Singapore’s first “highball” bar serves flavourful interpretations of the classic simple cocktails
December 28th, 2016
Update: Highball served their last cocktails in July 2019
Recently opened Highball Singapore introduces a refreshing cocktail concept to Singapore with its focus on low alcohol, easy to drink highball cocktails. Set within a refurbished heritage shophouse in the Kampong Bahru neighbourhood, Highball exudes a laid-back, convivial vibe that encourages relaxed and sociable drinking sessions. While the highball cocktail has traditionally been constructed with a single spirit plus a carbonated mixer – served over ice in a tall “highball” glass – at Highball the concept has been elevated with high-end and craft base spirits, plus additional layers of flavour and complexity that contribute finesse and freshness to the drinks. Inspired by the well-patronised highball bars of Tokyo – and an emerging global cocktail trend towards a more informal style of imbibing – head bartender and owner Kino Soh has created a rejuvenated version of a neighbourhood bar that offers well-priced drinks with some of the sophistication of contemporary speakeasy bars, minus the pretensions.
Design Large windows facing the busy street suffuse the ground floor space with natural light during the day, while the interior decor features an uncluttered, pared-back decor with the dark timber backbar contrasting with the unadorned white brick walls. The long sold timber bar counter seats around 12 guests, with additional seating at booths, or the simple leather banquette settings.
Cocktails A well-constructed drinks list categorises the highballs by base spirits – including rum, gin, whisky, vodka, tequila – plus a selection of Asian-inflected varieties made with sake and shochu. Prices mostly range from S$10 to S$15 – with a few at S$18 – offering good-value imbibing. A concise list of classic and creation cocktails complement the highballs, while beers, wine and champagne are also available.
Highball opens Monday to Saturday (closed on Sundays and public holidays) from 4pm. Enticing Happy Hour promotions offer deals on top of the already approachable drinks prices.
