The group behind Jigger & Pony, Singapore’s top-ranked bar, has unveiled POP CITY, a brand-new Japanese-lifestyle cocktail bar located in Cecil Street. The space is a new concept made in collaboration with The House of Suntory.
Japanese-inspired Cocktail Bar in Raffles Place
The journey begins by entering through a fire-escape staircase, before a gorgeous, dimly lit space unfolds right before you. The bar is split into several areas, with the Byobu Bar immediately catching our eye.
It features a hand-painted, embroidered byobu as its backdrop, paying homage to Japan’s 24 seasons. Apparently, it looks slightly different depending on the angle you view it from, so you might want to try sitting at different bar seats each time you visit.
The main area features mid-century furniture and shelves adorned with vintage Japanese vinyl. There’s even a display countertop lined with Hibiki and other whiskies, and we heard this might even be transformed into a DJ stage in the future.
You’ll also find Zaisu-inspired seating areas that are slightly lower, creating a relaxed, comfortable setting perfect for after-work or post-dinner gatherings.
Our personal favourite is Bar Mixtape, an intimate corner within POP CITY that evokes Tokyo’s pocket-sized bars. In this space, there are only a few seats and a single bartender. You’ll also find a collection of CDs which you can enjoy using the limited players available.
Menu at POP CITY
The cocktail programme features 16 signature drinks divided into POP and CITY categories. The cocktails feature familiar Japanese ingredients like yuzu, hojicha and even dashi.
According to Aki Eguchi, Bar Programme Director of Jigger & Pony Group, the drinks under ‘POP’ move with energy and feeling, while those in ‘CITY’ show more structure, texture and quiet refinement.
We love how each drink in ‘POP’ is inspired by a genre of music and artist, while the drinks from ‘CITY’ reflect a certain style and brand. You’ll find drinks giving Muji, Sacai and even Vintage Chrome Hearts.
Apart from the regular 16 cocktails, they also have 2 seasonal cocktails every month.
One of the most memorable cocktails from the ‘POP’ menu has to be the Hojicha Espresso Martini ($25), which brings together Haku Vodka, hojicha, coffee and mezcal. We absolutely loved the roasted flavours from the hojicha, which pairs amazingly with the deep coffee flavour. A velvety concoction we can’t get enough of!
The Pop City Sour ($26) from the ‘CITY’ menu left quite an impression as well. The layered drink starts with a vibrant sour plum flavour, followed by an herbaceous purple shiso-infused Cocchi Americano.
Other drinks you can expect from the menu are the Studio Genmaicha ($24), Matcha Ramos Fizz ($27), and Strawberry Love Punch ($26), just to name a few.
Ramen At A Cocktail Bar?
Apart from the amazing lineup of drinks at POP CITY, the bar features an equally impressive lineup of food & bar bites. From items like Mochi Cheese Nuggets with Miso Curry Sauce ($12), Wagyu Fat Fries and Shio Kombu ($15), to Uni & Corn Croquette with Sea Urchin Butter Sauce ($20).
You can even find a whole Tonkotsu Ramen ($18) here, and it’s legit ramen. Think noodles in a thick, flavourful broth.
Bars in Singapore
If you’re looking for a nice spot for drinks after work or dinner, POP CITY is definitely a spot you wouldn’t want to miss out. You can expect quality drinks, service and even food at one of the vibiest spots in Singapore.
POP CITY x PONY
19 Cecil Street, Level 2, Singapore 049704
Mon-Sat, 5:30pm-12am, Closed on Sundays and PHs
*This article is based on a media-tasting event, but all opinions expressed about the food are entirely our own.
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