Art lovers know Gillman Barracks for its galleries set in conserved colonial-era buildings. But as with any other vibey lifestyle venue in Singapore, it’s also home to several swanky food and beverage concepts. Among the latest entrants to the cluster is Ida’s Bar, which opened its doors in September this year.
The newly opened space is split into three parts. A large al fresco area, which houses the bar and main dining area, was added as an extension to the original building. Inside is an adaptable event space and — wait for it — a floral studio.
If that last bit surprised you a little, you’re not alone. But after shaking off the initial apprehension, we guess the idea makes sense, in context; if there’s ever a place to get all artsy over tipples, it’d probably be Gillman Barracks. Founder Charlotte Puxley, who has been a florist for 12 years, explains that the place felt like “the perfect canvas” to create “a space where our community could gather, create and celebrate in nature”.
On the restaurant side of things, head chef Aiman Hanafi has crafted a Mediterranean-inspired menu to complement the drinks at Ida’s, which comes in a menu created in partnership with Cat Bite Crew, a bar consultancy by the people behind Cat Bite Club in Duxton. The cocktails are executed by head bartender Nikki Lacsamana, who previously worked at Manhattan Bar in Conrad Singapore Orchard.
See also: Capella Singapore's new bar, The Pineapple Room, is a tropical cocktail haven
We start things off with a Melon Reverie ($24++). The vegetal and smoky notes of Machetazo Wild Salmiana mezcal are amplified by chilli bitters, then balanced by watermelon, grapefruit and lime. Keeping with the laid-back, peaceful vibe of the place, Ida’s cocktails are light and made for easy sipping, but we can’t help but feel like we’re rushing a little to finish this first drink before it dilutes past the point of enjoyability.
Our second order, the Rose Mallow Martini ($22++), is thankfully a drink we can take our time with. The floral inspiration comes across strongly, with hibiscus-infused vermouth and gentian liqueur. We particularly like the humour behind this twist on a classic cocktail; instead of the usual olives one might expect as a garnish, here we have halved green grapes to match the sweet, floral notes.
See also: Menus to make at home — or venture out for — this festive season
Those coming in groups — or those feeling especially thirsty — will like the White Sangria ($125++), which comes in a 1-litre pitcher. The addition of vermouth makes this an especially complex drink, while coconut water really punches in on that cool evening vibe.
To close off the night, we have a Café Nanas ($24++) and a Bitter Bramble ($26++), both of which are great in their own right. The former, a spin on classic coffee-based cocktails, almost tastes like a chocolate orange, thanks to the addition of cointreau. The latter, meanwhile, takes inspiration from the boulevardier, with just a touch of fruitiness from the raspberry-infused bourbon.
By the time we empty our glasses, it’s fully dark out, and we’re left sitting in the warm glow of the lights above us. Gillman Barracks may be a bit of a niche locale, but Ida’s might well make it worth the visit, even if just for a peaceful drink under the stars.
