Glamorous new club and bar concepts at the refurbished The Forbidden City complex at Clarke Quay
January 23rd, 2014
Update: Forbidden City was closed in 2015
Consistently rated among the preeminent establishments at Singapore’s mega-popular Clarke Quay nightlife precinct, The Forbidden City has for years been attracting crowds of discerning diners and party goers with its multi-faceted offerings. Occupying the majestic Singapore waterfront building- The River House- which has been listed as World Heritage Site by UNESCO- the building was originally a 19th Century river front godown, later converted into the palatial residence of a wealthy trader. Operated by Singapore’s renowned IndoChine Group, the building has, while maintaining its historic structure and facade, been extensively re-modelled internally into a collection of stylish restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
After many successful years, the club and bars at The Forbidden City have undergone an extensive re-furbishment, and were re-launched in September 2013. Three new concepts were unveiled- on the upper level, adjacent to the unchanged Madame Butterfly Chinese restaurant is Oscar Whisky & Zigar Bar, while on the expansive ground floor, the space has been divided into two distinct club / lounge concepts- the Anastasia Lounge at the riverfront side of the floorspace, and the Bianca Supper.Club occupies the Fountain entrance side of the building.
Oscar Whisky & Cigar Bar
Located on the upper level of the historic building, adjacent to the Madam Butterfly Chinese restaurant, Oscar Whisky & Zigar Bar is a sophisticated haven for whisky and cigar aficionados. The elegant space features a decor of plush leather Chesterfield sofas, deep red wall coatings, hunting trophies- exuding the atmosphere of an exclusive gentlemen’s club. An open balcony overlooking the entrance courtyard and bar offers a pleasant open-air option for smokers, with an outlook over the bustling Clarke Quay promenade.
Oscar Whisky & Zigar Bar boasts an impressive selection of single malt Scotch whisky, including rare vintage bottles, and also a good variety of whiskeys from global distilleries. Complementing the fine whisky are the hand-rolled Cuban cigars on offer.
One of The Forbidden City’s signature red crystal chandeliers makes a dramatic visual impact, complementing the luxurious leather sofas and armchairs.
The bar opens out onto the balcony, providing scenic views over the Clarke Quay promenade and Singapore River.
A corner setting of antique leather armchairs in one of the three intimate private rooms.
Fine single malt whisky accompanied by hand-rolled Cuban cigars.
Anastasia Lounge
An opulently furnished lounge, Anastasia occupies the front half of the ground floor in The Forbidden City. Taking inspiration from the extravagant and luxurious lifestyle of 17th Century European palaces, Anastasia features ornate and flamboyant decor highlighted with plush leather sofas and red crystal chandeliers. Separated by sound-proof folding doors from the adjoining Bianca SupperClub, Anastasia offers a more laid back music genre than its vibrant sibling. Guests can order gourmet small plates and snacks for sharing, with a full beverage service available from the bar.
The centre of the floorspace is dominated by the LED lighted, large perspex water tank, with signature red crystal chandeliers suspended overhead in the double volume void.
Baroque style furniture on raised levels overlooks the centre of the room.
The DJ deck is set behind a pair of large Buddha-style faces adorned with mirrored mosaic.
Bianca Supper.Club
Accessed from the Fountain entrance of the Forbidden City, Bianca– also known as the White Room- is a sleek and modern supper club taking inspiration from luxurious European clubs. Plushly furnished with crystal-studded leather sofas, the popular venue is generously proportioned to accommodate the regular crowds of partygoers. The Bianca resident DJs play a mix of Hip Hop- R & B- Electro-House- Top 40s tunes until late in the nights. Check the Bianca Facebook Page for updates on regular promotions and special events.
Imposing twin Buddha-style heads- overlaid with mirrored mosaic- stand in front of the DJ booth.
Bianca features an impressive array of LED lighting effects and state-of-the-art sound system.
The well-stocked bar serves a wide variety of cocktails, premium spirits, champagnes and wine.
Selected cocktails from the Forbidden City bars
Margarita- Tequila, Triple sec (Choice of lime, mango, strawberry)
Hawaiian Cocktail- Gin, Triple sec & pineapple juice .
Blue Sunset- Tequila, blue curacao, orange juice, sour mix & 7-up .
Espresso Martini- Vodka, Frangelico hazelnut, crème de cacao white & espresso.
Forbidden City by IndoChine- at Clarke Quay- Singapore
Address: 3A Merchant’s Court, River Valley Road, #02-02, Singapore 179020
MRT station: Clarke Quay
Inquiries: +65. 6557 6266
Website: www.indochine-group.com
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/IndoChineGroup
Opening Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 10:00 pm to 3:00 am
Friday – Saturday: 10:00 pm to 4:00 am
