Date night plans falling flat? Or just hunting for a vibey spot to wind down with friends? Say no more, MOGA’s got you.
Tucked away in Pullman Singapore Hill Street, this modern Izakaya Cocktail Bar is shaking things up with a bold new menu made for those late-night escapades.
Introducing “Breaking the Norm”—a bold cocktail collection that’s anything but ordinary. Crafted by bar maven Gavin Teverasan, whose resume reads like a greatest hits list (think 28 HongKong Street, Neon Pigeon, Nutmeg & Clove), the menu channels the spirit of the mogā—Japan’s trailblazing “modern girls” of the Taisho era who defied tradition and embraced a vibrant, independent lifestyle. Every cocktail is a tribute to that same spirit: bold, modern, and unapologetically original.
Small Plates to Kick Things Off
Smashed Batata. Photo © Kyler Teo
MOGĀ’s small bites offer plenty of reasons to linger. The Hokkaido Milk Buns (S$10) arrive warm and fluffy, paired with a side of “seasonal blend” — a dip that reminded us of a dry hummus with pomegranate bits. Not bad, but not the star of the show. The real scene-stealer? The Smashed Batata (S$14). Deep-fried to golden perfection, doused in a sweet honey glaze, and topped with smoky, savoury pancetta, these addictive potatoes disappeared from our table in minutes.
For something lighter, the Truffle Edamame (S$12) hits the spot — seasoned with truffle teriyaki, shichimi, and shio kombu. Just be sure to give it a good toss, as the seasoning tends to settle at the bottom. Finally, the Crispy Squid (S$20) — MOGĀ’s take on the classic calamari — doesn’t miss either, punched up with sansho fish sauce, kizami yuzu, and green chilli for an addictive citrusy kick.
MOGĀ. Photo © Kyler Teo
But the real highlight? The cocktails.
With eight new creations, each one hits that sweet spot: balanced, unexpected, and full of flair. Here’s a taste of what’s shaking:
Strawberry Veil. Photo © Kyler Teo
Starting light, we have the Strawberry Veil (S$25). This gorgeous, blush-pink stunner pairs Hendrick’s Gin and Sloe Gin with juicy strawberry, apricot, clarified milk, and a kiss of carbonation. Light, fruity, and low on intensity. It’s a breezy sip that flirts with your tastebuds without overwhelming them.
Rising Grape. Photo © Kyler Teo
For something playful, step into the Rising Grape (S$25). Picture grape Yakult with a glow-up: muscat, Kyoho grape, aba pisco, lemon, soda, and a little cream, layered into a fizzy, frothy dream. Watch the foam rise tableside — part magic trick, part flex. It’s the drink equivalent of your favourite childhood snack going rogue — and honestly, we’re here for it.
Dirty Saketini. Photo © Kyler Teo
Feeling a little daring? Meet the Dirty Saketini (S$25). Swapping out vodka for a smooth blend of sake and shochu, this house favourite layers mellow rice notes with a briny, umami-rich splash of house-made pickle brine. Personally? Not quite my vibe — the exotic, briny edge might be an acquired taste. But if you’re a pickle lover (or feeling adventurous), you’ll want to dive in.
Sesame & Banana. Photo © Kyler Teo
Then there’s the Sesame & Banana (S$25). This playful riff gives every part of the banana its moment to shine—using black glutinous rice-infused banana peel rum (yes, sustainable and sexy), black sesame, and warm banana foam. The flavours come together for a creamy, nutty hit that’ll make you rethink what a cocktail can be. Comforting, unique, and my favourite of the night.
Clover Club and Porn Star Martini. Photo © Kyler Teo
If you prefer something more familiar, MOGĀ offers classic cocktails that never go out of style. We sampled the Clover Club (S$25) —a mix of Widges Gin, raspberry, lemon, and egg white. While the combination sounded promising, the raspberry flavour didn’t quite hit the mark, veering a bit too much towards a medicinal taste. A rare miss in an otherwise stellar lineup.
On the other hand, the Porn Star Martini (S$25) was a refreshing triumph. With discarded Chardonnay vodka, passionfruit, lime, and a sidecar of bubbles, it delivered a tangy, sharp, and refreshing profile. For those who enjoy their drinks with a sour twist and a bit of sass, this one is sure to satisfy.
Whether you’re craving comfort, heat, or something that’ll mess with your expectations in the best way possible, Breaking the Norm delivers. One sip at a time.
MOGĀ
1 Hill Street, Singapore
Pullman Singapore Hill Street, Level One
Singapore 179949.
