wide range, from the whisky focus of Quaich Bar Wanderlust to the historic setting of Long Bar and the restrained craft of Cat Bite Club. Ratings across this list sit between 4.4 and 4.9 out of 5, so even the lower-ranked venues are well regarded. Confirm opening hours and booking requirements on each bar’s website, and ask the bartender for a recommendation on where to go next.
