What makes a cocktail memorable? Is it the craftsmanship, the story behind it, or the flavours that transport you to distant lands? As we sipped through all 16 cocktails from Jungle Ballroom’s Jungle Journeys Vol.2 series, these questions lingered in our minds—and on our taste buds. The event marked the grand finale of the Jungle Journeys Vol. 2 series, an immersive cocktail menu that took guests on a flavour-packed adventure across Asia, ending on a high note that left us wanting more.
The New Jungle Ballroom Cocktails – A Sensory Journey through Asia
Launched to much fanfare, the Jungle Journeys Vol.2 series at Jungle Ballroom, Mondrian Singapore Duxton, has been a celebration of Asia’s rich and diverse cocktail culture. The concept behind these 16 cocktails is simple yet profound: each drink tells a story. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene rice fields of Okinawa, these cocktails embody the flavours and heritage of 11 Asian countries, transporting guests on a sensory journey unlike any other.
The new Jungle Ballroom cocktails were not just about innovation—they were a tribute to local flavours and often-overlooked spirits. At the heart of this series is an ethos of exploration. Jungle Ballroom’s Manager, Adrian Besa, and Assistant Bar Manager, Akmal Haqim, travelled far and wide, immersing themselves in local mixology cultures. As Besa shared, “Our goal was to pay tribute to the local flavours and cultures and the artisans who craft these exceptional spirits.”
A Farewell to Jungle Journeys Vol.2
The finale event was more than just a showcase—it was a celebration. Attendees, from media guests to long-time patrons, were treated to all 16 of the Jungle Journeys Vol. 2 cocktails. Each one is a masterpiece in its own right. As we navigated through the evening, from the almond-infused richness of The Dragon to the refreshing oceanic tones of Blue Ocean, it became clear that this was no ordinary cocktail menu. It was an experience—a quest, even—capturing the very essence of Asia’s mixology scene.
One of the standout creations was Ube, a decadent cocktail inspired by Adrian’s hometown in the Philippines. Drawing from the traditional purple yam desserts of Pampanga, this cocktail combined Ube Cream Liqueur, Belvedere Vodka, jackfruit, and coconut cream into a sweet, velvety drink that felt more like a dessert than a cocktail. Each sip was a delightful nod to the Philippines’ rich culinary tradition.
Why Jungle Journeys Vol.2 Was More Than a Cocktail Menu
It wasn’t just the cocktails that made Jungle Journeys Vol.2 stand out; it was also the philosophy behind them. Besa and Haqim went beyond simply creating drinks. Their travels took them to local bars and distilleries across Asia. Everywhere they went, they worked alongside artisans to curate indigenous ingredients and create something truly unique. “This is not just a cocktail menu,” Haqim explained. “It’s a showcase of the richness of Asian flavours and our mission to bring the very best of these exceptional Asian spirits to Singapore.”
The new Jungle Ballroom cocktails push the boundaries of mixology. Take, for instance, The Dragon, a twist on the classic Amaretto Sour. Inspired by a guest shift in Macau, it features Johnnie Walker Gold, almond, and custard—an homage to the region’s famous almond cookies. Served in a pony glass with a caramelised almond crisp, it was the perfect balance of sweet and nutty.
What’s Next for Jungle Ballroom?
As we toasted to the end of Jungle Journeys Vol. 2, one thing was clear: Jungle Ballroom’s quest for flavour is far from over. Their commitment to exploring Asia’s rich cocktail scene continues to inspire. The finale may have marked the end of this chapter, but we can only imagine what lies ahead.
For now, we say goodbye to Jungle Journeys Vol. 2, a cocktail series that elevated Singapore’s cocktail scene to new heights. And for those who missed it, don’t worry—there’s always a new adventure around the corner at Jungle Ballroom.
Are you ready to embark on your next cocktail journey?