Oysters are one of the most indulgent appetisers you can order, but the shellfish also lends itself fantastically as a bar snack. Many shrug off the decadent combination in favour of deep-fried, salty bites, but these oyster bars in Singapore are set to change your mind.
There are a variety of oyster grades easily accessible around Singapore. Even if you can’t tell their rugged shells apart, the taste of dainty Pacific breeds are completely distinct from fist-sized European flat oysters, though both are equally popular here. Any of these bistros form an ideal ground for you to sample these subtle differences, and how they work with different liquors that aren’t a glass of crisp white wine.
Here are eight of the best oyster bars in Singapore to visit. Hint: they make for perfect places to bring a date, especially if you’re gunning to impress.
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1 /8
This intimate al fresco bar in Chjimes regularly imports oysters from around the globe during the shellfish’s prime harvest periods. The oysters are then treated with nano-bubble technology to remove any impurities, which also makes sure they are kept fresh until the platter reaches your table. Every Tuesday, Wharf holds promotions where their premium oyster platter goes for half price, at S$44 for a dozen instead of the usual S$88.
Wharf Oyster Bar, Chjimes, #01-19, 30 Victoria Street, Singapore 187996, +65 6332 6789.
2 /8
On the 45th floor of the Singapore Land Tower is Angie’s, a raw bar with an impressive view of the Marina Bay area. They primarily offer oysters farmed in the Pacific Ocean, which come packed with a briney sweetness that pairs well with the selection of Norway’s Lervig craft beer, available on tap. Those in the mood for a treat can order a selection of Finne de Claire oysters from France, but be warned that these fruity, lush morsels don’t come cheap.
Angie’s Oyster Bar, 50 Raffles Place, #45-01, Singapore 048623, +65 6221 9555.
3 /8
Oysters and cocktails join forces at Humpback, the seafood-focused restaurant established by the folks behind Jigger & Pony, Sugarhall, Gibson and more. The owners went on a trip to Washington State, where a visit to the Hama Hama farm opened their eyes to the sharp, crisp flavours of Pacific Northwestern oysters. Enjoy them with Humpback’s specially curated list of white spirit-based cocktails, all designed for seafood pairings.
Humpback, 18-20 Bukit Pasoh Rd, Singapore 089834, +65 9772 9896.
Marina Bay Sands’ swish, New York-style bistro has one of the most impressive raw bars in the city, flaunting a selection of ocean-fresh seafood, like imposing Maine lobsters, Alaskan king crabs, and oysters flown in from France and the US. Anyone who enjoys seafood straight from its shell will get the best quality at DB Bistro. We recommend starting with their juicy fried oysters, best enjoyed with their tropical Mazuizumi sake-based cocktail, Passion Fruit Bubble Tea.
DB Bistro & Oyster Bar, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, #B1-48 Galleria Level, 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore, 018972, +65 6688 8525.
5 /8
This neo-American restaurant is one of those places you come to when you’ve got a special occasion to commemorate, especially if the recipient of the celebration is a serious oyster fiend. They’re extremely meticulous about freshness and quality, but Luke’s doesn’t compromise on variety. Make the Shellfish Platter, and enjoy the selection of raw goodies, including different oyster breeds, such as plump Onsets and briny Wellfleets from New England.
Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House, 22 Gemmill Lane, Singapore 069256, +65 6221 4468.
6 /8
For art deco vibes, jazz music, and $2 oysters during happy hour, The Black Swan is your best bet. At other times, oysters go for $6 a piece, which is still fantastic value, given that you’ll be able to choose Gillardeau oysters from France, served with champagne mignonette. These sugary orbs have earned the moniker, “the Hermès of the oyster world”, and once you’ve tasted them, you’ll know why.
The Black Swan, 19 Cecil Street, Singapore 049704, +65 8181 3305.
7 /8
Culina’s our choice for the best selection of French oysters, flown in weekly, ranging from nutty Finnes de Claires and refined Gillardeaus, to creamy and iodine Normandy produce. Go all out and splurge on a bottle of champagne, a dozen oysters and some Bulgarian caviar to round it off.
Culina, 8 Dempsey Road, #01-13, Singapore 247696, +65 6474 7338.
8 /8
Boat Quay’s rooftop gem, Southbridge, presents an array of oysters to diners, ranging from cooked to raw with a selection of toppings. Their Tropical oysters come with chilli, garlic and calamansi sauce — a delectable blend of umami, spice and sour notes so familiar to our Singaporean palates. Slurp them down with their Lust, Caution cocktail, made with house-infused Szechaun pepper gin.
Southbridge, 80 Boat Quay, Level 5, Rooftop, Singapore 049868, +65 6877 6965.