By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network, Reported by Chen Guanxin
The beauty of rooftop restaurants isn't about their height — it's the night view ambiance from the angle you're sitting at that's the most captivating feature. Land-scarce and densely populated Singapore, lacking in natural resources, has a particular fondness for developing "upwards." As a result, there are numerous sky gardens and rooftop restaurants, creating a unique urban landscape. No matter where you sit, as long as the atmosphere and visuals hit the right note, even a three-story height can feel like walking on clouds.
Savor Singapore’s nightlife along with fine food and drinks. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Orgo Bar
If you’ve ever had a fairytale-like dream of owning a glass cabin, sipping alone on a clear, breezy day or chatting with a few close friends, all while being accompanied by a sky full of stars — then from the moment you step into Orgo Bar, that dream will no longer just be a dream.
A few years ago, Yan Zhicheng set up a mobile bar by the Singapore River, which turned out to be extremely popular. Bold in his dreaming, he set his sights on the rooftop terrace of the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. After negotiations and careful planning, he used eco-friendly materials to lay the flooring and assemble the glass structure, handcrafting this one-of-a-kind bar. Its unparalleled location gives Orgo Bar an exclusive view of the Marina Bay night scene.
The dazzling night view is enchanting, but the cocktails here are even more captivating. The owner brought in award-winning Japanese bartender Tomoyuki Kitazoe to take the reins. With his magical touch, even ingredients you wouldn’t expect — organic fruits and herbs — can be transformed into delightful libations, each drink a feast for the eyes. When watermelon meets chili, or a Martini encounters mangosteen and cheese, just hearing the names stirs something in your heart, getting you tipsy before you even take a sip.
[Info]
Address: 8 Raffles Avenue #04-01, Roof Terrace, The Esplanade
Phone: 6336-9366
Transportation: Take the Circle Line MRT to “Esplanade” Station, follow signs to enter the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, walk to the shopping arcade, and take the stairs up to the Roof Terrace.
Orgo Bar enjoys an exclusive view of the Marina Bay night scene. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
Lantern
Although it faces Marina Bay Sands’ SkyPark from afar, Lantern is no less stunning. Located on the rooftop of The Fullerton Bay Hotel, designed by renowned Hong Kong designer Andre Fu, Lantern is more than just a bar — it also connects to a 25-meter-long outdoor swimming pool, backed by a cluster of financial skyscrapers, offering a 360-degree view of Marina Bay and the world-class city skyline.
Since the hotel was built along the 1930s-era red-light docks, to commemorate the British colonial era, this bar is directly named Lantern, where old-world charm and new trends meet on the rooftop. Though it may not be the tallest, its rich cultural background is worth savoring. When the lights shine brightly in all directions, whether you’re nestled on a sofa chair in a gentle buzz, swimming in the pool, or enjoying the Jacuzzi, don’t forget to try the wildly popular cocktails “The Red Lantern” or “Merlion,” swaying along to live performances by the Latin band. Under the open sky, it feels like you’re dancing on the rooftop of the world, raising a glass together.
Address: On the rooftop of The Fullerton Bay Hotel
Phone: 6597-5299
Transportation: Take the East-West Line MRT to “Raffles Place” Station, enter the Fullerton Hotel from Exit B, go through the underground passage to One Fullerton, then turn right and walk along the Marina Promenade to reach The Fullerton Bay Hotel. Take the elevator to the rooftop.
Lantern brings old-world charm and new trends together on the rooftop. (Image source: www.fullertonbayhotel.com)
Helipad
Gently press the doorbell, and the moment the silver door opens, a dimly lit corridor lies ahead. As you step inside, flower petals seem to flutter all around you, reflecting off your body, with light and shadows scattering everywhere — it feels as if you’re flying mid-air, an absolutely surreal experience. Welcome aboard — welcome to Helipad.
Helipad, meaning helicopter pad, earns its name by having Singapore’s most spacious open-air lounge terrace. From above, the circular space features a large “H” symbol, scattered with uniquely shaped sofas, facing the popular Clarke Quay and offering a sweeping view of the beautiful skyline of distant skyscrapers. It’s no wonder it became an instant hit as a nightlife venue upon opening. The indoor club area on the lower level of the terrace offers a different vibe: a specially designed white ceramic bar counter wall complements the ornate totem poles, creating an alternative kind of beauty under the hazy, dim lighting. Above the DJ booth, a massive mesh sculpture spreads out, pulsating with the rhythm and stirring the urge to dance in every reveler.
[Info]
Address: 05-22 The Central, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street
Phone: 6327-8118
Transportation: Take the North-East Line MRT to “Clarke Quay” Station, enter The Central from Exit C, and go up to the 5th floor.
Helipad is named for having Singapore’s most spacious open-air lounge terrace. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Department)
New Asia Bar
Located on the 71st floor of Swissôtel The Stamford, New Asia Bar is a longstanding favorite nightlife spot in Singapore. In 2007, it even won the championship at the Singapore Cocktail Competition. Thanks to its premium location, it offers a breathtaking 360-degree night view of Marina Bay. Almost everyone who visits Singapore makes a special trip here to enjoy a uniquely shaped Merlion cocktail. The two-story-high dance floor and the specially tilted 20-degree flooring design have remained its signature features over the years, even giving the shimmering sea of lights outside the window a mesmerizing twist.
【info】
Address: Level 71, Swissotel The Stamford, 2 Stamford Road
Phone: 6837-3322
Transportation: Take the East-West Line or North-South Line of the MRT and alight at “City Hall” Station. Exit via Exit C to enter Swissôtel The Stamford, then take the elevator to reach the venue.
Excessive drinking is harmful to health.
● Further reading:
Cross-cultural culinary journeys: Four must-try Singaporean dishes
http://goo.gl/iMgIaD
New Asia Bar is a long-established and popular nightlife spot in Singapore. (Photo provided by Mook Editor)