Kuala Lumpur’s 15 Must-Visit Bars for a Night You’ll Always Remember (or Forget)!
Imagine this: it’s finally Friday after a long week of soul-crushing work and you keep looking at the clock to see if it’s finally time for that night out with your friends. However, things take a turn when your group finds out that your go-to bar in Kuala Lumpur has closed—where do you go now?
Okay, I’ll admit that this was a personal experience, but I’m glad to say that I’ve seen my share of KL’s best bars. This may not be a superpower but I’m proud that I saved the night!
So, what if you’re not from here and you’re lost at whether to check out dazzling rooftop bars or chill pubs? Well, you can count on me again!
Read on to find your next hang-out spot via this list of my favourite bars in KL!
Marini’s on 57
Address: Petronas, Level 57, Menara 3
Contact details: +60 3-2386 6030
Operating hours: Daily from 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Cost: $$$
Website
Menu
For our money’s worth, Marini’s 57 is the definitive rooftop bar that offers the best views in Kuala Lumpur. This is because while you’re out partying and drinking on the 57th floor of the Menara 3 Tower, you’ll get to enjoy a breathtaking view of the famous Petronas Twin Towers!
Aside from giving you a spectacular view of one of Malaysia’s most iconic buildings, this bar also serves a variety of fancy cocktails, champagnes and several other drinks! Meanwhile, if hunger catches up on you during your night, then you can order one of their Italian specialties!
Pro tip:
Follow them on Instagram to see any of their latest event announcements! Sometimes, they’ll have world-class DJs coming over from different parts of the world or hold special parties that will add more glamour to your night!
PS150
Address: Ground Floor, 150, Jalan Petaling
Contact details: +60 3-7622 8777
Operating hours: Daily from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Cost: $$
Website
Menu
You’ll find PS150 nestled in the busy streets of Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur, but you can easily miss it because of its low-key facade. Upon entering its unseemingly-looking building, however, you’ll be greeted by a lively cocktail bar, featuring upbeat music, tons of people and drinks!
What’s great about this place is that it’s divided into sections to cater to different kinds of night owls. For instance, there’s one spot called “Opium Den”, which is perfect for more intimate and chill gatherings, while there’s also a dance floor for those who want to jive the night away.
Pro tip:
Book your reservations days before your night if you’re planning on visiting on Friday/Saturday nights, as the place can get packed quickly. You can reach out to them on their website or their official contact number (+60 3-7622 8777).
Bar Trigona
Address: 145, Jln Ampang
Contact details: +60 3-2382 8670
Operating hours: Daily from 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Cost: $$$
Website
Menu
Bar Trigona is one of the most lavish places you can go to for nightlife in Kuala Lumpur, and it’s not surprising given that it’s part of the 5-star Four Seasons Hotel. It’s not just about the glitz and glamour, however, as this bar offers some of the most creative cocktails we’ve ever tasted!
These drinks are the main stars of this bar, as they incorporate indigenous herbs and local fruits to create concoctions with Malaysian flavours.
Of course, since the bar is located high up in the Four Seasons Hotel, you can also expect to be treated to magnificent views of the KL skyline.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for something savoury to pair with your delicious drinks, we recommend getting their beef satay. It’s an amazing take on one of the most famous street foods in Malaysia, as it uses premium Wagyu!
Havana Bar and Grill
Address: 2 & 4, Changkat Bukit Bintang
Contact details: +60 3-2142 7170
Operating hours:
- Sunday: 1:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday: 2:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Havana Bar and Grill is one of the reasons why the iconic Changkat Bukit Bintang is so lively, especially at night. It will immediately draw you into its doors with its thumping music, bright neon lights and the sound of people having a good time.
Of course, there’s also the fact that this bar serves some delicious and refreshing cocktails, with their most famous offering being the mojito. Having this drink in your hand while you’re pulling out the sickest moves on the dance floor is such a vibe!
The overall friendly and vibrant atmosphere of this bar is also a huge reason why it’s such a great hit! There’s even live music that plays salsa classics and other hits that will make you feel like you’ve been transported into Havana itself.
Pro tip:
If you want to practise your salsa skills, then you should join their Salsa Tuesdays! Check out their Instagram page to see their latest announcements and upcoming acts so you won’t miss the next Salsa Tuesday.
Crane Upstairs KL
Address: 37, Jalan Abdullah, Bangsar
Contact details: +60 12-209 7057
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Wednesday: 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Tuesday: 4:00 PM to 12:30 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Nestled among the towering skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur City Centre is Crane Upstairs KL, a unique and hidden rooftop bar. It’s built in a historical building, one that’s been around since 1927, which further adds to the character of this amazing chill spot.
Although it’s undeniably stunning, I would say that Crane Upstairs KL’s main draw is its amazing selection of drinks. We love how they put their own Malaysian twist into their cocktails without veering too far away from the idea of the drink.
The vibes here are immaculate as well, featuring live DJ music that will have you getting up from your seat in no time!
Pro tip:
Visit from Wednesday until Sunday if you want to enjoy a live DJ and dance your night away! With that being said, remember to take a break and make your last orders by 11:30.
Suzie Wong KL
Address: Ground Floor, Wisma Lim Foo Yong, 86, Jalan Raja Chulan
Contact details: +60 17-226 6480
Operating hours:
- Wednesday and Thursday: 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday: 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Cost: $$$
Website
Suzie Wong KL is hands down one of the most impressive hidden bars we’ve seen in KL. On my first time here, I thought my friend was messing with me because he was pointing me in the direction of a wonton noodle sign, so imagine my surprise when I was greeted by live music.
Gimmicks aside, however, this place is an awesome bar filled with good vibes, amazing live acts, and of course, delicious drinks! Their selection consists of several kinds of cocktails, bubbly champagne, hard drinks and more.
However, a lot of people will agree with me when I say that the best reason to go here is the regular live shows. These shows range from musical performances to enigmatic cabaret acts and more!
Pro tip:
If you’re planning on commuting on your way here, we recommend taking the MRT and dropping off at the Raja Chulan (MR7). From there, the bar is only a couple of minutes away on foot!
Healy Mac’s Bangsar
Address: 39, Jln Telawi 3, Bangsar
Contact details: +60 11-2334 6185
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 1:00 PM to 1:30 AM
- Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Cost: $$
Website
If you’ve always wanted to feel the lively environment of Irish pubs, then Healy Mac’s Bangsar should be right up your alley! It comes alive, especially during Football games (or Soccer), and it’s one of the coolest atmospheres you can experience.
Another reason why we love this place is because of its wide array of Western food, from large slabs of steaks to chips and more. These dishes, along with some nice cold pints of Guinness make for a perfect combination.
Pro tip:
Since the dishes here are indeed “Westernized”, you can expect them to come in large servings, so consider ordering each dish for sharing. This way, you can taste as many of their dishes as possible!
Concubine KL
Address: Lot 2, Jalan Panggong, City Centre
Contact details: +60 11-6090 2416
Cost: $$
Operating hours:
- Sunday, Tuesday to Thursday: 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday: 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Concubine KL transforms into a hotspot for partygoers come sundown and it’s not hard to see why, with its welcoming vibrant interior and fun upbeat music. Once you enter its doors, you’ll get a whiff of everything they prepare from their kitchen.
They offer a wide array of authentic Chinese delicacies, from bao to dumplings, and anything in between. Furthermore, they also offer Western classics such as grilled steaks, lambs, mackerel and more.
Of course, you can also help yourself to one of their expertly-crafted cocktails which will accompany you throughout a night of catching up with your friends and dancing.
Pro tip:
Before visiting for some drinks, don’t miss out on witnessing and capturing beautiful street murals located around Concubine KL! They make for great backdrops for your photos and they’re just amazing to look at, in general.
WET® Deck at W Kuala Lumpur
Address: Level 12, W, 121, Jln Ampang
Contact details: +60 12-347 9088
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Wednesday and Thursday: 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM
WET Deck is another rooftop hotel that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world, with its stunning views, lively ambience and upbeat music. This place, in particular, holds a special place in our hearts because it gives such a great view of the majestic Petronas Twin Towers.
Another thing we love about this place is that it’s located by the pool, giving it a different tropical feel compared to the other rooftop bars we’ve listed down here.
Meanwhile, the drinks here are AMAZING, as they ditch the typical concoction in favour of their signature mixes. The results are tasty drinks that will leave you with a light buzz—perfect for getting the confidence to get down on the dance floor!
Pro tip:
Consider going here as early as 5:00 PM to catch a glimpse of the sunset! For a couple of minutes, you’ll be in awe of an orange-tinted Kuala Lumpur skyline—a view that will stick with you forever.
Junglebird KL
Address: 61M, Jalan Medan Setia 1, Bukit Damansara
Contact details: +60 3-2011 5715
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Friday: 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Saturday: 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM
If you’re tired of the usual modern and sleek designs of bars, then Junglebird KL should be on your radar! As you may have already guessed from its name, this bar will make you feel like you’re in a tropical jungle while you’re sipping on your refreshing cocktail.
In true jungle fashion, their bestselling drinks here are ones that incorporate rum, and there are a lot of them! Also, the bottles of rum that they use are quite varied as well since they house over 240 varieties from different parts of the globe.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking to get some buzz and try one of Malaysia’s most famous traditional sweets, then you should order their cendol colada! It perfectly blends the sweetness of the dessert with the distinguishable taste of rum, creating a nice and refreshing drink.
Pisco Bar
Address: 29, Jalan Mesui, Off Jalan Nagasari
Contact details: +60 3 2142 2900
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday: 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Cost: $$
Website
Pisco Bar will transport you to Spain and Peru with its eye-catching South African-themed interior. It’s more than just looks though, as their entire menu is also build around this continent, featuring unusual cocktails and concoctions—we mean that in the best possible way!
You won’t find the usual gin and tonic mixes here! Instead, you’ll discover some new mixes that incorporate exotic fruits and spices. So not only will this place leave you feeling tipsy, but you’ll also discover flavours you haven’t tried before!
Lastly, the overall fun and friendly ambience of the bar is such a vibe, especially with all the upbeat Latin rhythms and beats playing in the background.
Pro tip:
Reserve your tables upstairs if you’re planning on listening to live beats by their talented DJs! Meanwhile, you can opt for a table on their lower level if you’re looking for a more laid-back nightlife experience.
SkyBar
Address: Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Contact details: +60 3-2332 9888
Operating hours: Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Cost: $$
Website
Menu
SkyBar is another hotel rooftop bar that should be on your list if you’re looking to combine sightseeing with partying. After walking all day and being around tourist-y areas, it’s nice to go to a place like this and see Kuala Lumpur from a different perspective!
Furthermore, you’ll have a drink in your hand this time! Speaking of drinks, the ones you’ll find here are expertly crafted by their friendly bartenders.
They boast innovative recipes and use premium ingredients for these drinks hence the pricey rates. It’s great value-for-money though, given that you’ll have impeccable views, tasty drinks, amazing music and overall fun vibes.
Pro tip:
If your idea of nightlife is winding down, drinking coffee and taking in spectacular views, don’t fret! This place also offers a handful of coffee drinks that you can enjoy (and help remove the buzz.)
Canopy Lounge Rooftop Bar
Address: 183, Jln Mayang, Kampung Baru
Contact details: +60 11-5139 8301
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Saturday: 4:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Sunday to Saturday: 4:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Rounding up our top picks for the rooftop bars on this list is Canopy Lounge Rooftop Bar. It’s our favourite spot whenever we want to escape the bustling streets of KL and want to admire the city while enjoying some amazing cocktails.
What we love about this bar is that there are some tranquil spots that you can go to if you’re not into dancing that much. At the same time, there are some areas in the bar where you can watch football games on their large TV, dance to some upbeat music, etc.
Lastly, we love this place because it boasts an impressive selection of handcrafted drinks. From mojitos to old-fashioned and other classics, you can expect to find them here!
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for a luxurious place to spend the night in, consider checking out Ascott Star KLCC Kuala Lumpur. It’s located just across the street from the building of this rooftop bar and it boasts lavish rooms and comfy rooms!
Frank’s Bar
Address: Avenue K, Unit 06 Level 03, 156, Jln Ampang
Contact details: +60 12-674 4860
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Cost: $$
Website
Frank’s Bar should be on your list if you’re looking for a sophisticated spot where you and your friends can enjoy drinking in peace. It’s also a pretty Instagrammable spot, featuring an interior that resembles those speakeasies you’d typically find in New York.
Everything about this place screams classic, from the music to the plush leather seats and dim lighting. This also reigns true with their drinks, as their menu consists of staples such as old-fashioned, negroni, margarita, etc.
Pro tip:
Before spending your night here, consider stopping by the next-door Avenue K Shopping Mall and spending a day filled with activities at the adult playground, SuperPark Malaysia!
The Whisky Bar KL
Address: 46, Changkat Bukit Bintang
Contact details: +60 735 6709
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Cost: $$
Website
Menu
Sometimes, all it takes to relax after a long tiring week is a glass of whisky. Fortunately, there are places like The Whisky Bar in Changkat Bukit Bintang that let us enjoy these beautifully-crafted drinks in peace.
This place is quite literally a whisky wonderland, featuring over one thousand variations of this drink—pretty impressive! You can even take your boss status to another level by purchasing one of their premium cigars.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for something that would go well with your glass of whisky, we recommend getting the BBQ short ribs! This rack of meat features a lip-smacking marinade that will satisfy both your hunger and your tastebuds.