Barflies, listen up. There’s a new bar in town.
Located in the heart of town, Rails is a steampunk-inspired bar and lounge influenced by local train stations such as the old Tanjong Pagar Railway and Jinrikisha Station.
Here, enjoy cocktails and bites in a space that has been modelled after a Victorian-era underground railway, reminiscent of the iconic Platform 9 3⁄4 from J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Accentuating the bar’s steampunk aesthetic are deconstructed gears and cogwheels as well as repurposed planks of kampong wood and distressed trusses.
This nascent concept was conceived by none other than A Phat Cat Collective, a Singaporean nightlife and F&B brand that also famously helms arcade bars Nineteen80 and Pinball Wizard.
In this third concept bar, Rails is undoubtedly a thematic joint offering an experience that’s distinct and memorable, an oasis for adventure-seekers and curious travellers
In-line with its inspiration and decor, the Rails cocktail menu dishes out thirst-quenching libations via four sections that easily guide drinkers. There’s the Sparkling Like The Hopeful Light Of Tomorrow that presents refreshing, fizzy options; Creamy, Dreamy, Satin Cruisin’ touting velvety milk-based sips; the spirit-forward Stirring, Spirituous Blends For Bracing Times; and even Curious Experiments. Fortune Favours The Bold for delicious pours.
Try the Jinrikisha Spritzer ($18), a medicinal take on a gin spritzer prepared with house-made honey-fermented lemon, preserved lime peel and coconut water, creating the perfect post-work pick-me-up.
Alternatively, Clockwork Sago ($16)—a nod to the nearby Sago Lane—provides a solid boost with its boozy iteration of the nostalgic Burbur Cha Cha, thanks to tequila, taro, pineapple juice and coconut water topped with sago pearls and peanut powder.
As for nosh, tuck into delectable sandwiches and sliders, all created as venue exclusives by Arab Street’s popular Chix Hot Chicken. Basically the Jalan Pisang joint’s second outlet, the bites will be available for dine-in at Rails, and all-day takeouts with a dedicated back alley entrance recognisable by graffiti-clad walls.
Consider the signature Soul Slider ($8.90) for generous portions of fried chicken wedged between buttered buns. The Pepperjack ($9.90) is extra cheesy as its name suggests.
Finally, even though nightclubs are still not permitted to operate, Rails aims to thrill locals with its vibrant and rambunctious space, made possible with a range of house and disco music curated by DJs including A Phat Cat Collective co-founders Joshua P and Aurora, veteran Brendon P and more.
Rails is now open at #01-02 21 Tanjong Pagar Road Singapore 088444.
