With a rise in daytime parties, people taking up pickleball, and more folks choosing IRL hangs over doomscrolling, it’s clear we’re all craving more human connection these days. And yes, that includes visiting male host clubs in Singapore.
So whether you’re curious, have thought about going, or just want to know what the hype is all about, here’s the lowdown on this nightlife scene.
Image credit: Gentleman Club (boys club) via Google Maps
Originating from Japan, host clubs are drinking and entertainment venues where male staff serve and charm mostly female customers. Sometimes playing a boyfriend persona, they also provide attentive services that focus on emotional and social interactions, such as flirting while drinking with them.
Unlike clubbing or matchmaking services, male host clubs focus on providing a paid customer experience rather than an unplanned, casual get-to-know-you experience or one for romantic reasons. Think of it as money well spent, where you’re guaranteed a good time with attractive individuals, without the risk of a date going sideways.
In some ways, they sit somewhere between Thai discos and karaoke joints. Some male host clubs offer garland-buying services, where customers can buy garlands as a form of gratuity for the hosts, typically for service from a specific host. And like karaoke, some male host clubs have private KTV rooms where you can sing with the hosts.
No, male host clubs are open to everyone over 18, from aunties to NSFs.
Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: kt Leung
Most of the patrons of male host clubs in Singapore are often looking for an emotional outlet or companionship. Whether they need a listening ear or are looking for flattering or flirtatious conversations, it’s the hosts’ job to provide that service. Of course, it is non-sexual, so don’t touch places you shouldn’t.
Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: foto DIAL via Unsplash
Some hosts are trained in singing and dancing on stage. Think of it as a karaoke session with live performances. And if you’re feeling a little shy about grabbing the mic, they’ll even sing with you so you’re not left hanging. For the ballers, you can also pay for a private karaoke room with a host to sing with you and your friends.
Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: John Arano via Unsplash
As with most bars and clubs, the hosts at male host clubs will join the fun and play drinking games with customers to break the ice. Typically, you’ll be drinking with the host who serves you. If you want an additional host, you might be required to pay an extra fee.
Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Nicole Ang
Playing the role of the “boyfriend”, many might think that they will pay for drinks, but no. You’ll actually need to buy the drinks, and the host who serves and drinks with you will also earn a commission on alcohol sales. So, keep your budget in check before your wallet starts crying.
Image for illustrative purposes only.
Image credit: Adhitya Sibikumar via Unsplash
No, male host clubs do not provide any sleazy or sexual services. Their main service is to keep the customer happy and feeling good about themselves through emotional intimacy or having someone to talk, sing, and drink with.
Throughout the night, you’ll get a chance to interact with different hosts. Of course, if you prefer chatting with a specific individual or a few of them, you can. This typically comes with purchasing a few extra drinks or garlands along the way.
Due to the negative stigma that still surrounds male host clubs, most of them stay lowkey and rely on word of mouth. The Gentleman Club is one of the few clubs with an active online presence. It has over 20 private lounges and around 50 hosts to keep you entertained. Each private lounge even comes with a karaoke setup with an array of songs for you to choose from.
Screenshot from: @clubm0101 via Instagram
Club M is another male host club that has been popping up on social media. But instead of having an active social media page, they work with content creators to showcase the space and some of the male hosts. However, Club M recently made the news when a customer was allegedly pressured into spending $12,000 in a single night, but whether you decide to check it out or give it a pass is up to you.
Address: 69/71 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058699
Different clubs have different prices. At Club M, you would need to pay a room-fee ($60), garlands (min. $200/host) – with garland-hanging happening every 2 hours between 10pm and 4am, and drinks. There isn’t a menu from Club M that is readily available, but at the Gentleman Club, you can get a beer tower ($138) or a bottle of Martell XO ($1528).
A tip for first-timers is to respect the male hosts. It might feel that they are giving mixed signals because they might shower you with compliments and not ask you out, but it is part of the job. You shouldn’t expect to leave with someone, but just enjoy the experience and company.
Drinks, garlands, and private room time can add up quickly. Decide what you’re comfortable spending and set a budget so you don’t get caught off guard.
It’s the lack of understanding that makes male host clubs frown upon by the general public. It’s still a job, and the hosts have professional boundaries to ensure that the customers leave satisfied. If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or you’ve had enough of bare-minimum men, visit a male host club with an open mind, and you might actually enjoy the experience.
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Cover image adapted from: John Arano, Adhitya Sibikumar via Unsplash
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