On the outside, it’s a nondescript wall of tinted windows with a smooth expanse broken only by the single outline of a neon pink bird. There is no signboard.
Push your way in through the towering door and it’s a very different story. Immediately, you are greeted by hip, pulsating tracks, concrete and dark wood dimly lit by artfully-placed lamps and the bar, standing smack in the centre of the place.
The whole feel is part New York speakeasy and part Tokyo underground – gritty, urban, ever so slightly illicit and always with the sense that something exciting is about to happen.
This is Neon Pigeon 2.0, the second incarnation of the well-loved izakaya bar formerly located at Keong Saik Road. Its presence in Carpenter Street now lends the otherwise quiet area a definite buzz. Add to that its iconic brand of eclectic grunge and it’s no surprise that it’s pulling crowds in droves.
Once inside, one’s gaze is immediately arrested by the three murals dominating the space. Created by visual artist ZERO (otherwise known as Zulkarnaen Othman, founder of local street art collective RSCLS), the graffitied walls are tongue-in-cheek and explosively vibrant. Pigeons, of course, are the star of the show and are depicted doing things like holding up boomboxes and wielding guns with flowers blooming out of their barrels.
Fans of the first incarnation of Neon Pigeon will find this particular mural of Mike Tyson and a nonplussed pigeon familiar.
The art is balanced out by a dark, industrial-leaning palette of mostly concrete and walnut. Although the vibe is distinctly urban, there's an element of laidback luxe as well, thanks to the conceptualisation and design direction of EDG Design.
While there is plenty of seating in this 2,100 sq ft den, the central buzz happens at the cocktail bar in the middle of the room. Lit by an overhead neon sign spelling out Neon Pigeon in kanji, diners can enjoy Tokyo-inspired tipples from a visually delightful manga- style menu, conceptualised by EDG Design as well. Favourites include Ichi-go Lightly, a gin sour with strawberries and nori, and the rum- and miso-based Tiki Otaku.
Their glassware is no less whimsical. For some concoctions, one has to drink out of a pigeon's, shall we say, less palatable end, which definitely makes for an amusing experience.
Those popping in for a bite will enjoy the Raw Bar, a new addition to the experience. One highlight is the Kumamoto oysters with smoky dashi gelee, ponzu and chilli oil. There are also the classic Tokyo Hummus and Sake Glazed Iberico Pork Ribs. Crowd favourites like the Bone Marrow and Uni (above) are also available.
To its credit, the izakaya has adapted to the times. No longer just for night owls, it’s embraced the concept of being a daytime restaurant, too. Brunch and lunch menus were rolled out last month, giving diners a chance to feast on seasonal Japanese dishes and experience the space in the bright light of day.
Neon Pigeon 2.0 is at 36 Carpenter Street. For more information, please visit www.neonpigeonsg.com.
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