Creative Cocktails at IB HQ
Known for Singapore’s rich Malay heritage and probably the best biryani restaurants on the island, Kampong Glam has now evolved into a trendy enclave for tourists and youth blending elements of old and new with a host of modern bars and ‘hipster’ restaurants.
A HIDDEN GEM
Amongst these many new gems is a walk-up bar along North Bridge Road called IB HQ which is well hidden along the rows of shophouses on the main road. The vibe at IB HQ upon entering is reminiscent of the obscure bars in Tokyo that are usually located on the upper floors of an office building and are full of hidden surprises.
I wasn’t far off when I found out from one of the owners and head mixologist, Kamil Foltan, that the inspiration for IB HQ’S design was based on Japanese bars and his experience drinking at many tea houses in Asia. Husband and wife owners Kamil, who is from the Czech Republic, and Zurina Bryant, who hails from Tasmania, told me that IB HQ was an idea two years in the making after creating a website called Indigenuous Bartender in 2016 to showcase their insights and culinary approaches into traditional cocktail flavours and ingredients.
ORIGINAL FLAVOURS
Kamil’s philosophy in going back to the origins of original flavours through a deconstructive approach can be seen in IB HQ’S cocktail flight menu where customers can choose to sample three different renditions of a particular cocktail such as the ‘Musa’ which contains Banana Whisky, Maple Syrup and Xocolatl Bitters.
IB HQ’S quest in discovering unique cocktail flavours and techniques goes beyond just face value. In his free time, Kamil dabbles in creating new syrups and liquors in his make shift laboratory at IB HQ’S attic by infusing ingredients such as yuzu, parsnip, pineapple and even matcha into his cocktail creations.
Must try cocktails apart from Musa are the Osmanthus Gimlet made from London Dry Gin and a semi sweet syrup made from Osthmanthus jelly. And if you want to try your luck just whisper to the bartender “Flight 774A” to sample a flight from a selected liquor of the month.
WESLEY GUNTER REVEALS THE SECRETS OF IB HQ, A HIDDEN GEM OF A BAR ON NORTH BRIDGE ROAD.