While it may not be internationally known for it, Singapore’s jazz scene can be sensationally good, if you know where to look. From moody speakeasies where improvisation reigns supreme to swanky venues where the cocktails are as elegant as the chords, the Lion City delivers. So, if you’ve only got 48 hours in Singapore, these are the five standout venues to know about – whether you’re a jazz purist or just dipping your toes into the scene.
Maduro
A jazz haunt for those who take their music seriously, this listening lounge and bar is the brainchild of Peter Ng, a former pianist and real estate mogul who turned his deep love for jazz and cigars into one of Singapore’s foremost jazz bars. Now housed in the lower lobby of Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa (where it moved last year), Maduro offers a lineup of the island’s best jazz musicians alongside world-class visiting artists, with regular appearances from luminaries like ‘King of Swing’ Jeremy Monteiro and rising classical artists.
2 Bukit Manis Rd, Singapore 099891
Weekends bring very well-curated live music acts, which might include everything from a fiery young violinist sawing away at his instrument to jazz, bossa nova, and soul performances – all enjoyed in the clubby, living room-esque interiors (think burnished Chesterfield sofas, jewel-toned velvet drapery, and a massive graffiti artwork by Cyril Kongo). The intriguing whisky selection features unique labels and independent bottlers, including Maduro exclusives like the Eidolon Port Ellen 1983, alongside a very good cigar menu and bar bites like satay and pizzas.
maduro.sg
The Whisper Room
Perched high atop Singapore’s central business district with sweeping views of Marina Bay, The Whisper Room is an intimate cocktail bar and jazz lounge tucked within COTU, the city’s latest multi-concept food and nightlife destination spanning 18,000 sq ft over the 38th and 39th floors of CapitaGreen. Inspired by New York’s jazz clubs, the space blends Art Deco elegance, skyline views, and a sultry, low-lit interior.
138 Market St, Singapore 048946
Daytimes bring refined, Japanese-inflected high-tea menus, while the mood shifts at nightfall with sunset jazz sessions on weekdays and late-night DJs spinning disco house. The food and bar programme hopscotches between New York and Tokyo – think Hot Chicken Sandos and Korokke Aged Beef Croquettes paired with Kakubin Highballs or an ume wine-spiked Gibson you can sip till 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.
cotu.co
Cool Cats
Housed within The NCO Club at the JW Marriott, Cool Cats is your quintessential jazz bar, combining a playful yet polished aesthetic with a moody, speakeasy-inspired vibe. The seating is strategically arranged around a central stage, which has hosted an impressive roster of local and international acts – from bluesy ballads to high-energy funk-infused sets. Expect contemporary jazz infused with electronic and R&B influences, with recent headliners including Australian vocalist Gregg Arthur, as well as homegrown singer-songwriters like Michelle SgP and Charmaine Pelaez.
32 Beach Rd, Singapore 189764
The bar’s cocktail programme is just as compelling, featuring eight signature drinks inspired by the ragtime music era – standouts include the Harlem Revolution, a bourbon-forward, smoked cedarwood concoction. The spirits list is equally curated, featuring limited-edition Scottish and Japanese single malts, all sipped in the company of a cosmopolitan mix of music aficionados and in-the-know locals.
coolcats.sg
Bob’s Bar
For something utterly transportive, Bob’s Bar at Capella Singapore offers jazz under the stars – with a tropical twist. Set against the lush backdrop of Sentosa Island, this breezy alfresco venue channels the golden age of Havana with its rum-forward drinks list and retro-chic design. The bar boasts a deep selection of rare and aged rums, including limited-edition Caribbean reserves and Navegante single-blend rum – a Capella Singapore exclusive.
1 The Knolls, Singapore 098297
Try the signature Navegante Old Fashioned, subtly spiced with dried fruit and warming spices. Live jazz nights feature everything from sultry sax solos to lively Latin jazz ensembles, with musicians performing against breathtaking sunset views. The relaxed outdoor setting makes it one of the most unique jazz venues in Singapore, offering an experience far removed from the usual dark, moody jazz clubs.
capellahotels.com
Simply Jazz by Tin Box
Simply Jazz by Tin Box is one for the purists. Nestled within CHIJMES, it’s a no-frills, music-first venue curated by seasoned jazz figures Mario Serio and Tama Goh. The programming is refreshingly diverse, spanning straight-ahead jazz, Latin grooves, and bebop performed by veteran musicians and rising stars like Louis Soliano, Jens Bunge and James Flynn.
30 Victoria Street, Singapore 187996
Drinks and bites are simple but satisfying, with a compact menu of classic cocktails (like Sidecars and French Martinis) and spirits complementing a shareable, Asian-leaning food menu. It’s an intimate, unpretentious space where the music always comes first.
