Bars are a beloved part of Singapore’s vibrant social scene, offering a welcoming space for people to unwind, connect, and enjoy a wide array of drinks and cuisines. From sleek rooftop lounges to cosy neighbourhood pubs, bars cater to a diverse crowd seeking everything from craft cocktails to live music. Their popularity stems not only from the quality of beverages but also from the lively atmosphere and sense of community they foster. Fortunately, Singapore is home to a wealth of exceptional bars, and the charming district of Katong is no exception. Known for its rich Peranakan heritage and laid-back vibe, Katong boasts an impressive selection of bars that blend tradition with modern flair. To help you on your next bar-hopping plans, here are six of the best bars in Katong that are perfect for chill yet fun night outs.
Note: This list is strictly not in order.
1. Cheeers Bistro & Bar
Cheeers Bistro & Bar is truly one of the best bars in Katong, as it is a lively and welcoming spot that has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Nestled in one of Singapore’s most cheerful neighbourhoods, this bistro-bar offers a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere perfect for casual drinks or a fun night out. Known for its friendly service and evolving menu, Cheeers has recently upscaled its offerings, introducing exciting new cocktails and drink deals that keep patrons coming back. Whether you are looking to unwind after work or enjoy a weekend gathering with friends, Cheeers provides a cosy setting with a touch of flair. Its growing popularity is a testament to its charm, making it a standout destination in Katong’s dynamic bar scene.
Business Reviews:
1. What a great place and vibe!!! It’s a must visit place. The music, ambience, staff, service, everything about it is great. Plus they know how to pour Guinness. Sam and his team are pretty cool.. I went next door (Sam’s other bar) for Sunday roast, food quality was equally spot on. When you’re in Katong, check this place out.
2. Great bar to drink and dine!! Great place to knows diversity of pub goers!! Highly recommended!! Must try their lamb and ribs!! Guinness is top notch, well pour and serve!
3. Sam’s bar is the best speak easy in Joo Chiat.. great collection of single malts.. and has a whole lot of other liquor to choose from.. my favourite – their cocktails, music and food! All 10/10! Staff is super friendly, music is always on point! Keep coming here over and over again. 🙂
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/p/Cheeers-Bistro-Bar-at-Joo-Chiat-100063693574697/ |
| Operating Hours: | Tuesday – Saturday 5 PM – 12 AM | Sunday 11 AM – 12 AM | Closed on Mondays |
| Number: | +65 9678 3737 |
| Address: | 456 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427669 |
2. Lazy Sloth & Drunken Sloth
Lazy Sloth & Drunken Sloth is a charming two-level concept bar near Katong, offering a unique blend of laid-back vibes and bespoke cocktail experiences. Lazy Sloth, located on the first level, welcomes guests throughout the day with a relaxed atmosphere perfect for casual dining and drinks. Upstairs, Drunken Sloth comes alive in the evenings, serving up handcrafted cocktails in a more intimate, bar-focused setting. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, it is a go-to spot for those who appreciate creative drinks and a cosy ambience. With its playful branding and inviting spaces, Lazy Sloth & Drunken Sloth has carved out a niche for itself in Singapore’s bustling bar scene, making it a delightful destination for both regulars and first-time visitors.
Business Reviews:
1. Great Vibes, Even Better Drinks! I recently visited Lazy Sloth along East Coast Road for their happy hour, and it was such a fantastic experience! The atmosphere is laid-back, with a fun and welcoming vibe that’s perfect for unwinding after work. The happy hour specials were impressive, with a great selection of cocktails, beers on tap, and wine at unbeatable prices. The staff were friendly and attentive, ensuring we had everything we needed. It’s definitely a great spot to hang out with friends or even meet new people. If you’re looking for a spot with good drinks, good company, and a relaxing atmosphere, Lazy Sloth’s happy hour is the place to be! Thank you Vincent, Cash & Juli. 🫶🏻
2. The beef stew was surprisingly fantastic – probably the best beef stew I’ve ever had. Fish and chips were great as well. Very impressed by the quality of food in this unassuming bar.
3. First discovered this place in March 2024 when I was eating at the yakitori restaurant next door and their HH drinks caught my eye. They serve a good pint of Guinness at 9.90 during HH which runs all the way till 9pm. Finally tried their food when I had dinner with friends in October 2024 and I was pleasantly surprised by the standard of the food. Had the grilled chicken chop and it was tasty, juicy and succulent. Had their beef stew on another visit and that was delicious as well. Really had no expectations for their food as I thought it was more of a bar but I’m mighty impressed and will keep going back.
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/LazySlothSingapore/ |
| Operating Hours: | Monday – Friday 3 PM – 12 AM | Saturday 12:30 PM – 12 AM | Sunday 11:30 AM – 12 AM |
| Number: | +65 6241 3933 |
| Address: | 41 E Coast Rd, Singapore 428761 |
The Hidden Story is a nostalgic speakeasy tucked away in the heart of Katong, offering a truly unique bar experience in Singapore. Discreetly accessed through a freezer door at Stirling Steaks, this hidden gem invites guests into a cosy, vintage-inspired space adorned with Chesterfield sofas, antique Tiffany lamps, and eclectic wall art. The ambience is warm and intimate, perfect for unwinding with a well-crafted cocktail, a glass of wine, or a dram of whisky. With a full menu featuring hearty dishes like BBQ steak and smoked duck, The Hidden Story blends the charm of old-world décor with modern indulgence. It is a delightful escape from the ordinary, where every visit feels like uncovering a secret worth sharing.
Business Reviews:
1. Our evening at The Hidden Story was elevated to an extraordinary experience, thanks to the exceptional service and artistry of Patricia. From the moment we approached the bar, her warm demeanor and evident passion for her craft shone through, setting the stage for a memorable night. Patricia introduced us to two of the bar’s signature cocktails: Kueh Syrup (which she created) and the Peranakan Enclave. She told a story through every pour and garnish, making us feel as though we were part of the cocktail’s journey. 🥥 Kueh Syrup: A cocktail inspired by the Nyonya kueh salat. Its multiple layers of green and blue mirrored the vibrant hues of the traditional dessert, and it’s flavour also delivered in every way. The moment the lemon was added, it transformed the drink, revealing savory undertones making it a layered, thought-provoking drink. 🍹Peranakan Enclave: A sweet, tangy masterpiece. This tropical lychee-forward gimlet is balanced with a citrusy zing, delivering a refreshing punch in every sip. If you find yourself there, let Patricia guide your cocktail adventure. Her passion and expertise will make your visit unforgettable, one exquisite drink at a time.
2. Love this hidden bar through a “freezer door” at Stirling Steaks. The ambience was cozy with comfortable sofas that you could sit down all night long without your butts hurting, and we had fun interacting with the friendly bartender who plied us with a couple of freebie drinks. Time flew back so quickly as my friend and I were sitting in the bar chatting away with our drinks. We had some bar bites – the Angus steak cubes were good, the Mexican chicken mid-wings were even better! The offerings were reasonably priced and there was no cheap watered down drinks, which is an absolute plus. Totally recommend. Am already thinking of going to the place again.
3. Loved the cool vibe and the comfy sofas there.. Great place for catching with friends over drinks when you go early eg 6pm when they play jazz music. Food is reasonably priced. Some pretty interesting craft beers here also to try if you just want something different! I would go again.
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/hiddenstorysg |
| Operating Hours: | Dailu 5 PM – 12 AM |
| Number: | +65 9692 0678 |
| Address: | 115A E Coast Rd, Singapore 428804 |
4. Barcode Bistro
Barcode Bistro is a lively and welcoming bar nestled in the heart of Katong, known for its warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere. It offers a cosy yet energetic setting where patrons can enjoy a wide selection of drinks, live sports screenings, and electronic dart machines. Whether you are winding down after work or catching up with friends over the weekend, Barcode Bistro provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxed and entertaining evening. With its friendly vibe and consistent service, it has built a loyal following in the community. Moreover, the team behind Barcode is passionate about creating memorable experiences, making it a standout destination in Katong’s ever-evolving bar scene.
Business Reviews:
1. TL;DR No frills and laid-back place. Attentive service! Come here for basic drinks and good pub food. I visited here on a Friday around 8pm. The place was full of regulars (old friends of the owner), with fun 2000s pop music in the background. This is not like most other ‘Instagrammable’ bars where patrons keep to themselves, and more like a cosy hangout for local folks. The very reasonable bottled beer and liquor prices certainly helped (prices are nett, no added GST or service charge)!! We had the pizza and chicken pot pie, both of which were delicious. Fries were a little too salty, but once we started drinking, they became just right lol Thanks to Level Ground Community for helping us find this lovely Katong gem. 🙂
2. Nice & cosy place to chill.. Friendly staffs Best about it is … no additional charges 😍😉 Food selections refer to menu ** must try: Famous Fish & Chip!! 👍😋
3. Nice place with affordable drinks and cozy atmosphere. Friendly staff who always make you feel welcome.
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/barcodekatong/ |
| Operating Hours: | Monday – Thursday & Saturday 3:30 PM – 12 AM | Friday 3 PM – 12 AM | Closed on Sundays |
| Number: | +65 6243 7072 |
| Address: | The Flow @ East Coast, 66 E Coast Rd, #01-05, Singapore 428778 |
5. In Bad Company
In Bad Company is a hidden gem in Singapore’s East Coast, offering a refreshingly offbeat take on the modern gastrobar. Tucked away on the fifth floor of a quiet building, this discreet venue embraces a subculture spirit, blending bold culinary creativity with a relaxed, intimate setting. The menu, led by a passionate head chef, steers clear of the conventional, favouring experimental dishes that surprise and delight. Guests can also enjoy a curated selection of craft beers, natural wines, and inventive cocktails, all served in a space that feels both edgy and welcoming. With its rebellious charm and dedication to quality, In Bad Company is perfect for those seeking a unique dining and drinking experience away from the mainstream.
Business Reviews:
1. I am so impressed with the food and service here! Highly recommended if you want to explore craft beers and really good food. Yes, things are a bit pricey but you get what you pay for. Every dish we had, was an explosion of flavours and you can tell the complexity and effort that was put in to creating every dish. If you are looking for quality and you have a refine palette then this is the place for you! I so enjoyed the entire gastronomical journey plus the selection of really good draft craft beers. The owners Tim and Elaine are amazing and super friendly !
2. Thanks to exploring on Google Maps, I discovered this hidden gem that’s been around for three years. It has a bit of a speakeasy vibe, but it’s tucked away on the fifth floor of a relatively new building along this stretch of road. The ambience is unique and inviting, coupled with attentive service and a passionate team. It’s not easy to create a relaxing haven where customers can unwind and savor delicately prepared dishes. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in fusion Peranakan cuisine, fine wine, and an eclectic atmosphere.
3. We absolutely loved our time here, especially the food! Make sure to ask the staff for their series of heritage dishes – where they re-imagined dishes from their childhood made by their loved ones. We were floored by the Ibérico Pork Jowl, the Sambal Squid, the Otak Pate & their Bone Marrow (which melts in your mouth btw). Every dish was well-thought out & served with pride. And we also got to try out some of their craft beers which were a light and fresh compliment to the feast we were indulging ourselves in! 10/10 for service, food & vibes ✨ will 100% be back. Thanks Tim & shoutout to Chef Damyen for the wonderful night!
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/inbadco/ |
| Operating Hours: | Wednesday- Saturday 6 PM – 12 AM | Sunday & Tuesday 6 PM – 11 PM | Closed on Mondays |
| Number: | +65 9145 1134 |
| Address: | Unit 17 The Flow, 66 E Coast Rd, Level 5, Singapore 428778 |
6. The Tipsy Cow
To complete this list of the best bars in Katong is none other than The Tipsy Cow, a vibrant and down-to-earth bar that has earned a loyal following for its motto: “Affordable Drinks, Kickass Vibes.” Located in the heart of Katong, this vibrant spot is all about creating a fun, unpretentious atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. Whether you are popping in for after-work drinks or a weekend hangout, The Tipsy Cow delivers great value without compromising on energy or experience. With friendly staff, upbeat music, and a crowd that loves to let loose, it is the kind of place where good times come naturally. Its popularity continues to grow, making it a go-to destination for those seeking a casual yet spirited night out in one of Singapore’s most charming neighbourhoods.
Business Reviews:
1. Cozy place to hang out with friends or family. Menu is kid friendly with good selection of pizza and pastas among other things. I had the pizza with prawns and mussels, and the tipsy wings. Both really good! Pizza is freshly made and cooked in brick oven – worth the wait. Pizza base was thin and crispy and loaded with cheese. Chicken wings were tasty and I loved the chili sauce that comes with it. Wide selection of drinks to suit everyone. I had a pint of Kirin while my wife had a frozen margarita. Loved the 80s pop music too.
2. Nice place to relax and chill with friendly staffs…Kudos.
3. Had a great experience at Tipsy Cow last night. We ordered 1 beer tower, Grilled Salmon and the platter. Food was delicious and service was quick and prompt 🙂 What stood out was the fried chicken wing and prawn stick in the platter. The staff are friendly and approachable.
| Website: | https://www.facebook.com/TheTpsyCow/ |
| Operating Hours: | Monday – Thursday 3 PM – 1 AM | Friday – Sunday 2 PM – 1 AM |
| Number: | +65 9075 0618 |
| Address: | 315 Tanjong Katong Rd, Singapore 437098 |
Conclusion
The bar scene in Singapore is undeniably vibrant, with Katong standing out as a particularly charming place for those seeking a memorable night out. This culturally rich neighbourhood has embraced the bar culture with flair, offering a delightful mix of ambience, creativity, and community spirit. Whether you are a local resident or a curious visitor, the bars in Katong provide the perfect setting to relax, socialise, and savour the moment. The area’s unique blend of heritage and modernity adds a distinctive character to its nightlife, making each visit feel both familiar and fresh. With so many inviting spots to choose from, it is easy to see why Katong continues to draw in crowds looking for quality drinks and good company. In a city known for its dynamic lifestyle, Katong’s bar scene is a shining example of how tradition and trend can come together to create something truly special.
After a round of drinks, take your night up a notch by checking out the best Mexican restaurants in Katong—great vibes, bold flavours, and the perfect way to end your evening.
