Capital

This lofty sanctuary is the most decadent addition to the new Zouk complex in Clarke Quay. Located on the second floor, it’s a whole other venue that’s only accessible via a lift or a dimly-lit stairwell at Zouk’s lobby area. And in case you’re wondering, it’s not really a Velvet Underground equivalent.

Capital adopts a lounge-like atmosphere throughout its four main areas: an island bar, a whisky bar, a cigar room and a lavish seating area, complete with a dedicated DJ console with surrounding VIP seating and a dance floor. The design by Charnley Stadworth creates a modern and luxurious space meant to give you a feel of exclusivity. That means a lot of stone, brass, dark-stoned finishes and a moody color palette to go with the slightly opulent seats, gold-rimmed marble tables and high tables across the space. 

The same people behind the “mothership” hovering above the Zouk main room designed the ceiling area just above the dance floor. Barcelona-based lighting design firm LEDSCONTROL has created custom light installations that stretch from the whisky bar all the way to the DJ console. When you’re there, look around and check out the various contemporary pieces curated by Asian art consultancy, The Artling. 

The music programing will fall under Zouk’s resident DJs who dish out top 40s, hip hop, R&B in an open format, along with local and regional female DJs. There’ll also be a myriad of live performances during post-work hours from 9-11pm (Thursdays) and 10pm-12am (Fridays and Saturdays).

While the island bar features a luminous ceiling designed by Japanese artist Tetsuya Toshima that’s a little too oriental for our taste and very different from the edgy artwork at Zouk, the whisky bar is where the action is at. They’ve got an extensive list of more than 48 different types of whisky (from $16 per glass), including rare, collector’s and limited edition ones like The Dalmore Constellation 1971 Cask 2, which is priced at $36,000 a bottle.