The Library @ Boat Quay - New Bespoke Bar Serving Omakase Cocktails

Tucked away on the second floor of a shophouse along the river in Boat Quay, The Library is a hidden gem that just opened in April, offering a bespoke bar experience that stands out from the crowd. With an omakase-style cocktail concept led by the charismatic mixologist Fire, this intimate bar invites guests to sit back and let their taste buds be surprised. Perfect for an unhurried afternoon escape or a sophisticated evening out, The Library is redefining cocktail culture with creativity, hospitality and a personal touch.

Omakase Special (for 2) 4/5

We started our experience with the Omakase Special for 2 ($38), which was served elegantly in a traditional Chinese teapot with matching cups. After a quick chat about our preferred flavour profile, Fire crafted a Gin-based cocktail layered with fresh watermelon, mint, almond and a splash of Malibu. Refreshing and well-balanced, it was the kind of drink you could sip all day. To top it off, it came with a side of delightful homemade cookies.

Blue Sky 4/5

Next, we tried the Blue Sky ($28), a signature cocktail that immediately transported us to a tropical beach. A blend of Blue Curacao, Yuzu Gin, Bombay Gin, lemon juice and coconut water, Fire 'upgraded' the drink with a swirl of coconut cream, creating a cloud-like effect floating in the blue. Inspired by Thailand's skies, Fire recommended this cocktail to pair with their Thai-Style Top Shell, and the match was spot on.

Omakase Cocktail 4/5

As we were eager for another surprise, we left our next drink in Fire's hands once more. He returned with a fruity Omakase Cocktail ($33) made with rum, pineapple juice, passionfruit, and champagne. Light, bubbly, and tropical, this cocktail paired wonderfully with our ordered fresh oysters — a refreshing combo that made for an indulgent treat.

Japan Hyogo Oysters 4.2/5

Speaking of oysters, the Japan Hyogo Oysters ($28 for 6 pcs) were a standout. They were sweet, plump, and generously sized, served with lemon wedges and Tabasco for those who like a tangy kick. Simple and satisfying, they were the kind of dish that speaks for itself.

Thai-Style Top Shell 4/5

We highly recommend the Thai-Style Top Shell ($22) for something with a spicy punch. Tossed in a fiery garlic sauce and served with crunchy cucumber slices, it delivered both heat and flavour in every bite. Generously portioned, this addictive dish is ideal for sharing over cocktails.

Chicken Gyoza 3.5/5

If you're after something more filling, go for the Chicken Gyoza ($18 for 10 pcs). These golden dumplings had crispy skins and juicy fillings, served with a tangy soy-vinegar dip on the side. They did the job nicely and helped round out our drinking session.

The Library also offers two private rooms — one overlooking the river through large windows and the other tucked deeper inside for a more secluded setting. These spaces are ideal for small gatherings, private parties or business meetups.

The overall vibe here is relaxed and cosy, even on weekday afternoons. The bar is open Monday through Friday, with Wednesdays reserved exclusively for members. For those interested, the members' package starts from $2,000 and includes six bottles of Ballantine's, one bottle of red or white wine, and unlimited oysters from 6 to 9 PM. Members also enjoy access to live music on members-only nights.

Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or simply someone who enjoys discovering cool hidden spots, The Library offers a delightful escape with bespoke drinks, tasty bites and a welcoming ambience. With Fire at the helm, every visit feels like a personal experience — and we're already looking forward to our next surprise.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Library
41A Boat Quay
Singapore 049830
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu-Fri: 2pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: For private events only
(Closed on Wed, for members only)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn right and walk towards the river. At the river, turn left and walk down the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Get Off To A Rousing Start For The Year Of The Dog At Park Hotel Clarke Quay

Have you plan your reunion dinner with your family or Chinese New Year dinner with your business associate? At Park Hotel Clarke Quay, Chef James Wong presents a line-up of reunion feasts comprising of 4 different set menu - Prosperity, Fortune, Harmony and Success.

Ultimate Success Premium Abalone Yu Sheng 4.5/5

A staple for any reunion feast is the yu sheng. Taking centre stage at Park Hotel Clarke Quay is the Ultimate Success Premium Abalone Yu Sheng that comes in a rainbow medley of shredded vegetables, premium gold dusted abalones and kaffir leaves. Last but not least, tossed everything together with Chef's homemade sauce. A lot of time, the sauce may be overly sweet but this is well balanced, complementing the different flavours and textures.

Superior Braised Shark's Fin with Crabmeat and Homemade Stuffed Crab 4.2/5

A luscious enjoyment is the Superior Braised Shark's Fin with Crabmeat and Homemade Stuffed Crab. What I enjoyed most is the stuffed crab, whereby you can get chunky bits of the crab meat within the paste mixture.

Steamed Red Garoupa with Fresh Asparagus Roll in Superior Light Soy Sauce 4/5

Steamed to perfection is the Red Garoupa with Fresh Asparagus Roll in Superior Light Soy Sauce. I have to applaud the effort of the kitchen for deboning the fish and plating it beautifully. Best to dip the fish meat with the superior light soy for an enhanced appreciation of the freshness and sweetness.

Golden Crispy Chicken with Fresh Button Mushroom in Cream Sauce 4/5

Rather unique is the Golden Crispy Chicken with Fresh Button Mushroom in Cream Sauce. Seldom did I come across the unconventional combination of using cream sauce with crispy chicken in Chinese cuisine. Not only that, the dish is covered by a nice aroma from the curry leaves.

Stir Fried King Topshell with Chinese Greens 3.5/5

What stood out in the Stir Fried King Topshell with Chinese Greens is the quality and texture of the king topshell. I have eaten topshell before but not of this texture, which is very close to abalone.

Tiger Prawn Toast with Tomato Salsa 3.8/5

Another beautifully plated dish is the Tiger Prawn Toast with Tomato Salsa. It is like prawn in two ways. You have the prawn paste toast sitting on top of the succulent prawn. While I appreciated the use of the tomato salsa to pair with the toast, I thought it lacked the sharpness to scintillate the dish.

Fragrant Fried Rice with Crabmeat, Egg White and Crunchy Root Vegetables 3.5/5

Served in a vermicelli basket is the Fragrant Fried Rice with Crabmeat, Egg White and Crunchy Root Vegetables. After all the rich flavoured dishes, it is kind of comforting to have the fried rice, which is not heavily seasoned. Light on the palate, it was fragrant and fluffy. I only wish there were more diced root vegetables for more crunchiness.

Mango Peach Jelly 4.2/5

Wrapping up the dinner is the Mango Peach Jelly. Besides the peach, what I enjoyed most is the accompany mango sago puree which liven up the whole experience.

The CNY set menus are available from $338++ for a table of four to five diners, to $628++ for a table of nine to 10 diners. It is inclusive of free-flowing red date tea and soft drinks, alongside Lunar New Year carrier bags with red packets and mandarins. Three dining sessions are available: 12noon, 6pm or 830pm. For reservations, please contact 65938825/59 or bqt.phcq@parkhotelgroup.com.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Park Hotel Clarke Quay
1 Unity Street
Singapore 237983
Tel: +65 65938888
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight At Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to junction of River Valley Road and Clemenceau Ave. Cross the road and turn left onto Clemenceau Ave. Walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to bus stop at Clark Quay Station (Stop ID 04222). Take bus number 54. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to the end UE Square Shopping Mall. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]