Hidden in plain sight within a hotel lobby on Purvis Street, Dimple is a bar with a quiet charm that is inspired by the Chinese principles of love, abundance, and harmony.
The space, tucked beside the check-in area, is the latest addition to Singapore’s Bugis district – a speakeasy-style cocktail bar where a spherical sign outside the hotel hints at its discreet location. Inside, a cosy, 30-seater bar awaits, offering an intimate setting for a drink or two.
Dimple is the brainchild of industry veteran Anoop Kalloor and his wife, Natalie Siu, whose Hong Kong heritage lends a subtle cultural influence to the bar’s identity. The name itself evokes warmth and connection, a reflection of the couple’s aim to create a space where guests can enjoy a good drink and convivial atmosphere.
[Photo: Kim Choong]
A Taste of Hong Kong
At the heart of Dimple’s concept is a nod to dim sum, the iconic bite-sized dishes synonymous with Hong Kong’s yum cha culture. Translating loosely to “touch the heart,” dim sum was traditionally intended as light fare to accompany tea, but here, it finds a contemporary reinterpretation as part of the bar’s offering.
The menu features a blend of Hong Kong-inspired flavours and international influences, with 14 cocktails and a selection of bar bites that include familiar staples like curry fish balls and siew mai in chilli soy sauce. The result is a menu that balances the nostalgic with the inventive, mirroring the city’s dynamic culinary scene.
A Menu with a Story
Led by head bartender Marcus Liow, Dimple’s cocktail menu is organised by strength: Whisper (light), Embrace (moderate), and Euphoria (strong). This categorisation encourages exploration, allowing guests to choose drinks that suit their palate or mood.
Here are some highlights from the menu:
Margarita (Whisper)
This clarified twist on a classic Margarita blends savoury and herbal notes for a surprising yet harmonious profile. Botanist Gin forms the base, infused with balsamic vinegar and Tellicherry Indian black pepper, alongside St-Germain elderflower liqueur. Topped with vegan foam and garnished with a fresh tomato, it’s a cocktail that bridges the familiar and the unexpected.
Spicy Mango (Embrace)
Tequila takes centre stage in this sweet and sour concoction, which gets a spicy lift from mango juice oleo and lime. Salted caramel adds depth, while mango flesh is transformed into a refreshing sorbet that rounds out the drink.
Strawberry Nikka (Whisper)
This cocktail features Nikka Coffey Gin infused with chrysanthemum, paired with strawberry and citrus notes. A hint of balsamic vinegar lends a tangy complexity, while soda adds effervescence for a light, floral finish.
Photos: Kim Choong
Dirty Martini (Embrace)
Dimple’s take on a Dirty Martini uses two types of olive brine - one from Kalamata olives and another from Manzanilla Olives - to create a balanced salinity. Mermaid Gin is chosen for its drier profile, complemented by dry sake for floral and aromatic undertones. The result is a juicy yet crisp martini with an edge.
Negroni (Euphoria)
A bold, smoky rendition of the classic Negroni, this version incorporates lapsang souchong tea to deepen the bittersweet profile. Vermouth anchors the drink with herbal complexity, making it a choice for those who appreciate robust, layered flavours.
Mandarin Orange Highball (Embrace)
The prosperity-led easy-to-drink highball, the Jura 12-based cocktail is made by combining orange peel and flesh, delivering a zesty, aromatic brightness, giving a golden tinge associated with good fortune in the Chinese culture. Order this if you only have time for one drink.
The Hazelnut Old Fashioned (Euphoria)
Using hazelnut infused Michter’s Bourbon, oloroso sherry, chocolate bitters and garnished chocolate truffle made to enhance the nuttiness to the drink.
The ambience at Dimple feels unhurried, a rarity in a city known for its fast pace. The dim lighting, punctuated by warm accents, creates a setting that is both intimate and inviting.
While Dimple is a relatively new addition to Purvis Street, its subtle nods to Hong Kong, coupled with its crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere, make it an ideal option for both locals and visitors who want a hideaway.
Independently owned, and located by the Hotel NuVe Heritage’s lobby, City Hall, 13 Purvis St, Singapore 188592. +65 8054 0008. Tue – Sat: 6pm – 1am.