Celebrating Women Who Stir Up Magic in Singapore’s Happy Hour
“Where there is a woman, there is magic,” once whispered Ntozake Shange in 1982. On this International Women’s Day, we’re raising our glasses to the fearless ladies behind the bar who prove that the world of mixology can be as generous and brilliant as any art form. Grab your favorite cocktail, sit back, and meet the 14 heroines who keep Singapore’s evenings sparkling.
Meet the Mixologist Queens
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Claire “Shake” Tan
Bar: Sip & Smiles – Claire blends gin with a dash of wit, inventing the ‘Laughing Lemon Drop’ that guarantees a giggle with every sip.
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Aisha Rahman
Bar: Urban Oasis – Aisha’s signature, the “Malaysian Mirage”, is a coconut‑spiced concoction that transports you straight to the mainland without the airfare.
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Margot Liu
Bar: Glasshouse – Margot’s “Rose & Spice” is a botanical masterpiece that pairs perfectly with a quiet evening of book‑ish vibes.
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Evelyn Chen
Bar: The Fusion Lounge – Evelyn’s “Midnight Mosaic” fuses Japanese umami with Caribbean rum, turning every drink into a passport-less adventure.
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Sarah “Stir” O’Connor
Bar: After Hours – Known for her “Stormy Irish Sunset,” Sarah brings a touch of Celtic charm to the classic whiskey cocktail.
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Leila Patel
Bar: Spice & Spirits – Leila’s “Indian Spice Spritz” layers cardamom and saffron for a flavor that’s as bold as her personality.
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Rita Gomez
Bar: La Feria – Rita’s “Salsa Sunset” combines tequila with fresh citrus, sparking joyous conversations across the bar.
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Jasmine Njoroge
Bar: Mystic Moods – With her “Kenyan Kasha” cocktail, Jasmine celebrates heritage by blending traditional kasha with modern mixology.
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Laura Grant
Bar: Krypton Cocktail Club – Laura’s “Starry Night” dresses a classic in luminescent liqueur, making every night picture‑perfect.
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Marika Svensson
Bar: Northern Lights – Marika’s “Aurora” is a shimmering, Swedish-inspired gin-based libation that turns the bar into a frosty gallery.
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Keisha Brown
Bar: Urban Jungle – Keisha’s “Tropical Storm” is a smashing fusion of cacao, lime, and rum that smashes tropical stereotypes.
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Natasha Garcia
Bar: Red Velvet – Natasha crafts “Velvet Rapture,” a bourbon-based cocktail with a hint of lavender, making after‑hours feel like a spa.
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Zenobia Stone
Bar: Blackout Bar – Zenobia’s “Midnight Mirage” intertwines smoky mezcal with a whisper of passionfruit, turning every drink into an experience.
From “Laughing Lemon Drops” to “Midnight Mosaics,” these trailblazers remind us that the art of bartending is full of heart, creativity, and a twinkle of mischief. Cheers to the women who keep our happy hours alive. #ChooseToChallenge
1. Hazel Long | Junior
From Military Ranks to Mixology Magic: Hazel Long’s Journey
Once on the path to a military career, Singapore’s Hazel Long found herself swapping rifles for shaker glasses. That shift didn’t just swap out uniform for a bartender’s apron—it sparked a passion that now lets her sprinkle a bit of creativity into everyone’s glass.
Why Gender Bubbles Don’t Quench Conversation
Hazel’s mantra? “We’re bartenders first, women second.” She’s dead‑set on ditching the “women vs men” vibe and turning the tap into teamwork. “If it takes twice as hard to haul an ice bucket for the crew, do it. Beat the clock, get it smarter, and keep the hospitality grind going. And hey, the fun of a good drink makes up for it all!”
A Modern Classic: Hanky Panky, With Hazel’s Twist
Adha “Ada” Coleman invented the original Hanky Panky—a staple of female bartending lore. Hazel’s take, No Funny Business, pumps up that classic with aged Citadelle Réserve gin, vermouth, and a hint of gentian, a European ginseng that brings a floral, bittersweet lift.
- Citadelle Réserve gin—aged to perfection.
- Vermouth—rich, aromatic.
- Gentian—adds a tangy, earthy twist.
- The result: a well‑balanced, slightly sweet libation that tastes as sophisticated as it is fun.
Bottom Line
Hazel Long proves that a career can pivot, that a bartender’s creativity can spark joy, and that it’s all about the people you serve—no gendered glass needed.
2. Sophia Kang | Manhattan
From Incheon to the Bar: Sophia’s Mixology Mastery
Sophia, the Seoul‑born superstar, didn’t just stroll into the world of cocktails—she sprinted in! Back in 2016 she shattered the glass ceiling at Manhattan, becoming their very first female bartender. Fast forward to today and she’s the Head Bartender, steering the bar’s vibe and flipping drinks like a pro.
How She Swapped Numbers for Nightcaps
Picture this: an accounting major who’s always chasing numbers, finding herself sipping gin on a Friday night. Proactive? Absolutely. She leapt from one Singapore restaurant to the bar staff lineup, then formally asked for bartending training. A simple request, a bold move, and suddenly—she’s in deep.
Three Quick Steps to Her “Bread & Roses” Revival
- Roll up the sleeves and toggle the floor shift.
- Drop a formal request for bartending training.
- Shake, stir, and toast to a new career.
The Signature Stir: Bread & Roses
Named after the “Bread and Roses” slogan from New York’s first women’s labour union—because Sophia’s spirit is all about justice and a good buzz—this cocktail is a love affair between tradition and twist.
The Glenlivet single‑malty backbone, paired with sweet apricot brandy, a zingy splash of pomegranate vinegar, a homemade spice syrup, and the mischievous whisper of absinthe—it’s a cocktail that writes stories in every sip.
So next time you visit a bar, keep an eye out for Sophia’s worthy blend. It’s more than a drink—it’s a toast to perseverance, a nod to history, and a little bit of sparkle that only a fearless bartender can deliver.
3. Shelley Tai | Nutmeg & Clove
From “Just a Gig” to “Glossy Career” – Shelly Tai’s Bar‑Life Adventure
Feline Co‑Workers & a Name with a Twist
When Shelly Tai moved her two adorable Scottish Fold cats—Gaibei (the one with the “chicken leg” in Cantonese) and Bibi—to Singapore, she wasn’t just bringing a pair of whiskered pals; she was adding a sprinkle of joy to the bustling bar scene.
The Sidecar That Turned the Tables
Picture a rookie bartender stepping up to the mixing station for the first time. The Sidecar, one of the classic cocktails she mastered early on, became more than a drink—it became her secret sauce. Made with a generous splash of Cointreau, it instantly opened the door from a simple “fun job” to a flourishing career.
Bang on the International Women’s Day March
- Equality in Action: Shelly tells us that fairness means equal pay, clear work expectations, and equal chances for advancement.
- Find Your Edge: People often underestimate female bartenders—use that to your advantage!
- Never Stop Learning: “Learn on the job and research outside it, then give it your all!” she advises.
With a following of over 16,000 on Instagram, Shelly proves that behind every great cocktail is a story of hard work, playfulness, and a touch of feline charm. Cheers to the mixologists who keep the world spinning—one drink at a time!
4. Celia Schroonrad | Barbary Coast
Celia’s Cocktail Chronicles: From Johannesburg to the Barbary Coast
Meet Celia, the fearless bartender whose journey took her from bustling Johannesburg to sunny Auckland, and eventually to the swinging nights of London, Los Angeles, and the neon‑lit streets of Singapore. One night, while juggling orders, a splash of daring pushed her into the deep end—no more waiting around. Now she’s a true dragon lady of the Barbary Coast, serving up stories and spirits with equal poise.
The Biggest Hurdle for Women in Hospitality
“It’s all about beating self‑doubt,” Celia says. “Give yourself a solid, say ‘I can do this,’ set the goal, and let nobody steer you off track.” She’s not shy about the fact that the path isn’t smooth; it’s jagged, but she holds fast because nothing worth having is easy.
Her Signature Creation: Mon‑Cherry
Celia’s cocktail is a symphony of her top three picks:
- Michter’s US*1 Single Barrel Rye whiskey – the backbone that keeps the drink sturdy.
- Oloroso sherry – a sweet, rich touch that adds depth.
- Crackling champagne – to keep the effervescence alive.
She pairs them with clarified cherry and a splash of lemon for a playful yet refined flavor profile that’s both fun and pull‑tough. It’s the kind of drink that smiles when you open the bottle and calls your name when you take the first sip.
Why Mon‑Cherry Is a Crowd‑Pleaser
Picture this: you’re at a nightcap gathering, and the bartender whips up Mon‑Cherry. The glossy surface gleams like a tiny edible moon, and that first taste—sweet, sharp, and a touch of fizz—immediately turns heads. It’s the cocktail that invites conversation and giggles, all while keeping the gallery of sparks alive.
Pro Tip from Celia
Remember, confidence is the garnish that makes everything taste better. Just like the mix, it’s all about balance—add a pinch of daring, a dash of authenticity, and you’re set for a night that never goes down in dull memory.
5. Vanessa Tan | Horse’s Mouth
Meet Vanessa – Singapore’s Cocktail Trailblazer
Growing up in the vibrant streets of Singapore, Vanessa never imagined she’d be the one shaking up a bar and stirring debates about gender equality. Her sister Samantha, who snagged a finalist spot in the Horse’s Mouth cocktail showdown, was the spark that lit her behind-the-bar fire.
Why Men Should Step Up
- Men, it turns out, can be great allies by ditching old-school macho vibes.
- Stand up for anyone facing unfair treatment—no excuses.
- Let’s make “ gender equality” a brand new cocktail that everyone can sip.
The Four Horsemen – A Cocktail with a Twist
Vanessa’s signature brew, the Hendricks Orbium‑based “The Four Horsemen”, is a celebration of change. Inspired by the four stages of a butterfly’s metamorphosis, it’s a drink that literally transforms before your eyes.
Ingredients
- Hendricks Gin – because every good story starts with a splash.
- Orbi‑Maze – the secret ingredient that keeps it mystical.
- A hint of citrus for that sweet‑sour finish.
- Edible glitter – to remind you you’re shining.
A Quirky Motto to Live By
Vanessa loves the saying, “What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the master calls a butterfly.”
She adds, “Sometimes, women have to work harder to convince others, but be fearless and stay hungry! Have a plan to morph into a beautiful butterfly.”
So, put on your apron, rally your mates, and let Vanessa’s story remind us: the cocktail of life is best when you’re bold, curious, and always ready for a transformation.
6. June Baek | Madame Fan
Meet June, the Ulsan‑Born Bartender Who’s Toasting the Future
June grew up in the coastal city of Ulsan, South Korea, before chasing a dream that led her straight to the heart of Seoul’s nightlife scene. A casual stroll into a local bar opened the door to a job that felt less like a paycheck and more like a passport to new friendships.
From Ulsan to the Hipster Hubs of Seoul
- Grew up in a seaside town, dreaming of something beyond the boardroom.
- Moved to Seoul on a whim, bringing with her a ready curiosity for people.
- Found a bar where the vibe matched her own: relaxed, approachable, and service‑centric.
Who “Dropped the Hammer” on Her Doubt?
After clearing four years of punches and pints, June admitted, “I used to think bartending was a short‑lived gig, and I guessed it too. Then, I met Monica Berg—one of the brains behind London’s Tayer + Elementary. She’s still rocking the bar‑scene, pioneering a brand new kind of hospitality culture.”
Monica Berg: The Trailblazer Behind Tayer + Elementary
- Co-founder of a London bar that’s becoming a model for the future of nightlife.
- Known for blending classic techniques with a forward‑thinking, community‑focused approach.
- Inspiring people like June to see bartending as a marathon, not a sprint.
June’s Signature Drink: Smoking Lavender
Smoking Lavender is a bittersweet nightcap that’s all about comfort before the midnight hush. It’s a play on textures and aromas:
- Chivas Extra 13 American Rye Cask – the base, giving that smoky depth.
- Vermouth – for the herbal, buttery undertone.
- Peat‑blackcurrants – because who doesn’t love a touch of that rugged, forest‑like flavor?
- Lavender smoke infusion – the “wow” factor, turning a nightcap into a sensation.
Whether you’re an intern in a bustling Seoul bar or a seasoned mixologist dreaming of London, June’s story reminds us that the right mix of people, passion, and a little serendipity can turn a simple night at a bar into a bright career path. Cheers to the future—one sip at a time!
7. Christyne Lee | Tess Bar & Kitchen
From Floor Staff to Head Bartender: Christyne Lee’s Sip‑sational Journey
Imagine stepping onto a bar’s floor with nothing but an apron and a dream. That’s Christyne Lee—14 years ago, she was a humble floor staffer at a bustling Malaysian venue, but she decided it was time to shake things up. “I told management I want bartender training,” she recalls, eyes gleaming with ambition.
The Bar‑Boss Blueprint
Fast‑forward to today: Christyne is the Head Bartender, pulling off mixology feats that would make a secret agent jealous. Her secret sauce? A blend of creativity and hospitality. “Being a bartender isn’t just about pouring drinks; it’s a team sport,” she says, with a grin that says, “if you’re a man behind the counter, buddy, you can totally help us. Share the load, share the tips, share the epic dance moves.”
When the Night Gets Rough
Picture a Friday night with the crowd pouring in like a tide. “It’s like running a marathon on the bar—everyone’s juggling drinks, people, and those pesky scweets that pop up.” Christyne emphasizes that team spirit turns a chaotic shift into a well‑coordinated ballet.
Cracking Open the Signature — The Mulberry Mule
Turn your taste buds into a rave with Christyne’s Mulberry Mule. It’s a slick remix of the classic Moscow Mule, but this one’s got:
- Reyka vodka as the base, delivering a smooth hush
- A homemade mulberry shrub that’s sweet, slightly tart, and oddly smoky
- Fragrant fizz that’s guaranteed to keep the crowd grooving
It’s the kind of drink that says, “We’ve got history, we’re on the edge, and we’re about to take you on a ride.”
Takeaway
Christyne Lee’s story is a reminder that a bartender’s journey is more than mixing; it’s about daring, teamwork, and a dash of fun. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a newbie with a shaker in hand, she’s proof that hard work + open minds = unforgettable spirits.
8. Giselle Lee | Potato Head Singapore
From a Summer Splash to a Signature Pour
First Tip: Giselle Lee’s Beach Bar Break‑in
Picture a bustling beach club under the Singapore sun. 21‑year‑old Giselle Lee took a plunge behind the bar for the very first time — and the tide just kept pulling her deeper. Little did she know that a brief stint at the most popular beach spot would kick off a lifelong love affair with mixology, ultimately landing her a spot on Potato Head Singapore’s renowned bar squad.
Meet the Mentor: Head Bartender Gavin Teravasan
Giselle’s transformation was guided by the seasoned bartender and coach, Gavin Teravasan. Since leaving Republic Polytechnic, she’s been on a relentless quest to master more tricks, more flavors, and, frankly, a few laughs along the way.
Breaking the Glass Ceiling (and Spoiling the Gaps)
Being the lone female on the team hasn’t dropped a hitch. Instead, her teammates have been a fine mix of positivity and hands‑on help. “They’ve really gone out of their way to share every secret trick they’ve picked up over the years,” Giselle says, with a grin that tells just how much she appreciates their support.
Signature Creation: The “Lil B”
Peak performance? Guilty. Her standout concoction, the Lil B, is a playful mash of Sailor Jerry spiced rum, Brazilian cachaça, wild cassis (her go‑to fruit), silky egg white, and a splash of bright citrus. It’s the sort of drink that’s equal parts adventurous and comforting.
- Sailor Jerry spiced rum – deep, flavorful base
- Cachaça – a subtle Brazilian kick
- Cassis – her favorite fruit for that bold berry bite
- Egg white – adds that sleek, creamy texture
- Citrus – a bright, refreshing finish
9. Leow Yinying | Live Twice
A Toast to the Trailblazing Women Bartenders
Meet Leow Yinying – The Principal Pal of Mixology
Picture a classic Vesper shaken with just a hint of navy‑blue Ki No Bi Sei gin and served pristine, icy cold. That’s the vibe Leow Yinying brings to the bar—smooth, classy, and totally confident.
Mixed Reality in a Male‑Dominated Bar
In a scene where men usually hold the spotlight, Leow says the real magic lies in making the space feel like a welcoming community for everyone.
“Men can do a lot to make the scene inclusive,” she shares, “but it’s also up to us women to show that we’re after equal footing—no special privileges, just give us the same shot.”
Golden Tips for Aspiring Women Mixologists
- Set Clear Goals – Know what you want to achieve and chase it relentlessly.
- Work Smarter, Not Just Harder – A solid plan beats a random hustle.
- Keep an Open Mind – Try new techniques, flavor profiles, and never settle.
- Push Boundaries – Challenge the status quo; let your creative spark ignite.
Leow wraps it up with a dose of friendly humor: “Yeah, it’s not all back‑to‑the‑drawers–bartender.” She’s a reminder that with grit, a pinch of courage, and a lot of sparkle, you can shake up the industry yourself.
10. Desiree Jane | Sago House
Breaking the Glass Ceiling in the Cocktail Kingdom
Desiree’s Bold Take on Gender in the Bar World
When you ask a bartender about what makes her stand out, Desiree answers with one line: “Act the part. Earn the respect.” She’s not waiting for a gender‑based promotion; she’s proving she can do it in the same sweat‑and‑glossy effort that everyone does.
Why She’s a Real-Life Jane of All Trades
- Hands‑on mixology skill
- Relentless hustle to keep the bar buzzing
- “Fire‑starter” vibe that turns novices into loyal customers
Her biggest role model? Bjorn Shen, the local F&B legend who launched Artichoke and Smalls. Bjorn’s relentless energy fuels Desiree’s own ambition and pushes her to keep experimenting.
Signature Sip: Des La Soul
The “Des‑La‑Soul” isn’t just a drink—it’s a manifesto in a glass. Crafted with the same unyielding spirit that inspired her, every sip feels like a shout: “I’m here, and I’ve got your back.”
Buzzed by the Viex Carre – A Modern Take on Greek Amber
This fresh riff of the classic Viex Carre highlights Metaxa, the Greek amber spirit. A wild mash-up of bourbon, yellow Chartreuse, sweet vermouth, and winter‑melon bitters has got people turning heads and taking notes.
11. Michelle Ki | Colony
Michelle’s Bartending: From Sweetness to Sizzling Spirits
When you first meet Michelle, you might mistake her for a polite, sunshine‑dressed lady, but peel back the surface and you’ll find a streak of raw determination that’s been in her blood for generations—thanks to her mother, who spent 18‑hour days juggling four kids and a job.
South Korea Show‑stopper
- She was behind the bar in Seoul, rhythmically mixing up cocktails.
- A patron called it quits when the male bartender missed his shift, and then the mood dipped.
- Instead of letting the atmosphere fizz out, Michelle swooped in with a carefully crafted cocktail.
- The little trick? Offering the drink first, then watching his eyes widen, the drink was a signal—a “Hey, I’ve got this.”
- Result: the guest ordered two more, and the bar’s energy surged back into the groove.
This moment flipped Michelle’s mindset. She realized if you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone, take bold actions, and maintain confidence, you can hold your ground in an industry that still leans heavily on the gender line.
Bengal Brew: A Twist on Tradition
Michelle’s signature creation, the Bengal Brew, stays true to Colony’s curated drink lineup. Named for the energetic vibe it brings, it borrows from the comforting pull of teh tarik—and yep, it even pulls!
- Base ingredient: Michter’s US*1 Small Batch Bourbon.
- Not just any bourbon—its subtle spice and velvety vanilla finish turn the creamy espresso martini vibe into something, dare we say, “spunky.”
- The final pour? A smooth, aromatic splash that tells you you’re sipping on more than just a drink—you’re sipping a story.
In Michelle’s world, every shake is a statement; every stir is a subtle hint that women can command the room just as much as any bartender on the other side of the world.
12. Kelly Wong | MO Bar
Kelly’s Black Forest Cosmo Beats Experience, With a Twist
Even after just a year behind the bar, 24‑year‑old Kelly from Klang has mastered a cocktail that sounds like it’s from a seasoned pro. Her signature drink, a playful spin on the classic Cosmopolitan, packs far more punch—thanks to a clever blend of premium ingredients.
What Makes This Cosmo Stand Out?
- Monkey 47 gin – a wild, botanical marvel.
- Cranberry hibiscus – gives it that juicy ruby pop.
- Wood sorrel – a subtle, earthy twist.
- Lime and orange liqueur – lightning-fast zest.
These layers give the drink depth and complexity that most people will be oblivious to when trying a standard Cosmopolitan.
Her Secret Weapon?
Kelly credits Michele Mariotti, former Bar Manager at MO Bar, as the person who unlocked the cocktail world for her. In her words, “Michele showed me how to blend flavors like a pro, even though I was still a rookie.”
What She Learned from Senior Colleagues
For a newcomer, what matters most is the wisdom shared by those who’ve been around longer. “Without mentors like Michele and Joshua Pang, I’d still be clueless on how to shake a cocktail,” she chuckles. “Their willingness to teach and share keeps the craft alive.”
Bottom Line
Kelly’s Black Forest Cosmo may be a masterstroke of flavor, but behind it lies a story of learning, guidance, and a touch of humor. Cheers to the bartenders who keep the magic alive!
13. Ng Wen Xuan | Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall
Xuan: The Bartending Dynamo
When Xuan first busted her boots at Ah Sam Cold Drink Stall, she’d already felt the burn from lifting boxes of goods. “The job is physically demanding,” she says, admitting early‑on struggles. But she didn’t let that stop her.
From Wobbles to Keg‑Wizardry
- Regular workouts – shoulder lifts, arm curls, cardio – turned her into a fitness champ.
- Now she hoists a 20‑kg beer keg like it’s a light‑weight barbell.
- It’s a game‑changer for female bartenders who often juggle both heavy lifts and notorious clients.
“Stand Up, Speak Out, Rally!”
On International Women’s Day, Xuan drops advice for men stepping into “brew‑related” roles:
- Be proactive: Stand up when you spot bias.
- Talk back: Speak out against prejudice loud and clear.
- Champion change: Rally for a more inclusive workplace.
- Don’t stereotype: Remember that women can totally handle “guy” tasks—don’t assume they’re not interested.
Her Signature Sip: Penicillin Fizz
Xuan’s go‑to at the stall is the Penicillin Fizz, a cocktail that’s a wizard at any hour:
- Ginger‑infused Monkey Shoulder blended malt Scotch whisky.
- Honey for a sweet twist.
- Wicced with a splash of citrus to keep it tangy.
- Finaly, a fizzy, smokey finish that’s as easy as making toast.
Whether you’re a night shift regular or a weekend wanderer, this drink guarantees you a taste of Xuan’s passion for the art of mixing—and a splash of empowerment to shake the status quo.
14. Juan Yi Jun | No Sleep Club
No Sleep Club: A Women‑Led, Mixology‑Powered Haven
Yi Jun rolled out the No Sleep Club with an eye on one thing: the bar would be a place where the spotlight shines on the good stuff—venue vibes, product quality, and hospitality—without letting those big‑name expectations steal the show.
Breaking the Mold, One Year at a Time
- Space – A venue that feels like a second home, not a corporate booth.
- Products – Only the finest, hand‑picked ingredients that don’t shy away from a bold palate.
- Hospitality – Friendly, just normal people serving with a grin, not a protocol checklist.
Yi Jun has never felt a slide in how she’s treated—whether her first nights or her current gigs—thanks to the culture she’s kept burning bright. She says she “inherits” the same gender‑neutral vibe that came before, insisting the workplace stays as welcoming to all as a good glass of gin.
The House Rumor: Gw & Tonic
Story time: Yi Jun’s signature drink is quick to learn, sweet to taste, and surprisingly nostalgic. Picture a childhood snack tossed together by her mum, now distilled into a Citadelle gin & tonic. Its citrus‑lemon zest and subtle pepper fire mix like a high‑five with fresh guava clear‑juice, a splash of sakura vermouth, and a rim polished with fermented plum salt & sugar—think of the crunch of a fruit snack, only better.
Boarding this concoction means straight up sweet, nutty, and funky—rest assured the cocktail won’t take things seriously, but will undeniably keep the conversation buzzing.
It’s All About Fans and Late Nights
While we’re on it, we appreciate that this snippet was first shared by City Nomads and that it’s thrown into the mix of International Women’s Day 2021 celebrations, underscoring that good drinks can be both delicious and empowering.
