From the outside, this supposedly glorious den looks like nothing more than a rundown shophouse. Gold curtains cover the window, while the only clue something exciting is going on that we don’t yet know about is a discreet “75A” sign above a nondescript metal door. Blink, and you’ll miss it unless you know a new “rabbit hole” is there you’d walk straight past in complete oblivion to the happenings
directly above your head. While JB has witnessed a proliferation of exclusive bars and clubs that demand us be on the list, this clandestine spot offers a fun and somewhat low-key alternative to the velvet ropes and only requires a bit of curiosity and resourcefulness to get in. As the old adage goes, where there’s a will there’s a way, as we press the door bell with bated breath…
Some serious speakeasy hallmarks are present at Haiiro Usagi (which means grey rabbit in Japanese), with a barely marked entrance, thick curtains at the top of the stairs covering any view inside and lounge music creating the perfect setting to unwind and soak up the suitably dark and moody atmosphere. But otherwise, this discreet bar throws out the speakeasy rule book by introducing an unlikely but uber cool décor reminiscent of a secret “prohibited” chamber from the Forbidden City, complete with grey walls and flashes of Chinese and Japanese elements. The layout of the bar, over some smallish spaces in converted this shop lot, gives the opportunity for genuine seclusion which is exactly what we’re looking for. Some smart and staggeringly design mean that although there’s room for just 40 pax, Haiiro Usagi never feels claustrophobic.
