June 23rd, 2011
A number of glass encased, modular structures, clustered on the open rooftop of the “Esplanade Theatres on the Bay” on the Singapore waterfront. This is the unusual, if not unique construct for Orgo Bar & Restaurant. Conceptualised by Taiwanese-American entrepreneur Nick Yen as a “bar without walls”, Orgo was originally constructed as a temporary installation for the Singapore River Festival in 2008. But the success of the bar concept, plus the spectacular location, provided a compelling case for the location to be the permanent home for Orgo.
The bar’s name of Orgo was derived from “organic chemistry”- with the utilisation of fresh organic produce in the preparation of cocktails being the defining concept for the bar.
The rooftop location above the Esplanade Theaters, although not at the soaring heights of some other rooftop bars, presents spectacular, panoramic views over the Singapore CBD skyline and the whole Marina Bay precinct. The modular structures are constructed from lightweight aluminium framing and full height glass walls, creating stand-alone and linked pavilions, standing with a very light “footprint” on the open air rooftop terrace area. The air-conditioned pavilions provide discrete seating for small private parties or groups, additionally, outdoors there are glass-top tables with rattan style chairs, set on a timber deck around an open central courtyard area.
The cocktail bar itself is within a glass fronted pavilion overlooking the outdoor dining tables, and has seating on simple molded chairs in front of the black topped bar.
The cocktail drinks menu has been created by renowned Japanese master mixologist Tomoyuki Kitazoe who has over 20 years experience of mixology at the highest levels of Tokyo food and beverage industry. specifically for Orgo, Tomoyuki has created a collection of recipes based solely around the concept of only using fresh organic fruits and ingredients, and eschewing totally any “artificial” ingredients such as flavourings and colourings, syrups, liqueurs and canned fruit juices. Carefully combining and balancing 
the flavours of various fruit ingredients and base spirits, Tomoyuki has created some truly unique cocktails, and also organic interpretations of some “classic” cocktails. One example -a famous local cocktail- becomes the ” Fresh Singapore Sling”. Using orange peel to replace the flavour of bitters, and adding fresh pomegranate and pineapple juices to Bombay Sapphire gin.
Another interesting taste combination is found in the mixing of fresh mangosteen fruit, mascarpone and Grey Goose vodka.
The extensive cocktail menu includes classic cocktails, fruit based martinis, margaritas, mojitos, caipiroskas, daiquiris, and even fruit based beer cocktails.
Also available- Champagnes, wines, beers, and premium spirits including a good range of aged, Japanese, single malt and Scottish whiskys.
Happy Hours from 5pm to 8pm daily offers special prices on selected beers and wines.
The food menu at Orgo is based around classic French cuisine, with some additions of Asian ingredients to provide taste variety. Consistent with the principles of Orgo, all ingredients are of the freshest and highest quality. Dishes include Entrecote Grillée, Brocolis Ā la Vapeur, Pommes Pont Neuf, Supreme de Poulet Coulis de Tomates, Linguine aux Crevettes et Persillade. The classic Spanish inspired Seafood Paella is one of the signature dishes, and a selection of Tapas plates are also offered for more casual bites with drinks.
In a city that has in recent years embraced rooftop bars, Orgo certainly offers all the attractions of this mode- open outdoors environment, spectacular views, and a “chilled” relaxed atmosphere. What really distinguishes Orgo is the suffusion of the organic concept into the creation of truly delectable cocktails. Orgo presents an excellent choice for simply enjoying freshly prepared cocktails, or a full dining experience, in a simple, chic, yet sophisticated environment .
See also 2015 update article
Orgo Bar & Restaurant – Singapore
Address: Rooftop Terrace at Esplanade-Theaters on the Bay, 8 Raffles Avenue, #04-01, Singapore 038982
Reservations: +65. 6336-9366 (from 4 p.m.)
Website: http://www.orgo.sg/
Opening Hours: Open daily
Happy Hour 5 p.m. ~ 8 p.m.
Dinner 5 p.m. ~ 2 a.m. (Last order: 1:00 a.m.)
Drinks 5 p.m. ~ 2 a.m. (Last order: 1:30 a.m.)
