The buzz: This much-awaited vinyl cocktail bar by the Unlisted Collection adds some old school charm and tunes to Kampong Glam.
The decor: Although it can only be described as industrial-chic, the narrow and corridor-like space is outfitted in burnished brass mirrors, industrial-style steel cases, leather and wooden chairs that are all juxtaposed by airy linen curtains.
The drinks: Cocktails have a signature restrained style that plays with infused spirits and nuanced flavors. There are seven cocktails, each with kitschy names that reference films or classic musicians, like the cognac-based Marlon Brando ($20) with Stella beer (geddit?), as well as the House of the Raisin Sun ($20) with raisin-infused tequila and citrus. If all else fails, there is a succint list of wines like a Fenomenal verdejo ($19/glass, $94/bottle) and a red Beronia crianza ($16/glass, $80/bottle), and an extensive list of spirits (starting at $14/glass) from gin to tequila and cognac. Plus, there’s a secret cocktail that you can order, but only if you know the right phrase.
The food: Comprised of drink-friendly snacks and sandwiches. The addictive buttermilk chicken ($12) is moist and crispy, or is basically, high-class popcorn chicken. The umami-heavy togarashi squid with harissa dip ($14) also has the right amount of salt, which makes you want to drink more, but don’t miss the mac & cheese ($16) that comes well-charred and oozing in a baking dish.
The music: There’s a serious vinyl collection and turntable set-up here. They pull out 50 or so records each night, and you’re welcome to make requests from them. The tunes vary from classics to nu-soul, funk and rock tracks. The thousand-strong collection houses greats like Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong but also infuses vintage pop culture like Blue Swede’s “Hooked on a Feeling” and Pink Floyd’s classic, “Money”.
The crowd: Suffice it to say, hipsters will flock to this place alongside after-work execs and, of course, Unlisted groupies. The location always had a diverse crowd and this too-cool-for-school bar will no doubt attract the in-the-know types too.
Why you’ll be back: Adventurous and delicious drinks and comforting bar bites aside, the vinyl wave is only going to get bigger. It doesn’t hurt that this space is well-executed, lively and has good vibes.
