Consummate handcrafted cocktails and modern European tapas entice at chic cocktail bar
March 11th, 2015
Launched in December 2013, Anti:dote was a standout element of the interior refurbishment of the luxurious Fairmont Singapore. Re-imagined from the traditional hotel lobby bar, Anti:dote exudes a contemporary sophistication with its modern decor, while also embracing an avant garde approach to the cocktail drinking experience with a masterful combination of classic cocktail technique and cutting edge modern mixology. Inspired by (and taking its name from) a “remedy” concept of mixology, innovative recipes combine premium spirits with market-fresh culinary and botanical ingredients to create a unique selection of artisanal cocktails. Handcrafted cocktails are consummately paired with modern European tapas dishes created at the open show kitchen, providing rewarding flavour combinations for enjoyment in the chic yet relaxed environment.
Occupying a generous space adjacent to the main lobby, with its own glass-fronted facade and entrance, Anti:dote is an expression of contemporary urban lifestyle, while at the same time harmoniously referencing local cultural influences. The striking interior design, created by the Californian-founded EDG design studio, features an impressive central bar counter and adjoining open kitchen, with a section of modern, glass-encased standing tables facing the bar area, plus sofa and low table settings at either end of the room. Standout design elements include the spectacular 7 metre long chandelier, comprising an array of over 26,000 lighted amber and transparent borosilicate glass bars. References to local cultural influences include the illuminated, double-layered glass tiled bar counter, attractively etched with a distinctive Peranakan motif – while the polished black concrete floor is boldly embellished with decorative patterns of Peranakan heritage.
Heading up the bar team at Anti:dote, Head Craftsman Tom Hogan (recently named as Best Male Bartender 2015 at the Singapore Bar Awards) deployed his extensive mixology knowledge, garnered from his experience at leading Chicago bars, to create the innovative assemblage of progressive cocktails. After the first year of operation Tom has just launched a totally refreshed cocktail menu – with his latest creations continuing to be grounded in masterful combinations of premium spirits, housemade ingredients, and freshly grown herbs and botanicals. The informatively illustrated new menu includes signature cocktails retained from the original list, plus a new selection of whimsically themed drinks, typified by the The Dainty Man’s Attire – a combination of gin, blanc vermouth, pear brandy, pear liqueur, absinthe; and The Tragedy of Tom Dooley – crafted from tequila, aperol, lime juice, lavender syrup and egg white.
At the open kitchen, Anti:dote Head Chef Carlos Montobbio prepares an appetising menu of modern European tapas dishes – elevated with Asian influences – that superbly complement the taste profiles of the cocktails. Designed for sharing, the sophisticated tapas dishes include the Crisp parmesan pizza, with tomato flakes, fresh pesto, olive oil caviar, sweet basil cress; and the Spanish octopus skewers, charcoal grilled eggplant, crispy paprika rice, confit lemon skin.
The Anti:dote bar opens daily between 5 pm and 2 am. Table reservations for small groups are recommended.
Anti:dote interior
Anti:dote signature cocktails
Anti:dote tapas bar cuisine
