Long Bar at Raffles Hotel
- The historic Long Bar continues its proud tradition as the Home of the Singapore Sling. The famous counter shines like new amidst decor that marries architecture and contemporary plantation-inspired motifs.
- The Singapore Sling, widely regarded as the national drink, was first created in 1915 by Raffles bartender Ngiam Tong Boon. Primarily a gin-based cocktail, the Singapore Sling also contains pineapple juice, lime juice, curaçao and Bénédictine. Giving it the pretty pink hue are grenadine and cherry liqueur. Bartender Ngiam deliberately chose to give the cocktail this rosy colour. Why? Find out more at the Long Bar.
- Long Bar is open to walk-ins only.
What to expect
Long Bar was located at Cad’s Alley in the early 1900s. At a time when improved rail and road systems brought rubber and palm oil plantation owners over to Singapore from Malaya every weekend, it was known as the ‘Rendezvous of Planters’. Not a formal bar, but rather tables placed next to another facing Bras Basah Road, it was a vantage point from which male visitors surveyed the procession of ladies.
The earthy decor of the two-storey Long Bar is inspired by Malayan life in the 1920s. The deep, rich colours and lush greenery transport patrons to the edge of a tropical plantation. In keeping with the relaxed atmosphere, guests are invited to brush peanut shells off the table and bar counter to the floor. This is quite possibly the only place in Singapore where littering is encouraged.
