Singapore's best bars with a view

Peppered with futuristic skyscrapers such as the famous Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the Singapore skyline is truly a sight to behold. As the sun begins to set and the temperature drops, head up to one of these sky-high bars to experience this city from its best angle – drink in hand.

Cé La Vi

Balancing on the ‘bow’ of the equally famous Marina Bay Sands Hotel, this might just be the most hyped bar in Singapore. The view is what you’re here for, and the bar formerly known as Ku De Ta (which received a facelift along with its new name in 2015) certainly delivers. Service can be patchy and at times it can feel touristy – but the sweeping views over Marina Bay really are worth it.

Dress code: rules are strict – no shorts, flip-flops or tank tops. It's cultivating a chic vibe so it’s best to glam up.

What to order: cocktail prices are equivalent to what you’d pay to visit the SkyPark Observation Deck on another area of the rooftop – we think getting a drink and a view is a better deal. Cocktails are strong and there’s a large spirits menu, including a particularly good rum selection.

Best time to go: cover charge kicks in at 9pm on Friday and Saturday nights, plus the eve of public holidays. Check the website (sg.celavi.com) as they have DJs and special events every week.

Level33

One for beer enthusiasts, Level33 is (currently) the world’s highest urban craft brewery. Your attention will be torn between the sweeping views over central Singapore and the dazzling giant copper brew house kettles displayed centre stage; both are stunning.

Dress code: urban cool. There's no need for a tie or jacket but take note: the vibe is industrial penthouse with earthy tones and mood lighting.

What to order: the beer paddle, a 100ml taster of five Level33 craft brews or their seasonal brew, only served until the tap runs dry. The beer dining menu pairs perfectly if you’re hungry. If beer isn’t your thing, a selection of classic cocktails is available too.

Best time to go: locals say 6pm is the cut-off to grab a seat on the deck. Arrive before then and settle in to watch the skyline twinkle to life. Enjoy happy hour before 8pm, because like this bar, the prices are sky-high.

Hi-So

Perched atop a beautifully restored heritage building (now the Singapore So hotel), this bar is upping the urban glamour stakes of central Singapore’s bar scene. Located on the sixth floor, the 360-degree view of neighbouring skyscrapers gives the feeling of poolside decadence in an urban jungle. The Palm Beach-inspired cabanas surrounding the gold-tiled infinity pool only add to the chic appeal.

Dress code: weekdays bring cosmopolitan city workers and an artsy crowd, but come the weekend it has an international feel.

What to order: the Hi-So’s resident mixologist makes a mean mojito. Food is limited so you’re better off scooting across the road to Lau Pa Sat hawker centre for a cheap bite.

When to go: there’s generally a drink deal on every night and weekend pool parties. Check the hotel's Facebook page (facebook.com/SofitelSoSingapore) for upcoming events.

Loof

The bar that started the rooftop craze in the Lion City, this green CBD escape is quirky old-school Singapore personified. Loof’s lush vertical gardens offer a stark contrast to the shiny skyscrapers and there’s plenty of seating options for relaxing in this green oasis. Stop by the onsite ‘Mama Shop’ to pick up a nostalgic Singaporean knick-knack.

Dress code: think alternative trendy, but there are no set rules. We suggest cool and comfy as it can get a little stuffy in the late afternoon.

What to order: with a Singaporean twist to the drinks and the food menu, you’re in for a few surprises. Sample a cocktail from the ‘Asian sensations’ list or get nostalgic with some classic favourites. The ‘die-die must try’ menu items are just that; the chilli crab cheese fries are superb.

When to go: this place pumps every night (except Sunday) with resident DJs and themed nights. Get there before 8pm weekdays for happy hour deals.

1-Altitude

Towering 282m above Singapore, the world’s highest al fresco bar is not for those iffy about heights. The unobstructed 360-degree view is nothing short of spectacular – on a clear day you can see to Malaysia and by night the twinkling lights from buildings below look like a carpet of stars rolled out beneath you.

Dress code: the modern décor, multicoloured lighting and exotic plants beg for smart duds – no shorts for men and no flip flops for anyone.

What to order: the cover price (S$25 every day, S$30 Friday, Saturday and the eve of public holidays) includes a house drink on arrival. They’re nothing to write home about, though they are refreshing as you take in the view. The next round will not be so kind on the wallet.

When to go: make a reservation if you’d like to enjoy your evening in a seat. Doors open at 6pm, and you’ll need to be in position by 6.30pm to catch sunset. Keep an eye on the weather as the upper roof shuts at the mere hint of rain. Ladies get free entry on Wednesdays and S$10 martinis all night.

Lantern

What Lantern lacks in height, it makes up for in atmosphere. Entry is via the luxurious foyer of the Fullerton Bay Hotel and the stylish lantern-inspired bar surrounds a shimmering pool. The service is first class, as are the views of the Marina Bay waterfront stretching out in front of you.

Dress code: hotel guests may be in their swimming attire, but it’s best to stick to smart casual.

What to order: inspired by Latin America and the Caribbean Islands, cocktails are handcrafted with herbs and freshly-squeezed juices. The signature Red Lantern with watermelon, cucumber and tequila is like drinking a tropical breeze. A good selection of wine and bubbles is also on offer. Prices are on the high side, but it’s worth starting your night here for the glamorous atmosphere and killer views.

When to go: visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the waterfront breeze, then linger to watch the Marina Bay Sands laser light show from your seat.

The Rooftop Potato Head Folk

The epitome of Singaporean hip, this kitschy bar is all draped lights and haphazardly placed pot plants. The mismatched garden furniture adds to the wonderful randomness of The Rooftop Potato Head Folk (pttheadfolk.com) but it all works together beautifully.

Dress code: there are no set rules but you’ll need to dress cool to blend in with the crowd.

What to order: get your hands on one of the tiki rum concoctions, which taste like a tropical holiday. Watch out for the Zombie (maximum two per person) as it can knock you flying with its
rum and absinthe combination. Tummy rumbling? There’s a barbecue menu but the burgers downstairs are worth holding out for.

When to go: the rooftop opens at 5pm (closed Mondays) and there’s a no-reservations policy so it’s best to get there early to score a seat. Check the bar’s Facebook page (facebook.com/PotatoHeadFolk) for special events.

Southbridge

Hot date? Head to this shophouse roof bar to indulge in a sexy coupling of oysters, champagne and cocktails. The view stretches across the river to Singapore icons The Fullerton Hotel, Parliament House, the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands Hotel.

Dress code: with a casual European feel, this place calls for classy smart casual. Most patrons look as though they’ve just stepped off their yacht in St Tropez.

What to order: oysters of course! There's a small plate menu so pick a few items and chow down while enjoying a glass of bubbly, Japanese sake or choose from the large list of cocktails, all crafted using artisanal spirits, homemade infusions and tropical fruits.

When to go: happy hour (with deals on drinks and oysters) starts when the bar opens at 5pm and runs until 8pm on weekdays.