Kuala Lumpur’s cocktail scene is experiencing a renaissance, with an exciting wave of new bars redefining the city’s nightlife. From sultry rooftop lounges with sweeping skyline views to intimate speakeasies tucked behind unassuming doors, there’s a spot for every mood and occasion.
Whether you’re in search of bold, boundary-pushing creations or expertly crafted classics with a contemporary twist, these latest openings promise to elevate your evenings. Expect innovative mixology, immersive atmospheres, and a touch of theatricality – because in KL, a great night out is as much about the experience as it is about the drink in your hand.
Up & Away
A stylish new bar has landed in Chinatown, serving up some of the city’s finest burgers – courtesy of Alta Burger – alongside expertly crafted cocktails. At Up & Away, the vibe is entirely up to you: keep it laid-back with a juicy smashed burger and a drink, or turn up the energy with a DJ set and dance the night away. The best part? You don’t have to choose. From 5pm, the space downstairs offers a relaxed dining experience, while the party kicks off upstairs from 7pm. With a rotating lineup of DJs, there’s always something fresh to groove to.
Address: 141, Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 5pm – 1am (Sundays to Thursdays), 5pm – 3am (Fridays and Saturdays) | Closed on Mondays
Contact: 016-311 3369
W upandaway.my | I @upandaway.my
Humboldt
Created by the masterminds behind the award-winning Junglebird, Humboldt brings a fresh perspective to KL’s cocktail scene with its rich South American influences. Named after the Humboldt Current – a powerful oceanic flow shaping the region’s coastline, climate, and cuisine – this bar embodies the essence of Latin America in every sip. The spacious venue comfortably hosts up to 65 guests, with an exclusive private room for more intimate gatherings. While the classic Pisco Sour is a must-try, don’t overlook the Chilcano, a bold concoction featuring three types of ginger, or the Melon Con Vino, a refreshing, fruit-forward twist on the traditional martini.
Address: 73- 1, Jalan Setia Bakti, Bukit Damansara 50490, Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 5pm till late (Wednesdays to Sundays) | Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Contact: 03-2388 3976
SunSan Reserve
If your mornings begin with coffee and pastries at SunSan Bake, it’s time to experience its after-dark counterpart – SunSan Reserve. Tucked just above the café, this intimate 15-seat cocktail bar offers a warm, exclusive setting that calls for a reservation rather than a spontaneous drop-in. The cocktail menu is anything but ordinary, featuring spirits infused via sous-vide with fragrant woods like sandalwood, agarwood, and sappanwood. The result? Elegantly layered, aromatic, and smoky concoctions that showcase true mixology mastery. If you appreciate craftsmanship in your cocktails, this is the place to be.
Address: 216, Jalan Pisang, Taman Shanghai, 58100 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 5.30pm – 11.30pm (Thursdays to Mondays) | Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Contact: 03-7972 1441
GoldBar KL
In the mood for something luxe? Make your way to Goldbar KL, a dazzling haven worthy of King Midas himself. Dripping in opulence, this spot is perfect for indulging in both dinner and drinks in a lavish, sophisticated setting. If you’re just here for the cocktails, you’re in for a treat – their standout creations, including The Lemon Whisper, Golden Ember, Berry Royale, and Kyoto Heat, are pure liquid gold.
Address: G3, Star Residences Two, 1, Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, Kampung Baru, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 12pm to 1am daily
Contact: 011-1313 3188
The Rebel Penguin of Whimzy Town
It may not be a brand-new bar, but we’re including it on our list as it recently made the move from KL to the suburbs of Petaling Jaya, swapping Funky Town for Whimzy Town. True to its name, the interior is delightfully whimsical – think psychedelic-patterned rugs and neon lights that channel the bold aesthetics of the ’70s and ’80s. And the cocktails? Just as playful. Expect Grand Theft Auto-inspired drinks served in skull glasses and the daring Outta This World, a concoction featuring none other than durian. Your taste buds are in for an adventure!
Address: 37A (First Floor), Jalan 20/16, Paramount Garden, Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Opening hours: 6pm – 12am (Wednesdays and Thursdays), 6am – 1am (Fridays and Saturdays)
Contact: 011-2506 3313
@21 Rooftop Bar
Hyatt Centric KL has unveiled its sleek new rooftop destination, @21 Rooftop Bar, perched high on the 21st floor. Just steps from the pool, this stylish spot exudes the charm of a chic New York loft, with towering glass windows, industrial accents, and soaring ceilings. The cocktail menu showcases bold creations infused with local flavours, including the unmistakable essence of pandan.
Address: Level 21, Hyatt Centric City Centre Kuala Lumpur, 17, Jln Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 4.30pm – 12am daily
Contact: 012-698 4462
W issuu.com | I @hyattcentriccitycentre_kl
Zest Cocktail Club
Zest Cocktail Club on Jalan Tun Razak offers an effortlessly sophisticated setting, perfect for unwinding while immersing yourself in the city’s cosmopolitan energy. Join the exclusive weekend revelry – every Friday, Saturday, and the eve of public holidays from 11pm onwards – where smooth R&B and hip-hop beats come alive through dynamic DJ performances. Call up the clique, savour expertly crafted cocktails, and connect with like-minded night owls for an unforgettable evening of music and mixology. For a more intimate affair, a private room is available by reservation, offering plush seating, karaoke, and a pool table – ideal for small gatherings in a stylish setting.
Address: 436, Jalan Tun Razak, Kelab Golf Diraja Raja Selangor, 55000 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 11pm onwards (Every Friday, Saturday and the eve of Public Holidays)
Contact: 010-868 6088
Drink in more beverages, cocktails, and bars here.
Featured image: Humboldt