Stalwart brand Harry’s is no stranger to Singapore’s food and beverage scene, and its iconic flagship outlet at Boat Quay proves to be a game-changer after its million dollar makeover.
Founded in 1992 as the first Jazz bar in the area, Harry’s at Boat Quay has grown from a quaint shop-house to a stunning establishment, serving quality drinks and delectable treats for every occasion. The brand now boasts a stable of 20 outlets situated at key business districts and suburban areas; but this eponymous outlet still remains a firm favourite amongst locals and tourists alike.
With 22 years of history, Harry’s at Boat Quay is home to many guests from all walks of life, including its most infamous regular – Nick Leeson. When Leeson caused the collapse of UK’s 230-year old Barings Bank in 1995, an international limelight was cast on Harry’s as it was his favourite hangout, and as a tongue-in-cheek ode to this infamous incident, a shooter was created. Titled Bank Breaker ($10), the shooter is a deceptively sweet concoction of a potent shot of Midori muskmelon liqueur, whisky, and soda water.
Today, Harry’s has shed its previous incarnate through a bold rebranding exercise, to reveal a charming and smart new outfit. This urban living room now bears a spiffy contemporary look that maintains the brand’s trademark convivial and laidback vibe while injecting an air of understated chic for guests to bask in.
Shares Malcolm Chao, Director of Brand Strategy and Development, “Harry’s at Boat Quay has always been very close to everyone’s hearts, especially with its heritage and inimitable style. As a unique shop-house premise, the look of this outlet is a class of its own, while still showcasing the same key design elements from the rebranding exercise. We look forward to getting acquainted with our regulars with this chic look, and meeting new faces whom we hope will be drawn in by our evolution!”
Welcome to Harry’s Living Room
With the notion to be the best bar and dining establishment for every guest’s urban escape, Harry’s at Boat Quay is a much-welcomed respite from the hustle and bustle of the central business district.
Decked out in a fresh coat of white with navy blue window canopies, the façade beckons one into the inviting and intimate living room of Harry’s. Characterised by touches inspired by musical references as a salute to Harry’s heritage, many will find themselves admiring the novel light fixtures in the form of the horn and trumpet. Even more notably, cymbals are cleverly used as lamp shades to brilliantly light up the entrance of the outlet.
Flanked by a sleek bar set against a colourful backdrop of spirit bottles, the first level space presents a plush yet congenial setting characterised by eclectic touches; a juxtaposing combination of cement screed and vintage – tiled floor, and an offbeat mix of classic leather and upholstered seating, including several arresting wing-back chairs – one of which belongs to the establishment’s namesake, Harry.
A memorabilia wall on both levels reflect Harry’s well-established interests in sports and jazz music and conjure a home-like atmosphere. One can glimpse into Harry’s travel adventures through souvenirs such as concert ticket stubs and autographed merchandise from his favourite sports teams that are proudly showcased on the wall. Pictures of sports legends such as Muhammad Ali, jazz greats and other related paraphernalia are also displayed alongside mirrors etched with whimsical quotes such as “Beauty is in the eye of the beer holder” and “Laughter is not the best medicine, Lager is”.
Ideal for private events and corporate functions, the second floor dining room offers a similarly cosy ambience with a lovely view of the Singapore River.
Harry’s Quality Food & Drinks
With an extensive variety of alcohol from premium wines and spirits to beers, patrons can choose among nine brews that are available on tap, including the signature Harry’s Premium Lager (HPL); a deep golden lager beer known for its pure floral hoppiness due to its characteristic malt taste and crisp finish, Asahi, Kronenbourg 1664, Carlsberg Green and Somersby Apple Cider among others.
Diners can also savour international offerings infused with a gourmet touch from Harry’s new all-day dining menu crafted by Culinary Director Daniel Sia and his team. Proffering a tantalising varied selection of appetisers and hearty main dishes executed with finesse and brimming with wholesome flavours, the menu comprises Small Plates, Big Plates, Platters and Desserts that truly reflect the spirit of Harry’s.
Highlight dishes include Harry’s Wingmen ($8 for four pieces | $11 for six pieces); deep-fried chicken wings accentuated with a proprietary blend of spices and seasoning, Mushroom and Truffle Oil Flatbread with a heady homemade aioli spread ($20), Curried Lamb Shank ($29) complemented with fragrant Jasmine rice pilaf and raisins,
a best-selling Harry’s Beer Battered Fish & Chips ($19) served with mushy peas and a creamy tartare sauce,
as well as homemade desserts such as the decadent Black Forest Sundae ($16) of freshly baked mini brownie squares paired with chocolate and vanilla ice cream, topped with dark cherries.
Interested to chill out after a long day of work? Here’s the full information:
Harry’s At Boat Quay
Address: 28 Boat Quay, Singapore 049818
Operating Hours: 1130am to 1am (Sun – Thurs) & 1130am to 2am (Fri, Sat & Eve Of Public Holidays)
Phone: +65 6538 3029
Fax: +65 6538 0365
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.harrys.com.sg
Facebook: harrysbar.sg
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