In a city that is constantly tearing down the old to build the new, finding a place like Colbar feels like discovering a glitch in the matrix. Hidden away in the lush greenery of Wessex Estate, this legendary eatery offers a rare slice of Singapore’s colonial past.
Short for “Colonial Bar,” Colbar is more than just a restaurant; it is a time capsule. Originally a canteen for the British Army, it has survived decades of change to serve old school Western food with nostalgic vibes to a new generation.
If you are tired of polished shopping mall dining and air-conditioned sterility, Colbar is your escape. Here, the floors are concrete, the walls are timber, and the air conditioning is provided by nature and a few rattling ceiling fans.
This review guides you through the history, the massive menu, and the unique charm that keeps locals coming back to this rustic hideaway.
To understand why Colbar is so beloved, you have to look at its origins. It wasn’t designed to be a hipster café; it was built for utility and community.
Established in 1953 by a Mr. Lim, Colbar served as a canteen for the old British Army barracks. It was originally located at Jalan Hang Jebat, catering to soldiers who wanted a taste of home or a cold beer after duty.
The name “Colbar” is a simple contraction of “Colonial Bar,” a nod to its primary clientele during the pre-independence era. For decades, it was the unofficial mess hall where soldiers and locals mingled.
In 2003, Colbar faced a crisis common in Singapore: redevelopment. The construction of a semi-expressway threatened to demolish the historic site. However, the public outcry and historical significance led to a rare intervention.
The Jurong Town Corporation (JTC), along with the URA, stepped in to save it. In a remarkable feat of preservation, the original building was carefully dismantled.
It was then rebuilt piece-by-piece at its current location at 9A Whitchurch Road. Today, the structure you see is the original timber skeleton, preserving the authentic soul of the 1950s.
Walking into Colbar feels like stepping onto a movie set of 1960s Singapore. The location in Wessex Estate is surrounded by black-and-white colonial bungalows and massive rain trees.
There is no glass, no automatic doors, and definitely no air-conditioning. The dining area is open-air, shielded by a high tin roof and cooled by ceiling fans.
It evokes a strong “kampung spirit.” The furniture is simple—mismatched tables and plastic chairs that invite you to sit back and relax. It is unpretentious and unapologetically old-school.
Note on Comfort: Because it is open-air, it can get warm during lunch hours. Dress lightly and be prepared for the natural humidity of the tropics.
One of Colbar’s biggest draws is its pet-friendly policy. The spacious outdoor setting makes it one of the best spots in the West for dog owners.
On any given weekend, you will see golden retrievers and local specials lounging under the tables while their owners enjoy a cold cider. It is a community gathering spot where the pace of life slows down significantly.
The menu at Colbar is legendary, not just for the food but for its sheer size. It features approximately 130 to 140 items, ranging from British pub grub to local Singaporean favorites.
The cuisine is best described as Hainanese-Western—a unique culinary style developed by Hainanese chefs who cooked for the British colonial forces.
While the food isn’t gourmet, it is hearty and comforting. Here are a few items you should consider:
The Fish & Chips Verdict:
The Fish and Chips ($12 approx) is a standard order. Note that it is served with calamansi rather than lemon, and they generally do not provide tartar sauce. It’s a localized version that some love and purists question.
If you aren’t in the mood for Western food, the kitchen handles the wok just as well.
Ironically, for such an old-school place, Colbar boasts a very modern selection of alcohol.
The vintage display fridges are stocked with an impressive array of craft beers and ciders from the UK and beyond. From Old Speckled Hen to niche IPAs, it’s a beer lover’s paradise disguised as a canteen.
| Dish Category | Typical Price Range | Popular Item |
| Western Mains | $12 – $30 | Chicken Merry Land, Sirloin Steak |
| Local Dishes | $7 – $15 | Hainanese Pork Chop, Hor Fun |
| Breakfast | $10 – $16 | Sausage, Eggs & Chips |
| Drinks | $8 – $15 | Craft Beers, British Ciders |
Colbar is charming, but it operates on its own rules. To avoid disappointment or frustration, keep these logistical tips in mind.
This is the most critical rule. Colbar does not accept credit cards, NETS, or PayNow.
There is no ATM nearby. You must bring sufficient cash with you. If you forget, you will have to trek a long way back to the nearest mall to withdraw money.
Don’t wait to be served at the table. You need to walk up to the counter to place your order.
Often, the staff will write your order on a notepad and tally the bill mentally. It’s part of the rustic charm, so be patient if things take a little longer than a fast-food joint.
Is Colbar Halal-certified?
No, Colbar is not Halal-certified. They serve pork dishes (like the pork chop and bacon) and have a heavy focus on alcoholic beverages.
Is Colbar dog-friendly?
Yes, extremely. The outdoor seating area is open and spacious, making it very popular for dog owners. Your furry friends are welcome to sit with you at the outdoor tables.
Is there air-conditioning at Colbar?
No. The entire establishment is open-air/alfresco. It relies on natural breeze and ceiling fans. It is best to dress in light, breathable clothing.
What are the opening hours?
Colbar is generally open Tuesday to Sunday from roughly 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM. They are usually closed on Mondays.
Colbar isn’t trying to win Michelin stars, and it isn’t trying to be Instagram-perfect. That is exactly why it is so special.
It is one of the last remaining places in Singapore where you can truly feel the history of the island. The combination of Colbar: old school Western food with nostalgic vibes, a cold craft beer, and the sound of cicadas in the trees is an experience you cannot replicate in a shopping mall.
Whether you are a history buff, a dog lover, or just someone looking for a quiet corner to escape the city, Colbar is worth the journey.
