15 Hidden And Under-The-Radar Cocktail Bars In Singapore To Discover
For those days when you’re up for a little exploration or a secret rendezvous, these unique bars are just the ticket.
With secret entrances, sleek interiors, and unique tipples, hidden bars with unique theming are the unsung heroes of the island's drinking scene. While the concept is not new – speakeasies popped up during the Prohibition Era in the United States during the 1920s – just in the past year alone, we’ve unearthed numerous bars scattered across Singapore, including a Japanese-style speakeasy tucked behind vending machines and a cocktail den paying homage to Chinese clans of Singapore’s early days.
If you’re keen for a tipsy adventure, we’ve rounded up our favourite under-the-radar cocktail bars in Singapore and how to find them.
1. HUP SAN SOCIAL CLUB
The team at Hup San Social Club.
What to expect: There’s no way you’re going to rock up this bar and just sit in silence. The bar team at Hup San Social is not going to let you wallow alone. Hup San Social is an intimate, moody 12-seater bar tucked beneath Club Street Laundry on Club Street. Helmed by award-winning mixologist June Baek, it’s designed to offer more than just drinks; each cocktail aims to evoke emotion and spark curiosity. The name “Hup San” (Harmony Life) pays homage to early Chinese immigrants who created hidden sanctuaries for gathering.
Why we love it: You definitely can expect intimate, expressive, and modern atmosphere, contrasting with the vibrant Club Street. It’s a place for those who “drink to feel,” with a menu featuring playful descriptions of the feelings each cocktail inspires. Reservations aren’t taken, so it’s strictly first come, first served – come early and curious to experience this unique blend of heritage and contemporary mixology.
How to find it: Follow the red light and soon you’ll find yourself on the ground floor of their sister cafe-restaurant Club Street Laundry. You can check in with the staff downstairs or head up to the first floor.
Address: 98 Club Street #01-01, Singapore, 069467
Contact: 8083-5859
Website: https://www.clubstreetlaundry.com/hup-san-social-club
2. LUNI SCENT, BAR & KITCHEN
Food and drinks at Luni Scent, Bar & Kitchen
What to expect: Luni is seriously that chill spot that’s just super unassuming and peaceful. It’s got major good vibes as a tranquil cafe and their scent retail space is just... the kind of place you go to just unwind and forget about, like, everything. But when evening falls, that’s when the showmanship begins. The space transforms into an intimate cocktail bar where the magic lies in botanical-infused cocktails – where essential oils and botanical aromas are carefully integrated to enhance both flavor and scent. Each drink is designed to evoke emotions and tell a story, making for a truly immersive journey.
Why we love it: Beyond the unique drinks, Lunì also offers cocktail-making workshops, allowing guests to delve deeper into the art of scented mixology. It’s a place for those seeking a tranquil escape, a unique date idea, or simply a novel way to experience cocktails.
How to find it: Simply head up to the first floor of the unassuming shophouse located on Lavender Street.
Address: 161 Lavender St., #01-12, Singapore 338750
Contact: 8629-8292
Website: https://luni.com.sg/
3. DIRTY SIPS
A night out at Dirty Sips.
What to expect: If you’re looking for a chill spot that’s low-key but still serving up some wild drinks, Dirty Sips in Tiong Bahru is definitely worth checking out. It’s kinda hidden behind Dirty Supper, which is already a vibe, and they’re all about that “zero waste” life, even in their cocktails. Think super inventive drinks that literally use stuff from the kitchen, so you’re getting some seriously unique flavors. We’re talking fat-washed bourbon in a Dirty Boulevardier (IYKYK) and even pickled lemon brine in a martini – trust me, it slaps.
Why we love it: They also have a “Make It Dirty” section if you’re feeling adventurous, with stuff like shiitake XO-washed vodka. It’s giving experimental, but in a good way. Plus, the whole vibe is kinda chill and intimate, perfect for catching up with your besties without having to scream over the music.
How to find it: It’s tucked behind Dirty Supper, and has a long alleyway that can seat about 70 people.
Address: 78 Moh Guan Terrace, #01-19, Singapore 162078
Contact: 6438-4567
Website: https://dirtysupper.com.sg/
4. THE BACKDROP
The glamorous interior of The Backdrop.
What to expect: This theatrical hidden bar is a testament to the art of mixology, divided into ‘Acts’ and sections that highlight the various cocktail-making techniques discovered from the 1800s until the present day. The menu is divided into six acts – each a compilation of three cocktails using the same techniques like ‘fat coating’, ‘milk punching’, and ‘smoking’.
Why we love it: It’s highly immersive and almost educational – check out their masterclasses, workshops and tasting events for enthusiasts and aspiring mixologists too. Plus, it’s perfectly tucked away along Orchard Road for some post-shopping tipples.
How to find it: Located on Orchard Road, on the main floor of Voco Singapore Hotel & Gallery. It’s behind an inconspicuous wooden door – book a table in advance and you’ll be sent a digital key to enter the door. Patrons can also walk-in, look for #01-15/16 or ask hotel staff for directions.
Address: #01-15/16, 581 Orchard Road
Contact: 9645-4780
Website: https://www.thebackdrop.sg/
5. CHANDU
Chandu is inspired by the opium dens and clan associations of yesteryear.
What to expect: An intimate cocktail bar drawing inspiration from opium dens and clan associations. Chandu, which means opium in Malay and moon in Hindi, grants guests a peek into colonial-era Singapore when it was a flourishing entrepot. The beverage programme focuses on storied cocktails and market-to-glass specialties. Chandu’s double meaning of ‘Moon’ is used as a play on the menu, where some drinks are indicated with half-moon and hollow moon symbols, showcasing the Alcohol by Volume (ABV).
Why we love it: The bar’s market-to-glass bespoke concept allows guests to select one of the four cocktail styles available in the menu: Light and Clean, Casual and Easy Drinking, Bitter and Complex, and Strong and Classy. Upon selection, a cocktail is crafted and tailored to their preferences. And to top it all off, ingredients used are sourced daily from local street markets and urban farmers such as Edible Garden City and Victory Garden.
How to find it: Chandu is situated at the rear of The Robertson House. Its nondescript facade is distinguished by a gold handle in the shape of a round moon, so locate that and venture through the black doors into the bar.
Address: 1 Unity Street
Contact: 8380-1694
Instagram: www.instagram.com/chandubarsg/
6. BAR SPECTRE
Old world charm at Bar Spectre.
What you can expect: Bar Spectre is a vintage apothecary cocktail bar that draws inspiration from the old-world apothecaries of yore. You’ll find brass accents and a backdrop of shelves filled with jars of herbs, spices, and shop paraphernalia as a nod to the historical roots of medicinal elixirs and herbal concoctions. The bar’s cocktails feature a focus on mental wellness, incorporating adaptogens from TCM and natural mood boosters. For example, the Bonseki, a mezcal-based cocktail crafted with snake soup and Chinese herbs.
Why we love it: Where else can you sip from a comforting bowl of herbal chicken soup in one hand, while holding a craft cocktail in the other?
How to find it: Bar Spectre is situated in the alleyways between Duxton and Craig Road, accessible only through a lift at the back. Keep an eye out for an inconspicuous sign by the entrance.
Address: #02-01, 120 Tanjong Pagar Road
Contact: 9673-0595
Website: www.instagram.com/spectre.sg
7. UME SAN 100
What to expect: This Japanese-style speakeasy is said to conceal the largest collection of umeshu in Singapore, sourcing only the finest from Wakayama, the birthplace of umeshu. Ninety-five percent of its umeshus, liqueurs, and ingredients are directly imported from Japan. Modern interpretations of umeshus can be found alongside experimental drinks, including tea umeshu, fruit, and dessert umeshu. Drinkers who prefer something stronger can also savour new additions of premium Japanese whisky and gin, such as Akashi Whisky, Kujira Whisky, and Masahiro Whisky. Drinks are served alongside classic izakaya bites.
Why we love it: Their selection of classic drinks with an umeshu twist are a must-try – think an Ume-espresso Martini, or even an Ume Sangria. Plus, the look of surprise from onlookers as you slip through the vending machine facade is always a highlight.
How to find it: This speakeasy is hidden behind a row of (non-operational) jidohanbaiki Japanese vending machines. Give a gentle push on the ‘condom’ vending machine right in the middle to reveal the bar space, which is fashioned after traditional izakayas in Japan.
Address: #02-07 Fortune Centre, 190 Middle Road
Contact: 8897-4575
Website: www.umesan100.com
8. CAT BITE CLUB
Agave and rice spirits are the specialties at Cat Bite Club.
What to expect: Cat Bite Club highlights two well-loved alcohol categories deeply rooted in terroir (the natural environment in which liquor is produced): agave and rice spirits. The bar aims to create buzz around these unique products, showcasing their flavours through the cocktail programme.
Patrons can expect a signature serve for each category: the Cat Bite Margarita (Codigo 1530 Blanco Tequila, Siete Misterios Espadín Mezcal, Cointreau, Fresh Citrus Blend, Agave Nectar, and Sherry) for agave and the Soju Sprint (Tokki Soju, Peach, Honey, Mint, Fresh Citrus Blend, Sherry, Absinthe, and Soda) for rice. From there, guests can explore reinterpretations of classics through the lens of agave and rice.
Why we love it: Each menu page features one classic drink accompanied by one agave variation and also one rice variation, so you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring new flavours.
How to find it: Keep an eye out for the sign of a grinning Cheshire cat outlined by red neon lights along Duxton Road. Once you spot it, head straight into Monument Coffee, with the bar located behind its curtains.
Address: 75 Duxton Road
Contact: 8190-6597
Website: www.catbiteclub.com
9. PUFFY BOIS
An intimate time at Puffy Bois.
What you can expect: After popping up around town at takeovers from Caffe Fernet to Tippling Club and Meatsmith Little India, Puffy Bois has found a permanent home for its cocktails and pizzas at Bali Lane. The drinks selection spans from Grower Champagnes to Pabst Blue Ribbon, as well as classic and custom cocktails. Highlights include the refreshing Sour Crush Cooler with whiskey and sour mango, to the boozier Duck & Weave, a tequila old-fashioned Puffy Bois-style.
Why we love it: While its entrance may be hard to find, the hidden dive bar is all about casual, fun, and non-exclusive vibes – exactly how it should be.
How to find it: Locate the signage on the ground floor, and make your way up the conspicuously lit-up stairway leading to the second floor. You’ll spot a sign reading ‘Don’t be a douchebag and be good to your mother’, indicating the entrance of the bar.
Address: 15 Duxton Road
Contact: instagram.com/puffyboispizzas/
Website: puffybois.com
10. GIBSON
The MF Martini at Gibson.
What you can expect: Anyone who knows their drink would be familiar with Gibson. Elegant without ever feeling stiff, it’s a long-standing favourite on the scene. It’s best known for its namesake Gibson (Roku Gin, ginjo sake-vermouth, trio of condiments), which pairs beautifully with fresh oysters from sister restaurant Humpback. The MF Martini (the MF stands for “made for fries”, BTW) is another crowd favourite, designed to be enjoyed alongside a side of golden, crispy French fries.
Why we love it: Classic cocktails with cheeky twists, warm hospitality, and a food menu that goes far beyond bar snacks. From Shishito Tempura to a full Wagyu Katsu Sando, it’s a solid spot to satisfy post-drinks hunger pangs too.
How to find it: Located on the second floor of a heritage shophouse in Bukit Pasoh, look for a glass door with the onion Gibson logo. Walk past their sister bar, Live Twice, and head upstairs.
Address: 20 Bukit Pasoh Road, Level 2
Contact: 9114-8385
Website: www.gibsonbar.sg
11. OFFTRACK
What you can expect: Offtrack puts music front and centre. From the folks behind local indie electronic music label Darker Than Wax and party collective Ice Cream Sundays, the bar hosts a rotating roster of DJs from Singapore and abroad — so what you’re hearing is as carefully curated as what’s in your glass.
The drinks menu is organised from light to strong, making it easy to ease into the night or go straight for bolder flavours. Start with the Chimayo (torched ginger flower, Volcan Blanco Tequila, hard apple cider and tajin) or go for the Low & Slow, their take on an Old Fashioned with a hojicha twist.
Why we love it: Between the vibrant atmosphere and thoughtful cocktails, Offtrack shines as an all-night destination. The Pan-Asian sharing plates make it perfect for groups, whether you’re coming for dinner or staying till last call. Don’t miss the Dashi Mascarpone Dip with sourdough roti, Spice Rubbed Iberico Collar, and Charcoal Grilled Banana Cake.
How to find it: Offtrack isn’t difficult to spot with its bright orange awning, but its calm, laidback exterior can often be misleading – it’s got a moody interior that’s a little funky and eclectic, complete with a spinning disco ball. It’s always bustling within, especially on weekends, so reservations are (usually) a must.
Address: 34 North Canal Road
Contact: 8748-0408
Website: www.offtrack.sg
12. NIGHT HAWK
The mid-century vibes at Night Hawk.
What you can expect: Stepping foot into Night Hawk is almost akin to travelling back in time. Inspired by Edward Hopper’s iconic Nighthawks (1942), the space channels mid-century Americana with dim lighting and cosy booths made for late-night conversations. The cocktails lean playful and nostalgic, with creations like Black Hole Sun (bourbon, grand bitters, sloe gin, raspberry, soda, ice cream and raspberry popping candy) and Slippery Transistor (peanut butter scotch, rum, almond, Creme de Cassis, chocolate, salt, complete with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich). They don’t just serve bar bites either – the food menu is hearty and substantial, with items like Wagyu Cheeseburger Sliders and Loaded Fries.
Why we love it: It’s sophisticated yet a good bit of fun – expect attentive service from the team and a menu that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
How to find it: Head to the last Five Oars Coffee Roasters awning along Cook Street, where you’ll find an unmarked door set into the brick wall. There’s just 25 seats and it’s walk-ins only, so give them a call to check for availability before heading down.
Address: 43 Tanjong Pagar Road
Contact: 9666-0928
Website: www.nighthawk.sg
13. GOODBYE, ALIBI
Goodbye, Alibi’s signature cocktails with fun garnishes.
What you can expect: Savoury cocktails are the star of the show at Goodbye, Alibi, with out-of-the-box combinations like Szechuan peppercorn and soy with whisky in My Crazy Ex, or miso and wasabi with vodka in Miso Broken. Plus, the creative garnishes that come with each drink are a delightful bonus. Their concept is about leaving your secrets at the table – you’ll find bowls upon bowls of anonymous confessions handwritten by past patrons, and you’re encouraged to pen down your own too.
Why we love it: It’s a simple set-up at Goodbye, Alibi, but it’s all about stepping out of your comfort zone in both flavours and in fun. Their happy hour deal is hard to beat too: $12 cocktails and $2.50 oysters from 4 to 7 p.m.? Sign us up.
How to find it: Tucked away on the second floor of a shophouse in Duxton Hill. Look for the nondescript door with the number 53A and head upstairs.
Address: 53A Duxton Road
Contact: www.instagram.com/goodbyealibi/
14. Sago House
The colourful interior of Sago House.
What you can expect: If there’s anything Sago House is known for, it’s the team’s scrappy, can-do attitude and commitment to the craft. Since opening in 2020, the team has rolled out a brand-new cocktail menu every single week – they’re almost at their 300th menu after close to six years in the business – with each concoction riffing off classic drinks using fresh local ingredients.
Why we love it: When there’s always a slew of innovative new drinks to try, do we really need another reason to love it? That aside, the cozy, friendly (and perhaps slightly chaotic) vibes here just keep you coming back for more.
How to find it: It’s on Duxton Hill, nestled within an enclave of other bars and eateries. Locate the green shutters with the Sago House logo, and you’re all set. Reservations are highly recommended to avoid disappointment (and they write your name on the table if you do, which is definitely an Instagram story-worthy moment).
Address: 37 Duxton Hill
Contact: 8874-9936
Website: www.sagohouse.sg
15. Pop City
Bar Mixtape at Pop City.
What you can expect: The newest kid on the block, which opened in December 2025 in the former home of Sugarhall. It boasts four zones inspired by different facets of Japanese culture: Byobu Bar for intimate bar seating, Bar Mixtape as a listening lounge complete with records and headphones, Tasting Commons for DJ sets and After Hours Salon for quieter conversations.
The drinks menu is split into two sections – POP, which pays homage to the colourful, lively music scene of Japan and CITY, drawing inspiration from its sense of structure and refinement. Each month, two seasonal cocktails inspired by Japan’s 24 solar terms are also added to the list.
Why we love it: It’s wonderfully intentional with a space for just about everyone’s tastes. Imagine sipping on a Studio Genmaicha (Roku Gin, genmaicha, bee pollen, lemon and fino sherry) inspired by famed Japanese composer Joe Hisaishi, while listening to classical tracks of the same genre.
How to find it: Head to the back alley behind the grandiose The Quadrant building at 19 Cecil Street, where a bright pink sign marks the entrance.
Address: 19 Cecil Street, Level 2
Contact: 8028-2863
Website: www.popcityxpony.com