Watering Holes

Watering Holes The best places in singapore to find coffee & cocktails

Photo by Elena Boyce

Smoke & Mirrors 1 St. Andrew's Road, #06-01 National Gallery Singapore, 178957 If I had a list of my favorite bars in Singapore, this one would be on it. But I don’t have a list because it would be too long. This place is a great way to end a visit to the National Gallery. Explore the amazing artworks for a couple of hours and then end the day with a cocktail on the rooftop. When you get there, make sure it is after twilight so you can enjoy the view of the marina and all the marvelous buildings that create the iconic landscape of the Lion City. Don’t worry about the seating plan: you will enjoy the view from

The Fabulous Baker Boy 70 River Valley Road, #01-15, Singapore 179037 Have you been to Clarke Quay and felt like having a coffee in a place without tourists? Or have you walked around Fort Canning and needed a drink? Well, this is a hidden jewel near Fort Canning MRT. The name says it all: the stars of the place are the cakes; you add the coffee or the drink of your choice. The place is quietly chic, which is a good setting for the sparkly cakes known as “Diva Series:” you can have a Diana Ross (Valrhona Ivoire chocolate and raspberry swiss meringue buttercream), a Bette Midler (Earl grey sponge with Earl grey Swiss meringue), or for more pop, try a Katy Perry (orange sponge with yuzu buttercream and ganache). The brunch is a good option also. They make the sourdough daily and the menu has good vegan alternatives.

Men, also known as “Divo Series,” are not forgotten here. My recommendation? Have a cappuccino with “George Clooney”, “Keanu Reeves” or the local celebrity “Hossan Leong”. All the single ladies, put your hands up and have a “Beyonce”!

any corner of this small but well-designed space. After relaxing in your seat, take your time with the menu. The first time there, I would suggest talking with the bartender and letting him or her guide you through the options. When your drink arrives, put on your best smile and get ready for the “must-have” selfie. Even if you don’t post it on social media, you can send it to your family and friends, so on their next visit, Smoke & Mirrors will be on their list of favorite bars as well.