It may seem odd at first, but it does make a lot of sense for themed nightspot Pinball Wizard to open at the storied gadget hub that is Sim Lim Square. Afterall, the building enjoyed its heydays during the late ‘80s to ‘90s, when digital pinball machines were also all the rage. Later on, both fell out of mainstream popularity, relegating into fond figments of nostalgia. And now, both have found a safe space within each other’s caress.
Opened by the same folks behind Nineteen80, Pinball Wizard is a spacious ode to the glory days of pinball gaming. While its sister establishment represented all-things awesome about retro arcades and ‘80s music, Pinball Wizard is a more focused tribute to the deep microculture that birthed thanks to one specific gaming genre.
Still, you’ll find plenty of retro references here, with drinks and music taking inspiration from the ‘60s all the way to the noughties. Their signature cocktails (all $18) are on point, with drinks named after famous songs and movements during that time period. There’s the Yellow Submarine, a Mojito-like drink that’s an obvious nod to The Beatles. Or try the psychedelic Flower Power, a colour-changing concoction that’s fruity and floral at the same time.
After 9pm, the signatures are no longer available, but their menu of cocktail remixes (also all $18) stay alive. Here, you get classics with a twist with drinks like a Salty White Russian and a Negroni Spritzer. Or just go crazy with shooters ($80 for 10 or $15 each) that are as eye-catching as they are strong. Of course, there’s bottles of spirits, wines and beers available too.
Like Nineteen80, the space doubles up as a club once it gets later into the night, with a resident DJ lineup most will be familiar with. If you’ve lived through the era of boomboxes and discmans, you’ll find yourself right at home with the music. Be prepared to throw some shapes as bodies get painted in neon lights, and as the sound of pinball flippers and bumpers reverb around dissonantly.
