The buzz: Touted as Asia’s first and only infusion beer lab is a new venture by the team behind Changi microbrewery-pub Little Island Brewing Co., glamorously located at South Beach. Beer lovers will be privy to 16 pretty looking and advanced beer infusion towers, adding more variety to the recently booming local beer scene.
The vibe: Although this cozy and intimate space can only seat 70 people at one time, it has high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that give the illusion of expansiveness. Modernist glass pendant lamps hover over the communal table that sits in the center of the venue, adding to the whole sophisticated vibe of the monochrome bar. All the marble and glass fittings are consistent throughout, and make for a snazzy look.
The drinks: The process of infusing beer is not anything new really, but these glass towers make it much easier for brewers to introduce new ingredients for their infusions. Out of the 16, eight of them consist familiar creations by Little Island Brewing Co., such as the Singapore Pale Ale and That Old Black Magic (this one won a Gold Medal at this year’s Asia Beer Awards), all of which are priced at $12 before 7pm and $15 after. The remaining eight contain exclusive flavors that they’ll change every few months. Currently on tap, and what seems to be a crowd favorite at the moment is the Ugly Sister Golden, an ale infused with grilled pineaple and star anise. Surprisingly, the infused ingredients don’t overpower or add extra sweetness to the ale, making it really balanced and refreshing. But if you prefer something heavier, go for the Obama, a stout that’s been infused with marshmallows, vanilla pods and mint leaves. If you’re going to be staying a while, ask for the party pack of three beers, a more valuable option that’s priced at between $30-$38.
The food: Although they’re more of a bar than a restaurant, they do have some set lunch specials ($15.90, with coffee or tea), but don’t expect too much. Options include simple dishes like a grilled Porterhouse steak sandwich with rocket pesto, tomato, horseradish and brie and potato gnocchi. But once the sun sets, that’s when they bring out some really appetizing Modern-European tapas-style bar bites. Try the duck fat chips ($12) that are seasoned with chipotle salt and come with a preserved lemon aioli dip, the slow-cooked pork cheeks with sweet red cabbage, yogurt, Cabernet syrup and pig ears ($16). Or if you’re looking for something lighter, go for warm Kalamata olives with lemon, garlic and chilli ($6) or usual charcuterie or cheese platters ($18-$28).
Why we’ll be back: You’ll want to spend some quality time with friends (or a date) after a dinner here because it’s one of those places that’s quiet enough for conversations but well-stocked with pretty good drinks and munchies.
