The best bars for introverts in Singapore

WHAT IT IS Japanese-inspired bar with mid-century modern decor and $3000 Falcon armchairs. At the helm is Leow Yingying, a Diageo World Class winner who’s been with the group since 2017. Expect cocktails done the Shokunin way reflecting Leow's poise and a touch of playful experimentation.

WHY VISIT ALONE The alluring living room space has a zen-like warmth that is as comforting as sitting around sipping spiked tea in a Chashitsu. Snag a booth seat if you're lucky or you could just park yourself at the oddly shaped communal table right next to the bar where affable bartenders David and Satomi are more than willing to share about the tipple you've imbibing. Oh did we mention? Going solo means you won't have to share the highly-raved beef katsu sando ($44) with anyone. This is already sounding like a good idea.

WHAT IT IS Along the buzzy Keong Saik stretch lies an unassuming den that is just as good as a shrine for author Ernest Hemingway. Except the stylish bar pours up solid tipples that are worth your dime. The mad scientist behind the lab is head bartender Sha, condensing Hemingway's travelling footsteps into tasty yet sessionable cocktails.

WHY VISIT ALONE If you're looking for a stiff sipper to beat the weekday blues, look no further. Happy evenings happen on Monday to Wednesday after 5pm, where classics such as the Martini, Old Fashioned and Negroni go only for $15 – far cheaper than anything you’d usually pay. You won't even feel too bad about leaving it unfinished.

WHAT IT IS A salad bar that morphs into a hole-in-the-wall cocktail bar after five in the evening. Kelly D’Cruz runs the cocktail programme creations with much thought behind each creation. And the menu is kept straightforward with crowd-favourite signatures and a rotating bunch of experimental tipples. Happy hour happens from 5pm to 7pm with boozy pick-me-ups going at only $15.

WHY VISIT ALONE Grab a seat at the eight-seater counter and marvel at the countless bottles of spirits occupying every nook and cranny. After all, the bar has one of the largest collections of American craft spirits. On a typical night, you're more likely to find yourself among laptop-wielding suits that are looking to power through some overtime work with a stiff tipple than anything else – sounds perfect if you want to be left alone.

WHAT IT IS An established wine bar that is a certified oenophile hideout. It is also your best bet if you’re looking for a crash course on wine. Praelum stocks about 350 labels in its walk-in cellar that you can order in tasting pours and half-portions. Or leave it to the somm with the ‘Learn-a-Drink’ option. Also, check out the wine bistro’s weekly flight tastings where you might find yourself sipping on Chinese Tempranillo or some other interesting finds.

WHY VISIT ALONE Hang about at the long bar, that's where you'll find main man Gerald Lu and his eclectic wine collection. Don't be shy and ask for recommendations, after all, he is the National Sommelier Champion of 2010. Hungry? Nibble on French Japanese-inspired small plates that are good for one. 

WHAT IT IS A second-floor sanctum on bustling Amoy Street that's dedicated to all things regional. Expect experimental flavours and playful fermentation in their cocktails. 

WHY VISIT ALONE Request to sit up in the loft if you want away from the occasional bustle of the second level. The ultra-friendly crew will make you feel right at home. You'll be left in peace if you wish but not before a quick introduction of your chosen cocktails to round up the Native experience. While you're at it, marvel at the apothecary bottles that hold the ferments – if you're down for a tour of what's what, the team is more than willing to share. One thing is for sure, you'd never leave without learning something new with each visit.

WHAT IT IS Tucked above the award-winning cocktail bar, Nutmeg & Clove, Last Word is a cocktail bar hidden away from prying eyes. Serving up an unpretentious curation of the best classic cocktails and simple Japanese fare to pair, things are pretty straight-edged around here.

WHY VISIT ALONE Like a pair of noise-cancelling buds, the space eliminates any unwanted distractions. Flush yourself to a corner or take up a spot along the long bar. As you sip on your tipple, breathe and get in tune with yourself. The tranquillity is perfect if you wish to be left alone but the friendly bartenders are also ever ready to have a chat if you're up for a little banter.

WHAT IT IS A contemporary rooftop bar that offers a quiet respite and scenic views of the Tanjong Pagar neighbourhood, paired with spice-forward Mediterranean bites.

WHY VISIT ALONE This rendezvous point is practically a hideaway from the ever-spirited district. Pick your poison from the wide range of beers, wines and spirits that feature rotating promotions that are hard to resist going for just one swig. Think $16 Margaritas on Mondays, $16 Proseccos on Wednesdays, and $8 pints from Sunday to Thursday from 5pm till 8pm. We think it's a great spot to unwind and fly solo all while the sun sets. Perhaps it may inspire you to plan for the next great vacation that you never knew you needed.

WHAT IT IS The less intimidating (more affordable) version of D.Bespoke but without any compromise of quality. The classic interiors exude warmth while vintage vinyl from Japanese jazz singers to American funk and soul artists line the walls – an audiophile's dream.

WHY VISIT ALONE First off, Daiki Kanetaka’s humble smile is a stark contrast to the strict and severe front you’d expect from a Japanese joint of that calibre. That is surely enough to put any party of one at ease. Also a sanctuary for quiet conversations or in this case, introspection. Never mind the glares of the hardcore barflies, settle in at the long bar and enjoy crafted cocktails that reflect the best of Japanese craft and precision.

WHAT IT IS A gastropub in the forgotten sanctuary of Kampong Bugis that serves up soul-comforting American grub with over 18 taps of international craft beers.

WHY VISIT ALONE Avoid the communal indoor space if you're not keen to drown in noise. Instead, head out to the quiet outdoor veranda for some privacy. Time your visits perfectly and you'll almost certainly catch the pink-hued sunsets over a few swigs. But don't be shy to ask about the seemingly intimidating beers, the couple that owns the spot is more than willing to share – and trust us, they've got some darn delicious craft beers to recommend.