While we could go on to talk about the various bars in all the districts that the Singapore River cuts through, we’re keeping it to just the Quays for this list. The lyrics “Sail down that river which brings us life” in that one National Day song every Singaporean resonates with just got a whole new meaning.
BOAT QUAY
1-Altitude
The world’s highest alfresco bar stands tall at the edge of Boat Quay, conveniently in the heart of Singapore beside Raffles Place MRT, as if a symbol of how far (or high) Singapore’s nightlife scene has come. Come for the nonpareil views of the city, knock back a few drinks, and once you’re ready, head two floors down to sister venue Altimate for a thumping club experience. 63/F, 1 Raffles Place, 6438-0410.
28 HongKong Street
One of Singapore’s most famous bars (and a proud member of the World’s 50 Best Bars list), 28 HongKong Street got to where it is with its friendly crew and cocktails that are as potent as they are inventive. 28 HongKong St., 6533-2001.
Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall
This bar is great with classics like Old Fashioned and Manhattan, but they truly shine when bringing Asian flavors into their concoctions, some even served in teacups. Sip them alongside local eats like Hokkien mee and char kway teow. 60A Boat Quay, 6535-0838.
Harry’s
The flagship outlet of this iconic pub chain holds its own in Boat Quay. Their extended menu features dishes like beer battered prawns and curried lamb shanks while drink options consist of approachable draft beers, wines, spirits and cocktails. 28 Boat Quay, 6538-3029.
Hero’s
A go-to place for live music and live sports screenings, Hero’s is all about having an old fashioned good time. One way to do it—grab a seat at one of their tap tables and pour your own beers all night long. #01-01 69 Circular Rd., 6438-6058.
La Terre
Fronted by sommelier extraordinaire Daisuke Kawai, La Terre is an oenophile’s dream, covering icons, novelties and everything in between. Their rotating list of wines by the glass and regular tasting events also make fine wine accessible to everyday drinkers. #01-01, 11 Upper Circular Rd., 6532-1031.
Molly Malone’s
The oldest Irish pub in Singapore, this nightlife veteran has been serving up nights of revelry since 1995. What you’ll find here is an unpretentious and hearty menu of bar bites like pork crackling and Irish stew, all best had with expertly poured pints of Guinness. 56 Circular Rd., 6536-2029.
Penny Black
Another long-standing Boat Quay icon, this Victorian London pub is a cozy wood-furniture-filled place that gets particularly packed and riotous when major sports events are shown on the screens. Be sure to order a pint of Old Speckled Hen. 26/27 Boat Quay, 6538-2300.
Skinny’s
Skinny’s is the unapologetic dive bar we never knew we needed. The drinks are solid and the karaoke concept is fun, but it’s all about the good vibes here—there are few better places to end your night in Singapore. 82 Boat Quay.
Southbridge
One of the only rooftop bars in Boat Quay, Southbridge serves up craft cocktails, some enhanced with house- made infusions, along with all the oysters you can eat. 5/F 80 Boat Quay, 6877-6965.
CLARKE QUAY
Brewerkz
A Clarke Quay mainstay since 1997, Brewerkz is known for both quality and affordability and, like any good brewery, it isn’t afraid to push the envelope. Beyond beer, Brewerkz’s burgers are among the best in town. #01-05/06 Riverside Point, 30 Merchant Rd., 6438-7438.
Cafe Iguana
Cafe Iguana played a big part in showing us how to appreciate good tequila. Seventeen years on from their debut, they’re still specialists in 100 percent blue agave tequila and authentic Mexican cuisine. #01-03 Riverside Point, 30 Merchant Rd., 6236-1275.
Chupitos
Is there any better way to get a party properly started than with a few shots? From the good to the bad and the downright brutal, Chupitos has more than 130 shots to do the trick. #01-05 3B River Valley Rd.
Crazy Elephant
A home of rock and blues since 1994, Crazy Elephant is a long-time Clarke Quay favorite with live music on every night from 10pm. #01-03/04 3E River Valley Rd., 6337-7859.
McGettigan’s
An Irish pub that arrived in Singapore by way of Dubai, McGettigan’s is a bright and modern space with traditional touches. You get sports screenings and live music along with stand-up comedy, all accompanied by Guinness and classic pub grub. #01-01 3C River Valley Rd., 6694-6911.
Paulaner Singapore Clarke Quay
Paulaner in Clarke Quay adds on to the offerings of its sister establishment in Millenia Walk with a comprehensive Bavarian dining menu and more Paulaner beers on tap. The vibe is also a tad less bar-like, which makes it an ideal spot for catching up over dinner. #01-12 3B River Valley Rd., 6338-0480.
Red Tail
An Asian fusion bar by Zouk, Red Tail is decked out with a tropical-industrial look. Craft beers and spirits aside, there’s a cocktail list with sections named after famous neighborhoods in Asian cities like Lan Kwai Fong in Hong Kong and the Row in Kuala Lumpur. #01-04 3C River Valley Rd., 6738-2988.
Senor Taco
Looking every bit like a classic Mexican cantina, Senor Taco serves dozens of top shelf tequilas and mezcals, complemented by a menu featuring specialties from various Mexican regions. #01-12 3D River Valley Rd., 6337-6376.
Zouk
It’s been a time of great change for iconic club Zouk, but they’ve settled in to their new Clarke Quay home nicely. A highlight here is Capital, a lounge space which comprises an island bar, a whisky bar, a cigar room and a lavish seating area. 3C River Valley Rd., 9006-8793.
ROBERTSON QUAY
La Maison du Whisky
Offering a parade of liquors sourced from all over the world, the chic and intimate La Maison du Whisky has always been a hotspot for discerning hedonists and cerebral quaffers. Follow them on Facebook to find out about their exclusive tasting sessions. #01-10 The Pier at Robertson Quay, 80 Mohamed Sultan Rd., 6733-0059.
Marcello
Located at the new InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay is Marcello. Touted as Singapore’s first modern Italian cocktail bar, they’re all about handcrafted cocktails made with Italian spirits. 1 Nanson Rd., 6826-5041.
Summerlong
Boasting beachside vibes, eastern Mediterranean establishment Summerlong is a clean, white-washed cafe and bar decked with plants, wooden tabletops and warm ambient lighting. The menu, by Chef Justin Hammond of Keong Saik’s Neon Pigeon, is made up of sharing plates, seafood dishes and grilled eats. #01-04 The Quayside, 60 Robertson Quay, 6235-1225.
Wine Connection Tapas Bar & Bistro
A time-honored spot for afterhours gatherings over tapas, Wine Connection’s Robertson Quay outlet offers more than 30 wines by the glass, 10 beers on tap, and a huge list of wines by the bottle with prices starting at just $35. #01-19/20 Robertson Walk, 11 Unity St., 6235-5466.
