As one of the oldest alcoholic beverages in Korea , the history of makgeolli is rooted in the idea of companionship—from farmers sharing their sorrows over cups of the sweet yet piquant beverage during the monsoon season to celebratory toasts at dinner with family and friends. This deep human connection is the premise behind Odem. Nestled right in the heart of New Bahru, Odem is the first makgeolli bar in Singapore.

In its intimate display of Korean cuisine and culture, the restaurant seamlessly melds the contemporary and traditional. While some may think that makgeolli is a humble, easy-to-make rice wine, Odem reveals the true craftsmanship that goes into the beverage. Here, instead of the mass-manufactured bottles found commonly in supermarkets, you’ll get to discover the world of artisanal makgeolli .

Hand-brewed in small batches and characterised by its use of local fruits, flowers and the finest quality of Korean rice—along with the absence of any preservatives—craft makgeolli boasts a wide diversity of flavours and nuanced expressions. At Odem, diners will find a wide selection of over 30 labels of hard-to-find, artisanal makgeolli , sourced carefully from a curated list of independent breweries in Korea. Enter the modern, beautifully-designed space and you’ll be greeted by a myriad of bottles to choose from—offering a wide range of flavours, colour and texture.

To guide you along, the menu details the breweries’ background and the ingredients poured into .