Singapore’s arts enclave Gillman Barracks has now a new cocktail bar and event space. It hosts Ida’s, a new lifestyle destination featuring a craft cocktail bar, restaurant in partnership with Cat Bite Crew, versatile event space, and in-house floral studio by Charlotte Puxley Flowers.

Gillman Barracks, once a colonial British military camp, is now one of Singapore’s most prominent contemporary art destinations. Nestled within this vibrant precinct, Ida’s redefines summertime gatherings with a blend of creativity and stylish sips.

Ida’s offers three distinct functions, inviting guests to experience elegance and calm in the lush botanical surroundings with alfresco drinking and dining. The alfresco courtyard serves as a daytime haven, transforming into Ida’s Bar as the sun sets. Sundown drinks begin at 5pm, offering botanical cocktails and summer-inspired bites.

The bar’s menu, developed in partnership with Cat Bite Crew (the masterminds behind the popular rice and agave spirits bar Cat Bite Club), includes nine signature cocktails, eight classic favourites, and two no-alcohol cocktails. Head Bartender Nikki Lacsamana (ex-Manhattan Bar) leads the team.

Cocktails that pique our interest include the Café Nanas featuring Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur, Havana Club 7 rum, Cointreau, and nutmeg; the Minted Passion offering Koch Elemental Mezcal, Bianco vermouth, Aperol, passion fruit, and mint in a coupe; and the Tequila Sunset, a twist on a classic with a blue pea lychee float.

Classic cocktails like Sloe Gin Fizz, Paloma, Penicillin, New York Sour, and Old Fashioned are available, alongside craft beers by the bottle and a curated wine selection. 

Head Chef Aiman Hanafi (ex-Pollen and Binomio) complements the bar experience with Mediterranean-style dishes. Guests can start with Green Gazpacho with croutons and cherry tomatoes, or perhaps the Potato Gnocchi served with chilli crisp yoghurt and fried shallots. Lamb Croquettes are complemented by pickles. Mains include grilled Octopus sous-vide for 5 hours with chorizo and potatoes, and Iberico Pork with pickled pear, arugula, and walnut. Desserts include Semifreddo Doughnut with genoise sponge, white chocolate mousse, and raspberry coulis, and Almond Choux Puff with nostalgic summertime flavours.

Private events

Beyond the bar and restaurant, Ida’s boasts an event space that can host up to 160 seated or 300 standing guests. The space features handmade furniture from Bali and can expand into the alfresco courtyard for sunlit or evening events, offering a customisable layout for flexible hosting. It seems like a versatile venue, perfect for a variety of occasions.

Floral Studio

Charlotte Puxley, recognised as one of Singapore’s top florists since its founding in 2015, leads the in-house floral studio at Ida’s. Public and private workshops are available at the floral studio, adding a unique touch to Ida’s and offering opportunities for creative expression and learning.

Charlotte Puxley’s inspiration for opening this multi-functional destination stems from her twelve years as a florist in London and Singapore. Gillman Barracks’ romantic, historic charm inspired her vision of a creative, natural, and inspiring space, brought to life with support from Cat Bite Crew and the Ida’s team.

Ida’s is set to open its doors on Wednesday, 20th September, 2023. 

“After twelve years of being a florist in London and Singapore, I was ready for a new chapter – one that would truly excite me. My serendipitous discovery of Gillman Barracks, with its romantic and historic charm, felt like the perfect canvas. I envisioned brick-tiled courtyards, elegant greys accented with lush greenery, and a space where our community could gather, create, and celebrate in nature. With the support of Cat Bite Crew and the Ida’s team, we’ve brought this vision to life, creating a place that feels both creative, natural and inspiring.”

– Founder Charlotte Puxley 

Bookings

Reservations to view the space can be made here; a 15% opening discount is offered to guests who visit Ida’s Bar from now to 22nd September 2024.

Phone: +65 8809 2752 (WhatsApp) for reservations

Address: 9 Lock Rd, #02-21 Gillman Barracks, Singapore 108937

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team