Bar Stories

Tucked upstairs at 55–57A Haji Lane, Bar Stories is Singapore’s pioneering artisanal cocktail bar and a beloved hidden gem in the craft scene. Since its opening around 2010, it has become synonymous with bespoke beverage storytelling, where there’s no menu—only your mood, your flavor preferences, and the bartender’s imagination. The space leans into relaxed minimalism: warm wooden surfaces, soft lighting, and thoughtful greenery that feel simultaneously soothing and elegant. The vibe is cozy and inviting, perfect for lingering conversation or creative indulgence. At Bar Stories, you share your chosen spirit and, more importantly, the kind of taste you’re chasing—maybe something “refreshing,” “spicy,” “tart,” or “tropical.” The bartenders then craft a bespoke cocktail on the spot, using finely curated spirits, artisan bitters, infusions, and local elements like gula melaka, red date syrup, or ginger. The result? Drinks arrive as stories—flavors balanced with precision and presentation, sometimes infused with flair like flaming garnishes or aromatic accents. Reviews praise the service as “spellbinding” and “personal,” with bartenders delivering thoughtful creations that feel truly unique. Patrons fondly recall passion fruit martinis with rosemary and lime, whiskey sours “that were bomb,” and even being handed fresh raspberries to complement their drink. Food-wise, while the bar offers limited small plates upstairs, guests can also order from Habibi‑san downstairs—think brussels sprouts with bonito, kushiyaki skewers, and labne. Its roots are foundational to Singapore’s cocktail culture, often cited as the first of its kind locally. Many alumni of Bar Stories have gone on to lead other acclaimed bars in the region, making it a creative cornerstone.