Penang Speakeasy – Archipelago George Town
Words: Monica Tindall
Photos: Han Sen Hau
It’s been a trip of revisiting favourites in George Town, so, of course, Archipelago, a Penang speakeasy, is on the list. The charming hidden bar at the back of an antique shop is only accessed by the back door. Walk along Jalan Kampong Kolam and look for the blue door behind some greenery.
Inside, the plants, the sound of the fountain flowing, and the rustic garden benches are magnificent, bathed in natural light. It’s fresh and cool and perfectly meets my preferences for a tipple. A fan of daytime indulgence, casual sipping on craft cocktails in Archipelago’s courtyard is my idea of a very good time.
Penang Speakeasy Menu
Audrey Lim, the mastermind behind this Penang speakeasy, is our cocktail guide, and it’s a fun and informative journey. Sofian is behind the bar, shaking, stirring and pouring beverages that lubricate a very happy afternoon.
Aki
Our entrance, Aki (RM50), hints at tales of espionage with its blend of Roku Gin’s crisp bite, Haku rice vodka’s delicate appeal, and Lillet Blanc’s floral intrigue. Unlike the icy Vesper, a Russian femme fatale, Aki is a Japanese kunoichi, her depths veiled in umeshu’s sweetness and seaweed’s salty secrets. The first sip is a cool wave of juniper and citrus. Then, a hidden dagger – a nori crisp stuffed with fiery wasabi and sweet plum. Aki, like her namesake, may appear serene, but within, a ninja’s fire flickers, waiting to be unleashed.
Enchanté
Eye-catching in a voluptuous red wine glass, the Enchanté (RM 45) packs a punch despite its elegant looks. This cocktail draws inspiration from Netflix’s Emily in Paris, blending Roku Gin and French Wheat Vodka with a pretty mix of blood orange, mango, passionfruit, and lychee. A trio of pink rose buds floats atop the ice, adding a touch of Parisian flair. Bar founder Audrey conceived this fruity concoction while bingeing the series, resulting in a sweet and surprisingly potent flavour profile.
Spices of the Archipelago
We embrace the vibrant history of the Spice Route in a single sip with the Spices of the Archipelago (RM50). Served chilled in a rocks glass, it features aged dark rum infused with the warm, aromatic essence of locally sourced nutmeg. Penang, the bar’s home, boasts centuries-old nutmeg and clove trees, of which we taste the benefit in this drink. The smooth, sweet rum plays well against the nutmeg’s subtle sweetness.
Sarawak Pepper Gin & Tonic
We celebrate the bounty of Sarawak with the Sarawak Pepper Gin & Tonic (RM 45). Handcrafted with gin infused with Sarawak peppercorns, it bursts with the vibrancy of fresh herbs. Local limes add a touch of brightness, while rose and peony linger on the palate. It’s a taste of local terroir in every sip.
Mezcal Negroni
Elevating my favourite cocktail, the Negroni, the Mezcal Negroni (RM 50) introduces a smoky twist with the inclusion of Mezcal alongside the usual Campari, vermouth, and orange peel. The smoky essence enhances the overall character. It’s a complex glass, best savoured slowly and deliberately.
Jungle Bird of Paradise
The tropical profile of the Jungle Bird of Paradise (RM 50) – a mix of dark rum, pineapple-infused rum, Campari, and pineapple – is a hit. This version sticks to the authentic recipe created by Jeffrey Ong, the mind behind Malaysia’s classic Jungle Bird and a Penang local. The “of Paradise” addition simply reminds us that we’re having the classic Jungle Bird but in a paradise-like setting.
Georgetown Mule
Lastly, Penang’s heat is tempered with the Georgetown Mule (RM 45), a local twist on the classic. Think spicy-sweet Penang ginger beer, zippy vodka, and just the right squeeze of fresh lime and sweet, salty, tangy assam boi, all chillin’ in a rocks glass. It’s a perfect afternoon refresher.
Archipelago Review
Archipelago isn’t just a speakeasy in Penang; it’s a portal to a hidden world of flavour, connection, and island charm. So, find the blue door and raise a glass to the creative crew behind the bar and the lovely Audrey Lim, who makes it all happen.
Reasons to visit Archipelago Penang: a charming speakeasy in the heart of old Penang; I highly recommend coming at 5 pm to take advantage of the lovely natural light from the skylight; come for pre-dinner drinks, have dinner, and then return for a nightcap.
Archipelago Penang Speakeasy
Backyard 114 Armenian Street, George Town
*Enter via the back blue door on Jalan Kampong Kolam
10200 Penang Island, Malaysia
www.facebook.com/Archipelago
Opening Hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 5 pm-midnight
+60 12-431 1013
[email protected]
*If you want to be guaranteed a table, it’s better to reserve a spot on the weekends. However, walk-ins are also welcome.
Find more recommendations for travel to Penang here and stay up to date with the latest gourmet happenings around Malaysia here and here.