Most cocktail enthusiasts flock to the hotspots in Telok Ayer and Tanjong Pagar when they’re in Singapore. But under the gleam of Jewel Changi Airport’s iconic glass dome awaits a treasure box of exciting bars awaiting discovery – especially if you’re killing time before or after a flight. Here’s a selection you’ll want to begin with:
1. Unwind at this Japanese restaurant’s hidden, private cocktail bar
The symphony of wagyu beef is so tantalising that guests often breeze past Wa-En Wagyu Yakiniku’s discreet cocktail bar. Yet, this elegant pocket bar is one of the best spots for a well-crafted tipple. For a lighter drink, go for the Umami Sake Tonic, which elevates the classic G&T with a fragrant KI NO TEA Kyoto dry gin and a splash of dry sake.
Beyond the concise cocktail list, there is also a fine selection of wines and whiskies, not to mention sake and Japanese beer. Try stopping by during Happy Hour, when the delightfully indulgent Old Fashioned becomes a steal. Made with Miyazaki Wagyu fat-washed Suntory Old whisky and Okinawan brown sugar syrup, it’s garnished with a luxurious piece of Miyazaki Wagyu beef. It’s the perfect place to get away and unwind for a breathe. As the beautiful lattice doors gently slide shut, you’ll be a whole world away from the airport bustle.
2. Score Happy Hour deals while admiring the Rain Vortex
Swathed in lush greenery against the soothing rush of Jewel’s famed indoor waterfall, The World is Flat is not your average airport bar. This stylish spot on the top floor specialises in craft beers and cocktails using spirits from boutique distilleries around the world. It also boasts the mall’s best Happy Hour deals with lagers from Hong Kong brewery Young Master going for S$11 and cocktails starting at S$14 each (3–7pm from Monday to Saturday and all day on Sunday).
If you’re feeling peckish, there’s a selection of hearty sandwiches like the mouthwatering pastrami melt. Otherwise, order off the Japanese menu of sister restaurant Tanuki Raw, which offers freshly shucked oysters, sashimi and a wide range of signature donburi. For travellers keen to sample the legendary Singapore Sling, there’s a refreshing version here that’s available on draft.
3. Cheers to this luxurious twist on the classic Japanese izakaya
Traditional izakayas, Japan’s answer to the everyman’s pub, are typically cosy joints where guests drink and socialise in close quarters. Not Hitoyoshi Izakaya, which thanks to Jewel’s soaring glass ceilings, feels more like an expansive al fresco diner. Launched in 2022, it’s one of the airport mall’s freshest watering holes, serving up sake and highballs alongside yakitori and sashimi. Other than the quintessential Japanese beers, you’ll also find stouts and even Kirin Ichiban beer slushies to quench your thirst. There are sakes to sate every palate and budget, from friendly housepours to the more premium Dassai bottlings.
As for food, the Kushi Mori Yaki (skewers of perfectly grilled meat and vegetables) and Premium Sashimi Moriawase take pride of place. And of course, there’s also drink-friendly bar snacks like deep-fried burdock, grilled stingray fin and even grilled fugu (pufferfish), a Japanese delicacy.
4. Soak up the view at London’s famous surf & turf
Perched at the top of Jewel Changi Airport, Burger & Lobster offers a panoramic view of the world-famous indoor waterfall from its elevated seating area. Sip on innovative cocktails on tap such as the guava margarita fizz comprising tequila blanco, triple sec, guava nectar, grapefruit and watermelon.
Fancy a pint with your lobster roll? You can’t go wrong with the delicious draft beers from homegrown brewery Brewlander. And when Happy Hour rolls around, you can also get wines at just S$10 per glass.
5. Sample a spicy Latin American cacophony of cuisines and cocktails
Expect Mexican, Peruvian and Argentinian flavours at the lively TONITO Latin American Kitchen. Cocktails run the gamut from classic margaritas to the lesser known Peruvian chilcanito (pisco, lime juice and ginger ale), to the clericot de fruitas, Uruguay’s answer to sangria. For those with a more adventurous palate, the original Spicy Pinarita is a daring combination of Jose cuervo, cointreau, pineapple juice, sweet and sour mix and green habanero.
Ask for a table towards the back of the restaurant where lush plant life, coupled with the cool mist of the waterfall, will transport you to a verdant rainforest.
For our full list of things to try and places to see in Singapore, check out our Singapore City Guide.
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Singapore, visit the official website.
