Best Bars in Kuala Lumpur 2023
KL’s nightlife thrums long after the Petronas Towers dim, with hidden speakeasies and sky-high sanctuaries rewriting the rulebook on cocktails. Forget generic – we’re talking alchemy in alleyways, craft concoctions with dizzying views, and dens dripping with speakeasy charm. Here’s a list of the best bars we visited in Kuala Lumpur in 2023:
Best Bars in Kuala Lumpur 2023
Reasons to visit Rahsia Speakeasy Bar: Proper craft cocktails at affordable prices; excellent cocktail menu with a wide variety of flavour profiles, special ingredients and signature touches; great bar snacks and main courses that are good for sharing; relaxed, comfortable space suitable for groups or couples.
Reasons to visit Vér – The Bar at Nadodi KL: expertly executed in style and substance, this is a brilliant new addition to the KL bar scene. The added experience of South Indian history and memories is a lovely touch shared with genuine passion by the warm and friendly staff. The drinks are balanced and unique without being too showy – plus, any chance to win a game and have a free shot is always a plus! Whether you’re lucky enough to have a reservation at Nadodi next door or not, Vér – The Bar at Nadodi KL will add something special to your night out.
Reasons to visit The Cock’s Tail Bar KL: a fun find with the thrill of the chase thanks to its entrance through a side door down a back alley; good place to sip and chat with upbeat music that fills in the background rather than competing with conversation; Mon’s top pick is the Cock’s Tail Martini; Han Sen was rather partial to the Hi! Bis Mezcal; and Syarool appreciated the sweet tropical flavours of the Flamingo.
Reasons to visit the cocktail bar in Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur: this superlative bar never rests on its laurels, which is why year after year it amasses more accolades and awards for its creativity and commitment to excellence. That alone would be enough to visit, although once you realise that you can participate in the incredible local honey tasting, hear the stories of the origins of ingredients for each drink and begin to work your way through the thoughtful menu in gorgeous surrounds, you will find yourself returning time and time happily again. Oh, and Monica loved loved loved the Kunyit Royale.
Reasons to visit Vertigo TOO: highest rooftop bar in Kuala Lumpur, with unbroken panoramic views; Instagram-friendly handmade cocktails with local ingredients; luxury bar snacks; great atmosphere and service.
Reasons to visit Rimbar KL: it’s a fun and relaxed vibe with fantastic staff and a delicious menu. There are multiple events and deals every week, so check out their socials and embark on your own ‘camping’ adventure soon – just remember to stay well hydrated.
Reasons to visit Conti’: creative, spirit-forward cocktail menu; excellent sourdough pizzas; unpretentious hangout spot in Taman Desa that’s great for a laid-back date night or small gathering; an enthusiastic welcome from the team in charge!
Reasons to visit Sanctuary 38: stylish-but-unpretentious hangout spot in Sri Hartamas; creative and classic cocktails with innovative ingredients; pet-friendly; generous gin-based Happy Hour with house infusions; a spacious balcony area for bigger groups; bring your own food or order from a choice of nearby restaurants; clever alcoholic desserts.
Reasons to visit Gekko: unique modern touch on classic Japanese sushi and sashimi dishes; incredible house-infused liquor used in excellent cocktails; a friendly welcome from the co-founders and staff.
Reasons to try Spotlight Menu 4.0 – Unseen Beauty at Reka:Bar: the vibe is chill and cool, the staff are excellent storytellers who take great pride in their creations and discoveries, and the final results are all delicious. A percentage of the profits are donated to a local refugee organisation. A celebration of unsung heroes who keep the country running.
Reasons to visit Bar Micro: cool, speakeasy vibe, gorgeous professionally mixed cocktails, fabulous mixologist and friendly owners and staff. We had such a good time that we didn’t want to leave, so we lounged on the comfy sofas enjoying the upbeat soundtracks- just speaking easy.
Reasons to visit Wedge Golf Lounge & Bar: Full Swing simulators (it’s a good sign if Tiger Woods uses it as well); Handprint (making our planet green again); MyPizzaLab pizzas (pizzas with a twist); Tap Tap (cocktails in a can); some great sustainable wines from Vyne; a boutique setting that’s light, bright and attractive enough even without the golf.
Reasons to visit Remedy Cocktail Bar: classic and modern cocktails done well alongside a well-crafted signature menu; excellent service in a feel-good atmosphere; good food options thanks to Habanna downstairs; hidden neighbourhood gem with a great happy hour!
Reasons to visit The Diamond Black: unique Negroni-forward cocktail menu with clever combinations and inspired interpretations of traditional drinks; elegant, classic setting with comfortable seating and a warm ambience; attentive service; great bar menu with European tapas favourites and indulgent small plates.
Reasons to visit BAC and Pablo’s Tacos: awesome energy and atmosphere; fantastic bar team and great service; creative highball menu with some clever cocktail-based touches; and now, Pablo’s tacos!
Reasons to visit Yokai TTDI: Stunning, stylish Japanese classic-and-contemporary design; creative cocktails with premium liquor; top-shelf, limited-edition Japanese spirits; outstanding teppanyaki experience; fusion food menu with some high-end touches; awesome private rooms.
Reasons to visit Taps Beer Bar Bukit Bintang: the best selection of craft beers in Malaysia; unique international ales on rotation; great service; the laid-back atmosphere in the heart of Bukit Bintang; decent bar food; live music program.
Reasons to visit Triptyk Bar: great variety of zero-proof alcohol; low ABV cocktails; heritage setting; a fun find down a back alley.
Reasons to visit Tickets KL Bar: an exceptionally-crafted gin menu with unique distillations, interpretations of classic cocktails, and incredibly creative signatures; a cosy, comfortable, vintage atmosphere in the true speakeasy fashion; expert bartenders and great service; a rewarding evening out, full of interesting touches and clever flavour combinations.
Find more KL bar recommendations here, and stay up-to-date on the latest gourmet and travel happenings around Malaysia here and here.