The Tatler Best-in-Class Bar Awards in Singapore for 2026

Best New Bar: Hup San Social Club

“Do what brings you joy” is Korean bartender-owner June Baek’s mantra at Hup San Social Club, which officially opened in April 2025. The quirky 12-seater basement bar doesn’t adhere to a single cocktail concept; instead, it loosely pays tribute to the 1960s pioneers who lent the street its name through secret clubs. While the first menu was primarily created by Baek, its sophomore menu is a team effort reflecting local ingredients and global inspirations. The BKT is a warm, soothing bak kut teh-inspired sipper, while Achar is refined with a house-made shrub—true to what she calls “Singapore kimchi”. Many bars espouse the feeling of home, but this charming watering hole, with its imperfections—wonky chairs and all—invites guests to rediscover the joy of hanging out.

Best Service: Bar Somma

Bar Somma is a coveted destination for Italian-inspired drinks and small plates. It shares the same visual identity as the fine-dining restaurant Somma next door and, as such, some of the same scrupulous hospitality as well. This is not an experience to be rushed; the vibe is lively, sophisticated and indulgent. Clad in earth-hued linen uniforms, waitstaff usher guests into the contemporary space (formerly a school library) with its atmospheric candle “cathedrals” and a palette of natural materials such as marble, travertine and leather. Bar manager Mel Chavez helms the innovative drinks menu, divided into Aperitivo, Savoury and Renewed Classics.

Best Design: Temper

Cohesive and theatrical, the world of Temper aligns fine wine, cocktails, dining and music across 4,000 square feet of Bauhaus-inspired spatial design. Opened in August 2025 by the Ebb & Flow Group, the venue defies easy categorisation as it morphs from day (Friday and Saturday only) to night across different experiences. On the upper floor, a centrepiece wine bar and custom cellar incorporate 2,100 bottles into an intentional layout, inviting guests to sip on wines ranging from approachable pours to collectors’ rarities. Beyond that lies the dining room and open kitchen, where classic cuisine is served with a playful touch. The cocktail lounge and live music station below shift the tempo with a cocktail bar and Madrix LED system, which brings every beat of the music to life visually, with pixels of colour rippling sinuously across arches and walls. Enveloped by sculptural wood panels, sweeping arches and a layered terrace cove ceiling, the vibe is immaculately tempered to its fullest.

Rising Star: Aki Nakata

After graduating from university with a teaching degree, Aki Nakata’s proclivity for chatting with people led her to the bar industry instead. She chalked up experience in her hometown of Nagoya, Japan, before moving to Singapore in 2020, first joining classic Japanese bar D’Bespoke and then moving to Origin Bar in 2022. Adapting her meticulous preparation and attention to detail to the fast-paced, exuberant environment at Origin Bar, Nakata parlayed her skills to clinch the top title at the Nikka Perfect Serve 2024 Southeast Asian Championship, eventually being named Global Runner-Up on the world stage. Turning 30 this year, this senior bartender is going places.