Kuala Lumpur nightlife has taken on a new form, a speakeasy bar. The speakeasy bar is an establishment that is meant NOT to be found, instead stumbled upon by those looking for something a little underground, secluded and discreet, or a drinking establishment that is only whispered about by those in the know. Originally set up during the prohibition era, speakeasy bars were a way of saying, ‘Hey, we hear your rules, but we are out to have fun anyway.
- TATE AT THE INTERMARK
Probably one of the very first speakeasy bars to set the scene here in Kuala Lumpur, Tate is a well-established and pretty exclusive drinking retreat. It is also being home to some seriously classy cocktails and a cool gentleman’s club ambiance. Expect to lounge in leather armchairs as you shut yourself away with wooden paneling surrounds and socialize with friends over a cigar and a stiff drink in cozily lit corners.
Address: Ground floor, The Intermark, 182 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 KL, 50400, Malaysia
- OMAKASE + APPRECIATE
Brainchild of Shawn Chong and Karl Too, Omakase + Appreciate really is a tricky place to find. If you manage to spot which drying cupboard door it is in the basement of a really well-known building near Masjid Jamek, then you must have found a door to a little piece of sacred heaven. The barmen are quite friendly, the drinks are flowing and the cocktails change in every two weeks, masterminded by Shawn and Karl themselves.
Address: Ampang Bangunan Ming Annexe, Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- MR BROOKS
Consistently being pitched as a gentleman’s club, but actually regularly frequented by both men and women, Mr Brooks is a cool, urban charm, and another noticeably subtle drinking den. Hip decor, packed with uniquely named cocktails, mirrored walls and cozy corners turn this into an ideal establishment for spending a few hours out and behind much closed doors.
Address: Level 3, Bangsar Shopping Centre, Jalan Maarof, Bukit Bandaraya, Kuala Lumpur 59000
- BARLAI
Burrowed away in between the design pleasure of Sekeping Sin Chew Kee, Barlai feels hidden and it feels like it got a bit of privilege in order to know where it is. No signs, plus no loud noise, no pointers, just an modest refurbished building with some hip understated design, comforting sofas, al fresco feel spots and a rather quite homely atmosphere.
Address: 3, Jalan Sin Chew Kee, Bukit Bintang, 50150 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- WHISKY, TANGO, FOXTROT AT AVENUE K
A den for cigar devotees and any self-respecting whisky lovers, owing to the extensive collection of some of the finest cigars in Kuala Lumpur and a huge range of imported whisky, including the all legendary ‘Nikka’ whisky. Under the instruction of Jazz, you will be given briefing on the best cigar for you, and probably some useful tips on the different types of whisky.
Address: 128, Jalan Kasah, Medan Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
