Nightlife in Klang Valley has always been hip and happening, as we have an abundance of watering holes to choose from at the end of a long week at work. But recently, thirsty folks have been treated to a new trend in watering holes in the form of glamorous and sophisticated speakeasies that are mushrooming quickly all over Klang Valley.
These hidden, tucked away bars are meant to be kept hidden, and to create an exclusive atmosphere, reminiscent of the prohibition era in the USA. Discover these charming speakeasies that make enjoying a drink or two (or more!) an even more delightful experience.
1. The Vault KL
Source: TimeOut
Serving a specially curated menu of tipples that will impress even the most picky drinker, the Vault certainly aims to leave behind a lasting impression and they do not disappoint. Coupled with decor that will instantly transport you to the medieval era, you can see why so many people love this spot.
Source: Vault KL
Tip: Keep a lookout for their entrance up a stairway, then through a vault-like door (naturally!).
Address: 5, Jalan Sri Hartamas 7, Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
2. The Pawn Room
Source: EatDrink KL
Relatively new to the scene, this speakeasy’s decor is infused with old-world Oriental charm, that is similar to Shanghai back in the 1920s. In fact, the bar is meant to be decorated like a grand old Chinese pawn shop, hence the name.
Source: Fah Thai Magazine
Source: Burpple
Tip: Look for the quiet stair case located next to DC Restaurant, and then the antique iron gate and Chinese herbal cabinet facade.
Address: 46b, Second Floor, Persiaran Zaaba, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur.
3. P&C Cocktail Bar
Source: TimeOut
One might be fooled into thinking that P&C stands for private and confidential but it actually means something else altogether. You get a clue to the name with the cat and rooster emblem at its entrance!
Don’t be surprised that this speakeasy doesn’t have a menu because they use the omakase concept to operate. Their decor incorporates the mobster era of nearly a century ago with old-fashioned pictures of Al Capone and the Prohibition era hanging around.
Source: Eat Drink KL
Source: Mens Folio
Tip: Look behind Desa Sri Hartamas’ Naughty Nuri’s for a wooden entrance.
Address: 2, Ground Floor. 24/70A, 50480 Desa Sri Hartamas Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
4. The Berlin, KL
Source: Eat Drink KL
Always wanted to travel to Germany’s capital but don’t have the budget? Then head over to the the speakeasy that mirrors the edginess of Berlin for a whole new cultural experience while sipping on your yummy cocktails.
Source: TimeOut
Source: Trip Advisor
Tip: The red door beside 7-Eleven.
Address: 208, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
5. Suzie Wong
Source: VMO
East meets West in this bar that is inspired by the early 1950s Chinese aesthetics of old Lan Kwai Fong in Hong Kong. Serving all kinds of unique cocktails here, this place is definitely a good place for discerning drinkers.
Source: VMO
Source: Eat Drink KL
Tip: Make your way through the building and head for the side entrance which will lead you to an unassuming wonton noodle stall.
Address: Basement, Wisma Lim Foo Yoong, Jalan Raja Chulan, 50350 Kuala Lumpur,
6. Skullduggery
Source: Eat Drink KL
With a name like this, you’d expect to find many skulls in the place and you would have guessed right!
Furnished with vintage cushioned seats, the place has a unique mix of elegance and mischief. But don’t be fooled by the sophisticated vibes as they often play the sickest beats in town!
Tip: Find the alleyway behind Huckleberry.
Address: 2M Plaza Damansara, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
7. Tate
Source: Kuala Lumpur
This bar located inside the Intermark hotel is reminiscences of private gentlemen’s clubs so the fixtures are all masculine yet classy. They even have a suit of armour standing guard in the bar!
Source: TimeOut
Tip: The entrance looks exactly like it’s part of the wall as there are no markings, but the cute little top hat hanging right before the entrance gives you a little clue!
Address: Ground floor, The Intermark, 182 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 KL, 50400, Malaysia
8. barAtas
Source: Eat Drink KL
Influenced heavily by Malaysian vibes, this cocktail bar showcases an eclectic mix of the fun and quirky decor. Be prepared to be hit by the nostalgic vibes of an old-timey Malayan atmosphere. Even the delicious drinks and food here are not spared as almost every item on the menu is given a local twist.
Tip: Look for the bar snuggled on the first floor of Jalan Telawi’s happening street.
Address: 3-1, Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
9. Crime Cocktail Bar
Source: Eat Drink KL
Probably one of the most well-kept hidden bars in the city, stepping into Crime Cocktail Bar will make you feel like you have stepped into a mob scene. Sample the daring cocktails prepared by the mixologists there for a night you won’t forget.
Tip: Go over to Crave Oysters and Seafood first and ask the staff there for the code to access the hidden doors at the side of the restaurant.Address: E-1-09, Electric Boulevard, TREC, Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur.
10. Anno Domini Bar
Source: UPPRE
Always wanted to travel back in time to the Middle Ages and try out a bona fide tavern? You will be glad to know that AD Bar offers dark and mysterious settings for you to enjoy your cocktail specially crafted by the team of skillful bartenders.
Source: Eat Drink KL
Tip: Walk up the stairs (next to Variante) pass the fake door.
Address: 21A, Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
11. The Locker and Loft
Source: thirstmag
There is no signboard for this rustic and quirky establishment that serves delicious bites and artisanal cocktails. The rusted looking entrance lends a certain rugged charm to the environment when paired with the raw elegance of the decor inside.
Source: Eat Drink KL
Tip: Check behind an unassuming locker door.
Address: 40A, Jalan SS 20/10, Jalan Damansara, Damansara Kim, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Also read: 7 Amazing Bars You MUST Not Miss in Kuala Lumpur
