August 17th, 2012
Update: Barcode has closed in 2013
Barkode in Singapore, an intimately scaled bar that opened in mid-2011, is a good example of the burgeoning new “small bar” movement that has captured the attention of discerning drinkers in the cutting edge global cocktail centres such as Tokyo, Hong Kong, New York, Melbourne and London. The new generation of small cocktail bars are frequently found tucked away in small, unfashionable spaces and locations, but attract a loyal following of cocktail enthusiasts who are keen to explore the new tastes and textures of the innovative creations of the young mixologists. Quite typically, the new “small bars” are founded by someone coming out of another role in the liquor industry- with a passion for the cocktail culture- and wishing to share their passion withan increasingly appreciative clientele. Barkode is consistent with this trend- with the team mixing behind the bar all having previously worked in the wholesale liquor trade- and bringing with them to the bar their in-depth knowledge of premium liquors.
The street facade of the restored shophouse- a couple of high tables on the five-foot walkway for watching the street life of Little India
Barkode is set into the ground floor space of a restored shophouse building in the bustling Dunlop Street area of Little India in Singapore. Surrounded by an eclectic assortment of small bars, cafes, backpacker hostels and the many colorful stores of the Indian traders, Barkode has a full width, floor to ceiling glass frontage that overlooks the covered five foot walkway that extends the length of the restored shophouses. A minimalistic interior features an industrial palette of raw concrete finishes, white ceilings and aluminium furniture. The sleek, modern bar counter takes up a large section of the floor space, with a series of aluminium bar stools lining the counter, and further seating at tables at the front section of the room, and with a few high tables on the covered walkway outside.
The mixologists at Barkode strive to create an experience of appreciating cocktails made from the highest quality premium spirits, mixed with personalised selections of ingredients that range from fresh fruits to home-made infusions. A concise cocktail list is regularly updated with new concoctions- providing challenges for the mixologists, and new taste experiences for the regular guests. An attraction of the “small bar” is the opportunity to engage with the mixologists- and even to create your own bespoke cocktails. Barkode offers a menu of light bar snacks and food for sharing with the cocktails ( and some beers and other beverages are available for the non-lovers of cocktails).
The mood is friendly and relaxed, tunes are spun, and drinks enjoyed.
Looking down the bar counter towards the street entrance- a long narrow space of sleek, minimalist design
The bar counter at BARKODE- clean, sharp lines define the functionality of the bar
The BARKODE mixologists use a collection of home-made ingredients to create intriguing tastes for their cocktail creations
The BARKODE team-
Caryn Cheah – mixologist / founder of BARKODE- and 2012 Finalist at Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year- Singapore
Her creation for the Single Malt Challenge- “The Single Formula”- featuring The Singleton of Glen Ord 12 YO Singleton of Glen Ord 12 years, Antica formula, fresh vanilla pods with apple syrup made of stewed apples with cinnamon and allspice. Shaken, poured over metal ice cubes and serve with a vanilla straw.
Karen Heng- BARKODE mixologist- and 2012 Finalist at Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year- Singapore
Karen’s creation for the Single Malt Challenge at the event- “Craggan’s Creek” – based on Cragganmore 12 YO. Flame thyme and orange peel, cover with overturned serving glass and let smoke rise into serving glass. Cragganmore 12 YO, Chamomile tea syrup, fresh thyme, fresh lemon juice. Shake and strain into serving glass. Garnish with fresh thyme, clove, lemon peel and chamomile flowers.
Barkode Cocktail Bar
Address: 66 Dunlop Street, Little India. Singapore 209394
MRT station: Little India NE7
Reservations: +65. 6396 4463
Twitter: @Barkode_Sg
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/barkode.singapore
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday 6:00 pm ~ 12:00 am
Thursday to Saturday 6:00pm~ 02:00 am Sunday & Monday- closed
