In the up-and-coming lifestyle enclave of New Bahru in Singapore’s River Valley area, Bar Bon Funk opened in late 2024 and rapidly carved out its niche as a neighbourhood cocktail lounge with a difference. Curated by chef-owner Keirin Buck (also behind the wine-bar concept Le Bon Funk) and head bartender Josiah Chee (formerly of top Singapore bars), the venue blends serious mixology with sensory ambiance. The interior is intentionally designed like a luxe living room: timber lined walls, vintage-inspired furniture, bespoke encaustic tiles and large Hi-Fi speakers welcoming you into a space that invites linger-rather-than-rush. The cocktail menu evolves every few months, split into two parts: eight re-imagined classics and eight signature creations. Think of a drink built around nostalgia (for example, “A Glass of Milk” referencing cereal-soaked milk) or elevated riffs like a mezcal-miso-avocado highball. Food is small-plates, sharing style, produce-led and designed to sit comfortably alongside the drinks (rather than just “bar snacks”). Highlights have included a house-sausage “Baloney Sandwich” and frit parts that match the mood. The audio-visual vibe is notable: a turntable at the bar, curated vinyl sessions, vintage amps, and design choices that place “sound” as much part of the experience as the drink itself. For anyone looking for: a “third-place” in Singapore with design flair, excellent cocktails, music and plates in one, Bar Bon Funk offers an elevated yet relaxed alternative to more mainstream bars. For ambience-seekers, design lovers and cocktail aficionados, it’s worth putting on your shortlist. If you prefer a large rowdy crowd or sports-bar atmosphere, this isn’t it — it’s more about the mood, the detail, the soundtrack.
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