Review: Operation Dagger | Singapore
People laugh when I say my Saturday night plans consist of drinking alone at a bar with me, myself, and I. I didn't let this hold me back as I did deep research into good solo traveler bars so I could continue on my mission to review all the finest food and drink Singapore has to offer.
Originally, I tried to go to the much-talked-about 28 Hong Kong Street, but was turned away because they had a private party and I wasn't invited. Womp womp. Of course, I had a fall back: Operation Dagger.
Operation Dagger is advertised to be kind of secret but also really well-known for their cocktails. I would say the interwebs has done a great job capturing the essence of this place because that is also exactly how I would describe it. I felt silly walking past the door many a-time. I had dressed up, determined to take myself out on the best date of my life, and I walked behind the hustle and bustle of Club Street down a street that no one seemed interested in. I nervously hoped I was going the right way and didn't look like a total doofus that got all dressed up with nowhere to go.
At this point, I'm torn whether or not I should post photos of what the entrance looks like, but I've decided not to because finding this place is part of the experience. If you can't find it, there are some pretty obvious hints scribbled on building walls so don't worry too much. Or just Google it. I opened the unmarked door and walked down a short, dark cement staircase that made me think twice about continuing the trek, but I did and it was so worth it.
In an attempt to avoid the crowds, I got to the bar a bit past 6pm, right after it opened. I had no trouble finding a seat. Another solo traveler sat at the bar and two larger parties sat at the tables. The menu was full of elaborate-seeming cocktails that truly seemed unique at prices that I would never pay in America. I had just spent $36 on a regretful Singapore Sling so I questioned whether I should drop another $25 on a "unique" cocktail.
I did.
It was great.
I got the Hot + Cold which is apparently a mix of pineapple, lavender, white chocolate, and coconut. I have to say, it was one of the best drinks I've ever had... ever.
The "cold" is the actual drink which is proabably where the pineapple comes into play. The "hot" is the delicious dessert-like foam on top which oozes white chocolate and coconut. I drank it all dangerously fast and could easily see myself downing four drinks before dinner (that's $100 for those of you counting at home.) I didn't but... I wanted to.
I wanted to try everything on the menu as I saw people around me getting truly fantastical, creative drinks made before them like works of art. The staff were so kind and committed to their craft. They gave me a few tips on which other bars I should check out and I even got a free ginger beer as I waited for a few friends to show up. The only downside of this place is that the drink I had didn't taste like alcohol at all so I'm honestly not sure if there was any in my drink. Seriously, did I order something off the virgin menu??
This is definitely a place worth a trip, or two, or three. If I lived in Singapore, it would be a go-to date place for me., especially since the music is on point. I honestly want to try to Omakase and see what else OD has up their sleeves. I'll be back for sure. Maybe even tomorrow night.
TOTAL COST: $26.75 ($19.71 USD)
NO. 7 ANN SIANG HILL #B1-01
Singapore
Visa accepted