The best bars and cafés Singapore City

Timetable

The hours are quite variable for the bars, the unavoidable ones, considered almost as a tourist attraction, like the Long Bar of the Raffles, open from 12pm to 10:30pm approximately. The other classic bars open around 6pm until 2am, every day. Expect a lot of traffic from 6pm to 9pm, as the locals enjoy the afterwork and happy hour.

The cozy cafés, tea rooms and gourmet shops are open from 8am to 6pm in general, the co-working cafés close later, they are open every day.

Budget & Tips

Alcohol is expensive in Singapore-about $12 for a pint of beer, and $10 for a basic glass of wine-but most bars offer happy hour, usually from 6pm to 9pm. Women are lucky enough to take advantage of the famous "ladies night" every Wednesday evening, with reduced rates that are much appreciated for outings with girlfriends! More and more eco-responsible cafés are working towards BYO (Bring your own), encouraging you to bring in your cup and fill it with coffee, with a discount on the price (www.byosingapore.com). As in restaurants, taxes and tips are included in bars.

Age restrictions

The legal drinking and purchasing age in Singapore is 18. The Singapore police have become increasingly vigilant about age checks since the emergence of the new "binge drinking" phenomenon, which involves drinking large quantities of alcohol as quickly as possible. So if you're over 18 and look very young, keep your passport with you if you need it.

What's very local

Wednesday night is Ladies Night, when many bars offer reduced prices and free drinks for women. A great opportunity to get together and enjoy the night. Sorry gentlemen, no Gents Night on the calendar yet..

Kids

Children are allowed in the bars, and if you sit on the terrace, they can even wander around and play in the area, which is very safe. Some very chic establishments, such as the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel, offer alcohol-free cocktails for children. They can even enjoy a Virgin Singapore Sling!

Smokers

As in restaurants, the rules are very strict. Smoking is of course forbidden inside, and some tables, not all, are reserved for smokers on the terrace. In case of doubt, it is better to ask the waiter to respect the rules as much as possible.