Marek Klecka, bar manager at Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill KL, on what cocktail pairs best with beef Wellington

We speak to the spirited bartender about his signature cocktails and what he hopes for the future of Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill KL

Now the bartender at Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill KL, Marek Klecka hails from the Czech Republic. He cut his chops at some of the top bars in Prague, including Crazy Daisy Bar, before moving across the world to Singapore to work at Catchfly Bar. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Klecka found the opportunity to move to Kuala Lumpur, taking on the role as bar manager at Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill KL.

Klecka talks us through the innovative cocktails he has curated for the bar, as well as what dishes pair best with which cocktails.

What first intrigued you about bartending?

From a young age, I found myself drawn to the lively bar atmosphere, even mixing up my own virgin coladas at the age of nine. Over the years, I eagerly honed my skills under the watchful eye of my brother before working in some of Prague’s top restaurants and cocktail bars. Mentored by renowned bartender Achim Sipl, I even had the opportunity to delve into molecular mixology.

After seven years, I moved halfway across the world to Singapore, working as bar supervisor at the small and bespoke Catchfly Bar. When I found out Gordon Ramsay was launching his first restaurant in Kuala Lumpur, and they were seeking a skilled bar manager, I jumped at the opportunity.

Above Marek Klecka brings with him nearly a decade of experience

Marek Klecka brings with him nearly a decade of experience

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Talk us through the cocktail menu at Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill KL

Our cocktail menu is faithful to the Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill in Mayfair, London, ensuring we maintain the brand’s exceptional standards. However, we’ve added our own touch by elevating the presentation and garnishes, resulting in a collection of drinks that perfectly balances taste and visual appeal.

Our commitment to authenticity extends to our homemade syrups, meticulously crafted from ingredients like lavender, hibiscus, and Japanese cucumber. No artificial shortcuts, just natural goodness.

To accommodate guests who prefer alcohol-free drinks, we also have a non-alcoholic menu under the Bar & Grill Zero Proof, where drinks like Penicillin 0 per cent and Zero Proof G&T are offered.

Above Marek Klecka finishes a Barrel Aged Negroni, one of the flagship drinks at the establishment

Above Barrel Aged Negroni

Marek Klecka finishes a Barrel Aged Negroni, one of the flagship drinks at the establishment

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What cocktail would you recommend to a new guest?

The Barrel Aged Negroni, which happens to be our flagship drink. It’s a cocktail that has garnered quite a following, and for good reason. Not only does it delight in terms of taste, but it also boasts an impressive presentation and an intriguing backstory.

A concoction of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, it is herby with deep, dark fruit flavours. Barrel ageing for a month in fire-charred American oak barrels adds to a deeper flavour profile of oak. We finish the drink off by smoking it with cherry wood chips, giving it a smoky and woody note.

Above Oh My Lavender Gin is Marek Klecka's first signature creation

Oh My Lavender Gin is Marek Klecka's first signature creation

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Is there a drink on the menu that means a lot to you?

A drink that holds a special place in my heart is the OMLG, short for Oh My Lavender Gin. Imagine a gin-based sour-style beverage, where the delicate floral essence of lavender dances harmoniously with the enchanting flavours of forest fruits.

This cocktail holds the honour of being my very first signature creation, born during my time in Singapore, and it quickly became a crowd favourite. I’ve had the pleasure of bringing this beloved concoction to Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill KL, where it has found a new home. After our beloved Barrel Aged Negroni, the OMLG has swiftly claimed its spot as one of our top-selling cocktails.

What makes the drinks at Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill KL special?

Consistency is our guiding principle. We insist on using premium ingredients and pay meticulous attention to every detail. If we’re not satisfied with even the tiniest aspect of a drink, it won’t make its way to our customers’ tables.

Guest experience holds utmost importance, ensuring that each visit offers the same exceptional cocktail. Our goal is to have people buzzing about the incredible drinks they enjoy.

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Above Arnold Bennett twice-baked soufflé

Above Chelsea Royal Garden

Arnold Bennett twice-baked soufflé

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What would be an ideal meal at the restaurant, including cocktail pairings?

Start with our signature dish, the Arnold Bennett twice-baked soufflé. To complement this culinary masterpiece, I recommend indulging in our Chelsea Royal Garden cocktail. It’s a delightful low-ABV concoction that features fresh green apples, French elderflower liqueur, and has a sparkling Prosecco finish. It is also crowned with a fruity apple foam and a touch of opulent gold leaf, reminiscent of our restaurant’s ceilings.

The star of the menu is Gordon’s signature Classic Beef Wellington, best paired with our Barrel Aged Negroni for an exceptional dining experience. This exquisite cocktail is skillfully infused with the smoky essence of cherry wood chips, providing a delightful punch that perfectly complements the dish.

For dessert, order the 64% Manjari Chocolate Tart. To elevate the indulgence, I recommend savouring it alongside our Baileys Espresso Martini. This cocktail beautifully harmonises with the Madagascan chocolate in the tart, creating a flawless combination.

Above Classic Beef Wellington

Above 64% Manjari Chocolate Tart

Classic Beef Wellington

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What do you hope for the future of Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill KL?

In addition to attracting an ever-growing number of customers willing to journey from the heart of Kuala Lumpur to Sunway Resort Hotel for an exceptional drink, my deepest wish is for my dedicated bar team to remain positive, motivated, and thrilled to be part of this extraordinary brand and restaurant.

The privilege of working with such a prestigious brand fills me with excitement, and I hope to continue to elevate the bar’s reputation, crafting unforgettable experiences.

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Gordon Ramsay Bar & Grill KL

Katelyn Tan

Dining and Travel Editor, Malaysia & Indonesia, Tatler Malaysia

About

Katelyn is the dining and travel editor of Malaysia and Indonesia. Based in Kuala Lumpur, she offers readers an inside look at the movers and shakers in Asia’s growing food and beverage industry.