If you look hard enough, you’ll realize that Singapore’s nightlife is actually quite varied; from big-ass institutions like Zouk to unpretentious techno spots like Headquarters by The Council, there’s really something for everyone. And it’s only going to get better. Just this year alone, six noteworthy nightclubs sprouted around the island to much fanfare. And we haven’t even begun talking about the bars yet (in case you’re curious, we’ve got an entire guide on the best bars in town here). In the meantime, you might wanna make a mental note to drop by these few places in the new year.
Avry
Avry is an ultra-luxe-looking aviary-themed spot opened by four Singapore-based entrepreneurs who are no strangers to Singapore’s nightlife and entertainment scene. The concept was created with the saying, “Birds of a feather, flock together,” in mind; in the hopes that the spot will become “much like a bird sanctuary” where people will “feel safe and at home”. Birdcages surround the dancefloor and double up as VIP areas while resident and guest DJs will helm the decks in a statement three-meter wide booth with LED screens that stretch out to its surrounding walls. They’ve also installed a Void Acoustics sound system and engaged creative V-Squared Labs to oversee all the cool graphics. #02-02 Millenia Walk, 9 Raffles Blvd.
Bar Rouge Singapore
Shanghai’s iconic and hyper-glamorous nightclub, Bar Rouge, has taken over the spot on the top of Swissotel The Stamford, where former nightlife institution New Asia Bar used to be. Just like its Shanghai home, the Singapore outpost offers floor-to-ceiling windows to give patrons breath-taking views of the Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay and the CBD. Bar Rouge Singapore exudes that same design ethos throughout the venue, and boasts advanced lighting, lasers and a custom-built sound system. 71/F Swissotel The Stamford, Singapore, 2 Stamford Rd.
Lavo Singapore
This restaurant and bar concept will only officially open its doors on New Year’s Eve because, why the hell not? More glitz and glam, and probably to add a dramatic touch that they can get away with. The venue itself is a collaboration between Marina Bay Sands and the famed nightlife operator from New York and Las Vegas, TAO Group. They’ll be serving up Italian-American cuisine at its “vibe-dining” restaurant, complete with luxurious indoor and outdoor lounges, a wraparound terrace (where a gelato cart sits) and nightlife programing that includes live DJ sets. Expect Las Vegas-style VIP treatment as you wine and dine, and when you feel like it, dance the night away. 57/F Sands Skypark Hotel Tower 1
Mao
This cool new underground nightclub has taken over the former premises of underground Kyo on Cecil Street. Mao Singapore is also the latest addition to the collective who brought us Cherry Discotheque (they’re not closed permanently, just looking for a new location to call home) and Peaches Singapore. Apart from the gigantic neon sign you absolutely won’t miss while walking down the stairs, the club itself boasts Asian-inspired decor (the entire ceiling is covered with red lanterns) and cushy seats all round the 6,000 sq. ft. compound. 133 Cecil St.
Ola Beach Club
Stylish Hawaiian-themed (and owned) restaurant and beach club Ola has a twin focus on good food and drink as well as exciting water sports. There’s a beachside lounge with daybeds and a pool downstairs, and upstairs is a nautical-themed restaurant with a Hawaiian-leaning menu like the Lomi Lomi Salmon and tuna poke bowl. The bar is run by Alex Ng, who cut his teeth at Loof, Bar Stories and most recently Tess Bar & Kitchen. By day, Ola is a go-to destination for watersports. By night, it’s party town for the grown-ups. 46 Siloso Beach Walk
Peaches
Could Peaches be the shining beacon that fills the void that Play left when it closed three years ago? Perhaps, especially when the people running it are the same guys behind Cherry Discotheque and the old Play. This fabulous venue is the current occupant of York Hotel’s basement, where Cherry once was. Walk in and you’ll be welcomed by a blindingly neon-lit peach signboard (the club’s logo), just before stepping into the industrial chic compound on the right. While they play top 40s, R&B, EDM and handbag house, this super inclusive nightspot is all about experiences. They host regular drag shows and play iconic pop hits from way back on certain nights, and have a little “stage”/platform area that stretches from one end of the club, to the back of the DJ console and right to the other end, in case you’re feeling flashy for the night. B/2 York Hotel, 21 Mount Elizabeth
