Cover The Backdrop
The Backdrop
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Hidden in Voco Orchard Singapore, the cabaret-inspired speakeasy redefines modern-day drinking drawing from age-old Italian liquoristica references
Crystal chandeliers, vintage accoutrements and ruby-hued plush furnishings are all glaring symbols in The Backdrop at Voco Orchard Singapore that hark back to the glory days of 1920s cabaret—think Moulin Rouge. The risque speakeasy is dreamt up by Dario Knox, a luminary with over 19 years of global expertise under his belt. But don’t come expecting the conventional. With a nod to the past and a vision for the future, the shrewd bartender now presents a space dedicated to the art of extraction, drawing inspiration from historical elixirs and percolations.
The beautifully bonded cocktail menu, curated into acts and sections, showcases a spectrum of mixology techniques spanning centuries alongside Knox’s anecdotes—many of which accumulated from travelling across Italy over the past four years.
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Above Negroni Supreme
Negroni Supreme
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From timeless classics to avant-garde interpretations that push flavour boundaries, imbibers are invited on a thrilling exploration of libations. A standout was the Negroni Supreme, a silky harmonious blend of coconut fat-washed gin, Guatemalan coffee bean-infused vermouth and banana sous-pressed Campari. A finishing spritz of percolated hazelnut mist is applied tableside. Each sip is refreshingly tart and savoury, followed by an elegant finish that is bitter yet nutty to round it off. It vaguely reminds us of the coffee-forward French dessert of an Opera.
Above Reimagination of whiskey sour
Reimagination of whiskey sour
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Knox’s adept understanding of cocktail anatomy sweetens the kitty. Expect playful reimaginations of the whiskey old fashioned, complex pursuits that marry mezcal and tequila to accentuate the expression of smoke, or even bold attempts to mirror wines, reminiscent of citrusy sauvignon blancs and big-bodied cabernets, using only spirits. From the kitchen, a modest tapas menu comes equipped with classics like lobster rolls, bikini sandwiches and some cold cuts.
Above Wall of Italian liquoristica
Wall of Italian liquoristica
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Though the voyage of discovery is best reflected through Knox’s deep dive into the rich heritage of Italian liquoristica, “By embracing the wisdom of the past, we are poised to create an unprecedented future in the world of drinking,” he quips. “Guests will be exposed to the evolution of cocktails and appreciate the timeless beauty of artisanal product making.” So if any one of those vintage apothecary bottles piques your interest, don’t be afraid to inquire as Knox is more than willing to share.
As we left, the first exchange between us and Knox lingered in our consciousness, “To everyone I say, The Backdrop is more than just a bar and best experienced for yourself” he says. Beyond libations, Knox teases future events that include the likes of masterclasses and workshops for the inquisitive. Make no mistake, this watering hole should be next on your list.
The Backdrop
Address: 581 Orchard Road, Voco Orchard Singapore, #01-15/16, S(238883)
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