Five of Kuala Lumpur’s finest speakeasies: millennial fun from steampunk to cabaret
Tucked away behind false doors or hidden upstairs, these Instagram-friendly Prohibition-themed bars offer millennials unique high-quality cocktails and a cosy place to drink them
The modern Malaysian speakeasy is a far cry from the illegal establishments of the American Prohibition era. For one, it’s legal in Malaysia to sell alcohol, as long as you have proper licences. But you still have to know where to find today’s speakeasies – bars that tend to be tucked away in obscure locations with little or no signage, often offering unique house cocktails and an Instagram-worthy aesthetic theme.
“Malaysian millennials are looking for a more intimate experience,” says Kevin Francis, 33, a patron at the cabaret-themed speakeasy Suzie Wong. “You can dance in a club but you can’t really have a conversation. You get something different at every speakeasy, whether it’s the drinks, the setting or live entertainment.”
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“The speakeasy scene has really picked up over the past few years, and you’re really seeing it in KL – in Penang as well, there are some 10 speakeasies there now,” says Deepak Gill, director of marketing and brand development at speakeasy Locker & Loft. “The quality of drinks at these newer bars is a lot better than older cocktail bars, where sometimes there’s no creativity, no craft, no research put into the drinks. These newer bars are more discerning, using fresher ingredients.”
It’s also the atmosphere that contributes to the success of these speakeasies, says Gill. “You can come in alone, and because our customers are such friendly people, you usually end up making a friend or two.”
Those looking to wander off the beaten track on Friday nights in KL are spoiled for choice. There are many gems scattered throughout Malaysia’s capital and its sister city of Petaling Jaya. Here are five worth seeking out.
