To the uninitiated, many hold the perception of a cigar as an object of mystery reserved for upper-class gentlemen. The folks behind The Cabinet seek to challenge that myth with a revamped space in the charming neighbourhood of Bangsar.
First opened along Jalan Maarof in 2018, the cigar bar has garnered regulars over the years – even earning a nomination for the 2018 Cigar Trophy Awards. Amidst the downtime due to global events this year and in light of the transitioning market sentiment, the space underwent a full remodeling of its interiors to bounce back with a fresh concept.
Enter The Cabinet 2.0 – offering tailormade cocktails, cigar pairings and a more versatile spirits collection for the perfect dram and draw.
The lounge
Straying away from the stuffiness and masculinity of before (that’s still associated with other cigar bars today), The Cabinet now features a more relaxed and intimate space welcoming men and women alike into a sanctuary of fine spirits and cigars. It is backed by a diverse group of industry heavyweights, who find much satisfaction in exploring the market for all things cigar and spirits-related and in sharing their discoveries to all who would spare an ear and a palate.
Those familiar with its previous setting will find striking shifts to the interiors, such as the abstract red mural at one corner adding life and character to the room, and more contemporary furniture and fixtures reflecting a fresh, modern outlook.
At the centre of the first-floor establishment is the bar, featuring a mirror-backed display of fine spirits behind a gold-lined counter with a black marble countertop where guests can enjoy cocktails on scarlet bar stools. Dark wood panelling and deep Chesterfield lounge sofas furnish the intimate spaces to its left and right, whilst a private area called the Council Room can be found further inside. Rows of cabinets holding prized possessions of VIP members are retained – in keeping with the identity of the brand – and a well-stocked humidor shines brightly in a corner.
The offerings
It’s not just the aesthetics that have been given a facelift, but also the menu. Crafted by experienced, creative minds (we hear from the relaunch that award-winning bartender Angel Ng of PS150 serves as consultant), the cocktail menu is presented like a 3-course meal of an appetizer, main and dessert. A brilliant way of helping you decide the order of drinks for the evening, if you ask us.
Appetiser - Nachos Sour
A twist on the classic margherita - made from tortilla & pickle-infused tequila blanco, agave syrup and lime acid.
Main - Jacky Joseph
Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth and jackfruit lotus tea cordial for a nutty, floral concoction.
Dessert - Port Goa
A blend of ruby port, spiced jaggery cordial, coconut, and egg white, reminiscent of black forest cake.
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Still primarily a cigar bar, the curation of cigars here comprise of brands that pride themselves in cigar-making as an art form. In partnership with Puros Asia, The Cabinet holds exclusive distributorship in Malaysia to a small batch of cigar brands, namely Dunbarton, Jas Sum Kral, Barreda Cigars, Antigua Esteli and HENK. There’s also an extensive selection of revered Habanos, including rare and exclusive limited-editions.
The inner sanctum
An important point to note before visiting is that The Cabinet now practices a by-reservations only policy. As such, customers are required to make a booking beforehand to avoid disappointment. For the best experience, customers can also apply for VIP membership for access into the inner sanctum at an annual fee that includes the following benefits:
- 1-year exclusive access to members privileges
- Convert membership fee to credits added into your account balance
- 20% discount on all cigars, beverages and accessories
- A welcome gift box upon sign up & a birthday gift during your birth month
- Priority access to every event and promotion at The Cabinet
- Gain access to the Council Room with no minimum spend
- Every new member will receive your own Personal Cabinet on a first come first serve basis
For more information, visit the official website here. For reservations and enquiries, call +60113324053, email marketing@thecabinetkl.com or fill in the form online here.
Location: 80A, Lorong Maarof, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur,
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 5pm to 1am (Closed on Sunday)
