There’s been plenty of buzz about Bar Rouge. All the way from the dazzling Shanghai night scene, the new Singapore incarnation is located sky-high in Swissotel The Stamford. If you are looking for a cool place to enjoy a cocktail or three, here’s our verdict on the city’s newest venue.
First impressions
The focus here is really on the ambience; when night falls, the bar’s signature red lights transform the space into the snazzy spot everyone wants to be seen at. Party-goers can look forward to exciting themed nights, performances from raised cages and the hottest hits from popular DJs around the region.
We sat by the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Marina Bay skyline, but you can instead opt for the bar counter for some cocktail action, or go to the longer sofas if you’re in a group. Get there early to avoid the crowd and enjoy a tipple or two while admiring stunning city views during the golden hour – a rewarding way to end a busy week.
The Chosen One
Crafty cocktails are the mainstay of Bar Rouge and there are around 15 to choose from. We started the evening with a refreshing Thai Basil Mojito ($25), a popular sundowner with a basil twist. A concoction of Bacardi Carta Blanca, Thai basil, calamansi and brown sugar, this simple drink went down so easily that we were quickly ready for the next one, a Mr & Mrs Rouge ($25). This Bar Rouge classic – 42 Below Vodka, raspberry purée, blueberry purée, lemon juice, cranberry and vanilla syrup – was fruity yet punchy. If you prefer something more familiar, you’ll find regular suspects on the menu, from a Cosmopolitan ($22) to a Singapore Sling ($22) and Mai Tai ($25).
The Cheapskate
From Tuesdays to Saturdays, 6.30 to 9.30pm, house pours and bottled beers are $10 each while house wines are $12 a glass. On Wednesdays, enjoy one-for-one house pours from 9.30pm until late.
Bite on this
This isn’t the place to drop by for a hearty meal, but if you’re feeling peckish, there’s a small selection of bites that are fancier than run-of-the-mill fries. We particularly enjoyed the crispy rock shrimp ($20) – fried prawns with mango salsa and wasabi mayo – and karaage chicken ($18) with togarashi (chilli powder) and burnt lemon. – Anthia Chng
Bar Rouge Singapore
Floor 71, 2 Stamford Road Swissotel The Stamford
9177 7307 | swissotel.com
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This article first appeared in the June 2018 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase a copy or subscribe so you never miss an issue!
