Kazuhiro Chii “Chii-san” is a man of few words. The head bartender at Bar Kakure thoughtfully mixes and serves the drinks, never intruding on conversations, and providing quiet and unobtrusive presence at the bar unless conversation is sought.
Chii-san’s bartending style is subtle, more sensed than seen, and certainly not desirous of the spotlight – because the focus is always on the guest. But don’t mistake his reserved manner for aloofness. Depending on the “energy” of the guest, he may engage in more spirited conversations, sharing stories about his nearly three decades of bartending experience in Yokohama and Tokyo, his precise method of making a Highball, and his practice of Shorinji Kempo (a form of Japanese martial art) and participation of chakai (tea gatherings) that have influenced his philosophy on hospitality.
This polished understated vibe matches perfectly with the ambience of Bar Kakure itself. It is, afterall, a speakeasy, hidden on the second floor of a black and white colonial bungalow on Scotts Road. The intimate bar seats only 10, dominated by a full-length bar counter in varnished oak set against the tropical greenery outside.
The drinks menu is a carefully curated list of beers, sake and whiskies. Cocktails are divided into Classic and Original: the classics are familiar concoctions but done with technical precision; the originals are rooted in the classics but given contemporary re-imaginings, such as the signature Black Storm Highball featuring black whisky, soda and black pepper; and the Southern Polar Bear, where refreshing coconut liqueur is blended with yoghurt and lime.
The most Instagrammable cocktail is possibly the Beauty & the Beast ($32), a recipe of vodka infused with pink grapefruit, and shaken with orange liqueur, rose syrup and lemon juice. It is finished off with a dust of edible glitter – a homage to the Disney fairy tale. Another drink to try is the Fresh Fruit Cocktail, a fusion of the specially imported Japanese fruits of the season.
Complementing the drinks is a menu of elevated bar bites. We recommend the Curry Chicken Lollipop (five pieces) which is marinated in curry powder, sake, shoyu, ginger and garlic; Mini Miyazaki Wagyu Curry Rice; and Toro Katsu (two pieces) which is coated with a special charcoal-infused panko breading and deep-fried till crispy.
Bar Karuke is at 29 Scotts Road, Level 2 Singapore 228224.
