There is something incredibly exciting about discovering a new dining spot in Singapore, especially when that restaurant dares to do things a little differently. Every now and then, a place opens that sparks genuine curiosity, not just because of the food, but because of the story behind it. BARREL Singapore is one such place, and judging from the buzz that has been brewing around the CBD these past few weeks, many diners have been waiting eagerly to see what this whiskey-themed concept is all about.
Located within The Quadrant, a century-old heritage building that once functioned as an actual bank, BARREL officially welcomes the public from 6 December 2025. The location alone already gives it an atmosphere many new restaurants can only dream of. With original vault features preserved and cleverly built into the design of one of its private dining rooms, BARREL feels like an intriguing blend of history, luxury, and contemporary Japanese flair. The House of Suntory, the famed Japanese spirits brand behind Hibiki, is the creative force driving this venture, which gives diners an early hint of what to expect: polish, refinement, and a deep respect for craftsmanship.
But BARREL is not only interesting because of its setting—although dining in a place that feels like a hidden corner of old Singapore is already a treat. What truly sets BARREL apart is its status as the first Hibiki whiskey-centric dining experience outside of Japan. Instead of seasoning food in the usual way, the culinary team decided to go a step further. They have integrated whiskey not only in the drinks menu, but also into dishes in ways that enhance, rather than overpower, the flavours.
Take their signature BARREL Chicken Rice at $30. In Singapore, chicken rice is almost sacred, with locals having strong preferences and opinions about what makes it excellent. BARREL manages to honour this iconic dish while elevating it into something memorable, using a fragrant bowl of short-grain Hokkaido rice and steamed chicken slices. The twist lies in the whiskey-infused soy sauce, which gives the dish a subtle warmth and smokiness. It adds character without overwhelming the comforting core of what chicken rice should be. For anyone who enjoys classic local flavours but is open to a surprising reinterpretation, this dish is a must-try. It is also worth noting that the whiskey infusion makes it very much an adults-only creation, which enhances the whole “atas chicken rice” reputation it has already earned.
For those who enjoy variety or simply want to treat themselves to something indulgent, the menu offers plenty more to explore. The Sashimi Moriawase (from $38) is designed for diners who appreciate freshness above all else. You may choose either three or five types, and the selection depends on seasonal availability, ensuring the seafood arrives at its prime. One of the most interesting features of the sashimi platter is its nigiri-style pieces made without rice. Instead of using traditional sushi rice, pieces such as the Kinmedai nigiri are crafted on diced squid, which amplifies the natural sweetness and texture of the fish.
If bar bites and sharing plates are more your style, BARREL has designed its menu with that in mind too. The Uni-Corn Croquette, priced at $24 for two pieces, is one of those dishes made for slow evenings accompanied by good drinks. Deep-fried creamed corn enriched with uni butter and topped with fresh uni, it brings together sweetness, umami, and richness in a way that feels almost indulgent. Another playful creation on the menu is the Mochi Cheese Nugget at $15 for five pieces. Fans of familiar fast-food snacks may find it amusing that the dish pays homage to the famous chicken nugget, curry sauce included, though BARREL’s version swaps out chicken for chewy mochi and wraps everything in a nostalgic, comforting flavour profile.
Beyond the savoury dishes, BARREL also offers a delightful Shine Muscat Maki Roll priced at $18. The combination of shine muscat grapes, cream cheese, and prosciutto creates a balance of sweet, salty, and creamy that is surprisingly harmonious. It is one of those plates that makes perfect sense once you take the first bite.
Of course, an izakaya-inspired establishment would not be complete without desserts and drinks that keep the experience consistent. The whiskey-infused Soft Serve “BARREL” at $12 is a charming, sweet final act. It features a generous swirl of milk soft serve drizzled with Hibiki-infused honey and sprinkled with maldon salt. It is simple, rich, and a lovely way to end the meal. On the drinks front, diners can browse through sixteen signature cocktails starting from $18, alongside an extensive whiskey selection. The Japanese Crane Sour ($28) and BARREL’s Godfather ($28) stand out for those who enjoy well-balanced beverages with depth and character.
Dining at BARREL is more than simply ordering a set of dishes. The entire experience is thoughtfully constructed, from the warm amber-toned lighting that resembles the golden hues of whiskey to the inviting wooden furnishings that create an intimate yet stylish atmosphere. Diners who want a front-row view of the culinary action may choose to sit at the Chef’s Table, where they can observe the team at work, especially during live grilling sessions. For groups or casual gatherings, the booth seating and table arrangements offer both comfort and ambience that make lingering over a good meal all the more pleasant.
This opening is especially exciting for those working or living in the area. The CBD is already known for its wide selection of eateries, but a whiskey-themed dining concept housed in a historical building brings something fresh and distinctive into the mix. It is the kind of place that inspires curiosity and conversation—one that feels ideal for after-work dinners, weekend catch-ups, and special occasions.
Why should diners go? For one, Singapore has no shortage of food options, but genuinely unique dining experiences are harder to come by. BARREL blends Japanese culinary artistry with Singapore’s iconic flavours, creating dishes you will not find elsewhere. Their whiskey-infused menu adds novelty without being gimmicky and respects the ingredients enough to keep flavours balanced. And perhaps most importantly, the setting itself is worth the visit. Not many restaurants can say they share space with original bank vault structures from a hundred years ago.
For those who enjoy exploring new concepts, those who appreciate the craft behind Japanese spirits, and those who want something slightly different from the ordinary dining experience, BARREL offers something undeniably compelling. Whether you are coming for the food, the drinks, or simply to enjoy the unique atmosphere, this opening is shaping up to be one of the more memorable additions to Singapore’s dining landscape.
Promotional/Event Details
Date: From 6 December 2025
Time: Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm
Venue: BARREL, 19 Cecil Street, Singapore 049704
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