What’s good, Singapore? With the constant pressure of having to perform well in school, many of us often forget the importance of taking a break to recharge. Relaxing can be as simple as having a beer with friends after a hectic day. But we get it, being a student means you’re almost always strapped for cash which makes going out to have fun a challenge.
No fret, because that’s where we come in. Over some time, Uncover Asia has actively been sourcing for bars and eateries with good deals and even better food, and lo and behold, we discovered Bricklane This student haven nestled in the heart of Singapore Management University (SMU) is a trendy hangout spot that sells delicious food and inexpensive drinks and it’s no surprise that it sees throngs of university students on a regular.
Bricklane is a quaint little space located right in the center of SMU campus that functions as a restaurant by day and a bar by night. It is strategically located near to Li Ka Shing library, making it convenient for students to stop by for a tipple after their study sessions.
We sat down with co-founder cum Pilsner enthusiast, Vincent (Vinny), to find out why, how and what gave rise to this clever concept.
Uncover Asia: What is the inspiration behind Bricklane? How did you guys decide on creating this establishment?
Vinny: The concept behind Bricklane is simple – the good folks wanted to create a place for people to come together to chill without being afraid of judgement.
“A place where people can unwind and do whatever they want”
-Vinny, Co-founder
Many University students in Singapore would have had the chance to travel during their exchange programmes, and therefore, the name for Bricklane does have its backstory.
Uncover Asia: How did the name for Bricklane come about?
Vinny: The idea we had for a name was based on the experience we all had in common. Most of us had visited Brick Lane market in London and we felt that it had a really laid-back vibe to it, one that we were missing back home. We wanted to create a space that encapsulated the same emotion that we felt there and then.
Which led us to the spatial design and interior décor of the place…
Vinny shared with us a specific occurrence during his time in London that left a lasting impression on him and also inspired him to adopt a similar concept to Bricklane.
Vinny: Until today, I still have a vivid recollection of a bridge at Brick Lane. Under it, was a person selling coffee and I recall the warmth and hospitality the person showed to each and every customer. Inspired by this, I decided to bring it back to Bricklane. We wanted to adopt a concept whereby bartenders and customers could connect, creating a warmer, more convivial space for people. We also modelled the place to look like a hidden alleyway, giving it a more rustic and cosy appeal.
Uncover Asia: What sort of crowd does Bricklane typically draw?
Vinny: The bar is very unassuming, it doesn’t judge what you order and the prices are fairly reasonable as compared to other bars out there. We wanted to make it affordable because after all, our primary customers are students. We do welcome working adults and people from all walks of life too.
We’re hoping that this would help to inculcate a sense of belonging among SMU students. Since there are no hostels, we aim to provide a space for students to gather and hang out.
Uncover Asia: What would you say is Bricklane’s primary unique selling point?
Vinny: A trifecta of good beers, good prices, good company. Usually, everyone that comes to Bricklane will leave having made new friends.
Indeed, while we were in the hood, we noticed that everyone knew everyone. The ambience was cosy and intimate, where laughter and cheers filled the room.
Uncover Asia: What is the inspiration behind Bricklane’s beverage and/or food menu?
Vinny: I can tell you about the beers, for the food, you will have to ask Samantha. We try to steer away from the mainstream. We want to introduce students to a larger world out there, by doing so, it can improve the students’ palates and knowledge, all at a reasonable price. We create the opportunity to enjoy quality produce (beers).
Since their opening, Bricklane has tweaked its menu to provide students with more wholesome food options. From serving tacos to burritos, they now serve what they call, ‘Wholesome Brick Bowls’. This construct-your-own bowl concept sees a variety of healthy bowls priced from S$6.90 onwards.
Samantha: We noticed a lack of wholesome and nutritious food sold on campus, therefore, we designed a new menu that comprised simple hearty meals such as grilled chicken, ground beef and tofu.
Providing customisable options also allows customers to mix and match, delving away from what would seem repetitive and dull.
If you’re feeling peckish while enjoying a pint, do consider their array of delicious bar bites which include their Classic Nachos (S$5.90), Truffle Fries (S$5.90) and more!
Uncover Asia: Can you recommend one drink that all customers should try at Bricklane?
Vinny: Pilsner definitely, the Kozel if people like something sweet. Our S$2 shots – a take on Palomashots (Mexican take) and grapefruit juice. Mexico’s most popular cocktail, stronger than tequila. I think everyone should try it!
Uncover Asia: Tell us more about yourself.
Vinny: I’m 26 this year. I used to study at SMU and graduated with a finance major in 2018.
I’ve always thought that I was going to move towards the corporate life – commodities and trading, but then an opportunity to open and run a bar came up and I immediately hopped on board.
It was always my dream to open a bar and now that that dream is now a reality, it never felt better.
A cosy, laid-back respite for students and folks from all walks of life to unwind and to rest their weary souls, Bricklane stands in the heart of the city as a haven for affordable tipples, networking and memorable experiences. We had a blast and strongly urge everyone to pay them a visit.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Fridays: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Saturdays: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Closed on Sundays
Address: 70, #01-22 Stamford Rd, Li Ka Shing Library, Singapore 178901
Contact: +65 8202 0404
Nearest MRT Station: Bras Basah/ Bencoolen
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