Snuggled between the indie clothing and trinket stores along Haji Lane is this cocktail retreat. Bar Stories, set up in 2009, is among the first in the wave of bars shaking up crafted drinks in the city, with ardent foodie, David Koh, now at the helm of its drinks-making operation.
Make reservations for prime seats in front of the bartender, and take the staircase next to The Crostini Bar to find Bar Stories. The small bar counter cleverly tucks you into a recessed space to make conversation easy with the team, who take orders for bespoke cocktails ($20-$25) here. Koh keeps the programming organic and fluid by procuring interesting ingredients and inspirations like Kyoho grapes and kaya toast for the surprise drinks. Seating for larger groups are spaced out between the echoey two second-storey shophouse units, kitted out in Scandinavian mid-century vintage furniture, put together by its interior designer owners.