Former Singapore expat, Pippa Brindley, shares with U her favourite spots in the city-state popularly known as the Little Red Dot.
Following an extensive 2019 refurbishment, the iconic Raffles Hotel has cemented its reputation as the pinnacle of luxury in Southeast Asia. The new look is fresher and slicker yet doesn’t compromise on any of its original architectural charm or colonial heritage. The Long Bar has always been a haunt for tourists, and therefore generally avoided by those in the know. Venture a little further into the property and between the swaying palms and majestic arches lies the beautifully landscaped and breezy al-fresco courtyard, a favourite amongst Singapore residents. A laidback and refined spot where the city comes to socialise and the cocktails flow, this enclave is best for those wanting to experience timeless elegance without the swarms of tourists.
A venue which should be cloned in every city in the world! Lesser known to the tourists and a favourite amongst the discerning cosmopolitan crowd, Spago Lounge is located on the rooftop of Marina Bay sands, accessible by the tower 2 lobby lift. Wolfgang Puck’s Singapore signature is every inch as glamourous as the West Hollywood flagship, offering the best personalized hospitality in Singapore, superior craft cocktails and a Balearic playlist. Choose a sea view which stretches out across to the Indonesian archipelago, or a city view which spans the iconic urban skyscrapers. Vibrant and sophisticated, this is a destination for special occasions, world-class cocktails and fusion food – it never fails to impress. For a refreshing, low sugar cocktail, try the Grin N Bare it complemented by a selection of Asian bar bites that wouldn’t look out of place on any Michelin Star menu.
Arguably the most in-demand dining spot in Singapore, a seat at the Burnt Ends counter is front row viewing of one of Asia’s most exciting, high energy kitchens. Voted as one of the World's Top 50 Best Restaurants, Chef and Owner David Pynt champions unpretentious, honest and hearty dining through an immaculate, mind-blowing menu that sees everything touch the two oven, four-tonne bespoke brick kiln. Tucked away off Keon Saik Road, one of Singapore’s trendiest neighbourhoods and ex red light district, the intimate spot pumps out high energy music and has a team of staff that keep the electricity alive and the food flowing into the late hours.
A few minutes’ drive over a bridge to the island of Sentosa and yet it feels a world away, Tanjong Beach Club (TBC) offers respite and escapism from Singapore’s faster paced mainland. Reminiscent of a fuss-free European beach club, the design is a hybrid of laidback luxury meets Hamptons chic. This is Singapore’s only beach club worth visiting that welcomes all ages and the party goes on well past sunset. TBC hosts a lively string of parties throughout the year where the sun always shines and the temperature never drops below 27 degrees. On the food side, a classic beach club menu serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner – making it a go-to spot for lazy weekend get togethers, poolside sunbathing or upbeat celebrations.
Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House
A refined, classic New York style bistro on the fringe of the business district, Luke’s is an inspired and unbeatable dining concept. A Singapore staple and spot for people watching, Luke’s is famed for outstanding service and its signature, sophisticated long-lunch atmosphere where the lines between business and pleasure blur. With clean white tablecloths, a contemporary menu, and a chic statement bar for those wanting a quick counter-top lunch stop, Luke’s always surpasses expectations with its revival of fashionable classics. Championing sustainably-sourced seafood: wild-caught Maine lobsters, top quality Jonah crabs found in the waters of North America and farmed shrimps from the Easter Canadian fisheries – this is a dining experience to remember.
What happens in EO stays in EO. Listed as one of "Asia's 50 Best Bars" for 3 years running (2016, 2017, 2018) since its opening in June 2016, Employees Only has bred a cult of its own. Art deco interiors matching those of New York’s original joint are accessed via a fortune teller arrival experience. With international mixologist superstars running the show, a playlist that elevates as the evening evolves and a cocktail programme which attracts guests from around the world, Employees Only is the place for a lively dinner, after work drinks or a late night after-party. Visit on a Sunday evening for the exclusive industry night pyjama party.
Pippa Brindley is founder of The Comms Collective and The Edit International, offering bespoke luxury PR services to unique concepts around the world.
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Insider tips, recommendations
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As Recommended: Singapore City Guide
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City guide
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Singapore
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Singapore
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