Perhaps the most well-known bar in Ipoh, Atas Speakeasy is a reservations-only 1920s speakeasy along Jalan Theatre run by husband-and-wife team Alicia Mak and Eugene Wong. It is home to award-winning cocktails and a lively bunch of bartenders that are masters at shaking up both signature and classic cocktails.

Its menu is divided into four parts, each containing a collection of signature cocktails such as Miss Bond that is made with bourbon and the White Rajah that features the Sarawakian liquor tuak and vodka. Out-of-state cocktail fans should make it a point to get a reservation here when visiting the city.

Hidden under an old signboard, Kiki Lalat is a nostalgic casual craft beer and lager bar that is perfect for kicking back with ice-cold mugs after a long day of exploration. Rattan chairs, tiled pavement, and vintage knick knacks line the space, adding to its laidback atmosphere.

There's a choice of brews from all over the world, IPAs on tap, and natural wines. On weekends, Kiki Lalat hosts what it calls impromptu “busking open mic” that always attracts a large audience.

See also: 5 cafés in Ipoh for serious coffee lovers

For a refined and upscale wine experience, head to Asip run by the same team behind Kiki Lalat. Occupying the space above Kiki Lalat, Asip is a wine lounge that offers boutique wines and private dining.

During festive seasons such as Christmas, Asip curates special menus with wine pairings. It is also known to collaborate with local chefs to switch things up. On Mondays and Tuesdays, the bar operates on a reservations only basis. 

Sinhalese Bar is one of Ipoh's oldest bars (if not the oldest), and the only Sinhalese bar left standing in the country. Established in 1931, Sinhalese Bar is located on the corner of Jalan Bijeh Timah and Jalan Pasar, and its decor hasn’t changed since opening. Old school and colourful, its space is reminiscent of an old coffee shop with tiled floors, marble top tables, and plastic chairs.

Second-generation owner Alfred Perera is passionate about keeping his business alive with many locals cheering him on.

Craft beer fans should also make a stop at Tin Corner 39. Overlooking the old streets of Ipoh, Tin Corner 39 is a great place for get togethers with friends and family with an interior decorated with furniture repurposed from sewing sets. This self-service bar serves a wife variety of imported and local beers.

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Illuminated by its neon light fixtures, Lumi Cocktail Bar is a modern hidden bar known for its craft cocktails and Insta-worthy space. Cocktails here are crafty and innovative. For those who have special requests or a custom cocktail they'd like to try, speak to one of the talented bartenders who will create drink to suit your preferences.

Though known for its ramen, donburi, and yakitori, Mad Ramen Bar also serves up cocktails, sake and perfectly chilled bottles of Japanese beer. Its beer selection includes the classic Suntory and bottled Hitachino Nest beers. If you aren’t a fan of beer, opt for its selection of sakes, cocktails or mocktails.

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