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Drinking culture in Singapore

With Singapore's fabled eating culture in mind, what is the drinking scene like?

If you are thinking of alcoholic drinks most of you will have to prepare for a shock. No; the locals are not trying to rip you off, it is rather expensive. Singapore imposes high duties in alcoholic beverages and tobacco.

Depending where you buy, both in the supermarket or during a night out, prices will vary but S$ 15 for a mug is normal in some of the more upscale bars such as Bar None and a bare minimum is about S$ 5. There are lots of ‘happy hours’ and promotions though so just keep your eyes and ears open. There are some microbreweries such as Brewerkz which sell home-made brew at reasonable prices. On the positive side; the variety of alcoholic beverages is considerable and with a bid of searching you are bound to find a place selling ‘your’ drink.

Going out for a drink at night? read more here on a night out in Singapore

For some places to chill after work check-out our food and beverage ratings.

When you are flying into Singapore though and fancy a drink now and again at home do bring it in yourself, there is a duty free at the baggage claim area and it will save you at least half of what you have to pay in Singapore proper.

Coffee

Another type of drink is of course Coffee; you will find a large number of the larger coffee chains as well as ‘independents’. Which chain you prefer depends on your own taste but you are welcome to give us your opinion. At your local coffee chop you´ll be able to start the day with traditional Kopi-O, black with sugar, and a half-boiled egg with toast, note that the coffee at the local shops is meant to keep you very awake for a long time i.e. it tends to be quite strong.

Tea

Somewhat more traditional is Tea. There is the Indian Te Tarik which is very strong and sweet with lots of condensed milk and made to froth by pouring the mixture from one pot into another from a great (arms length) distance. There are also many Chinese teas available and you can indulge in a leisurely ‘tea ceremony’ at several of the shops. Younger enthusiasts have opened specialized brew shops where you can relax with friends. Be warned that the ‘heavier’ black teas are nothing like what you normally find in a bag.