Latest Guide to Canadian Craft Beer in Singapore
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There is no shortage of first-rate beer in Singapore. Craft beer is brewed all over the island and shipped in from around the world. Opinions on which brewery makes the best beer and which beer bar is most popular never fail to incite a lively debate. Connoisseurs from around the globe come together to share a cold one in the island’s persistent tropical humidity that makes beer nearly as precious as water. Here is an overview of where to find craft beer in Singapore.
Breweries in Singapore
Level 33This brewery is great for anyone looking to take in some of Singapore’s most known landmarks from above. If you do not have a reservation, it is best to arrive between 2 pm-4 pm. A half liter is only $15 before 8 pm, which is not a bad deal for enjoying craft beer and atmosphere this good in Singapore.
8 Marina Blvd, #33–01, Singapore 018981 https://level33.com.sg
Little Island Brewing Company
You can find Little Island Brewing Company just behind the Changi Village Hawker. It may seem like a bit of a trek for travelers staying near the CBD (Central Business District), but in my opinion, this is some of the best beer in Singapore, and the brewery is right on the beach. Who doesn’t want to visit a brewery on the beach? The staff is helpful and well-informed and will provide you with a few tasters if you ask.
Taps are self-pour and charged by the milliliter to prepaid cards purchased at the brewery. Pour and drink as much or as little as you like. Little Island’s pilot beer, Old King Kolsch, is crisp and bright and pairs well with the brewery’s fish and chips. Other favorites include Ruby Tuesday Red Ale with a mellow balance of fruit and hops, and the Sister Golden Ale, which has the perfect amount of upfront bitterness that doesn’t linger too long.
6 Changi Village Rd, #01–01/02, Singapore 509907 http://www.libc.co
Alchemist Beer Lab
For those who would like to check out something a little different head over to Alchemist Beer Lab, brought to you by the creative minds behind Little Island Brewing Company. Little Island Brew Master, Steve Spinney, is pulling double duty at Alchemist, where his concoctions and beer infusions will put a smile on your face and spring in your step.
South Beach Avenue, 26 Beach Road, #B1–16, Singapore, 189768 http://www.tab.sg
RedDot BrewHouseRed Dot is well known for its distinctive Monster Green Pilsner; a Czech-style Pilsner infused with spirulina seaweed. This easy-drinking beer is just one of several created by owner and brewer, Ernest Ng, whose Summer Ale, Kölsch, and standard Pilsner are equally light and refreshing. Red Dot Brewhouse prides itself on being Singapore’s first 100% locally owned microbrewery, with a name derived from “Little Red Dot,” a nickname given to Singapore whose location has historically been marked on maps by a simple red dot.
The original Red Dot Brewhouse is still in operation on Dempsey Road and a second shop is open and pouring in Boat Quay. Stop in for one of Mr. Ng’s staple brews or check out his seasonal offerings.
25A Dempsey Rd, #01–01, 247691 http://www.reddotbrewhouse.com.sg
Brewerkz
Brewing since 1997, Brewerkz currently has four locations in Singapore and two in Indonesia. The Boat Quay location at Riverside Point is ideal for enjoying a beer next to the water as the passenger boats move up and down the river.
The Cask IPA and Golden Ale are my go-to beers here, and the newly introduced Double IPA has also won me over with its bitter, hoppy harmony. I think the Honey Apricot Ale has a light, subtle apricot finish and I hope someday Brewerkz will use it to create a sour. You can purchase 5-liter mini kegs and 30-liter party kegs online or in stores but reserve in advance to ensure they are available.
Boat Quay: 30 Merchant Road, 01–05/06 Riverside Point https://www.brewerkz.com
Hospoda Microbrewery
Hospoda means “pub” in Czech, so it is no surprise that this microbrewery focuses on Czech-style beer. Able to brew only on a small-scale, this humble brewer has found what they do best and stuck to it, making just two types of beers, Bohemian Pilsner and Bohemian Dark Lager. Those looking to expand their experience can order the Czech Mix, a 50/50 blend of the two.
180 Albert St #01–19 Singapore 189971 Albert Street www.facebook.com/hospodamicrobrewery
The 1925 Brewing Company
Brewing since 2014, The 1925 is owned by brothers Ivan and Eng Kuang and their brewmaster uncle, Yeo King Joey. Their line up consists of five beers Yellow Van Pale Ale, Small Monster IPA, Blk 622, Manuka Stout, and The General, a double boiled ginger beer. All beers are offered on tap upon availability at 1925’s new location in the Katong neighborhood. The Yellow Van Pale Ale is a classic pale ale and my current favorite, with a perfect balance between hops and malt.
As a smaller brewer, The 1925 has expanded their offerings to include other local brews and a food menu designed to pair well with beer. It is a nice space on Joo Chiat Road to hang out with friends and enjoy life. Be sure to stop by this cozy, family-owned microbrewery.
261 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427515 https://the1925.com.sg
Pink Blossom Brewery
Pink Blossom just opened their doors in the summer of 2018. The brewery with adjacent tap room is located in an industrial stretch just a short walk from the Ubi MRT station on the Blue Downtown line. Excellent brewing is already underway, and the Saison and CitrusGalaxy IPA are dangerously easy to drink. Pink Blossom beer is on tap at Smith Street Taps in Chinatown for those looking for a central location where the microbrews can be enjoyed.
50 Ubi Ave 3, #01–12, Singapore 408866 https://pinkblossomsbrewing.com
Little Creatures
Australian brewer Little Creatures opened their first taproom in Singapore in 2018 at the corner of Mohammed Ali Lane and Club Street and have enjoyed a steady stream of craft beer drinkers since. This location is actively brewing and pouring all the familiar favorites including Little Creatures classic Pilsner and signature IPA. Opens daily at 8 am, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
36 Club St, Singapore 069469 https://www.littlecreatures.sg
The Pump Room
Located in lively Clarke Quay amongst the nightclubs and expat bars, The Pump Room was established in 2006 making it one of the first brewers to bring craft beer to Singapore. The daily happy hour from 3pm-8pm offers free flow beer for SGD 25 per hour for those who want to get some power drinking in. Just a few steps away there is a second, more relaxed outlet next to the river that is perfect for simpling chilling out and enjoying one of their beers.
3B River Valley Rd, 01–09/10 The Foundry, Singapore 179021 https://pumproomasia.com.sg
Tiger Brewery
The best thing about the Tiger brewery, owned by Heineken Asia Pacific, is the tour which includes a 45-minute tasting of everything brewed and distributed by Tiger, including Archipelago Brewery beers. Pints at the pub are affordable compared to many you will find around Singapore, so use your 45-minutes here wisely. If you are not familiar with Tiger beer, you will be by the time you leave the brewery.
The original namesake lager is magically restorative in hot weather and has won acclaim and awards all over the world. Radler fans should not miss the opportunity to try those produced by Tiger, notably the grapefruit. For me, they are a little sweet, but perfect with a squeeze of lime, and nearly harmless at 2% ABV. Visit the Tiger website for a full list of beers and ciders.
459 Jln Ahmad Ibrahim, Singapore https://tigerbeer.com.sg
Beer Bars
Just as there are beer bars that serve food, there are also a few restaurants with generous selections of craft beer on offer. Two of the more popular restaurants that fall into this category are Burger Joint and JiBiru. Burger Joint’s windowless space decorated in a sort of local take on Americana is currently a hot spot for craft beer on tap. JiBuru Craft Beer and Yakitori is great for Japanese craft beer and of course yakitori, but its vibe is more restaurant than bar. Read on for more on beer bars in Singapore.
TAP Craft Beer
The TAP Craft Beer bar should be at the top of any craft beer lover’s list in Singapore. Pints are on tap and cost just SGD 10 all day, every day. The 20 taps are brimming with beer from around the world, including a large number of American craft beers. Those feeling peckish can take advantage of Tap’s weekday lunch deals from 11:30 am — 4 pm. Located at Robertson Quay and One Raffles Link.
86 Robertson Quay, #01–02, Singapore, 238245 https://www.tapthat.com.sg
Mikkeller
The Mikkeller tap room in Singapore is part of the Mikkeller brewing collaborative that originated in Denmark in 2006 and now sells beer in 40 countries. Half pints start at SGD 8, and full pints range from SGD 13–20. The 25 taps here offer a generous selection that extends even farther into a large stock of bottled beers. Creations from local brewers like Rye and Pint and Brewlander can be enjoyed at the taproom along with a large selection from Europe, Asia, and the U.S.
7 Purvis St, Singapore 188586 http://mikkeller.dk/location/mikkeller-bar-singapore
SG Taps
This bright, cheerful beer bar is a great place for day drinking or to share a cozy beer with friends. The ten rotating taps and Japanese-Singaporean menu offer too many tasty options for just one visit. Trying or sharing a flight of beer is recommended, and also gives travelers the opportunity to sample a selection of local craft beer, rather than just one.
13 Duxton Hill, #01–01, Singapore 089597 https://www.sgtaps.com
Druggists
Voted best beer bar 2016, Druggist remains at the top of the list of favorite local haunts for craft beer. Choose from 23 taps of chilled craft beer goodness, but be prepared to blow your budget if you stay for more than one.
119 Tyrwhitt Rd, Singapore 207547 https://www.facebook.com/DruggistsSG
The Armoury
Tucked away in what was a colonial-era armoury (thus the name), The Armoury gastropub is serious about beer and an excellent selection of craft beer is always flowing from their 15 taps, and their burgers aren’t bad either.
36 Beach Rd, Singapore 189677 http://armoury.sg/
Freehouse
Climb the steps of the shophouse to find this comfortable beer haven at 21A Boon Tat Street. The 16 taps rotate to include craft beers from just about everywhere. Prices range from SGD 11–19, depending on which beer you order and whether you opt for 10oz or 16oz. Visit the Freehouse Facebook page for promotions and specials, which currently include SGD 3 off Happy Hour pints.
21A Boon Tat St, Singapore 069620 https://www.facebook.com/freehousesg
Nickeldime
With walls covered in colorful graffiti and full PBR availability, Nickeldime River Valley reminds me of a cleaned up version of an American dive bar. It’s a fun spot to relax with a frothy brew or to meet up with friends for a few pints. Craft beer from Europe, Japan, America, and the U.K. rotates through the many taps of Nickeldime’s two locations, and a few from other parts of the world are on offer as well. A selection of bottled beers is also on hand. Promotions and specials may differ by location, but Happy Hour is observed wholeheartedly at Nickeldime Draft House and Nickeldime River Valley.
8 Mohamed Sultan Rd, Singapore 238958 https://www.nickeldimedrafthouse.com
Good Luck Beerhouse
Good Luck is a small, friendly beerhouse located in Singapore’s Kampong Glam neighborhood on trendy Haji Lane. Twelve chilled taps sit waiting to be served up alone or alongside a few pieces of dim sum. If you don’t see what you’re looking for on tap be sure to check the bottle list, which typically includes around 50 different beers and ciders. Prices are between SGD 12–20 per beer.
9 Haji Ln, Singapore, 189202 www.facebook.com/GoodLuckBeerhouse
American Taproom
American Taproom is tucked away between Waterloo Street and Queen Street behind the hawker center on Queen. It’s not the liveliest location, but the bar itself is comfortable, has up to 30 beers on tap at a time and is reasonably priced. As the name suggests, there is a large selection of American craft to choose from, but the menu does include beer from other countries as well.
261 Waterloo St, #01–23, Singapore 180261 https://www.americantaproom.com.sg
The Guild
Hong Kong’s top craft beer brewer, Young Master, has teamed up with acclaimed chef Vincent Lauria to open The Guild restaurant and bar in Singapore. The Guild is located on Keong Saik Road, which is currently a hot spot for hipsters and foodies. There are some fantastic establishments on Keong Saik, and you can expect to pay a premium for any food or drink consumed here. If you would like to stop by for delicious, chilled beer then Happy Hour from 5pm-7pm is ideal. Take a seat at the lovely circular bar and enjoy a half liter for around SGD 13.
55 Keong Saik Road, Singapore https://www.theguild.sg
The Tuckshop Assembly
Tuckshop is a well-known gathering spot for craft beer in Singapore’s Geylang neighborhood. Archipelago Brewery beers are on tap, including The Tuckshop Assembly Ale. A selection of bottled beers and ciders diversifies the menu a bit, and the outdoor seating is a nice place to unwind at the end of a busy day.
403 Guillemard Rd, Singapore 399795 https://www.thetuckshop.com.sg
Beer Hawkers
3rd Culture Brewing Company
It is rumored that 3rd Culture will one day brew their own beer, but for now, you can enjoy their rotating taps at either the Maxwell Food Centre, just a 2-minute walk from Chinatown, or on the east coast at the Old Airport Road Food Centre. The craft beer selection usually hales from Asia and the UK.
Both hawker locations have excellent food options that go down even better with beer. What’s here today may be gone tomorrow at 3rd Culture, so be sure to take note of what you like. Most craft brews sold by 3rd Culture go for SGD 10–11.
Maxwell Food Centre — 1 Kadayanallur Street, Unit №01–33 www.facebook.com/3rdCultureBrewingCo
Smith Street Taps
The consistently excellent selection of rotating ice-cold beers at Smith Street is always worth checking out when in Chinatown. Smith Street is on the 2nd floor of the not-so-clean Chinatown Complex hawker at the corner of Trengganu Street and Smith Street. The Good Beer Company, which is under the same ownership, is just a few stalls down and offers imported craft beers by the bottle.
335 Smith Street #02–062, Chinatown Complex https://www.facebook.com/smithstreettaps
Beer Craft @ Newton Circus Food Centre
Half pints have recently spiked from SGD 5 to SGD 8, but pints start at SGD 12, which is actually a lot more affordable than other beer hawkers. Be sure to pair your beer with a healthy portion of chicken wings and don’t forget the chili and lime.
Charlie’s Corner
Most credit Charlie’s Corner for being first to bring craft beer to Singapore back in the 1990s. The large selection of beer can be bought from the tap or by the bottle. Operating from the Changi Village Hawker Centre at the easternmost part of the island, which is quite a trek for patrons coming from anywhere other than the east, so it to check their Facebook page for hours and holidays before making the journey.
2 Changi Village Rd, #01–70 Village Hawker Centre, Singapore 500002 https://www.facebook.com/charliescorner.sg
Bottle Shops
Craft beer is sold by the bottle at many of the places listed above in this post. Craft beer bottle shops are also becoming more and more common in Singapore for consumers looking for new arrivals or a more extensive selection.
The Great Beer Experiment
501 Orchard Rd, #02–01A Wheelock Place, Singapore 238880Online ordering available. Free delivery on orders over $60 https://greatbeerexperiment.com
Thirsty
See website for locations.Online ordering available. Free delivery on orders over $60 https://www.thirsty.com.sg
Hop Shop
1 Jln Anak Bukit, #B1–15, Singapore 588996Online ordering available. Free delivery on orders over $150 https://www.hopshop.com.sg
This long list could go on, of course. New brewers and purveyors of craft beer pop up in Singapore regularly, leaving no excuse for going thirsty or staying sober on this tiny island.
Photos and Story by Matt Newkirk