About Brooklyn Bar
Brooklyn Bar is a two-level hip-hop–themed cocktail lounge in Singapore’s hip Duxton/Ann Siang area, hiding in a restored heritage shophouse. It markets itself as “SG’s first Hip-Hop Cocktail Bar,” blending New York City street‐food flair with urban nightclub energy . The décor is intentionally gritty and artistic – think exposed brick walls covered in iconography like photos of Brooklyn natives (Biggie Smalls, Jay-Z etc.), graffiti murals of Marvel and hip-hop figures, and neon signage. Even a bronze Pink Panther statue stands at the entrance for fun effect . The main bar itself is framed by three arches (a nod to the Brooklyn Bridge) and treated mirrors, giving the impression of a lived-in street corner . Co-owner Mark Thomas (a self-described hip-hop head) personally soaked up NYC culture for two years before opening this bar, and his influence shows in every detail . Overall the vibe is “come-as-you-are” casual – with bumping East Coast rap, brick-and-neon interiors and a simple motto: “Down. Right. Simple” . Capacity is modest – the upstairs lounge seats around 40 (or about 60 standing) , with a similar-sized main level and a small outdoor deck for additional casual seating.
Events and Programming
Brooklyn Bar doesn’t schedule big-name concerts, but it stays lively with regular in-house programming. Most weekends feature DJs spinning hip-hop, R&B and soul beats to fit the theme. The bar also runs creative cocktail events and staff contests. For example, they’ve hosted competitions like the “Brooklyn E.R.” cocktail challenge and “Friends of Brooklyn” bartender showdown, where teams race to mix drinks . They even do special sessions where guests learn to mix their own cocktails – advertised as a corporate/team-building “step-behind-the-bar” experience . Aside from these theme nights, there are occasional DJ battles or guest-mix nights (no formal schedule published), and private hire parties (birthdays, anniversaries) that can include customised music and catering. In short, expect nothing too mainstream: mostly late-night DJ sets and hip-hop parties that tap into the New York club vibe. There are typically no cover charges or tickets needed on regular nights – just walk in and join the party. (If a special ticketed event is announced, it would be promoted on their social feeds.)
Tickets and Booking
Entry to Brooklyn Bar is generally free and on a first-come basis, especially on quieter weekdays. There is no formal ticketing system for most nights – you simply arrive, join the queue if needed, and order at the bar. However, reservations are encouraged for busy Friday and Saturday evenings to ensure seating. The venue accepts table bookings through its online system or by phone (contact details are on the venue’s official profile) so it’s best to book ahead if you plan a large group. In fact, their reservation policy even asks guests to note any special occasion (birthday, etc.) when booking, and explicitly states that no outside food or drinks (including birthday cakes or alcohol) are allowed . If you do rent the upstairs space for a private event, note that Tagvenue lists a minimum spend of about S$2,500 per session . Overall, though, casual visitors pay only for what they consume: expect cocktail prices in the S$24–30 range and small plates around S$15–25 each.
Seating and Layout
Two floors and outdoor deck: The bar occupies a compact two-level space. Upstairs is the main “mix your drinks” lounge, with a long wooden bar under three large brick arches, plus high cocktail tables and bench seating. At ground level is the street-level section, which opens out to a narrow “deck” patio – an open-air area with hanging Edison bulbs and brick finishes meant to evoke a Brooklyn subway station . Some loose lounge chairs and cafe tables are placed on the deck for a chill vibe.Seating types: Patrons can choose to sit at the bar stools or up at the high tables, or take a booth along the wall. In fact, reviewers note comfortable booth seating along the perimeter , which offers a bit more privacy and a view of the artwork. The upstairs bar area itself is the heart of the room – guests often congregate here to chat with bartenders under the neon lights.Capacity and ambience: The upstairs lounge is intimate by design – roughly 40 at the tables or 60 standing – so space is limited. On a busy night it fills with a dancing crowd. The riverside deck (outdoor terrace) is a popular spot to lounge between dance sessions. Chicago diners say the bar feels “larger than life” and inviting – some even compare its look to NYC speakeasies . Acoustics and view: With its enclosed space and high-energy music, the club can get loud – in fact, one guest review observed that “the music gets loud, but it adds to the vibe” . If you prefer to chat, taking a seat at a side booth or outside on the deck can dampen the sound. There’s no formal stage or seating tiers; everyone shares the dance floor in front of the bar. The best “view” is at the bar itself or from the booths facing it, where you can watch the bartenders mix and enjoy the lightshow. In summary: there are no bad spots, but expect tight quarters when it’s full.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Brooklyn Bar sits at 14 Ann Siang Road, #01-01 (postcode 069694) in Chinatown/Duxton area . This is a narrow lane off Telok Ayer Street, in Singapore’s central business district. The neighbourhood is known for its nightlife.Subway (MRT): The nearest station is Telok Ayer (Downtown Line) – just about a 5-minute walk (around 350m) . Exit the station and head north along Telok Ayer Street, then turn right onto Ann Siang Road. Tanjong Pagar MRT (East-West Line) is also fairly close (roughly 600m). Both lines make it easy to reach from any part of the city.Buses: Several bus routes stop on Telok Ayer Street and Cross Street, within a short walk. For example, routes like 166, 61, 80, 130 and 970 service the area. The Chinatown complex is nearby, so standard city buses apply. (Check the local transit app for exact stops and schedules.)Driving and parking: Street parking on Ann Siang Road itself is very limited and often metered. There is no private lot for the bar. However, public paid parking is available a couple of blocks away . For instance, the People's Park Centre carpark and Maxwell Food Centre carpark are nearby options (though they can be expensive during peak hours). Most visitors find it easier to use public transit or a taxi/ride-share. The bar is often drop-off only on the tight lanes; zoning restrictions can apply, so heading to the nearest main road (Telok Ayer St or Maxwell Rd) for a taxi or Grab drop-off is safer.Walking directions: If you arrive by MRT at Telok Ayer, the walking directions (accommodating local lingo) are straightforward. Exiting Telok Ayer station via Exit A, walk along Telok Ayer Street past Telok Ayer Market, then turn into Ann Siang Road on your right. Brooklyn Bar’s entrance is down a short alley near the Temple Street food stalls.
Inside the Venue
Once inside Brooklyn Bar, expect a warm but vibrant club atmosphere. On entry, staff may check your ID (if you look under age 18) and guide you to an open table or the bar. The place opens at 5pm, with friendly bartenders dressed casually. By nightfall the crowd builds to a lively mix of hip-hop fans and cocktail lovers. The bartenders are known to be very chatty – one review noted the owner-bartender personally conversing with guests like they were old friends . Cocktails arrive in stylish glassware, often garnished with flair (fresh herbs, flowers or fruit). A standout feature is their creative cocktail menu. Drinks are organized under playful hip-hop categories like “Dee Jay,” “Emcee,” “B-Boy” or “Graffiti,” each embodying a style or story . Expect names and ingredients borrowed from NYC lore. For example, there’s a signature “Brooklyn” bourbon cocktail and a tropical “Big Apple” tiki-style drink (both inspired by New York theme). Another reviewer mentioned a unique “Lychee Martini” (a milk-clarified vodka drink) that the bar surprised them with on request .
Food is available throughout the evening. The menu focuses on hefty, comfort-style bites. Popular orders include the “Brooklyn beef tacos” – rich braised-beef birria tacos (with cheesy fried shells and a flavourful dipping broth) – as well as smoked fish tacos, crispy fries, onion rings, and a juicy “Brooklyn smash” burger . Portion sizes are generous and meant for sharing. Many reviews praise the food as “flavorful and delicious” – especially the tacos and burger – which matches the bold bar menu . Vegetarian options are limited (the focus is on meat-heavy street food), so non-meat-eaters may snack lightly or ask for off-menu variations.
As you drink or dine, note the interior quirks: funky murals on the walls, old subway-style cage lights hanging from the ceiling, and even mirrored panels that look weathered. The entire place behaves like a mini dance club. By around 10pm–11pm the lights often go down for the DJs and the volume goes up – reviewers say you might need to raise your voice to talk, but it’s all part of the nightclub vibe . Pets and strollers are not allowed in late-night hours (it’s primarily an adult crowd after dark). The bar accepts Singapore dollars and credit cards. There is no coat check (it’s a relaxed bar, people usually keep light items with them). Restrooms are located inside (typically one men's and one ladies’ on the ground floor). There is no free public Wi-Fi announced, so plan to use your mobile data if needed. In short: expect walk-in restaurant/bar protocols – comfy casually-dressed crowd, a friendly but professional staff, and a staff eagerness to explain the cocktail selections if you ask.
Nearby Amenities
Dining options: Ann Siang Road is surrounded by great eateries. For quick, authentic local fare before your night out, try the nearby hawker centres. The famous Amoy Street Food Centre (just steps away) offers classics like Hainanese chicken rice and laksa. Maxwell Food Centre (a 5-minute walk) has Tian Tian chicken rice and other delights. For a sit-down meal, there are many restaurants on Telok Ayer and Club Streets – you’ll find modern European bistros, Peranakan and Sichuan Chinese spots, and trendy fusion cafés. Some notable neighbors: the new Chinatown food hall (RuXin Court) is right around the corner, and group-friendly joints like Jumbo Seafood and Lau Pa Sat (for chili crab) are within 10–15 minutes’ walk.Bars and nightlife: This stretch of Ann Siang/Duxton is a nightlife hub. Great pre- or post-drinks spots include Gem Bar (just down the street, for classic cocktails) and Casual Bar (an upscale whiskey bar nearby). Shiro and Atlas Asian Antique Restaurant are also a short stroll away (across Temple St) if you want karaoke or sake cocktails. If you’re exploring more of Chinatown, you’re close to other popular pubs like The Screening Room or The Tinder Box. Essentially, once you’re in Ann Siang the bar hop possibilities are endless.Hotels: Several hotels are within walking distance. Amoy by Far East Hospitality (the historic Amoy Hotel) is 300m away. Slightly beyond (in Tanjong Pagar/Chinatown) are Parkroyal Collection Pickering, Hotel 1929, and boutique stays like Five Stones Hostel. For luxury, the Fullerton and Sofitel City Centre are about 1 km away (access via Club Street or the MRT). Most foreign visitors choose to stay around Chinatown or Marina Bay; taxis and MRT make it quick to reach Brooklyn Bar from either.Getting there early / departure options: The area is lively by night but relatively quiet during early evening. If you arrive early (around opening at 5pm), you can secure a good seat and enjoy a laid-back pre-party dinner. After midnight, note that Singapore’s MRT shuts down (night buses or taxis are your only options). The closest late-night MRT stop is Fort Canning (Downtown line) or the Downtown line runs till about 12:30am. Taxis and Grab are plentiful around the CBD; flag one down on Telok Ayer Street or use a rideshare pick-up point along Maxwell Road or South Bridge Road for convenience. Also, keep an eye on Chowders (food delivery) if you missed dinner – some late-night hawkers even allow digital orders.
What Makes This Venue Special
Brooklyn Bar stands out in Singapore’s nightlife scene for its bold fusion of New York hip-hop culture and local bar life. It’s one of the only bars dedicated entirely to classic hip-hop/R&B music, carving a niche far from the usual EDM or Top-40 playlists. Its backstory adds to the charm: co-owner Mark Thomas personally sketched much of the artwork (Spider-Man murals, graffiti tags) and even hand-illustrated parts of the menu. In fact, Time Out notes Mark’s personal touch – he once held a wholesome Father’s Day luncheon (complete with kid-friendly noodles and high chairs) one afternoon , demonstrating the bar’s family-friendly side despite its party persona.
Architecturally, Brooklyn Bar cleverly blends a heritage Singaporean building with gritty NYC flair. The three-bar-arch motif is a literal bridge to Brooklyn, while hanging Edison bulbs and brick walls simulate a subway station ambiance . Regulars love its “speakeasy” atmosphere – one review even says it feels “larger than life” once you enter . The staff’s passion also makes it special. Bartender/owner Mark personally chats with patrons about mixtapes and cocktails, and freely mixes West Coast rap or revived Sinatra remixes alongside the East Coast tunes . Cocktails are treated as art too – for example, their “Lychee Martini” is a house clarifier cocktail Mark created on the spot for a surprise drink .
Culturally, the bar has become a gathering spot for Singapore’s urban creatives. It’s common to find local hip-hop artists or graffiti artists spending nights here over custom drinks. The chewing, sneaker-clad crowd is notably diverse (you’ll see foreign expats, locals and tourists united by the music). The novelty of a pure hip-hop bar has drawn media attention (it was featured in Time Out Singapore as a “living, breathing mixtape” ), which helps its community cachet. In summary, Brooklyn Bar’s special sauce is its authenticity – it’s not trying to be a generic club or cocktail lounge, but rather a heartfelt tribute to a music genre that rarely has its own home in Singapore. Patrons say you haven’t experienced hip-hop night out until you’ve done so under the bar’s pink-lit graffiti walls and booming bass lines.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The bar is housed in an older shophouse, so be aware there may be a few steps at the entrance and a staircase between levels. It does not advertise a lift, so wheelchair access is likely limited to the ground-floor area. If you have mobility issues, call ahead to check if they can accommodate you (staff can sometimes arrange a trompo/ramp). There is one small restroom area on the ground floor and possibly one upstairs, but no changing or baby facilities.
Age and Dress Code: Singapore law requires you to be 18+ to drink. Brooklyn Bar does allow younger diners in the early evening, but after dark the crowd is mainly 21+. Always carry your ID – bartenders commonly check if you look under 18. The bar’s vibe is very casual and urban; jeans, T-shirts, sneakers, leather jackets and hip-hop streetwear fit right in. You don’t need to dress up formally (this isn’t a fine-dining venue), but flip-flops, swimsuits or beachwear would be out of place. A fun tip: feel free to monogram your outfit with any hip-hop or Brooklyn-themed style – a sneakerhead mindset or vintage band tee fits the mood.
What to Bring / Not to Bring: Bring your cell phone camera for photos (the neon arch and murals are very Insta-worthy). There is no cloakroom, so plan to hang coats or stow backpacks at your table. It’s safest not to bring large bags or outside food/drink – as a reminder, the bar strictly prohibits outside alcohol or meals . If you have a birthday cake or special sweet, call ahead; they’ll charge a corkage fee if you bring it in. It’s fine to bring cash or credit card – both are accepted, though digital payment (PayNow, schemes) might also work as in most Singapore bars. Note that the bar typically does not set a cover charge – the only tab is your drinks and food orders on exit.
Good Behaviors and Common Mistakes: Service is friendly, but staff are working hard, so be patient if the bar is busy. One common mistake is assuming they’ll have everything on the menu at all times – some items (like certain tacos or limited cocktails) can sell out, especially late at night. If an item isn’t available, feel free to ask the bartender for a recommendation; they love suggesting alternatives. Always tip by simply rounding up the bill or adding S$2–5 per drink if you really enjoyed the service (tipping is not required in Singapore but appreciated). One more tip: don’t disturb wall art or graffiti – it’s part of the bar’s décor (photograph it, don’t touch it!).
Timing Your Visit: Doors open at 5pm (closed Sundays/Mondays) . Arrive early (say 6pm) if you want dinner or a relaxed first drink, as seats fill up later. By 9–10pm on weekends the place can become very crowded and a short line may form at the entrance. If you prefer a quieter scene, consider a midweek night or come right at 5pm on Tuesday–Thursday. Finally, remember that last drinks are at midnight (licensing law), so plan a late-night ride accordingly. Taxis and Grab apps are plentiful in the CBD, and a quick 10-15 minute ride will get you back to most city-centre hotels. (During major holidays or promotions, the line can be longer, so factor that in.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a ticket or pay a cover charge to enter Brooklyn Bar?
No, there is generally no cover charge or ticket for Brooklyn Bar on a regular night. It's a casual walk-in bar; you simply pay for whatever drinks and food you order. If the bar is very busy on weekends, you might queue briefly, but admission is free. Only if there's a special private event (which is rare) might there be an entry fee.
How can I reserve a table at Brooklyn Bar, and is it necessary?
Reservations are recommended if you have a group or are going on a Friday/Saturday night. You can book directly through the bar’s reservation system or by phone (no outside booking sites are mentioned publicly). The bar’s official policy asks you to let them know the occasion, but we won’t list the email here – just say it’s for a birthday or special event if applicable. For most cases, reservations open a few weeks in advance, so for popular evenings it’s wise to lock in a table early. However, walk-ins are also accepted whenever space allows.
What are the best seats or areas in the venue?
The “best” seat depends on your vibe. If you want to interact with the bartenders and watch the drink-mixing action, sit at the bar stools under the three arches – you’ll get a close-up view of everything. If you prefer some semi-private space to chat, the booth tables along the wall are cozy and a bit quieter . On nice evenings, the outdoor deck is great too – string lights and brick walls offer a relaxed atmosphere. No matter where, you’ll hear the music (it’s lively), so booths or deck seating might let you talk more easily. In short: front-and-center at the bar for the full club feel; booths or deck for a laid-back drink session.
Is Brooklyn Bar accessible for wheelchairs or people with mobility needs?
Brooklyn Bar is in a historic shophouse and does not list full wheelchair access. There are likely a few steps at the entrance and a stair between levels, and no mention of an elevator. The ground-floor area is at street level, so patrons using wheelchairs might manage that section. If accessibility is a concern, it’s best to call ahead (the bar’s contact number is on their site ) to ask if they can accommodate you. The staff are usually accommodating, but as of now do not advertise ramps or lifts.
Can I bring my own food or drinks to Brooklyn Bar?
No – outside food and drinks are not allowed. The bar’s policy explicitly warns “strictly no outside food and drinks” . That means you should enjoy only their menu offerings inside. If you want a birthday cake or similar, you would need to arrange it in advance with them (and likely pay a corkage fee). But as a rule: plan to eat and drink only what's served at Brooklyn Bar.
What are popular menu items at Brooklyn Bar?
Reviewers consistently praise the food and drinks. Notable dishes include the beef birria tacos (with cheesy shells and dipping broth) and the “Brooklyn” smash burger – both were described as juicy and flavorful . Among cocktails, creative names stand out. For example, they have a strong drink called “Queen B*tch,” and house specials like a lychee martini or the tiki-style “Misty Melon” . If you’re indecisive, ask the bartenders to surprise you with a recommended cocktail – they love making something off-menu.
What are the opening hours and days for Brooklyn Bar?
Brooklyn Bar is open Tuesday through Saturday, typically from 5:00 PM until midnight . They are closed on Sundays and Mondays. (Those hours are current as of 2024/2025 – always double-check in case of holiday changes.) The kitchen serves food throughout the evening until close. The bar itself will stop serving alcohol at midnight sharp due to license restrictions, though you can usually finish any drinks you’ve ordered. Weekday nights tend to be quieter, while Fridays and Saturdays get very busy by 10 PM.
Are there any dress codes or door policies?
Brooklyn Bar is very casual – its atmosphere is laid-back urban. There is no formal dress code posted. You’ll see customers in jeans, T-shirts, sneakers, caps, etc. (Since it’s hip-hop themed, streetwear or trendy casual attire fits right in.) Flip-flops or beachwear would be too casual, but collared shirts or “nice casual” are welcome. The staff say “come as you are,” and no one turns away patrons for normal clothing choices. Just dress comfortably and respectfully for a bar setting.
Is smoking allowed inside or outside Brooklyn Bar?
By Singapore law, smoking is banned inside enclosed public spaces. So smoking is not allowed anywhere inside Brooklyn Bar. The outdoor deck is partially open-air, but not all outdoor bar spaces automatically allow smoking; Singapore only permits it in designated smoking areas. (There are no signs indicating a smoking terrace at Brooklyn Bar.) In practice, you’ll probably need to step a few blocks away from Ann Siang Road to smoke. If you do smoke, please be mindful of local rules and fellow customers.
Is there Wi-Fi and phone charging available?
Brooklyn Bar has not advertised free customer Wi-Fi. Most guests assume the usual Singapore setup: rely on your mobile data or use a tethered hotspot. You should carry your own charger if you need one; bars rarely offer charging stations. In our experience, do not expect complimentary Wi-Fi; focus on the music and company instead. (The bartenders won’t mind if you text at the bar, but the vibe encourages socializing.)
What are the best ways to get home late at night?
Brooklyn Bar closes at midnight, but the MRT will have stopped running by then. For late-night transit, the safest bet is a taxi or ride-share. You can queue for a taxi on Telok Ayer Street or on Cross Street, or use a Grab app and set the pickup on Maxwell Road or Amoy Street (both are one block away on a main road). Night buses do run in the area (like service 970 at intervals) but they may be sparse. If you plan to drink late, factor in enough time to hail transport before the Metro stops. Rideshares in Singapore are reliable and the area is well-served, so plan to “Grab” one if you’re leaving after 12:30 AM.
Does Brooklyn Bar ever host live singers or bands?
Brooklyn Bar does not normally advertise live bands or vocal acts, given its small space and nightclub vibe. Most of their programming is DJ-driven hip hop and occasional special events. However, local open-mic or guest vocal nights could happen if they’re promoted on social media. If you’re interested, look for event listings from Brooklyn Bar (or ask the bartenders) to see if any live performances are scheduled. But in general, think of it more as a DJ club party spot than a live-concert venue.
What transportation options are best late on weekends?
On Friday and Saturday nights, the Singapore MRT system has free rides after midnight (on certain lines as part of Singapore’s late-night pilot). Check the latest coverage – often this includes Downtown Line (Telok Ayer) into the small hours on weekends. Buses also run 24/7 on some routes, but fewer in the early morning. In any case, taxis and Grab will always be available. We advise booking a Grab shortly before last call so you don’t have to wait too long in the cold. Since Brooklyn Bar is in the downtown core, fares to other central or Orchard-area hotels are usually under S$15 by cab at night.
Does Brooklyn Bar offer happy hour deals or discounts?
Brooklyn Bar does not publicly list a happy hour, and its hours (5pm–midnight) suggest it’s more of a straight cocktail lounge. If they ever run a drink special or ladies’ night, it would likely be announced on social media or in their newsletter. In general, budget for normal bar prices. That said, some guests find weekday evenings slightly quieter and easier to get specials on-shellfish or rounds-of-shots if you negotiate with the bartender (always tipsyAmericans at your own risk). But don’t rely on official happy hours here – it’s a niche concept bar, not a mass-market chain.
Where can I buy Brooklyn Bar merchandise or souvenirs?
Brooklyn Bar does not typically sell branded merchandise on site. It’s a small bar focused on drinks and atmosphere, not flight cases or T-shirts. If you wanted a souvenir, your best bet is a photo at the mural wall or neon sign. Sometimes crew members might have a branded cap or hoodie, but a merch selection isn’t advertised. Instead of a T-shirt, consider taking home stories of Biggie murals and custom cocktails as your “souvenir.”
Why is it called “Brooklyn” Bar if it’s in Singapore?
The name “Brooklyn Bar” is meant to evoke the same gritty, creative spirit that Brooklyn (NYC) is famous for. The owners designed the entire concept around New York’s hip-hop culture and street-food vibe. So while the bar is physically in Singapore, the name signals its theme: it’s a Singaporean tribute to Brooklyn’s soul, style and music. In practice, the bar mixes familiar Singaporean hospitality with an American flavor. Calling it “Brooklyn” immediately tells locals and expats that the experience will feel like a bit of NYC – cues we see throughout the décor and menu .
Are children allowed in Brooklyn Bar?
Brooklyn Bar is primarily an adult venue, but it has hosted family‐friendly events occasionally (like a Father’s Day brunch with kids) . Outside of special events, children are generally allowed only if accompanied by parents and seated early in the evening (before the bar hustle picks up). After around 9 or 10pm it’s loud and more adult-oriented. If you want to bring kids, call them in advance – sometimes they make exceptions if you’re just dining early. Just be aware it’s not a formal family restaurant, so younger children may find the music and crowd a bit much.
