If you wanna stand out in Singapore’s saturated bar scene, you gotta go all out, right? Well, Risky Business on Duxton Hill has certainly done so, and in case you’re wondering, yes, the place is named after the comedic 1983 Tom Cruise flick.
Fans of the Hollywood star best known for starring in the Mission: Impossible series of films will adore the place—dotted around the bar are loads of references to the man and his movies—though we won’t blame you if this all sounds too gimmicky. But let the drinks and experience speak for themselves.
Risky Business is a fun, casual concept, similar to The Brightside it replaced, but instead of a bright and cheery vibe, it’s now cool and cheeky, much like many of the personas Tom Cruise portrayed throughout his career. From signature drinks (all $18) like You Can’t Handle the Vermouth (a solid Negroni done with your choice of gin) that’s a reference to the all-time misused “You can’t handle the truth” quote from A Few Good Men (1992), to the sketch of the exact Porsche that Tom Cruise’s character wrecked in Risky Business (1983), there are loads of Easter eggs to spot at this 80-seater bar.
You Can’t Handle the Vermouth, but you can definitely handle this Negroni
Being a cocktail place foremost, the drinks don’t disappoint. The mixologists here do a great job by putting their own twists on classics and creating their own infusions. Your Ego is Writing Cheques Your Body Can’t Cash (quote from Top Gun 1986) is their take on the Old Fashioned, made with half-and-half rum and bourbon instead of just whisky, and is sweetened using star anise-infused syrup instead of sugar, for a spice kick you normally won’t get from the classic.
Still, Risky B is no serious cocktail joint and does not pretend to be one. Right off the bat, all customers who waltz in during their daily Happy Hour time from 5pm-7pm get a free welcome shot (like a Grasshopper) to set the tone right for the night, while $15 draft pints of Asahi and Brooklyn lagers are equally tempting options at the bar.
For nibbles, neighbouring French steakhouse L’Entrecote delivers a good selection of meats and frites, though we suspect most will be going after the truffle fries. Afterall, should you choose to accept Risky Business’ proposition, it’s a feel-good coming-of-age experience you’re looking for.
