The Ultimate Guide to After-Work Drinks, Dining & Corporate Venues in Singapore’s CBD

The Central Business District (CBD) is more than just the beating heart of Singapore’s financial world. Once the workday winds down, it transforms into one of the city’s liveliest playgrounds, where colleagues, friends, and professionals mingle over cocktails, savour great meals, and scout out stylish venues for networking or corporate functions. Whether you’re looking for after work drinks CBD Singapore, elegant CBD dinner places, unbeatable happy hours CBD, or the ideal venue for corporate events, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the city’s bustling core.

Why the CBD is Perfect for Post-Work Relaxation

The CBD’s charm lies in its accessibility and variety. With MRT connections, chic skyscraper lounges, heritage restaurants, and hidden speakeasies, it offers something for every mood. You can go from a casual pint with colleagues to a rooftop Champagne toast overlooking Marina Bay, all within walking distance. That blend of convenience and sophistication makes it the go-to destination for unwinding after long hours at the office.

Best Spots for After Work Drinks in CBD Singapore

When the clock hits 6 pm, the bars in the CBD come alive. Here are some standout options:

1. Rooftop Elegance at Artemis Grill & Sky Bar

Perched atop CapitaGreen, Artemis Grill pairs Mediterranean-inspired small plates with sweeping skyline views. It’s a favourite for after work drinks in CBD Singapore thanks to its curated cocktail list, premium gin & tonics, and happy hour specials. Few places balance sophistication and comfort so effortlessly.

2. The Hidden Speakeasy: Taylor Adam

Step through a tailor shop façade into Taylor Adam, a speakeasy near Raffles Place that mixes intrigue with creativity. Their menu is a journey through inventive cocktails inspired by global trade and travel—a perfect conversation starter for unwinding with colleagues or clients.

3. Classic Charm at Long Bar, Raffles Hotel

Not far from the CBD’s core, the historic Long Bar remains an institution. Famous as the birthplace of the Singapore Sling, this iconic bar offers an old-world experience that pairs tradition with fun. It’s a great pick when you want to impress overseas clients with a taste of Singapore’s heritage.

4. Casual Drinks at Autobar

For those seeking an affordable, laid-back option, Autobar on Raffles Place is a gem. With rotating weekday promotions—think $8 cocktails and 1-for-1 wine nights—it’s the definition of accessible after work drinks CBD Singapore.

The Best CBD Dinner Places

Drinks are just the beginning; dining in the CBD is equally compelling. From power lunches to hearty dinners, these restaurants stand out:

1. Butcher’s Block at Raffles Hotel

For a bold dining experience, Butcher’s Block brings wood-fired artistry to premium cuts of meat and seasonal ingredients. Its open kitchen and striking interiors make it perfect for both business dinners and indulgent nights out.

2. Yi by Jereme Leung

Located within the same iconic hotel, Yi offers contemporary Chinese cuisine. Its artful presentation and creative take on Cantonese flavours make it one of the most unique CBD dinner places.

3. Tanuki Raw, Cross Street Exchange

More casual but no less satisfying, Tanuki Raw serves up hearty Japanese comfort food and fusion creations. Known for fresh sashimi, rice bowls, and happy hour oysters, it’s a great choice for team dinners or casual date nights.

4. Kimoto Gastro Bar

Blending Japanese flavours with gastro-bar vibes, Kimoto is all about fun dining with value. Weekly promotions and shareable plates make it a solid choice when you want to balance quality with budget.

Where to Find the Best Happy Hours in CBD

The CBD may be home to high finance, but it also knows how to do great deals. Happy hours in CBD are legendary, offering unbeatable value at some of the city’s best spots.

• Artemis Grill: All-day happy hour with cocktails from $18 and G&Ts at $15. Perfect for an extended team catch-up.

• Tanuki Raw: A crowd favourite for its $3 oysters, $5 salmon bao, and $12–$16 cocktails. Great for pairing food and drinks without breaking the bank.

• Autobar: Rotating weekday promos with $8 cocktails make it one of the most budget-friendly options in the CBD.

• Kimoto Gastro Bar: Weekly snack and drink deals keep things exciting, making it a go-to for casual gatherings.

With such variety, you’ll never run out of happy hours CBD options that match both your vibe and your wallet.

Choosing a Venue for Corporate Events in the CBD

Beyond casual evenings, the CBD doubles as Singapore’s hub for professional networking and corporate functions. Choosing the right venue for corporate events can set the tone for meaningful connections and lasting impressions. Here are some to consider:

1. Elegant Banquets at Raffles Hotel

From the grand ballroom to intimate salons, Raffles Hotel offers timeless luxury. Ideal for client appreciation nights or formal networking events, its venues deliver on both prestige and service.

2. Contemporary Chic at The Clifford Pier

Set within The Fullerton Bay Hotel, The Clifford Pier marries heritage architecture with modern elegance. Its waterfront views provide a stunning backdrop for dinners, product launches, or cocktail receptions.

3. Rooftop Networking at Artemis Grill

Not just for drinks, Artemis doubles as an excellent venue for corporate events. With a spacious terrace and panoramic views, it lends itself to cocktail parties, team-building evenings, or exclusive business dinners.

4. Flexible Spaces at coworking and hybrid venues

Spaces like The Working Capitol or WeWork in the CBD also provide adaptable event areas, perfect for workshops, panel discussions, or casual mixer nights. Pair them with CBD catering partners for a seamless experience.

Making the Most of Your Time in the CBD

• For quick catch-ups: Hit a happy hour at Autobar or Tanuki Raw.

• For scenic evenings: Choose Artemis Grill for a rooftop experience.

• For fine dining: Impress with Butcher’s Block or Yi.

• For large-scale events: Consider Raffles Hotel or The Clifford Pier.

The key is matching the vibe of the evening with the right location—something the CBD offers in spades.

Final Thoughts

Singapore’s CBD isn’t just a place to work—it’s where the city comes alive after hours. From creative cocktails to global cuisine, budget-friendly promotions to elegant banquets, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the district. Whether you’re hunting for after work drinks CBD Singapore, planning a dinner at the best CBD dinner places, chasing unbeatable happy hours CBD, or scouting a premium venue for corporate events, the options here ensure you’ll never have a dull evening.

The next time the clock strikes six, skip the commute and dive into the CBD’s vibrant nightlife—you’ll find the city’s best food, drinks, and experiences waiting for you.