It’s party night on a weekend and the array of boîtes along Clarke Quay beckons, offering party-goers a diversity of alcohol – German beers, bubbly spirits, simple house pours, and of course everyone’s favourite shooters.
Whatever reservations you have will probably be silenced after stepping into The Chupitos Bar (Spanish for ‘little drinks’), probably because it’s hard to imagine leaving without trying almost all of their delish shooters. To call that an Olympian challenge would be an understatement as the bar in Clarke Quay prides itself for being the only one in this country to offer over 130 different shots. Did someone say spoiled for choice?
Nested between Mulligan’s and Borgata, it offers indoor and outdoor seating, with tables decked in decals with “Snakes, Shots and Ladders” imprinted on them – an open challenge for patrons to try out the bar’s innovative drinking games.
Slim shot glasses adorn the walls of the bar and a psychedelic patchwork of liquor bottles doubles as décor, with muted lights enhancing the cosy ambience of the lounge-like indoor seating and unleashing a little of their ‘wild’ side with a disco ball hanging from the ceiling and wall graffiti.
On the other side of the bar hangs a “Wall Of Fame”, saluting patrons who have successfully chalked up 100 shots in a month, and hence bragging rights! For those who try but fail, well, there’s a reason why owner Jamie Koh, otherwise known as Chief Hot Shot, implements a $30 ‘puke fine’ at the bar’s designated turf.
Brilliantly categorized into 4 sections, namely “Dare”, “Deadly”, “Yummy” and “Fruity”, shots are reasonably priced at $12 each unless otherwise stated.
Keep a lookout for their collection of Absinthe, a super potent (45%-75%) anise-flavoured spirit that’s incorporated in some of their more lethal shots.
Singapore-inspired paired shots such as Milo Godzilla, Pandan Cake and Bandung prove the most popular among locals, according to Jamie, offering an inventive take on familiar flavours.
The menu also offers 30 staggering varieties of Drop Shots ($15), which range from the classic fight-inducing Jagerbomb to more intriguing flavours such as the Flaming Dr. Pepper, Absinthe Bomb, Satan’s Water etc.
For the more adventurous drinkers, their Specialty Shots are a must-try. Featuring a blend of different alcoholic spirits, The Little Man Fat Boy ($38) is probably the most fun you can have with a science experiment, throwing together 3 Drop Shots in a jug, and the Gas Chamber ($22) set-up will blow your mind with a different way of consuming alcohol – You’ll have to try it for yourself.
You’ll be pleasantly amazed at the novelty and smoothness of some of their sui generis shooters.
Paddle Pop ($12 per pair)
This fascinating combination of liquor that comes in a rainbow of pastel colours – so it looks even better if you order a tray – is reminiscent of the colourful popsicle it’s named after, many a child’s favourite treat. The distinct caramel taste lingers after downing one and it’s easy on the throat.
Cotton Candy (“Yummy” $12 per shot)
Definitely more popular among the ladies, the baby pink concoction of butterscotch, cream and grenadine goodness tastes exactly like the sweet treat one can find at carnivals or the pasar malam [Malay for night market]. The candied drink leaves a smooth and lip-smacking butterscotch aftertaste and is considerably mild – Good news for lightweights.
Milo Godzilla ($12 per pair)
Topped with a dollop of whipped cream and Milo powder generously sprinkled over, the chocolate-y blend is a must-try if you’re already a fan of the original drink that is found in most prata places. It’s essentially Milo, but better.
Warning: Not suitable for breakfast along with your kaya (coconut jam)toast.
Girl Scout (“Deadly” $15 per shot)
If you’re keen on plunging deeper into the abyss of intoxication, give the Girl Scout a shot (pardon the pun).
Don’t be fooled by the seemingly innocent name, for the Girl Scout packs a powerful punch. It’s made out of 3 layers of pure liquor – Absinthe Green Fairy, followed by Bailey’s Irish Cream and finishing with Crème de Cassis, which gives it a creamy blackcurrant zest when knocked back.
Fortunately, the alcohol aftertaste is neutralised with a marshmallow roasted over flame, mimicking a miniature campfire, by the lovely staff.
Baconator (“Daring” $12 per shot)
Made by infusing bacon (after straining the oil) in Maker’s Mark Bourbon for weeks, it’s a shot that’s a lot more straight-up than the rest. The smoky aroma of the bacon was distinct and stronger than expected. Surprising but nonetheless a hit with meat lovers out there!
Condom (‘Daring’ $15 per shot)
Photos courtesy of Jean Goh and The Chupitos Bar.
We all love the fact that shots are conveniently chugged, but bear in mind that this milky tequila rose shot comes with a heads-up that might get messy.
That’s all we’re willing to reveal, unless you buy us another round of shots.
Address: 3C River Valley Road, Clarke Quay, #01-02
Telephone: +65 6333 5735
Opening hours:
- Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun: 6:30 pm – 1:30 am
- Other days: 6:30 pm – 3:30 am
Rating: ★★★★✩
Price rating: $$-$$$
Note:
- Prices listed subject to service charge and GST.
- For more information, check out their official website.