Most of us know what it’s like to be overwhelmed by life – after all, adulting is never something we can get used to. That’s when we head to our third spaces, spots where we can relax and wind down, whether that’s a bar, cafe, or even the gym.
And who knows – this might just become your new favourite third space. Local menswear brand Benjamin Barker has just launched its retail, cafe, and community concept – Benjamin Barker Recreational Club – at Orchard Cineleisure. So if you’re interested in live vinyl sessions or fusion cuisine, scroll down to find out more.
Image credit: Benjamin Barker
Benjamin Barker Recreational Club is a 2-storey space that invites you to dine, shop, and make new friends along the way. There’s a cosy retro-themed cafe area on the 1st floor, and a retail area on the 2nd floor where you can get your hands on pre-loved goods.
But the icing on top is the ambience. Step in and you’ll notice design cues inspired by Scandinavian and European influences, such as warm woody tones, minimalist furniture, and clean backdrops. It all comes together to give you that comforting third space feeling the moment you walk in.
Image adapted from: Benjamin Barker
The cafe’s menu draws influence from a mix of Western and Eastern flavours, so you’ll get a good mix of familiar comfort food and fun twists. Try their B Supreme+ ($25), which includes a 180g Wagyu beef patty in a classic cheeseburger-style dish, or go for the You Polognese Mian ($23), a spicy bolognese served with traditional Chinese Dao Xiao Mian in place of pasta.
For a sweet palette cleanser, order their Biscoff Rush ($8.50) drink from the Cloud Series – it’s a creamy espresso drink with a caramel touch from the crunchy Biscoff bits.
Image adapted from: Benjamin Barker
FYI – Benjamin Barker Recreational Club also collaborates with local running clubs to organise meetups, so if you’re a fitness enthusiast, this could be a fun checkpoint for you and your running buddies.
The communal vibes continue with live vinyl sessions, daytime parties, and casual hangouts with friends or anyone you happen to meet there.
There’s even a vinyl and analogue corner to set the mood, with vintage equipment like 70s-style JBL 4344 speakers and a Macintosh MC7270 amplifier.
Image credit: Benjamin Barker
Now we’re down to the most iconic section of the Benjamin Barker Recreational Club – Level 2 features a retail and lifestyle space to shop for pre-loved clothing. Items range from everyday wear like Oxford shirts and varsity knits to activewear like running kits, as well as performance tech polos and tees.
Image adapted from: @bbrc.cafe via Instagram
Benjamin Barker Recreational Club Cafe is also running an ongoing promotion on weekdays, including an Iced Black priced at only $3.50, available from 2pm to 5pm, and a 3-course set meal ($9.90), available from 11am to 5pm.
You can choose 1 out of 3 mains for your 3-course set meal: Bulgogi Pork Rib Pasta, Chargrilled Sirloin Steak with Fries, or Crispy Chicken with Japanese Black Curry. Each main dish is served with a side of salad and gyoza.
There’s no doubt that anywhere can be your third space as long as it gives you a break from reality, and Benjamin Barker Recreational Club is a new contender for your list. It’s just a short 5-minute walk from Somerset MRT Station, making it convenient to swing by to unwind with your friends, grab some drinks, or shop till you drop.
Read our other articles on more places to visit:
Cover image adapted from: Benjamin Barker
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