SINGAPORE – A New Trend Brewing

While most Singaporeans would wholeheartedly agree that the finest culinary delights are found within its famed hawker centres, a new trend is brewing: the rise of exceptional craft beers in these humble surroundings.

Meet Manbeer Singh: The Pioneer

Among the pioneers of this creative revolution is Manbeer Singh, a former lawyer who at the age of 41, decided to swap the courtroom for craft brewing, launching his venture, Ren Min, in 2016 at Maxwell Food Centre. With a second stall now established at Old Airport Road Food Centre, Ren Min has quickly become known for its innovative, locally produced craft beers.

Awards and Recognition

What sets Ren Min apart? In 2023, the brewery received accolades from Untappd’s Community Awards, with its Pomelo Haze earning the top spot and Nelson Anthem coming in third in the Pale Ale – New England/Hazy category. Notably, these were among the elite few, as less than 1.65% of 1.5 million rated beers that year received an award.

Pairing with Local Food

“The heart of our operation stems from the desire to pair our craft beers with the finest local food,” Mr. Singh explains. “Hawker culture is an essential aspect of what it means to be Singaporean, and we saw no better venue than a hawker centre to celebrate local identity through our drinks.”

Business Challenges

Choosing to establish his business within a hawker centre was not merely a romantic notion; it proved to be a financially savvy move, requiring significantly less capital compared to a conventional bar or restaurant. However, the transition hasn’t been without its challenges. Mr. Singh humorously reflects on his previous legal career: “I thought, having gone through law school and been a lawyer, nothing could be harder. Then I started doing this and thought, this is way harder.”

Singapore’s Craft Beer Scene

Ren Min is a notable part of Singapore’s vibrant, albeit emerging, craft beer scene, where local breweries face uphill battles against established commercial giants like Tiger Beer. Singh articulates the industry's hurdles, stating, “We aren’t like agricultural nations with a tradition of wineries or distilleries. If we want to foster local identity through our products, we must support our homegrown brands, despite the higher costs.”

Exploring Craft Beer

With a focus on understated flavors, Mr. Singh encourages beer enthusiasts to explore alternatives to the well-known lagers, seeking out the intricate notes offered by craft beers. One of Ren Min’s standout offerings is its Lo-Fi Pils, a West Coast Pilsner priced at $13 a pint. He describes it as possessing a delightful bitterness and smoothness, making it perfect for Singapore’s hot climate. The Jiayou Pale Lager, priced at $12 a pint, is another favorite for those seeking a refreshing option.

Craft or Gimmick?

Despite advocating for craft, Singh expresses skepticism towards the label's buzzword status: “’Craft’ can sometimes feel gimmicky. Always choose a beer that’s well-made with a flavor profile that resonates with you,” he advises.

Top Spots for a Pint

To further engage readers, Mr. Singh shares his top picks for enjoying a pint in Singapore: - **Locality in Changi Road**: This cozy spot run by Dennis feels like home. Singh describes it as an inclusive community hub, perfect for those seeking an authentic local experience. - **Smith Street Taps at Chinatown Food Complex**: Known as the “OGs” of hawker centre bars, they have set the standard for excellent beer in the area. - **Danger Close Beverage at Alexandra Village Food Centre**: Managed by the friendly Calvin, this stall features unique artisanal teas and is located in an underrated hawker centre, which also houses the highly regarded Keng Eng Kee zi char.

Other Beverage Recommendations

When it comes to kicking back with something other than beer, Mr. Singh enjoys visiting Jungle in Ann Siang Hill for a simple gin and tonic paired with excellent Thai cuisine, especially recommending the duck laab.

For Craft Beer Newbies

For those new to craft beer, Mr. Singh suggests Orh Gao Taproom at Serene Centre, which transforms from a local kopitiam by day into a vibrant bar at night. The knowledgeable staff here offer an inviting atmosphere for learning about different beers.

Personal Preferences

Reflecting on his personal preferences, Singh mentions he often opts for a pilsner on hot days or a West Coast pale ale for its punchy bitterness. His admiration for Lion Brewery Co’s offerings highlights how accessible quality beer can be, especially in a cozy pub atmosphere on Club Street.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ren Min exemplifies the exciting intersection of traditional hawker culture and modern craft brewing, proving that Singapore’s best beers may just be found where you least expect them—among the bustling stalls of hawker centres. So, the next time you're exploring the culinary tapestry of Singapore, be sure to seek out these hidden gem bars and indulge in the craft beer revolution that is reshaping the local drinking scene!