Kampong Glam (also spelt “Gelam”) truly comes alive after dark. It blends the rich heritage of the area with a lively nightlife scene. From trendy bars to market stalls and late-night snacks, this ultimate guide covers where you need to go and what you need to see to get the best of Kampong Glam after sunset.
1. The Golden Mile
- Address: 5001 Beach Road, Kallang
- Hours: 11:00 to 00:00
The Golden Mile Complex goes by the nickname “Little Thailand” and is a commercial and residential complex part of the government’s reurbanisation project. The shopping mecca is open until midnight, making it the perfect excursion for night owls looking for something to do. After dark, the shopping complex transforms into a destination with bars, discos, and eateries, similar to what can be found in Thailand.
The centre rings with the sounds of Thai pop music, singing, and vibrant chatter. It is certainly an out-of-the-ordinary experience in Singapore that will transport you straight to Bangkok. The only thing missing at The Golden Mile is a casino for a complete night out. Luckily, Singaporean online casinos offer an easy and entertaining way to enjoy casino games anywhere, perfect to continue the night’s excitement after you leave the Golden Mile.
2. Bar Stories
- Address: 55-57A Haji Ln
- Hours: 17:30 – 22:30
Bar Stories is known for its bespoke cocktails and laid-back bar feel. It is an intimate setting where the bartenders make each person feel seen. And they have to, since there are no menus! It’s all about customisation here, and the mixologists create cocktails unique to each patron based on their preferences, tastes, and requests. Of course, there are some tried-and-true cocktails available, and they’ll happily make some classics, but it’s all about the experience at Bar Stories.
Head mixologist Dave Koh was originally a customer at Bar Stories, but joined the team and became a co-owner in 2017. He serves as a motivation to the other staff and is often seen crafting concoctions based on patrons’ moods.
3. Bugis Street Market
- Address: 261 Victoria St
- Hours: Around 11:00 to 22:00
Bugis Street Market is one of the biggest and most affordable shopping destinations in Singapore. The Bugis area once had a bad reputation, but it has been transformed into an area with trendy bars and fine dining. In the middle of it all is the market, right next to Bugis MRT Station.
The market is open until around 10 or 11 PM, making it a great destination for those who want to do some shopping when the heat of the day has passed. There are clothes, electronics, souvenirs, and cosmetics.
There are also plenty of places to buy food and drinks. The fresh juice bars are great in the sweltering heat, and there are plenty of satays, fried foods, and noodle stalls. For a more substantial dinner, Albert Centre can be found near the back of the market, where there are full meals available.
4. Blu Jaz
- Address: 11 Bali Ln, Arab Street
- Hours: 11:30 – 02:00
Blu Jaz has an artsy atmosphere and, as the name suggests, is often host to live jazz and blues concerts. It is a local hotspot that also draws an international crowd. The three-storey building offers lovely dining on the ground floor, a dancefloor with a bar on the second floor, and a relaxing vibe on the third.
The food menu is diverse, featuring eats from across the globe. They serve deep-fried cheese sticks, croquettes, focaccias, hot dogs, pastas, and plenty of local dishes. Even the fussiest eater will have a good night at Blu Jaz.
They don’t just host live bands, though. On the weekend. Blu Jaz features a local resident DJ to get you moving, while there are comedy acts sprinkled throughout the week.
5. Good Luck
- Address: 9 Haji Ln
- Hours: 08:00 – 00:00
Good Luck, previously known as Good Luck Beerhouse, is a craft beer taproom, cocktail lounge, and snack bar on the vibey Haji Lane. They support the local craft beer scene, with 12 beers on tap from microbreweries in the country.
Good Luck is not just for the night owls either. The recent addition of their coffee bar and Fatt Choy Eating House means they’re an all-day destination. They’ve also teamed up with Sakechan to provide a curated sake tasting experience.
6. Going Om
- Address: 33 Bali Ln
- Hours: 15:00 – 00:00
If you’re looking for a relaxing oasis in the craziness that is Singapore’s nightlife, then Going Om is the place for you. This hippie dive bar was “inspired by the spirit of the Nepali mountains” and has embraced a shabby-chick look, with random cushions, worn-down rugs, and fans working their hardest to cool down patrons.
Going Om serves unique cocktails, sharing plates, and fancy snacks. It is cosy and warm, making it perfect for weary tourists who want to get off their feet for a while. The staff are extremely friendly, if a bit relaxed, but strive to make each visitor feel comfortable. It’s a true change of pace from the more traditional Singaporean establishments, which tend to be a bit more refined.
