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Exploring Singapore Through Its Craft Beer Scene - A Tourist Guide

Exploring Singapore Through Its Craft Beer Scene - A Tourist Guide

by GULP Bottleshop in News

Singapore might be famous for hawker food, rooftop infinity pools and shopping malls that could double as airports. However, quietly (and steadily) it has also built one of Asia's most exciting and international craft beer scenes.

The best part? Many of the hottest craft beer spots are tucked right into neighbourhoods you'd already want to explore as a visitor. Think heritage shophouses, riverside walks, easy hikes and UNESCO gardens - all with a cold beer never too far away.

Consider this your friendly, slightly opinionated tourists guide to visiting Singapore while checking out its craft beer scene, organised by neighbourhood so you can drink smart and sightsee efficiently.

Chinatown & Duxton: Heritage, Hawkers and Rooftop Views

 

Start in Chinatown, where heritage temples sit next to bubble tea shops and bargain massages at Chinatown Point are practically a rite of passage. Wander towards Duxton Hill for some of the prettiest conserved shophouses in Singapore, now home to boutique stores, wine bars and cafes.

These stops are all within walking distance of the sights, and each other:

  • Smith Street Taps: One of Singapore's OG craft beer spots, and among the first to bring good beer into a hawker centre. No frills, just history and solid pours.
  • Welcome Renmin: A long-standing hawker bar serving its self-developed brews, proof that craft beer in Singapore didn't start with fancy taprooms. Grab some Sichuan or Thai food to go along with a cold one. 
  • The Otherside: Casual rooftop vibes for when you want fresh air, city views and something cold in hand. Great at sunset, looking over the Buddha Tooth Temple.
  • SG Taps: On the top of Duxton Hill, specialising in locally brewed and asian beers. Japanese food and great people watching.

Marina Bay: Iconic Sights, Iconic Beers

 

This is postcard Singapore. Walk through Gardens by the Bay, head up a Marina Bay Sands rooftop, or stop by the historic CHIJMES complex before settling into one of these beer-friendly spots:

  • Almost Famous: Modern Korean bar and restaurant with 15 taps of cocktails and craft beers inside historical church and convent CHIJMES.
  • LeVel33: Home to what's often called the world's highest urban microbrewery. Come for the skyline views, stay for the beers brewed literally above the city. It may not be the most adventurous beer programme in Singapore, but the setting makes it a memorable visit.
  • Black Tap: Inside Marina Bay Sands, known for indulgent burgers, milkshakes and craft beers dished up in a trendy NYC restaurant offshoot.

Singapore River: Otters, History and Exclusive Beers

 

Once at the heart of Singapore's trading port, the Singapore River is now a relaxed stretch for strolling, people-watching and - if you're lucky - spotting otters swimming past like they own the place.

Beers and bites along the river:

  • GULP Riverside Taproom: Yes, our place! Sit by the river with over 200 drinks to choose from, including exclusive beers you won't find anywhere else in Singapore. A relaxing hang out for craft beer nerds and casual drinkers, with natural wines, artisan spirits and rough-cut pastry pies to soak it all up. 
  • Bad Habits: Arguably some of the best pizza slices in town, paired with a rotating array of quality craft beer cans. Grab a seat on the street and settle in. Lots of cool kids here.

Rail Corridor: Easy Hiking with Rewarding Beer Stops

   

The Rail Corridor is a 24km green stretch running across Singapore, perfect for an easy, mostly flat walk if you want nature without committing to a full hike. It also used to be a railway to Malaysia (hence the name!) which is kinda cool.

Reward yourself along the way:

  • Elixir Code: A small neighbourhood bar that imports beers from eastern Europe, Canada and more. You'll find some unique but world class beers on here.
  • Colbar: Not a craft beer spot, but worth a stop to the old colonial cafe for some old style British Ales and some British/Hainanese favourite. 
  • Yeast Side (King Albert Park): A solid place to end (or motivate) your walk with freshly brewed beers, sourdough pizzas and sandwiches.

Jalan Besar, Haji Lane, Arab Street & Little India: Colour, Culture and Cool Bars

   

This cluster of neighbourhood is packed with personality. Haji Lane and Arab Street are lined with colourful shophouses, independent boutiques and cafes, while Little India delivers vibrant culture, temples and amazing food.

Craft beer friendly bars to hop between:

  • The Druggists: Craft beer restaurant in a 1930s shophouse - rotating taps, asian food, natural wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.
  • Second Thoughts: Started by one of our first GULP taproom crew, JK and his mates. A stone's throw from Druggists, Second Thoughts has 8 taps of craft beer, wine options, and a menu full of wicked small plates. It's cozy and trendy interior are well worth the visit alone, making you feel at home.
  • MALT: An intimate but stylish space with a rotating lineup of 12 of the best craft beers in Singapore. You can order in from local places (pizza, Japanese, Chinese etc.) or bring your own food.
  • Bellies: New spot in the food famous Fortune Centre. Well worth the visit for both great beers on tap and in the fridge whilst soaking up a bit of old school mall nostalgia.

Botanic Gardens: UNESCO Walks and Local Brews

   

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a great way to escape the noise and pace of the city area. Enjoyed best in the evening, roam amongst the palms, jungles and lakes on your way for a lovely beer.

Nearby, you'll find:

  • Orh Gao Taproom: One of the original great taprooms in Singapore. Opening soon with a new look. Located in a friendly neighbourhood, they are pouring local and international favourites, ideal after a long garden stroll.

Final Sip

Singapore's craft beer scene fits neatly into the city itself. The best places are often right where you're already exploring, making it easy to pause, cool off and enjoy a good beer along the way.

Whether you're visiting Singapore for a weekend or a week, this guide should help you drink well, walk often and see the sights of Singapore whilst having pints like a pro.  Cheers 🍻

Tags: best craft beer bars singapore singapore beer guide singapore craft beer things to do in singapore
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