Southbridge

Southbridge is an open-air rooftop bar and dining spot on the level 5 rooftop of 80 Boat Quay, beside the Singapore River. It opened in 2014 and made its name with two things: oysters and cocktails. It is run by the ilLido Group, which also runs Sospiri, Baia and Les Canons.

The food comes as sharing plates rather than full courses. That makes it a good choice for after-work drinks or a light dinner with a view of the river.

What to order

Oysters are served by the half-dozen, and you choose how they are dressed. The current menu lists these styles:

• Natural: with fresh lemon and Tabasco.
• Mignonette: with banana shallot and sherry vinegar.
• Umami: with yuzu, ponzu and chives.
• Nikkei: with Bulldog sauce and togarashi.
• Crispy Japanese oyster fritters: fried and served with tobiko cream, a good pick if you are unsure about raw oysters.

From the seafood side of the menu, look for octopus tacos with mentaiko, octopus karaage, salt cod bolinhos and calamari. Meat eaters can order wagyu beef sliders or chicken karaage. There are also grills such as lamb fillet and wagyu skirt, plus a cheese plate. Desserts keep it simple, with chocolate lava cake or tiramisu with kopi fudge. Menus change, so treat these as examples.

Drinks

The cocktail list leans on Asian flavours. The Asam Sour mixes mezcal with tamarind. The Southbridge Sunset uses bourbon, carrot and turmeric. There is also a coconut Negroni and a gin cocktail called the Singapore Swing. Non-drinkers get a short list of alcohol-free cocktails. Wine lovers can choose from Prosecco, Champagne and a range of whites, rosé and reds.

The setting

The terrace is fully open to the sky. From the top you look across the Singapore River to Parliament House, and the office towers of the CBD rise close by. It is a low-rise rooftop, so you feel close to the river rather than high above it. The bar only opens in the evening, when the skyline is lit up. As it is outdoors, rain can affect your plans, so check the weather before you go.

Good to know before you go

• Age limit: Southbridge is for guests aged 21 and above.
• Finding the entrance: the way in is from South Bridge Road, along Elgin Bridge, not from the riverside.
• Bookings: you can reserve a table online through the Southbridge website.
• Drinks deals: the bar runs happy hour offers on some days; the website lists the current ones.
• Private events: the rooftop can be booked for private parties, birthdays and business launches.

Not sure what to wear? Our guide to rooftop bar dress codes in Singapore has general tips.

Nearby

Southbridge sits above Boat Quay, a row of old shophouses along the river. A walk along the water takes you to Merlion Park and The Fullerton Hotel Singapore. For more places with a view, see our list of the best rooftop bars in Singapore or browse rooftop and sky dining. Our Marina Bay and CBD restaurant guide has more ideas close by.