Kuala Lumpur – Asia’s Hidden Gem
Kuala Lumpur (colloquially knows as KL) is widely visited in short spans as an airport stopover on route to one’s desired holiday destination. But, it should never be overlooked as a great place to live it up.
If you’re looking for an array of restaurants, bars and exciting nightlife options than you will undoubtedly find them on the street known as Changkat Bukit Bintang in central Kuala Lumpur. It’s a boisterous and colourful district lined with all this and more – including the most spectacular of themed venues. Thirsty Swagman takes you on a tour of Kuala Lumpur’s hidden gems.
These amazing bars are featured on our Asia Annihilator tour.
The Rabbit Hole
For anyone looking for unique party ambiance then The Rabbit Hole has to be the place. Embark on an all- enveloping sensory experience into Alice’s wonderland. This exceptional venue, located smack bang in the city centre, is entirely fairy tale and narrative themed. Six unique décor schemes (an example being Narnia) are contained in the one 3-storey pre-colonial building. The exterior contains an alfresco seating area and is fenced by a garden of live bamboo plants.
The incredible Rabbit Hole with it’s fairytale theme
You may dance the night away in a myriad of fanciful settings. Enjoy the world-class acrobatic lion dance or a tipple in the “graffiti bar”. It’s a truly magical and dynamic place (there are even future plans for a roof top pool bar). Whatever it is that you are looking for on your night out – you can find it here. Live music, a reasonably priced Asian fusion menu and an extensive range of drinks will be sure to have you grinning like the Cheshire cat.
Havana Bar and Grill
The Havana Bar and Grill would have to be one of the most iconic venues on Changkat Bukit Bintang. It still brings in the crowds – even after 20 years in operation. You will find the Latin American spirit alive and kicking in this multi-level venue. The elegant 1950s mansion contains two spacious rooms, two balconies, four bars and a roof top terrace. It is also a nightclub featuring international DJs.
Fantastic food and drinks await the thirsty traveller at Havana Bar & Grill
Havana Bar and Grill caters for any taste or need. It’s the perfect venue for events, parties and functions. But, you can take it down a notch on the balcony – the perfect place to enjoy a sundowner. The place is famed for its Mojitos. There’s also premium imported spirits and a happy hour. If you’re there for a feed the grill serves steak, burgers and ribs. There is an extensive menu of other options. A renowned watering hole and legendary nightspot, the Havana Bar and Grill is a must do for any visitor to Kuala Lumpur.
The Whisky Bar
The Whisky Bar is practically the Guggenheim of said spirit. Anything you’re after – from any region, to any strength or taste – you can swig it here. That includes some of the oldest, rarest and finest whiskies in the world. There are hundreds to choose from, along with a broad selection of inspired cocktails. The décor is dark and the furnishings are classic, leathery, and decidedly manly (exactly what you’d expect from a place that exists in homage to whiskey).
“Water of Life”, “Brown Gold” or “Sunshine held together by water”. Whatever you call it, this place has over 500 labels of Whisky
You feel as though you might be on the set of “Mad Men” or a Bogart film. If you really want to get in the mood there’s a truly mind-blowing cigar list. The menu serves gourmet fare and classic favourites. The atmosphere and service comes widely recommended. It’s clearly a mecca to whiskey connoisseurs. However, for the layperson it it’s an exceedingly interesting and classy place to unwind and makes for a great holiday memory. You’ll be asking the staff “to play it again Sam” and “lay another one on you” in no time.
by Patricia Higgins, Australian journalist, copywriter and model/actor.
Visit all of these amazing bars on the epic Asia Annihilator tour.
With its amazing nightlife, you too will love KL.
