The views around Singapore’s Marina really are
Singapore. The area is dotted with icons
such as The Singapore Flyer, the Marina Bay Sands, the skyline of the CBD, the
Merlion (the symbol of Singapore), and the Esplanade Arts Center. (All of these were part of Crazy Rich Asians—the
movie that put Singapore on the map this year with those that thought it was in
China.)
Anywhere along the water you can get
spectacular views. Photos almost always
come out beautiful. But we have found a
handful of places not only can your eyes feast on the view, but you can enjoy a
cocktail as well.
If the marina were a compass, the following
4 bars would be the cardinal points.
Each takes you above ground level to varying degrees. And all are a great way to enjoy an evening
nightcap.
Orgo –
The Esplanade is Singapore’s arts center.
I don’t think we have been there when there hasn’t been some sort of
public music event going on. Getting to
the rooftop can be a little confusing, but persistence will get you there and
it will be worth it.
A great cocktail menu will keep your interest.
But once you decide what you want put it down and turn your eyes towards the
view. Conversations with your friends
are not eye to eye, everyone talks as they look out to see the MBS to the left
and the CBD in front of you.
LeVel 33
– Billed as “The World’s Highest Urban Craft-brewery”, the view from here can’t
be missed. There is a long outdoor patio
area where you can enjoy a brew, wine, or cocktail. The small bites are yummy too. The restaurant is good (kangaroo anyone?),
but the view is the highlight. 
And there are 3 ways; 1) Pay ~$800 SGD for a night in the hotel (this DOES include access to the infinity pool which is an experience in itself), 2) Go to the Rooftop Observatory 57 stories above the ground for $23 SGD, or 3) Go to Ce Le Vi which charges $20 SGD which can be redeemed at the bar for $20 SGD—basically you get to go up for free.
Finding a table under an umbrella can be a
bit of a challenge, but we have always succeed.
The drinks are OK (I usually go for a tall Stella), but who needs drinks
when you can look down on Singapore and over to Malaysia and Indonesia.
After you are back down to ground level,
wander around a bit. You are somewhat limited,
but there is a great view form the south side looking down on the Super Trees
at Gardens by the Bay.
Smoke and Mirrors – Sitting atop
the National Gallery, this rooftop bar looks directly across the marina to the
MBS. While not as high as LeVel 33 or Ce
Le Vi, it still impresses.
In all honesty we have yet to be there at
night, but we will.
