Vinyl shop by day, and music-led bar by night. Vertigo 26 is an all-day basement hideout for audiophiles. When the sun is up, swing by to browse its 1,000-strong vinyl and cassette collection, which cuts across various genres across the past five decades—from Björk to Billie Eilish.

Come nightfall, the place transforms into an audio lounge. On the menu: warm analogue sounds played through its vintage JBL speaker system. On the edible front, expect an eclectic mix of Japanese-influenced plates (kushiyaki, karaage, and the likes), paired with drinks concocted by head bartender Cedric Seth (formerly of The Horse’s Mouth). Headliners include cheekily named options of Call Me Maybe (rum, chocolate, hazelnut); and vodka-based, osmanthus-infused Mr Brightside. Book here. 

Vertigo 26, 26 Seah Street, S(188382), +65 6491 1391

Honcho is a dining (and drinking) destination that spans three storeys. Conceptualised by local turntablist Wayne Liu (better known as DJ KoFlow), the multi-concept space provides a different experience depending on which floor you visit: the first floor houses a modern izakaya, the basement hides a cosy lounge, and the rooftop provides an alfresco deck to unwind and relax. Each comes with its own distinctive style, and music program of funk, soul, and hip hop.

But central to all three spaces is a common goal of fostering creativity in Singapore; Honcho aims to provide an “inclusive” space for local artists to connect and collaborate. This might mean featuring local spirits and beers on the drinks menu, splashing the wall with murals by homegrown artists. “More than just a bar or restaurant, Honcho is a lifestyle venue … for talents and artists to showcase their work, build a community, and network,” it says. Book here. 

Honcho, 12 Ann Siang Road, S(069692), +65 8779 9537

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Getting to Maduro provides a feast for the senses. It starts at its scenic locale; the jazz lounge is nestled among lush greens in Dempsey, and surrounded by the sounds of nature. The ears will soon pick up tunes of smooth jazz, as you make your way upstairs to the intimate drinking spot. Expect slick, soulful sounds from the live band, then toast to the good life with its immersive, music-inspired cocktail program. Created by Andrew Yap of The Old Man Singapore, each tipple taps into the Golden Age to create a drink based on tune and time—highlights include rockmelon and tequila-based Ain’t it a Sin; and Strange Fruit, which comes inspired by the popular song of Billie Holiday, and presents itself as a cathartic elixir of warm gin with earl grey tea and apple cider vinegar. Book here. 

Maduro, 40C Harding Rd, Level 3, S(249548), +65 9756 4775

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Kult Kafe has long been a supporter of the local arts scene, so it comes as no surprise that its new outlet (the café-bar has since moved from Emily Hill to The Grandstand) is also jammed with live acts and small music gigs. There is even the Kult Room—a creative space of sorts for makers and musicians to display works and conduct programs. When events aren’t happening, the largely alfresco hangout is still a charming place to visit and grab a bite; the lean menu sees options of beef-filled pita and cheeseburger, alongside refreshing Kultails. Oh, and feel free to round up the little ones or fur pals—the kid- and pet-friendly destination has a junior menu, and even ‘dogtails’ of fresh fruits blended with salmon oil. Book here. 

Kult Kafe, 200 Turf Club Road, 01-19B The Grandstand, S(287994), +65 9389 2185

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