Shake up Your Evenings at Gibson
Singapore’s latest cocktail hotspot is turning the tables on what a night out can feel like
2022 might have reshaped a lot of things in the Lion City, but our craving for a good splash of socializing stays as strong as ever. When a bar keeps up with our constantly shifting vibes and whims, we’re all in full‑on rap!
Enter Gibson, tucked into the buzzing enclave of Bukit Pasoh Road and proudly under the Jigger & Pony umbrella. It’s pulling a fresh trick: a brand‑new cocktail lineup that’s sure to turn heads and taste buds alike.
- The Fogless – a cloud‑free gin twist with a citrus punch.
- Minty Monkey – a playful mash of mint, rum, and a splash of mystery.
- Nightfall Negroni – a dim‑enchanting blend that’s equal parts bold and mellow.
- Sunset Spice – a fiery finish that warms the soul after a long city night.
So next time you’re looking to upgrade your night‑life game, pop over to Gibson for a taste of these new mixed delights. Who knows? They might just be the drink that flips your evening into something unforgettable.
Gibson: A Hidden Gem on the 2nd Floor
Picture this: you’re strolling up the stairs of an old‑school shophouse, and the aroma of dry‑cured hops and earthy rye hits you like a warm hug. The space feels like your favourite cozy café but with a classy attic vibe—plenty of whispers, dim lighting, and those unmistakable green and gold accents that whisper stories long ago.
Why It Stands Out
5th‑tier‑style vibe on a 2nd‑floor. It’s not just another bar; it’s the 25th best bar in Asia (yes, Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2020). That’s like earning a “gold medal” for the taste buds.
The “Chimera” Experiment
Principal Bartender Gregory Camillo is the mastermind behind a fresh menu called Chimera—the name itself screams a mash‑up of flavors. Think of the Merlion but for cocktails: a single creature made up of diverse ingredients. The team selects the region’s finest produce and weaves it into drinks that feel like they’re whispering stories to each other.
What We Came Across
- Signature Whisky‑Oaked Espresso – the espresso was shot through whisky barrels; it was like sipping a liquid sunrise.
- Gold‑Leaf Infused Negroni – the gold leaf wasn’t just décor; it added a subtle shimmer that turned every sip into a sparkling anecdote.
- Spicy Tamarind Shaker – a novelty that made the tongue dance and the eyes sparkle.
- “Merlion” G’Forth” Hint – a cocktail that had a hint of sea breeze, making it reminiscent of that iconic Singaporean merlion.
- “The Yin & Yang of Bamboo” Float – a float that wasn’t just delightful but also a tribute to the harmony of East and West.
Why You Should Try It
More than just a drink, Gibson feels like a secret club that only your taste buds can see. It’s cozy, it’s vintage, and it’s got that “makes you feel at home” vibe. So bring your friends, your curiosity, and your appetite for a bang‑for‑your‑buck experience that promises to leave you fingerprinting it forever.
The Gibson: A Bold, Effervescent Starter
Picture this: a splash of fresh gin, a twist of bright citrus, and a whisper of savory brine—all served on a single, perfectly chilled glass. That’s the Gibson, a cocktail that takes its cue from a Japanese philosophy of minimalism & pure quality, and sprinkles a little extra magic on top.
How It Comes Together
The heart of the drink is a house‑made Ginjo sake‑vermouth, brewed by the creative minds at Jigger & Pony and Lamp Bar, together with Nara Brewery Umenoyado. Think crisp sake meeting a lilt of sweetness—exactly the balance we’re after.
Enter the Big Guy: Roku Gin
Roku gin lends the Gibson its spine—dry and slightly fruity, it keeps the spirit tip-toeing on the edge of sophistication. Stir it up to mix in that daring bite.
Three Taste‑bud‑Busters to Watch
- Seasonal Pickle—tosses a zesty, vinegary zing.
- Pickled Onion—gives an earthy bite that lands like a welcome counter‑argument.
- Smoked Quail Egg—adds a smoky, buttery whisper that’s oddly comforting.
With each of these little companions, the cocktail evolves, exploring new layers of flavor that keep you intrigued with every sip. It’s not just a drink; it’s a small adventure you can sip from.
The Pricey Touch
At $25, it’s not the most economical choice, but it’s also a statement piece—be it for a special night out or to impress a guest who appreciates a good story in a glass.
Urban Farmer No.4
Photo credit: Gibson
What’s in the mix?
Stepping into the spotlight this time is the cranberry hibiscus – a bold, berry‑rich twist on the botanical feel of the passionfruit marigold that kept folks buzzin’ in the first edition. #4 marks a new chapter in the partnership with the local agriculture collective, Edible Garden City, and is a true salute to the cosmopolitan spirit of Singapore.
Why it’s worth a taste
- Sweetness that sings – the natural fruitiness of cranberries keeps the flavor light and uplifting.
- Floral whispers – delicate hibiscus tones bring a subtle, garden‑like nuance.
- A splash of tartness – a tangy kick that balances sweetness, making it feel lively.
- Supporting cast – rhubarb aperitif, ripe berries, and zesty citrus perks up the palate.
Good for a kickoff
Picture your night starting with a splash of this scented “Stranger & Sons” gin‑based cocktail. It’s so sweet and floral that you’ll feel like you’re strolling through a fragrant orchard, but the slight tartness keeps your taste buds on their toes.
New Flavor Fun at Sugarcane Spiritz
Step into Sugarcane Spiritz and feel the buzz of a fresh menu that’s giving the region’s beloved sugarcane a shiny, fizzy makeover.
Fizz & Flavor: The Sugarcane Spritz ($25)
- Fresh sugarcane juice, lovingly fermented with beer yeast by the “Starter Culture” crew and the “Prince of Fermentation,” DJ Tan.
- This ain’t your ordinary juice—it’s turned into a crisp, dry sugarcane wine that’s sweeter on the mouth but not on the wallet.
- We then drop in cachaça, Brazil’s own sugarcane whisky, for that extra zing.
- Result? A sip that’s sweet, slightly sour, and endlessly refreshing—like a sugarcane-powered summer breeze.
Amazake Bellini ($25) – The Unconventional Classic
- Picture the classic Bellini, but swap the peach for something exotic—think a whisper of savory, a splash of sweet, and a hint of Asian mystery.
- This cocktail fries the traditional pink number with a creamy, rich amazake made from fermented basmati rice and koji.
- Each mouthful is indulgent, almost velvety, and carries a subtle pandan aftertaste that lingers like a sweet secret garden.
- Surprisingly, this off‑beat drink has become a fan favorite on the menu.
Both drinks prove that Sugarcane Spiritz is all about walking the line between the familiar sugarcane sweetness and daring new flavors—tasting the future, one sip at a time.
Back To The Roots: A Toast to the Taste of Tradition
Calling all cocktail connoisseurs who crave a punch of spirit? Back To The Roots (priced at $25) is the drink that will have you raising your glass and yelling, “Finally!” This isn’t your run‑of‑the‑mill Manhattan. We’re talking a clever twist that blurs the line between kitchen and cocktail cabinet.
What Makes It Shine
- The Union of Flavors – Picture Chinese licorice, Tennessee rye whiskey, Creme de Cacao (yes, that cocoa‑laced delight), and a custom vermouth blend.
- Sour, Sweet, and a Hint of Bitterness – The result? A drink that feels both robust and tongue‑tastic.
- Umami is the New Bitter – This slight umami kick gives your palate a twist that keeps it interesting.
Bottom line: Back To The Roots is the cocktail that says, “We’re not just sticking to the basics—you’re in for a wild ride!
The Coffee Shochu Martini: A Chaotic Yet Cozy Experience
If you’re craving a quick pick‑up, the Coffee Shochu Martini (also $25) is your go-to masterpiece. This gem mixes two types of rum with a dry coffee shochu straight from Tsubosaka Brewery in Hyogo. Trust me, you’ll want a second sip.
Why It’s a Hit
- Rich Flavor Profile – Think salted caramel, deep coffee notes, and a subtle whisk of shiitake powder.
- Earthy Undertones – A quiet nod to the forest floor, adding a comforting earthy vibe.
- Easy, Yet Chic – It’s a drink that’s both laid‑back and polished, perfect for any afternoon or evening.
So whether you’re in the mood to embrace tradition with Back To The Roots or dive into the earthy depths of the Coffee Shochu Martini, these cocktails are guaranteed to make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Meet the Green Bloody Mary—A Refreshing Twist on a Classic
Picture this: you walk into Gibson, a cozy bottle burrow on 20 Bukit Pasoh Road, and the first thing that greets you isn’t a neat martini nor a smoky whiskey. It’s a Bloody Mary that’s been reimagined with a splash of green. Trust me—you’re about to taste a tangy, savory, and spicy concoction that makes you forget the old one.
Why This Green Beauty is All the Rage
- Wasabi distillate to give that little bite you can’t resist.
- A green tomato mix that keeps the curve of the classic fresh.
- A smear of worcestershire sauce—because life’s better when nothing’s bland.
- A whisper of jalapeño for that pop of heat.
- A sprinkling of capers salt for an aromatic zing.
Every sip is a little party: the wasabi dances with the tomato, the jalapeño’s daring heat, and the Worcestershire sauce’s deep, umami charm. Imagine the flavor fireworks you’d think were invented just for you.
Same Bear-ly, Less Spend
The cocktail is priced at $25, while the non‑alcoholic version—so you can keep your eyes on the park and still get that flavor—comes in at $18. A decent deal if you at least want a booze‑free brunch that doesn’t burn your wallet.
The Food Sticks to the Good Stuff
They jive in sync with what goes on your plate. Because a great cocktail needs great food siblings.
- Freshly shucked Oysters ($8) from the crisp North Pacific waters—so you’re wading in the middle of freshness.
- Mussel Spaghetti ($34) that’s buttery and luxuriously sprinkled with saffron and breadcrumbs. The anchovy gremolata? Think of it as a sea‑food performance that actually sings.
- Clam Dip—the richer, savory companion that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Gibson’s Availability & Special Hours
20 Bukit Pasoh Road, Level 2, Singapore 089834
+65 9114 8385
Open: Mon, Wed‑Thu from 6 pm‑12 am; Fri‑Sat 6 pm‑2 am; Sun 6 pm‑12 am.
Happy Hour: daily from opening until 7:30 pm.
Cheers & Cheers!
Go on, step into Gibson, sip that green twist, and savor the best of both your drinks and the plate. Feel the tension in the air lift, and it’s like your tastebuds finally had a chance to breathe. You’ve earned it—now taste the green liberation!
