Perched above the glittering Marina Bay, MO Bar at Mandarin Oriental Singapore unveils a liquid love letter to the Lion City through its latest cocktail collection.
In an industry often obsessed with global trends, MO Bar is looking inward. Under the creative direction of Bar Manager Charlie Kim, the sophisticated destination has launched Volume Seven: Modern Localism. This ambitious menu features 11 original cocktails, each born from a year-long collaboration with home-grown brands spanning art, scent, and gastronomy. Launched this season at the hotel’s third-floor lounge, the program invites patrons to navigate Singapore’s cultural landscape through elevated, story-driven mixology.
A Collaborative Masterclass
The “Modern Localism” project is the result of Kim’s exhaustive search for the city’s most distinctive voices. After consulting with over 40 local entities, he distilled the essence of 11 partners—ranging from perfumery La Dermalogique to the National Gallery Singapore—into a menu that functions as much as a travelogue as it does a drinks list.
The experience begins with lighter, aromatic entries like the Velour Kiss ($26). Inspired by the botanical profiles of La Dermalogique’s skincare, this gin-based refresher blends bee pollen, chamomile, and extra virgin olive oil. The result is a silky, structured pour where the lemon provides a bright counterpoint to the floral depth.
From Coffee Culture to Fine Art
For those seeking a caffeinated kick, the Kopi Pumptini ($26) pays homage to Bettr Coffee. This iteration of the espresso martini introduces pumpkin and a whimsical shortbread garnish, reflecting the barista academy’s signature branding. While the coffee notes are assertive and boozy, the pumpkin remains a subtle, background whisper.
Standout selections include:
- Pine-dustry ($26): A refined tribute to the local hospitality scene, this clarified cocktail uses tequila and cold-distilled pineapple juice. Highlighting its complexity, alternate sips reveal creamy coconut notes and a bright yuzu-topped pineapple garnish.
- Jo Hwa ($27): Developed with the Korean restaurant Anju, this savory, stiff “Bamboo” riff features Fino sherry and matsutake mushroom. It is served with a small snack, embodying the Korean tradition of anju (food consumed with alcohol).
- Dopa? Dopa! ($26): A liquid dessert inspired by the South Bridge Road creamery, blending pistachio kunafa, salted butter Hennessy VSOP, and black tea.
Elevated Bar Bites
The culinary program mirrors the drink menu’s local focus. While some classics have retired, the laksa fries ($18) have quickly become a patron favorite, heavily seasoned with the umami-rich hit of hae bee hiam (spicy dried shrimp sambal). For heartier appetites, the deep-fried kurobuta pork neck ($28) and aloo matar samosas ($22) offer a satisfying crunch, paired with vibrant mint and tamarind chutneys.
By blending high-end hospitality with grassroots collaboration, MO Bar offers more than just a view; it provides a curated gateway into the creators shaping Singapore today.
Plan Your Visit
- Location: Level 3, Mandarin Oriental Singapore, 5 Raffles Avenue.
- Hours: Sunday to Thursday (5pm–Midnight); Friday and Saturday (5pm–1am).
- Reservations: Recommended via the Mandarin Oriental website.