Nestled in the heart of Singapore’s vibrant River Valley neighborhood, Bar Bon Funk opened in fall of 2024 and boasts an inviting and nostalgic Mad Men meets Crazy Rich Asians vibe, and serves expertly crafted cocktails, and a menu of produce-driven dishes.
Photography: Khoo Guo Jie
“A Neighborhood Cocktail Bar with a Soft Spot for Hi-Fi sound”
We are all for the return of design-forward bars that put in the effort to create a unique ambiance for relaxation and socializing. Chef-Owner Keirin Buck, known for Le Bon Funk, a series of neighborhood wine bars, brings his culinary expertise to Bar Bon Funk, a buzzy new cocktail bar nestled in Singapore's latest lifestyle destination—New Bahru. Joining forces with Head Bartender Josiah Chee, the duo delivers a distinctive immersive experience that marries delectable cocktails, a soulful soundtrack, and a lively ambiance, ideal for any social occasion. True to Le Bon Funk's philosophy, Bar Bon Funk celebrates a produce-driven approach, crafting drinks and dishes that are sophisticated and undeniably delicious – never fussy, always flavorful.
Pictured Above: Keirin Buck, Chef Owner; Josiah Chee, Head Bartender / Photography By: Khoo Guo Jie
A 'Relaxed' Living Room Vibe
Entering Bar Bon Funk feels like stepping into a reimagined version of Keirin Buck’s childhood living room. Conceptualized by The Lo&Behold Group, the team behind renowned spots like Claudine and Fico, this chic and atmospheric space evokes a sense of comfort and intimacy. While drawing inspiration from the sister eatery—Le Bon Funk Holland Village, Bar Bon Funk showcases a richer, moodier palette and a more tactile approach. Timber-paneled walls and a breezeblock bar with a backlit display pay homage to Le Bon Funk, while bespoke handmade encaustic tiles and playful wall lights infuse the space with character.
Photography: Khoo Guo Jie
Host a Shindig Surrounded by Speakers
Situated on the second floor of New Bahru, the bar unfolds across three distinct zones. The stylish front bar, an exhibit for an extensive spirits collection, welcomes guests to mingle at high banquettes and stools. For a more relaxed vibe, guests can make their way to the curtain-lined lounge area featuring plush swivel armchairs and inviting dining chairs. Lastly, a cozy 10-seater Private Dining Room offers a charming and warm setting for celebrations.
Pictured Above: Bar Bon Funk Private Dining Room / Photography: Khoo Guo Jie
A Mixology Masterpiece
We’re all for cocktails that prioritize flavor over trendy gimmicks. Bar Bon Funk’s cocktail program is the brainchild of Josiah Chee, a veteran of the industry with stints at iconic bars like Jigger & Pony and 28 Hong Kong Street. The bar’s elegant yet approachable menu is a constantly evolving masterpiece, with a rotating selection of eight classic cocktails and eight signature creations. Evocative of the comforting flavors of a Sunday morning, the present menu features playful interpretations of familiar favorites. However, don’t be fooled by the understated elegance – these concoctions are packed with complex flavor profiles achieved through inventive techniques such as fermentation and fat-washing.
Photography: Khoo Guo Jie
Sake > Vodka = Fun Cocktails for Your Guests
The bar’s cocktail offerings feature an impressive lineup of reimagined classic cocktails such as the Negroni. This bitter concoction gets a local twist with West Winds Cutlass Gin and house-made Bon Funk Amaro and Vermouth. These spirits undergo an ultrasonic aging process with charred American oak, resulting in a remarkably smooth and rounded flavor profile. Then there’s the Vesper. Forget the vodka – this version champions Mua sake for an extremely smooth and clean finish. Sakura bitters and a touch of lactic acid add a subtle complexity that takes the classic to new heights.
Pictured Above: Bar Bon Funk Negroni, Bar Bon Funk Vesper / Photography: Khoo Guo Jie
Nostaligic Cocktails for Fun with Friends
Moreover, the bar embodies a philosophy of mindful consumption, using every part of each ingredient in a sustainable way. Think zero-waste cocktails with a bold flavor punch.
Take ‘A Glass of Milk,’ a nostalgic nod to that moment when cereal-soaked milk reaches peak deliciousness. This indulgent cocktail blends small-batch Calvados with Le Gin Pira, and is further enhanced with lacto-fermented strawberry honey. The pièce de résistance? A playful garnish of ‘pudding fruit loops.’ Another standout is the ‘Lean Green Salad,’ a savory twist on the classic Margarita. Herencia Mezcal meets clarified miso in this unorthodox pairing, resulting in a refreshing finish of caramelized honey avocado foam. #YUM.
Pictured Above: Bar Bon Funk 'Glass of Milk'; Bar Bon Funk 'Lean Green Salad' / Photography: Khoo Guo Jie
Cocktail & Food Pairings
And let's not forget the food! Chef-Owner Keirin Buck and Head Chef Ryan Newman have crafted a thoughtfully curated food menu that perfectly pairs with the bold cocktail flavors. Guests can expect the same produce-led approach as Le Bon Funk, with a little Bar Bon Funk twist. The menu consists of small, shareable plates that complement the fuss-free cocktails.
Must Try: Highlights are the mouthwatering Baloney Sandwich, tangy Pickled Egg with English Mustard and Dill Pollen, and the decadent Frittelles with Buffalo Ricotta and Fennel Pollen. This isn't just an afterthought – the food here is a central part of the experience.
Pictured Above: Ryan Newman, Head Chef / Photography: Khoo Guo Jie
Sound and Soul
At Bar Bon Funk, the music isn’t merely background noise. In collaboration with Fritz Yonathan of Indonesia's Peels Records & Bars, the team has curated a soundscape that elevates the overall ambiance. Guests can immerse themselves in the rich, enveloping sound of vintage McIntosh amplifiers and custom-built Altec A5 speakers, expertly integrated into the bar’s design. In the front bar, a turntable invites visitors to rediscover the magic of vinyl.
Private Dining Rooms with Casette Players for Chic Gatherings
And for a truly intimate experience, the Private Dining Room (PDR) features a cassette player and speakers handcrafted by Castro from Berlin-based studio H.A.N.D. HiFi. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that Bar Bon Funk's music enhances every moment.
Pictured: Private Dining Room, aka 'PDR'.
"Mad-Men esque" Private Events
Hosting a private event at Bar Bon Funk feels like hosting it at your own home. The entire venue, which is perfect for a Mad Men-themed cocktail party, can accommodate up to 60 guests, and the private dining room, ideal for a milestone birthday or a bachelorette, has a capacity of up to 20 guests. The Private Dining Room is a speakeasy-esque hideaway for intimate get-togethers and special occasions.
Your guests can indulge in the bar’s lip-smacking sharing plates and craft cocktails or pick wines from Le Bon Funk and Bar Bon Funk's extensive collection.
Photography: Khoo Guo Jie
Want to add your personal touch to your event at Bar Bon Funk? The bar’s team is incredibly flexible and is open to accommodate your requests. For instance, you could bring your own decorations, playlists, or even an additional sound system. And to help you envision the perfect setting, the team is happy to share the bar's floor plan. This collaborative approach will ensure your party reflects your unique tastes and preferences.
Photography: Khoo Guo Jie
Venue: Bar Bon Funk , Sinagpore
