Book-themed cafes and eateries are definitely on the rise: from the romantic Nico Cafe at Wheelock Place to Maxwell Reserve Hotel's opulent Cultivate Cafe, there are plenty of places where one can wine and dine among gorgeous tomes and pages. That said, there's now a brand new bar in town completely decked out in bookish decor, with a uniquely hidden entrance to boot!
Ume Maru (from the team behind Ume San 100) is a speakeasy inspired by Jimbocho, an area in Japan with heaps of bookstores. It's located on the fifth floor of Far East Plaza, among some food stalls and beauty parlours.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Simply look for floor-to-ceiling bookshelves filled with colourful manga comics, design books and magazines. This photo wall is perfect for taking a snap or two against — but that's not all! Push on the middle shelf and it'll open inwards, transporting you into the secret watering hole.
We immediately spotted the decorative books hanging from the ceiling which glow faintly like small lights. Along the walls and in the corners are other miniature displays, made up of books and comics.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Keeping with its speakeasy theme, the intimate space has a laidback yet effortlessly classy vibe. There's also a hint of excitement in the air since the space really feels like an enclosed bubble from the outside world, spiriting guests away to Japan.
Some must-have tipples are the gorgeous Tiffany Sky ($22) and fragrant Light of Nara ($22). The former is a salty sake, vodka, and orange liqueur concoction, while the latter features muscat and pear umeshu. We just love how the Light of Nara comes in a deer-shaped glass holder, perfect for the 'gram!
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Speaking of which, the best spot for a drink shot is definitely the bar area. Lined with all sorts of Japanese liquor and mixers, its reflective shelves make for quite the impressive backdrop.
After that, curb your food cravings with sharing platters like the fresh salmon, tuna and scallop Crudo ($18) and delectable Wagyu Kushi ($24). Those who enjoy truffle with their sushi can also opt for the Truffle Hotplate Maki ($20), served blisteringly hot.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Hungry enough to devour an entire meal? Ume Maru has an array of mains to try as well — the Buta Don ($18) has juicy pork slices and runny egg over rice, while the Yuzu Soba ($24) and Kitsune Udon ($22) are wallet-friendly options for those who prefer a hearty meal of noodles.
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
More unique food and drink spots in Singapore to discover:
