A real taste of Kampong Gelam’s vibrant nightlife scene won’t be complete without experiencing what the heritage enclave’s live music venues have to offer. After all, there’s nothing quite like kicking back to smooth tunes with a tipple in hand – and Kampong Gelam’s full of live music bars and restaurants where you can do precisely that while digging into a gorgeous array of food. 

All About Eve

All About Eve is perfect for folks who love listening to live music – especially Canto- and Mandopop performances – and indulging in karaoke. Beyond their music offerings, the drinks at this cosy pub are quite affordable; time to make merry without hurting your wallet!

144 Arab Street, Tel: +65 9795 3069
Opening hours: Sun-Thu 6pm – 1:30am; Fri & Sat 6pm – 2:30am

Blu Jaz Cafe

One of Singapore’s most famous live music venues, Blu Jaz Cafe has been monumental in supporting the local music and arts scene. After all, the longstanding resto has set the stage for numerous homegrown talents through their live entertainment sessions, showcasing not just a wide variety of musical acts, but also open mic poetry slams, stand-up comedy shows and more. Take a seat at the Bali Lane mainstay and be entertained by local and international talents; past lineups include the likes of Blue Monks, DasGeFoo, Charlie Lim and more. 

11 Bali Lane, Tel: +65 9199 0610
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 12pm – 10:30pm; Closed on Monday

Going Om

A Haji Lane favourite, Going Om’s a cafe and yoga studio by day, and ultra zen bar by night. This sanctuary is the perfect place to dine and unwind, with a food menu bursting with delicious Indian-inspired dishes and interesting alcoholic concoctions named after archangels and chakras. Tunes-wise, be serenaded by some of Kampong Gelam’s finest buskers. Familiar faces include Jukuleles, Fairuz, The Lost Hat and more talents. 

63 Haji Lane, Tel: +65 6396 3592
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11am – 11pm; Closed on Monday

Piedra Negra 

The sister counterpart of the trailblazing Blu Jaz Cafe can also be counted upon for a great evening of food, drinks and of course, live music. The Mexican restaurant dishes out deliciously generous servings of beef enchiladas, chicken tacos and more, alongside their famous frozen margaritas. And while you dig in, enjoy their eclectic lineup of eargasmic acts, from jazz to hip hop, reggae and sets from guest DJs.  

241 Beach Road, Tel: +65  9199 0610
Opening hours: 12pm – 11pm daily

The Beast Southern Kitchen and Bourbon Bar 

Visit The Beast for hearty Southern fare and an extensive range of bourbon and beer, and stay for their weekly open mic sessions and live band shows. The musical focus here is on folk, pop and country music, which fits right in with the bar’s rustic, Americana vibes. 

17 Jalan Klapa, Tel: +65 6295 0017
Opening hours: Tue-Sun 11:30am – 10pm; Closed on Monday

Featured image credit: The Beast Southern Kitchen and Bourbon Bar