Retro-themed cocktail bar entertains with its arcade games, nostalgic drinks and 80’s music
June 30th, 2018
A throwback to the 1980’s NINETEEN80, an arcade-slash-cocktail-bar opened recently in the hip Tanjong Pagar neighbourhood. The first bar concept owned and operated by entertainment consultancy A Phat Cat Collective – NINETEEN80 draws on the co-owners previous experience working at the iconic rooftop restaurant and club CE LA VI. From outside, guests are lured in with a bright neon sign that beckons with the word “Arcade.” Stepping inside the brightly coloured interiors, one is transported back in time, thanks to the rows of bulky consoles from some of the world’s favourite titles: Pac-Man, Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter and Space Invaders.
This concept, a tribute to the old clubs that used to line Boat Quay and Mohamed Sultan Road, was meant to “bring back long forgotten memories through the elements of fun, creativity and engagement.” Denmark-born Tina Fung designed the elements with a classic 80s flavour, throwing in rich textures and retro details in a welcoming pink vortex that glimmers with lights and mirrors, with the retro decor of the arcade games and bar spaces highlighted by artworks from Mojoko.
Complementing the retro arcade games, NINETEEN80‘s cocktail programme revolves around the “dark ages of drinking,” back in the years when cocktails weren’t taken seriously. Each classic cocktail has its own remix; take for example the Ice-T “Hustler” Remix – Long Island Ice Tea added with an apple twist; Super Disco Blend – the yuzu-topped take on a Blue Lagoon; and the Original Mix – a blend of vodka, soda and Ribena.
A nostalgic playlist made up of classic bops transforms the place into a retro club, thanks to the mixes of resident DJs Ollie’Des and YA5TH. On Wednesdays, ladies get to party with Miss-Demeanor while a games-themed “Fight for Your Right” take place throughout the week, dishing up a healthy serving of funk, soul, house and urban tracks.
NINETEEN80 is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 5:30 pm till late (closed Sundays and Mondays)
NINETEEN80 Interior
NINETEEN80 Cocktails
Featured contributor: Caris Cruz
(Images credit A Phat Cat Collective)
