Those who remember fondly VIP party series The Monarchy at ME@OUE and superclub Pangea at Marina Bay Sands, both now defunct, will be glad to know that the people behind those concepts (and also The Podium Lounge) have jointly opened a permanent spot in Tanjong Pagar.
Unlike those former concepts however, the Monarchy we now have is attempting to claim a seat on the nightlife throne here with a proper cocktail bar as the main draw.
The twin shophouse space is quintessentially British-themed. You’ll notice the paintings of past English monarchs hanging boldy on the walls, the cocktail menu with items named after Britpop numbers like ‘Stairway to Heaven’ and ‘Yellow Submarine’, and even the venue’s entrance is modelled after the unmistakable seat of British parliamentary power, 10 Downing Street. And channeling some serious Savile Row dandiness is a showcase of bespoke suits by Kevin Seah in a display window at the back, as well as on the gents hard at work making your drinks.
Find a booth seat, high table or grab a chair by the bar. The mixologists here are experienced hands from some of Singapore’s best known joints, and the quality of the drinks – mostly reinvention of classics – shows. Definitely try the Champagne Supernova ($21), their take on the Pimm’s Cup and the lightest item on the menu. Then resist ordering based on the song references and get the truly spirit-forward Mr. Churchill Says ($22), a silky-smooth martini made without vermouth, just like how Churchill used to like it.
On Friday and Saturday nights (and eve of public holidays) from 10pm, a secret back door opens up to reveal the venue’s ultra lounge alter ego. Here, VIP bottle service treatment and live acts a la The Monarchy of old is the name of the game, with minimum drinks spend of $2,000 upwards per table. If you’re hankering for food, they’ve partnered with nearby haunts like Gattopardo and Kinou for delivery orders.
