When evening falls (5.30pm to be exact), popular poke cafe Aloha Poké transforms into Tiki Bar, serving up Hawaiian-themed cocktails and bar bites.
First impressions:
Located on buzzy Amoy Street, the dining space is cosy chic – beach-inspired ornaments and posters adorn the walls, while furnishings are predominantly light wood with fun blue accents.
The Chosen One:
The drinks menu is small but concise; there are six signature cocktails, alongside usual suspects like the Negroni ($16) and Piña Colada ($16), plus craft beers and ciders. My poison of choice: Fiery Passion ($18), a concoction of white rum, spiced rum, lime, lemongrass and vanilla, served with a fresh, caramelised passionfruit that’s in flames. The scene is pretty spectacular and makes for the perfect Instagram shot; but you’ll want to snap a photo fast, before the fire dies out! Another must-try signature is White Crest ($18), made with almond-flavoured orgeat syrup, guava, coconut meringue and three types of rum: aged, spiced and Jamaican. While both of these cocktails were delicious and unlike anything I’ve tried, if you prefer something more refreshing, go for the Fiery Passion, as it’s on the tangy side.
There’s also the option of sharing the Scorpion Bowl ($55), which, according to my waiter, you should only order if you really want something strong. This massive drink serves two to three people, and consists of vodka, three rums, honey spiced syrup, pineapple, orange and lime.
The Cheapskate:
Most drinks run under $20, but do take advantage of the one-for-one happy hour promotions happening from Monday to Saturday nights.
Bite on this: Look forward to Hawaiian treats like the popular spam sushi snack musubi ($11), Aloha wings ($8) and baked whole avocado ($12) stuffed with cheese, Parma ham and fish roe. We also devoured the Kalua Pig Burrito ($18), a hearty dish featuring smoky pulled pork shoulder, as well as the Aloha Chicken Short Rice ($22) – roasted half chicken served with cilantro rice. If you’re looking for something lighter, get the Ultimate Poke Bowl ($18), the restaurant’s signature item consisting of rice, superfoods, veggies and a heaped serving of poke.
TIKI BAR 92 Amoy Street 6221 6165 | alohapoke.com.sg
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This article first appeared in the April 2018 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase a copy or subscribe so you never miss an issue!
