Hup San Social Club

Tucked away in the basement of the heritage shophouse at 98 Club Street (corner of Ann Siang Hill) lies Hup San Social Club — a tiny, 12-seat speakeasy whose name and spirit pay tribute to Singapore’s early Chinese immigrant-social-club culture. Entering requires a bit of sleuthing: you walk into the ground-floor restaurant Club Street Laundry, locate the grey door, descend the stairs and push past a beaded curtain into a low-lit, wood-paneled basement lounge with vintage prints, baroque ceiling tiles and “begonia” motif touches. Under the stewardship of award-winning beverage director June Baek, the cocktail menu titled “Do What Brings You Joy” presents 14 signature creations grounded in stories, emotions and flavours drawn from Korean heritage (Baek is Korean) and Southeast-Asian memory. Stand-out drinks include: Cold Soup (SGD 26): Soju base with kelp dashi, sesame, cucumber, apple vinegar — inspired by the Korean cold soup oi naengguk. The French Fries 2.0 (SGD 26): Whisky washed with fries, tomato water, chilli & salt — as playful and unconventional as it sounds. Achar (approx. SGD 25): Gin with achar-cordial (vinegar, cumin, coriander, fenugreek) → a nod to Peranakan pickled vegetables. The venue is extremely compact (just 11–12 seats) to preserve intimacy and conversation-friendly vibes. The music is understated, service is personal, and the experience leans more into craft and connection than high-volume party. Useful practical details: Address: 98 Club Street, #Basement (via Club Street Laundry), Singapore 069467. Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday (approx) 18:00–00:00 (Sunday/Monday closed). The ground-floor café/restaurant above serves food that can be ordered down; alcohol-only visitors may sit at the bar. Walk-in only (no reservations), due to limited seats. Arrive early. If you’re in Singapore and want a cocktail bar that’s hidden, story-rich, expertly crafted and intimate — Hup San Social Club is a top choice.