Manhattan's cocktails concocted by bar manager, Philip Bischoff

It’s safe to say that Singapore, despite its small size, has one of the world's best bar scenes. At the recent Asia’s 50 Best Bars Awards, an annual list that recognises the best drinking establishments in Asia, 13 establishments from Singapore made it onto the list, improving on last year’s tally of nine entrants, where 28 Hongkong Street topped the inaugural list. 

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Manhattan, which recently celebrated its third year anniversary, climbed up four spots to take over as Asia's best bar. Head bartender Philip Bischoff shared how “being on the list puts Singapore on the global stage of the cocktail scene”, and added that this has created a “friendly competition” that inspires others to push the boundaries further and create compelling experiences for guests.

Zdenek Kastanek, 28 HongKong Street's head bartender and general manager of Proof & Company

Spirits evangelist and 28 HongKong Street’s head bartender, Zdenek Kastanek, couldn't agree more, adding that it’s an exciting time for the local F&B scene as it’s growing “amazingly fast”. But he also believes that the credit not only goes to the bartenders but to the guests as well. “All the love should go to them as they’re open to embracing new concepts, educating their palate and requesting specific spirits like gin or mezcal,” shared Kastanek, who is also the general manager at Proof & Company.  

The other bars that have kept their position in the top 50 are Operation Dagger (no. 6), Tippling Club (no. 11), Gibson (no. 14), Jigger & Pony (no. 21), D. Bespoke (no. 29), and Sugarhall (no. 38). 

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New entrants are Atlas (no. 12), Employees Only Singapore (no. 17), Native (no. 20), Nutmeg & Clove (no. 30) and The Other Room (no. 38).

Click here for the complete list of winners.

Photos: Manhattan and 28 HongKong Street