Established as a tribute to the many literary greats who have graced Raffles Hotel Singapore over the century, Writers Bar offers a meticulously curated cocktail experience inspired by the work of the Writer-in-Residence under the Raffles’ Writer’s Residency Programme, which showcases a literary work by an established or aspiring author each year.

Helmed by Head Bartender Nicholas Alexander, Writers Bar currently offers a selection of unique cocktails influenced by the various colourful characters in “The Raffles Affair”, a light-hearted murder mystery set in Raffles Hotel Singapore and written by Vicky Virtue, the current Writer-in-Residence. The bar also offers a refined selection of fine Champagnes, spirits and wines.

The historic Long Bar continues its proud tradition as the Home of the Singapore Sling. The famous counter shines like new amidst decor that marries architecture and contemporary plantation-inspired motifs.

The Singapore Sling, widely regarded as the national drink, was first created in 1915 by Raffles bartender Ngiam Tong Boon. Primarily a gin-based cocktail, the Singapore Sling also contains pineapple juice, lime juice, curaçao and Bénédictine. Giving it the pretty pink hue are grenadine and cherry liqueur. Bartender Ngiam deliberately chose to give the cocktail this rosy colour.

Following the turn of the century in colonial Singapore, Raffles was the gathering place for the community – and Long Bar was the watering hole. It was common to see gentlemen nursing glasses of gin or whisky. Unfortunately for the ladies, etiquette dictated that they could not consume alcohol in public. So, for the sake of modesty, teas and fruit juices were their beverages of choice.

Ever insightful, Ngiam thus saw a niche in the market and decided to create a cocktail that looks like plain fruit juice but is actually infused with gin and liqueurs. The clever bartender made the beverage pink to give it a feminine flair which, together with the use of clear alcohol, led people to think it was a socially acceptable drink for women. With that, the Singapore Sling was born. Needless to say, it became an instant hit.

A part of Raffles’ history since 1892, Tiffin Room continues to serve up delectable North Indian cuisine for lunch and dinner, offering authentic specialties served in tiffin boxes, presenting an interactive dining experience with tableside service by chefs, complete with freshly ground spices to enhance the occasion.

Shimmering in the twinkling lights of the festivities, the lushly landscaped alfresco venue beckons merry-makers for an evening of refreshing drinks and a selection of moreish Southeast Asian tapas. This magical time of year, discover imaginative cocktails elevated with Belvedere vodka, with over 600 years of illustrious history.