As Singapore emerges as a global hub for artisanal bar culture, the recently renovated MO Bar shines as a unique jewel, weaving stories of tradition and the future through the country’s architectural context. Located within the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, the acclaimed MO Bar pays homage to Singapore’s iconic landmarks with his four innovative cocktail chapters, collectively known as Blueprint.
Reopening last month after an extensive renovation, MO Bar, led by mixologist Charlie Kim, has undergone a complete transformation. In addition to a sleek new interior, the changes also redefine the cocktail concept. With this new start, MO Bar’s team will continue to build on the bar’s heritage while carving their own path in Singapore’s vibrant mixology scene.
The renovated space features a cool navy blue palette with gold accents, complemented by elegant amber furniture and decor. During the day, sunlight streams through the windows and illuminates MO Bar’s prime location overlooking the Singapore River and Esplanade. As dusk approaches, enjoy the dazzling night sky while enjoying four different cocktail flights.
The journey begins with a chapter called “Vintage Visions,” which recalls Singapore’s early days. Nostalgic drinks have familiar names like Iced Lemon Tea, White Rabbit, Grandfather’s Road and Kopi Shu Thai. Standouts include Kopi Shuu Tai, an evolution of the humble coffee drink from local coffee shops, and Compendium’s Hom Mari, Singapore’s first single-grain whisky, made with aromatic Asian grains.・Features rice whiskey. Pour cereal-infused milk into cocktails for a richer taste.
Chapter 2, “Modern Landmarks,” focuses on elegant plant combinations that pay homage to modern architectural icons such as the Helix Bridge and Marina One Tower. Drinks like the Helix, made with Saint-Germain elderflower liqueur, spicy ginger flower, celery, and a touch of champagne, reflect the cobweb-like Helix Bridge in his area of Marina Bay, which offers a variety of flavours. For a more refreshing option, One Degree North stands out with its blend of apple juice, fragrant oolong tea and his mead, Rachel’s Apricot Tea, Asia’s first meadry. Honey is fermented with other ingredients to produce alcohol.
Chapter 3, “Future Facades,” conveys Singapore’s enthusiasm for technology and explores the creativity of mixologists in using new technology. The recommended drink is the Reclaimed His Sling, which is a variation on the famous Singapore Sling, which includes various liqueurs and fruity flavors.
Kim says, “This is exactly what we want to achieve with MO Bar: taking tradition to drinks, but with a fun, chic and sexy twist.”
Distilling milk in a traditional sling creates a rich, smooth taste. Meanwhile, the drink’s ingredients are processed into lollipop shapes to minimize waste.
The cocktail menu culminates with Chapter 4, “Skyline,” which features cocktails such as the Urban ’87, Skyscraper, and Henderson Wave. The latter is a highball-style cocktail that blends carbonated McIntosh Blended Malt Scotch with refreshing hints of chrysanthemum and gentian. Taste buds.
At the heart of MO Bar’s cocktail selection is a commitment to zero waste. Sustainability is a prevalent theme in the bar scene, but MO Bar differentiates itself with its approach.
Mr. Kim says: “Within Mandarin Oriental, we have an international buffet restaurant that is a great example for everyone when it comes to sustainability and waste reduction.”
MO Bar actually upcycles leftover food from hotel restaurants and bakeries into drinks, turning it into something interesting and innovative. For example, the Elysium cocktail is made from leftover bread and wine that would have been thrown away. Explore the sophisticated atmosphere, indulge in diverse flavors, and witness the commitment to sustainability that sets MO Bar apart.
MO Bar is located at Mandarin Oriental, 5 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039797. Please reserve here.
(Image: MO Bar)