Time Out Singapore's recommended bars for 2023

Singapore's nightlife scene has got some fresh blood, and it's Drip Singapore. Billed as the country's largest underground club, Drip has two storeys worth of themed dancefloors for you to party the night away. Start your night with Top 40s EDM in the Drip Main Room, then head down to the basement Salt Room for some bump and grind to more experimental tunes. Along the way, you won't miss the striking wall art and eclectic decor choices – including an Albert Einstein statue and 'swimming pool' (for dancing, not swimming). It's new, it's hot, it's Insta-worthy – so don't waste time getting your pre-sale tickets here. 

Something's been brewing at Pearl's Hill Terrace, and it's Wild Pearl – an old music studio turned into a party den. Far from the big, commercial vibes at more established clubs, parties at Wild Pearl are freewheeling affairs built around a music-loving community. Previous raves had the likes of @bongomann_, @ashleyerianah and @rahzizan helming the decks, complete with laser lights and drinks (by @crustsingapore for example). Ready to get wild with Wild Pearl? Stay updated on its Instagram page. 

For all your LGBT-friendly party needs, look no further than Candyshop. While not tied to a specific physical space, the nightclub runs regular queer events at venues around town – including Cherry Discotheque and most recently, new underground club Drip Singapore. No matter where the party is, expect fine tunes from resident DJs Clammr and Chuinnnn and an outrageously good time. Keep up with their parties at @candyshop.sg on Instagram.

Nightlife institution The Council knows just how to turn mundane spaces into epic rave fests. Cheekily named Tuff Club (we'd like to think it's a homage to the good ol' days of primary school TAF club), the pop-up nightclub is held twice every week. Follow its website and socials for first dibs on its next rager featuring guest DJs and their unmissable lineup of club bangers.

Housed in a dingy space that’s set with laser lights and a cage behind which the likes of Eric Duncan, Kaiser Souzai and Mat.Joe have spun, Headquarters by The Council plays host to its signature parties from Wednesdays to Sundays. Get your booze fix in the standing bar tucked in one corner of the venue while grooving to all manner of techno, house and disco, whether from guest DJs or residents Julien Brochard, KFC, Yadin and Eileen Chan (Cats on Crack) – who also happens to be one half of The Council.

A cool kid's cave, Cherry Discotheque is the epitome of underground parties. It first opened doors in 2016 beneath York Hotel before relocating to Cecil Street. Nonetheless, the only-opened-on-Fridays-and-Saturdays club continues to promise a wild and fun night every time. Flex your streetwear drip and get wavy with the sleek spins of new and old-school hip-hop, techno, and more.