In the Mood for Luck: 8 Beautiful Oriental Bars in Singapore

China has a long history of alcohol consumption. The country assumes one of the earliest cultures in archaeological records for the making and use of alcohol, dating to as early as 9000 years ago.

Today, the Chinese go through approximately USD 85 billion worth of Baijiu a year, making it the most-consumed spirit in the world.

While Baijiu is not foreign to Singapore which comprises over 75 percent Chinese population, the spirit however has not gained a firm foothold in the highly westernised city state that boasts some of the best bars and restaurants in the world.

According to cocktail trends reports and predictions, there will be a rise in premium spirits. But, from the field, it seems that Baijiu will take some time to catch on particularly in the cocktail scene.

In the meantime, here is a list of 8 beautiful oriental / Chinese-themed bars in Singapore to soak in the CNY vibes.

菊花台 Ju Hua Tai

Named after the mandopop singer-songwriter superstar, Jay Chou’s hit song, Ju Hua Tai 菊花台 is an oriental-themed cocktail bar that serves elevated modern Sze Chuan-inspired dishes to pair with rotating craft beers and artisanal tipples. Inside, the bar is adorned with bronze Chinese lion door knockers and a giant gold Chrysanthemum mural forms the backdrop.

9 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089593
Opens 5pm to 10:30pm (Monday – Sunday)

龙堂 The Dragon Chamber

The Dragon Chamber is an speakeasy bar and restaurant hidden behind the fridge door of an unassuming local cafe. Reminiscent of old-time Chinatown gambling dens and secret society hangouts, The Dragon Chamber reinvents Chinese cuisine and brings back unique Chinese dishes.

2 Circular Road Singapore 049358
Opens Tuesday to Sunday
Lunch: 11:00am – 3:00pm
Dinner: 5:00pm – 10:30pm

小丫头 Xiao Ya Tou

小丫头 Xiao Ya Tou is beautifully eclectic. The quirky interior shouts old school charm with an edge through its eye-catching colour play: Lanterns adorn the ceiling and walls are plastered with posters from the 1950s-ish. Tucked away in Duxton, 小丫头 Xiao Ya Tou adds Asian-flair and oriental touch to Western staples.

6 Duxton Hill, Singapore 089592
Opens daily (check website for opening hours)

酒庄 Jiu Zhuang

Nestled in a quiet area of Dempsey is the charming 酒庄 Jiu Zhuang is inspired by the 1920s era in Shanghai. Reminiscent of bygone chinoiserie, the bar is transports the past into the present in a Chinese courtyard (四合院) style. It offers a good selection of wines, champagnes, rums, and whiskies, coupled with Chinese food prepared fresh daily.

Block 6D Dempsey Road Singapore 247664
Opens Daily (check website for opening hours)

Lin 林 Rooftop Bar

Lin 林 is the only rooftop bar in Singapore that delights the eyes with colours and motifs of the orient and balances it with modern comfort.

50 Tiong Bahru Road, Singapore 168733
Monday to Saturday 530pm – 12 midnight

福林 Fu Lin Bar & Kitchen

Yong tau foo (酿豆腐）by day, and bar by night, 福林 Fu Lin bar & kitchen is accented with red and raw industrial finishes to bring out the oriental and rustic vibes. Venue brings to mind The Great Leap Forward and The Little Red Book.

127 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068596
Opens: 10am – 12midnight (Mon – Fri), 4pm – 12midnight (Sat)

亲 QĪN Restaurant & Bar

QĪN restaurant & bar is located at The Clan hotel along Cross Street, one of the oldest streets in Singapore. The fifth level of the venue is the bar that features Chinese medical hall-inspired cabinets as its backdrop. The beverage menu highlights signature cocktails that sing the tales of QĪN, along with over 60 wine selections.

10 Cross Street, Level 5, SIngapore 048417
Opens Daily

秘密 Mimi Restaurant

Set against Clarke Quay’s storied backdrop, the 150-year-old Riverhouse is one of the only two remaining conserved Chinese mansions in Singapore. Mimi, located on the second level, is the heart of the mansion and exudes strong oriental mystery with a touch modern twist.

3A River Valley Road, #02-02, Clarke Quay, Singapore 179020
Opens Daily