Watering Holes

Watering Holes

Raise a Glass at Singapore's Best Lounges and Bars

by Elizabeth Butcher

Anouska’s Bar: A Hidden Gem in Plain Sight

There is something about a good hotel bar whether you are traveling or just out for an evening in the city you call home. As a traveler I want a place that feels unique and assures me it was worth the trip. As a denizen I like the way a good hotel bar feels cosmopolitan yet homey. I enjoy hearing different accents and thinking of my next voyage. Anouska’s Bar is located on the first floor of the smart Duxton Reserve Hotel at 83 Duxton Road is just such a hotel bar.

Anouska’s beguiling back story on the website reads as follows: “An ode to Bond girl turned interior designer Anouska Hempel…There is mystery, romance, theatre and perfection; an utopian whirl of stories to be told and worlds to unfold. The stuff of dreams, a glimpse of beyond – from dignitary to vagabond – a corner for every inch of thought alongside beauty, delight and charm.” Sounds a little precious, I know. But it really is extremely chic and comfortable with cozy spaces, strong drinks, and delicious nibbles. I was lucky enough to get a spot there last month at one of the AWA Bar Nights organized by Lauren Raps. It was a Wednesday, aka Lady’s Night which means: “It’s time to bring out your inner Bond girl for Ladies Night at Anouska’s, every Wednesday from 5:30pm – 10:30pm. Each lady will enjoy a complimentary welcome glass of cava as well as $15++ signature cocktails all night long.” In addition to the delightful Cava, the following were enjoyed and recommended by the ladies joining me that night: • Anouska’s Dirty Martini (Tanqueray London Dry Gin | Dry Vermouth House Pickled Green Chilli) “more briny than spicy”; • Hong Long Choc (Monkey Shoulder Whisky | Lapsang

Souchong Chocolate Liqueur | Bitters) “more bitter than sweet”; and

• Canton Sour Luxardo Amaretto | Monkey Shoulder

Whisky Sweet & Sour | Angostura Bitters Black

Sesame Seeds | Egg White, “I love whiskey sours and this one did not disappoint,” said AWA Magazine

Managing Editor Jane Kim. For snacks we tried the local delicacy of Spicy Salted Egg Yolk Fish Skin and the international favorite Spicy Chicken Popcorn in Sichuan Spices. Both paired nicely with our drinks.When you have a chance, find a Wednesday and head over to Duxton for the decor, excellent drinks, and perhaps international adventure. Anouska’s Duxton Reserve 83 Duxton Road 089540 www.anouskas.sg

Anouska's mysterious and charming interior Hong Long Choc cocktail

Elizabeth enjoys exploring Singapore from Pulau Ubin to St. John's and all the watering holes in between.