Housed within a modern oriental setting, @juhuataisg makes a perfect TGIF hangout place serving modern Chinese food alongside their 12 specially created cocktails and a range of craft beers on tap. Easily identified through the 2 red lanterns at the bar entrance on Duxton Hill, which also sets a prelude to the oriental vibe upon stepping in. The striking pink neon lights of Chinese characters “随心所欲”, which means to follow one’s heart’s desires, was an element for the chill ambience undoubtedly. They began operations barely few days before P2HA kicked in again last month unfortunately; suffering of the F&B scene is real.

Chanced upon their signature cocktail, Chrysanthemum’s secret, on my IG feed one day and I knew I had to try. We heard from Bar Manager, @dr.pepper_1986, about his inspirations behind this cocktail that represented Ju Hua Tai. Infusing 135 East Hyogo Gin with young chrysanthemum buds brings sweet, delicate floral tasting notes that wouldn’t be achieved if fully-bloomed chrysanthemum flowers were used. Further contributing to the sweetness was the lychee, raspberry, elderflower liqueur. Smooth and enjoyable, this would probably convert non-drinkers like me to drinkers. 😂

I was impressed by the thoughts put into presenting the cocktail. Not only was it served in a traditional blue and white porcelain tea cup (did it somewhat remind you of PM Lee’s magic cup?), the chrysanthemum flower garnish was made using the remaining bits of chrysanthemum buds cooked further with water, sugar syrup into an agar agar. Imagine the tedious task of having to mould and de-mould each chrysanthemum agar perfectly, which risked being discarded if any of its petals broke.

The only disappointment I had that night was the request of sitting at the bar counter wasn’t fulfilled even though I had already requested at the point of reservation. But I am sure I will still be back.