Copper – Keong Saik’s New Gin Speakeasy: Review (Closed)

One of the latest in line of cocktails bars in Singapore, Copper, is a new gin-focused speakeasy located along Jiak Chuan Road in the hipster neighbourhood of Keong Saik. Save the cryptic-looking chemical symbol of the element copper above the door, there are no noticeable signages.

Named for the copper stills used to distill copper (or any other boozy goodness, really), we were pleasantly welcomed by an interior looked right at home in a H.G.Wells novel. Inextricably delighting the inner geeks in us, we found the artsy Neo-Victorian paintings extremely cool, while accessories like skulls, test tubes and beakers made us feel like we were stepping inside the madcap laboratory of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

Ground level of Copper
Ground level of Copper

With over 30 home-infused (with all sorts of fruits, teas, spices, and herbs) gin creations and an excellent selection of gins on the menu, this bar is a definite must-go for gin lovers. A tip from us? When cooking up your own infused Gin & Tonic ($22), pick no more than two types to mix…our three-in-one tasted a little befuddled. We also suggest trying their Negronis on tap ($18); the Copper Avenue was quite delicious!

Copper's range of Negroni's
Copper’s range of Negronis

The bar bites we tried were neither original nor imaginative, but they still worked for us. For instance, the Lamb Kaftas ($18) were a delightful combo of succulent grilled lamb served with harissa mayonnaise. Another item worth trying is the Copper Meatballs ($16) – a solid bowl of angus beef with grape jelly passata.

Copper's Lamb Kaftas
Copper’s Lamb Kaftas

We also thoroughly enjoyed the Duck and Waffles ($20, unfortunately available only during supper) – think crispy-yet-fluffy waffles topped with shredded duck confit with bacon-infused maple syrup on the side. Spam fries, and other supper-only items like Babi Guling Tacos ($18) and Crispy Pig’s Ears ($12) join a menu that cater mostly to carnivores.

Copper's Duck and Waffles
Copper’s Duck and Waffles

Those after a substantial dinner can also give their degustation menu available at the second level a try. Modelled after a swanky living room, two menu options are provided at the restaurant – Voyage ($128) and Discovery ($178) for 5 and 8 courses respectively.

Second level of Copper
Second level of Copper

Dig into mains like Pigeon and A5 Japanese-grade Kagoshima Wagyu Beef, while desserts include Strawberry Samosas and Gorgonzola (Blue Cheese) Cheesecake.

Copper's Kagoshima Wagyu Beef
Copper’s Kagoshima Wagyu Beef

Personally, we feel that the lads at Copper are hitting most, if not all, the right spots. The excellent bar snacks are reason enough to pay a visit, and it’s a great place for people to lose their gin virginity.

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When Joel’s not partaking in one of his shameless eating sessions, he likes to think of himself as a sponge – absorbing the mysteries and beauty of our world – be it through a good book or a wacky jaunt in a foreign country.