Singapore Sling | Central Region

The Singapore Sling is Singapore’s most famous cocktail, originally created at Raffles Hotel in 1915 by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon. It is a gin-based drink known for its fruity, refreshing, and slightly sweet taste, making it a signature beverage of the country.

History & Origins

• Invented at Long Bar, Raffles Hotel as a drink tailored for women, as etiquette at the time discouraged women from drinking in public.
• The pink color made it look like a fruit juice, allowing women to enjoy alcohol discreetly.
• Over time, it became an iconic national cocktail of Singapore and a must-try for visitors.

Classic Singapore Sling Recipe

While there are many variations, the original Raffles Hotel recipe includes:

• 30 ml Gin
• 15 ml Cherry Heering (cherry liqueur)
• 7.5 ml Cointreau (orange liqueur)
• 7.5 ml DOM Bénédictine (herbal liqueur)
• 10 ml Grenadine
• 120 ml Fresh Pineapple Juice
• 15 ml Lime Juice
• Dash of Angostura Bitters
• Garnish: Pineapple slice & maraschino cherry

Preparation

1. Shake all ingredients with ice.
2. Strain into a tall hurricane glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with a pineapple slice and cherry.
4. Enjoy!

Where to Experience the Singapore Sling in Singapore

Long Bar at Raffles Hotel

• The birthplace of the cocktail.
• Features an old-world colonial atmosphere where guests can toss peanut shells on the floor—a unique tradition.
• Signature hand-shaken Singapore Sling experience.

Atlas Bar

• Known for its extensive gin collection.
• Offers a refined Art Deco ambiance with a luxurious twist on the Singapore Sling.

Smoke & Mirrors

• A rooftop bar with breathtaking views of Marina Bay.
• Serves modern interpretations of the Singapore Sling.

CE LA VI at Marina Bay Sands

• A high-end bar with a sky-high view.
• Features a slightly modernized, premium version of the cocktail.

Native Cocktail Bar

• Known for using locally sourced ingredients.
• Offers a creative, Southeast Asian-inspired version of the Singapore Sling.

Best Time to Enjoy a Singapore Sling

• Evening or Sunset: Ideal for enjoying the drink at a rooftop bar with city skyline views.
• Happy Hour Deals: Some bars offer discounts on cocktails during certain hours.
• Special Occasions: Many visitors try it as part of a heritage or food tour.

The Singapore Sling is more than just a cocktail—it’s a historic and cultural experience, representing Singapore’s colonial past and vibrant nightlife.