Because how else are you getting through the parties if not in a hazy stupor?
#1 Lido Bar
Lido might be only a month old but it’s already the talk of the town. It’s not hard to see why. Situated atop Alila Bangsar, the bar offers an unobstructed view of the neighbourhoods, the connecting lines and twinkling city lights of Kuala Lumpur. The ‘relaxed luxury’ vibe of the place is thanks to the team behind Pacific Standard Bar. Lido offers craft cocktails, spritz, tonics, wine and spirits.
Find it here: Level 42, 58, Jalan Ang Seng, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
#2 BarTailor
BarTailor is where two of the best things come together: fashion and libations. The new speakeasy is separated into two levels, the bar is located downstairs while the floor above is where the tailoring magic happens (via appointment only). Its interiors also echo luxury – think giant mural of a half-dressed woman, eclectic furniture and a tall Instagram-worthy shelf of liquor.
Find it here: 42-A Jalan SS20/10, Damansara Kim, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
Read also: 5 more Kuala Lumpur bars for the best night out
#3 Oenophilia
Oenophilia is a – there’s no other words for it – hidden gem located smack in the middle of Petaling Jaya. It’s a chill space suitable for date nights, casual catch up sessions and even a night out on your own. The bar’s menu is perfect for those who are looking for a drink but not keen on overspending. The basic cocktail blends start from RM6 at 6pm, RM7 at 7pm and so on until it caps at RM12. If you’d like something a bit more complex, premium cocktails start at RM35. Of course, the bar wouldn’t get its name without a great house pour of Chilean wine that comes at RM52 per bottle.
Find it here: 48-1, Jalan SS 2/24, SS2, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
#4 Iki_Ya
The space here might look familiar to some as it used to be Bar Kinugawa. Now helmed by Haruki Fujikawa, who runs a logistic company during the day and the bar at night, Iki_Ya is a cosy spot decorated with plants, giving it a more zen and intimate vibe. The selection here features Japanese gin, and sake-based cocktails. Bar bites include smoked quail eggs, smoked cheese and smoked endamame.
Find it here: F-12, First Floor, Empire Damansara, Damansara Perdana
Read also: The best restaurants and bars for date night in Bangkok
#5 Soma Cocktail Bar
TTDI’s latest watering hole is one to keep on your list as its cocktail menu consists of interesting sounding concoctions. You might like the sound of New York’s Waldorf Astoria –apricot liqueur with sloe gin –and if you’re a classic cocktail kind of person, you’d enjoy the Bloody Mary that’s turned up a notch with Parmesan cheese, infused with vodka. Its interiors are also a sight for sore eyes, especially if you’ve been hunching over the computer at work all day – think rustic, and cosy with lots of space to move around.
Find it here: 145A, First Floor, Jalan Aminuddin Baki, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Words by Verinia Khoo
