Being born in Singapore is indeed a major huge blessing. Besides strategically located near to many other countries in Asia which made traveling so easy and affordable, we have some of the best bars in the world. Hence, I was very excited when I get to know that award-winning New Zealand-born bartender, Andy Griffiths, is the Head of Operations and Creative Idlewild, Singapore’s newest cocktail bar in Hotel Continental.
The decor is inspired by the Golden Age of air travel as travellers set off to exotic lands in lamour and luxury in searching of new adventures. Though the entrance is relatively well hidden, once you walked through the narrow passageway which resemble one like you are boarding a plane, you will be greeted with a walls of travellers and snippets of their travelogue, a cabinet of over 50 rare and exotic spirits curated from across the globe, lit with warm, old-world club style lighting, plush furnishing and vibrant accent pieces. For those looking for a more private spot, there are raised large bay window booths that provide a secluded spot for a romantic date.
One of my favourite item on the menu got to be the Atun Chifa ($18) inspired from Peru. The yellowfin tuna was well marinated with sesame oil and soya sauce and plated with wonton cracker which make it easy to eat it. Ladies, forget about your image, this is best eaten in a bite.
Ceviche of Scallop ($18) caught me by surprise. The Hokkaido scallops were thinly sliced and drenched in a mildly spicy tomato based sauce. While it has a punch of kick, the citrus juice also added some acidity to it.
Classic Fish and Chip ($18) was simple and cannot go wrong. I like that the portion wasn’t huge and it is great for people who want to have a light meal before drinks.
For those who likes avocado, do give Avocado Fries ($15) a try. This is my first time trying avocado in this rendition of encased with almonds and served with lemon mayonnaise. While I like the different textures from the buttery soft avocado, crispy shell and nuttiness from the almond, I feel that a tad more seasoning would would compliment the cocktails better.
Another item on the menu that I would go back for is the Hazelnut and Cheese Tortellini ($15). I like the aroma of the blue cheese coupled with béchamel and the roasted hazelnut added a nice crunch and favour to the flavoursome pasta.
Of cos, one can’t leave Idlewild without having any cocktail, right? French Cook ($26) is perfect to start the night. Concocted with Citadelle gin, fresh lemon, chardonnay and chartreuse genepi, served with absinthe jelly, this a refreshing and balanced drink to start the night. No wonder, this is one of the more popular drink in the club.
For those who like Negroni, do try Coretto Negroni ($25) at Idlewild. Made with Citadelle gin infused with cascara, mancino chinato vermouth, campari and served on a cube ice.
Caife is Idlewild’s rendition of coffee cocktail. Although it was served hot, the cold drip coffee with Irish Whisk cocktail was smooth and complex. Definitely my kind of coffee in the evening. Major love this.
If you are looking for something to share, Cantarito ($32) is good to share among 2 person. Although there is tequila in the cocktail, it was not overwhelming. In fact, it is a strong yet refreshing cocktail to have.
Inspired by 10 cities, Idlewild is going to bring you for a tour along the popular Transatlantic Route with more than 20 cocktails on the menu.
Oh yes, don’t forget to check out Idlewild’s collection of rare and vintage bottles that are curated from around the world. This includes a rare double headed Dom as well as many other exotic bottles!!!
Idlewild
80 Middle Road, Lobby Level, InterContinental Singapore 18896
Tel: +65 6825 1045
Email: info@idlewild.sg
Operating Hours: Tues ~ Thurs, Sun & Public Holidays 5.00pm to 1.00am
Fri, Sat & Eve of Public Holidays 5.00pm to 2.00am
* Closed on Mondays
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