This round’s on us — here are the best spots to start, or end, the night in Kuala Lumpur. From alcoholic tau huay to a gin-infused Pei Pa Koa concoction, there’s a cocktail for everyone on this list.

There’s something about Kuala Lumpur that makes the Malaysian capital incredibly alluring. Perhaps it’s the excitement of eating at any roadside store and knowing it’s gonna be good or turning the corner and discovering a brand new speakeasy that completely juxtaposes its gritty surroundings. Regardless, that’s what these best cocktail bars in KL have managed to encapsulate in both their offerings as well as their brick-and-mortars time and time again. So if you’re planning to take a weekend off in the bustling enclave of Selangor, this guide’s for you. 

1. Pahit

Image credits: Pahit

Bathed in warm lighting, this cosy cocktail bar on Jalan Sin Chew Kee is not just for gin connoisseurs. When a bar announces a sole focus on a single spirit, it’s natural to assume that it’ll cater to acquired tastes — and while it does, Pahit has also made sure to become an inclusive space for newcomers with its delicious range of easy-to-drink sous vide fruit-infused gin and tonics which are frankly to-die-for. 

Address: 3, Jln Sin Chew Kee, Bukit Bintang, 50150 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 3 pm to 1 am, Tuesdays to Fridays, 5 pm to 1 am. Closed on Mondays. 

Find out more about the best cocktail bars in KL here. 

2. Coley

Image credits: Design Anthology

Loved Pahit? Then you’re bound to adore this gorgeous bar in Bangsar that’s perfect for small groups or dates. Helmed by the same folks behind Pahit, Coley is an experimental cocktail joint affectionately named after the famed mixologist Ada Coleman. Pricing might seem a little steep here, but, for the quality you get, it’s well worth it — especially if you order their Gin & Coconut that comes in a pretty generous-sized mug. 

Address: 6-G, Jalan Abdullah, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 5 pm to 1 am. Closed on Sundays.

Find out more about the best cocktail bars in KL here.

3. Soma Cocktail Bar

Image credits: Soma Cocktail Bar

Okay, do us a favour for a second and think about your favourite childhood dessert. Now, imagine that sweet treat doused in a happy helping of alcohol. Yum. Well, that’s exactly what Soma Cocktail Bar did to the classic beancurd treat aka tau hauy — and it’s absolutely genius. However, if that isn’t already good enough a reason to pop over right now, you’ll be glad to know that they’ve also got a stellar selection of tea-based cocktails, a killer whiskey list, as well as an amazing Yuzu Sour.  

Address: 145A, Jalan Aminuddin Baki, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Wilayah Persekutuan, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Daily, 5 pm to 12 am

Find out more about the best cocktail bars in KL here.

4. PS150

Image credits: PS150

Housed in a pre-war shophouse on Petaling Street in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown, this cocktail bar is located next to a tiny stationery shop and masked as an unassuming toy store. Known and loved by folks both far and near, PS150 is no stranger to bar awards and nominations thanks to its breathtaking interiors and consistently great offerings inspired by Southeast Asian flavours. For those planning to step through, make sure to make reservations before you come — it can get quite crowded. 

Address: Ground Floor, 150, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Daily, 6 pm to 12 am

Find out more about the best cocktail bars in KL here.

5. The Attic Bar

Image credits: The Attic Bar

For drinks with a view, head on over to this rooftop bar in KL’s city centre. Housed above Travel Hub Guesthouse in Chinatown, The Attic Bar takes some work to get to — after identifying a nondescript glass door with a red lantern inside, you’ll need to make your way up a dizzying flight of wooden spiral stairs — however, plan it well and you’ll be treated to sunset in front of the Twin Towers, the KL Tower as well as the Merdeka Tower. Pretty good deal if you ask us.

Address: Third Floor, 15, Jalan Balai Polis, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Fridays and Saturdays, 5 pm to 2 am. Sundays to Thursdays, 5 pm to 1 am.

Find out more about the best cocktail bars in KL here.

6. Three X Co

Image credits: Three X Co

Manned by mixologist extraordinaire David Hans, Three X Co is a speakeasy bar in Bangsar Shopping Centre nestled behind a barbershop. You’re here for their startling concoction of Pei Pa Koa and chrysanthemum gin, i.e. the Eastern Poem, that is mixed with a little yuzu tonic water and ginger rootlets to help the medicine go down.  

Address: Bangsar Shopping Centre, Lot T6A, Level 3, 285, Jalan Maarof, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Fridays and Saturdays, from 5 pm to 1 am. Mondays to Thursdays, from 5 pm to 12 am. Closed on Sundays.

Find out more about the best cocktail bars in KL here.

7. Frank’s Bar KL

Image credits: Frank’s Bar KL

Love Sinatra? You can now do a night out his way with Frank’s Bar in Avenue K shopping mall. Hidden behind Natalina, this dapper cocktail spot is designed as a tribute to Frank Sinatra — think burgundy chesterfield sofas, luscious hanging drapes, and a great gatsby-esque backlit bar set up. Expect themed concoctions and nothing but lovely tunes that will get you grooving in your seat all night long.  

Address: Avenue K, Unit 06 Level 03, 156, Jln Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Daily, from 5 pm to 2 am

Find out more about the best cocktail bars in KL here.

8. BOTAK:LIQUOR Bar

Image credits: BOTAK:LIQUOR Bar

Situated in a seemingly decrepit shophouse, BOTAK:LIQUOR bar is a tropical paradise that specializes in turning homegrown botanicals into delicious floral potions. Every drink served here is a spectacular work of art that will encompass all your senses. We recommend starting with an early dinner at Chocha Foodstore to line the belly before heading on up to try their Jasmine & Tarragon, Nangka & Grapefruit, and Eggless Whisky Sour cocktails (to name a few). 

Address: 156, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Opening Hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 6 pm to 12 am. Closed on Mondays.

Find out more about the best cocktail bars in KL here.

Visit The Best Cocktail Bars In KL With Youtrip ASAP!

Now that you’re up-to-date with the best hidden bars in KL, you are all set for your next adventure in and around the capital of Malaysia. While booking your flight tickets and planning your trip, or paying for your drinks, don’t forget to check out with your YouTrip card to make full use of our Wholesale Exchange Rates and skip those pesky bank fees.

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