The most romantic bars in Singapore

What is it? Vibrant rooftop bar perched on Esplanade Mall's iconic rooftop, occupying 5,000 square feet of space.

Why we love it: Take in the evening view of the Marina Bay waterfront while soft tunes from the outdoor theatre play in the background – it can’t get more romantic than this. Esplanade’s rooftop has always been known as a quiet spot for couples to cosy up, but it’s gotten a revamp in recent times with Baia taking over the 5000-square-foot space. The bar is named after the ancient holiday resort city frequented by the Roman aristocracy, so expect Romanesque and Mediterranean elements all around. The menu is split into three categories – Sol, Nox, and Mosaics. Try the Strombolian ($24) if you like Campari, or the Eclipse ($24) for a heady blend of aged cognac, espresso and vanilla choco. 

Time Out tip: Visit from 5pm to 8pm daily for Baia’s Golden Hour, where spirits, wine, and beer go at $12, and cocktails at $16. 

Address: 8 Raffles Ave, Esplanade Mall, Level 4, Singapore 039802
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 11.30am-midnight; Fri-Sat 11.30am-1am

What is it? Effortlessly elegant and chic, Bar Somma is part of Chef Mirko Febrile’s (of Fico) restaurant Somma in New Bahru.

Why we love it: Nostalgia and romance go hand in hand at this unique bar that was once a school library. The dome ceiling, furnishings and moody, warm lighting do wonders for the ambience. And the cocktails are equally excellent. The menu is a sprawling one with four sections: aperitivo; savoury; renewed classics; and classic cocktails. Sip on tried and tested formulas like Margarita for Mel ($25), or rediscover classics like the Last Word ($28), which, in this rendition, sees mezcal, sochu ume, lime and Maraschino. Light bitesi including bucatini arrabbiata ($22) and three-meat ragu pasta ($28) go along with the drinks.

Time Out tip: Mirko’s Martini has to be the best dirty martini in town, served with a nibble of cheese and a juicy olive. But if that isn’t enough to convince you to visit, then how about unlimited complimentary beef tripe panini served daily from 6pm to 7.30pm with every martini you order?

Address: 46 Kim Yam Rd, New Bahru, #04-02A, Singapore 239351
Opening hours: Tue 6pm-11pm, Wed-Sat 6pm-midnight

What is it? Glamorous art-deco inspired hall with a towering gin column and plenty of photo-worthy backdrops.

Why we love it: Whether it’s your first or fifth visit, this bar never fails to impress and whisk you away to a bygone era. Set within a grand art-deco-inspired hall, Atlas is most recognisable for its colossal gin tower housing over a thousand bottles of the spirit – the world’s most diverse collection to date. Needless to say, gin and tonic customisations are most welcome, but you’ll also be spoilt for choice with six G&T options on the list and some 18 other cocktails off the new Gazette Du Bon Ton menu.

Time Out tip: The Atlas espresso martini is an underrated star that rivals the world’s best. After sipping on cocktails, head up to the mezzanine for a better view of the stunning hall. 

Address: 600 North Bridge Rd, Parkview Square, Singapore 188778
Opening hours: Mon 3pm-midnight; Tue-Thu noon-midnight, Fri-Sat noon-2am

What is it? Sky-high destination bar on level 39 of Andaz Singapore, known for its cosy teepee huts and rooftop garden.

Why we love it: With 10 teepee huts scattered around the outdoor space, Mr. Stork is an ideal spot to wind down with your date. Order a drink from the striking bronze pavilion bar and stroll along the cobbled paths that wind around the entire level, giving you a 360-degree view of the city. On the menu is a selection of fruity and floral cocktails. Go for the light and citrusy Aliya – a blend of Ceylon Arrack, spiced pear, lemon mist and roasted pineapple soda; or opt for darker concoctions like the bourbon-based Opus, or Tales of Mekhong, which spotlights aged rum and coconut.

Time Out tip: For the adventurous, the Bartender’s Salute ($28) gives the mixologist free reign to shake up a cocktail according to their liking (and hopefully yours too) – a fun date night activity to get the conversation going.

Address: 5 Fraser St, Andaz Singapore, Singapore 189354
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 5pm-midnight, Fri-Sat 5pm-1am

What is it? Hidden cabaret-themed cocktail bar in Voco Orchard, promising an immersive ambience, showy mixology and a sprinkle of theatrics.

Why we love it: The Backdrop checks all the boxes of what a ‘secret bar’ should be. Tucked away surreptitiously behind plain wooden doors in Voco Hotel’s shopping arcade, you’re first led through the ‘backstage’ or dressing room of a cabaret, before entering the gorgeous dining room. The cocktail menu is separated into different ‘Acts’ as in a play, but The Encore section is where the real show’s at. Here, sub-zero temperature cocktails are crafted over open flames, yielding two glasses – a technique pioneered by founder Dario Knox. Poker cards with conversation starters come with the drinks, perfect for easing up on first dates.

Time Out tip: It can be tricky to get in, so here's how. First, locate the wooden door along the corridor, scan the QR code that comes with your reservation, then wait for a second password to be sent to you.

Address: 581 Orchard Rd, Voco Orchard Singapore, #01-15, Singapore 238863
Opening hours: Wed-Thu 6pm-2am; Fri-Sat 7pm-3am; Sun 6pm-2am

What is it? Savoury-forward cocktail bar in Duxton Hill, where guests are invited to pen down their juiciest confessions anonymously.

Why we love it: In a neighbourhood like Duxton which is jam-packed with award-winning cocktail bars, Goodbye, Alibi manages to hold its own. The main draw? An unapologetically savoury-forward cocktail menu, and jars of the craziest confession notes, penned by guests who've probably had one too many to drink. Quills and paper slips line the counter, for you and your date to contribute to the pool as you scribble down your deepest, darkest secrets. And to sip: Summer Fling in Bangkok ($25), Han's favourite – and also ours – is a savoury, sour and slightly fizzy tipple that's halfway between a clear seafood tom yum goong and a paloma.

Time Out tip: Fans of the classic negroni should look out for the red jars lining the shelves – these house batches of negroni, pre-made and stored away to allow the terracotta to draw out the sweet notes of the cocktail.

Address: 53A Duxton Rd, Singapore 089517
Opening hours: Tue-Thu 4pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 4pm-midnight

What is it? Ditch the crowded bars in town for this cosy hideout in Gillman Barracks next to Charlotte Puxley Floral Studio. 

Why we love it: Ida’s is the ideal spot for a quick escape from the city without having to travel to the far corners of Singapore. The bar’s menu mirrors its lush surroundings, with botanical-inspired cocktails crafted in partnership with the renowned Cat Bite Club. Start with one of the citrus or floral-forward pours on the menu, and as the night and conversations deepen, go for boozier options on the menu to suit the mood. Try the Bitter Bramble ($26) with raspberry-infused turkey bourbon, chocolate bitters, and salt. Our pick: Café Nanas ($24, which is a spin on the White Russian with coffee liqueur and cream foam.

Time Out tip: Fans of Cat Bite Club’s signature margarita should try the Minted Passion ($24), which is a citrusy, tropical blend of mezcal, vermouth, Aperol, passionfruit, mint, and orange bitters.

Address: 9 Lock Road, Gillman Barracks, Singapore 108937
Opening hours: Wed-Fri 5-11pm; Sat-Sun noon-11pm

What is it? Singapore’s first and only mental wellness-focused cocktail bar, modelled after a vintage apothecary.

Why we love it: A core experience here involves writing your worries on a piece of paper and burning it away – an unconventional and fun activity to get you and your date talking. Even more interesting are the cocktails, or 'antidotes', for the evening. These libations are all crafted with talk therapy techniques in mind, for you to decompress after a long work day. The menu is divided into four categories – herbal, umami, citrus, and spice – and ranges from a Carl Jung-inspired rum tipple, to the white wine and green tea combo Tea & Sympathy for the empath.

Time Out tip: Fans of warm cocktails should try the Bonseki, which incorporates Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) ingredients into the mix.

Address: 120 Tanjong Pagar Rd, #02-01, Singapore 088532
Opening hours: Tue-Sat 5pm-11.30pm

What is it: Casual cocktail bar in Tanjong Pagar with an approachable vibe, friendly staff and excellent drinks.

Why we love it: While not your typical stock image 'romantic bar' with sultry velvet drapes and little hideaway pockets, The Store is the perfect first date spot – friendly and non-intimidating. A casual living room-esque environment is the ideal homey setup for comfortable catch-ups and a good heart-to-heart. Plus points go to the affable crew and exceptional pours. The menu features 12 interesting options from the highly raved coffee kombucha espresso martini, the Blueberry Cheesecake cocktail with aged Parmigiano-infused bourbon, and a hot favourite: the Tito's Sour.

Time Out tip: Might as well grab dinner here as well – the food menu holds its own, with some lip-smacking seafood dishes like white wine mussels, gambas and the like. If you're lucky, you might even find yourself featured among the other polaroids on the bar's menu.

Address: 11 Neil Rd, Singapore 088809
Opening hours: Tue-Sat 4pm-midnight

What is it? A gorgeous botanical-inspired rooftop bar with stellar sunset views at Mount Faber Peak, perched 100 metres above sea level. 

Why we love it: Instead of glistening city lights, you get a more unique view of lush forests and the cable cars. The bar is also located further out from the city, so expect a quieter hum instead of the cramped, buzzing energy of bars downtown. Two Mirabilis flower installations make up the centrepiece, and they come to life at 4pm sharp – a spectacle to behold. Meanwhile, the menu features cocktails (from $13) inspired by different flowers and fruits, from chamomile and hibiscus to hawthorn and melon. 

Time Out tip: Ditching your date? Gather your girlfriends instead for ladies' nights on Wednesdays, between 4pm to 8pm, where selected cocktails and appetisers go at special prices.

Address: 109 Mount Faber Rd, Singapore 099202
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 4pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 4pm-12.30am