Penrose KL
1. Penrose KL
Bar of the Year: Penrose
This award recognises the highest ranking bar, as voted on by our panel of industry leaders and tastemakers. Jon Lee and his talented team have undoubtedly elevated Malaysia’s bar scene, with Penrose a destination for both locals and travellers alike. A name known widely across the bar scene, it is known not just for its exceptional drinks, but also for its warm and genuine support for the industry.
Cabinet 8
2. Cabinet 8
Best New Bar: Cabinet 8 KL
Tucked away behind unassuming cabinet doors in Chinatown is the hidden cocktail bar Cabinet 8 KL, which first made its name in Johor Bahru. Helmed by self-taught mixologist Justin Tay, the bar pays homage to Malaysia’s rich culinary heritage through inventive cocktails. For an authentic taste of local street food, try the Double Special, a savoury cocktail inspired by the iconic Ramly Burger, featuring local onions, pickled cucumber, and Maggi seasoning—a true tribute to Malaysia’s beloved street food culture.
Best Innovation: Backdoor Bodega
Speakeasy Backdoor Bodega is hidden inside what looks like a pin shop, but inside, guests are welcome to an ever-changing menu of specialty cocktails featuring ingredients unique to Penang. From nutmeg and belacan to Penang-made soy sauce, the team here keeps things fun and interesting, ensuring guests are engaged and involved. The bar is helmed by self-taught bartender Koh Yung Shen, who is also the organiser of Penang Cocktail Week. Don’t leave without trying the Kelapa Hotak, the first-ever cocktail on the menu since Backdoor Bodega’s debut in 2016. This clarified concoction blends coconut, white rum, kaya, and pandan for a smooth, aromatic sip that perfectly captures the essence of Penang.
Reka:Bar
4. Reka:Bar
Best Design: Reka:Bar
Cocktail culture meets cutting edge design in Reka: Bar. Envisioned by owner Nick Choo and brought to life by design studio Port 25, the Damansara Heights space transforms traditional mixology into an immersive experience. The design seamlessly blends industrial elements –tarnished copper and luminescent stone–with theatrical flair, highlighted by the standout "chemistry lab" where mixologists craft their experimental concoctions. The interplay of raw materials, dramatic lighting, and precise attention to detail creates an atmosphere that's both technically sophisticated and warmly inviting.
Penrose KL
5. Penrose KL
Best Service: Penrose
Since it opened its doors in 2022, Penrose has become one of Kuala Lumpur’s most celebrated cocktail bars. The intimate atmosphere and bar counter seats allows bartenders to focus on attentive and intentional service. Here, conversations and relationships with guests take center stage, resulting in memorable experiences.
Here & Now
6. Here & Now
Rising Star: Affie Adut
The current head bartender and founder of Here & Now began his bartending journey in 2016. Self-taught, Affie was always intrigued in the art of mixing, and has brought the modern tropical cocktail bar to new heights with his creativity, bringing in exciting guest shifts while pushing the local cocktail scene forward with innovative menus. For instance, Here & Now’s current menu is inspired by the ancient traditions of turning fruit and roots into cocktails.
