Where is all the rum?
Looking to try some rum? Here are a few KL bars where you can do so:
The Rum Bar
With over 260 labels of rum, most of which are available by the glass, this is definitely THE place to go to if you want to start your rum education. The list ranges from the most popular brands like Bacardi, Havana Club, to independent bottlings of rare and artisanal rums. There are the standard staples from the Caribbean to lesser-known rums from countries like Japan, the Philippines, Thailand, Nicaragua, and even Sweden. Don’t be afraid of the extensive rum list – the bar also has different flights of rum that cater to different levels of rum drinkers, from beginners to connoisseurs.
What to try there:
Oh, where do we start? The rum flights are especially useful because the rums are selected and sorted according to specific themes or according to the level of your rum education. But if you’re willing to spend a little bit more on something truly special, try the El Dorado 25 Year Old from Guyana. Location: 47, Changkat Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
The Locker And Loft
A fun and happening bar with a cocktail list that prides itself on its localised cocktails and dining experience. The bar is also the organiser of the annual Rum Fiesta, which is doing its part in creating a rum culture in KL with guests shifts, masterclasses, and of course, lots and lots of rum.
What to try there:
Diplomatico Ambassador, from Venezuela. Neat. It’s arguably one of the best rums in town, a sophisticated tipple with classy dark chocolate notes and a velvety sweetness that just lingers and lingers on your mind even the day after.
Location: 40A, Jalan SS 20/10, Damansara Kim, Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Coley
Recently crowned Best Cocktail Bar in KL at the Bar Awards KL, Coley is a whimsical little bar named after legendary female bartender Ada “Coley” Coleman. While the focus is on its fun and versatile cocktail menu, it also has a decent range of rums you can try by the glass, including some really unique bottlings. Oh, and look out for their regular Tiki Malaya guest shifts, where you can enjoy special cocktails created by the night’s guest bartender.
What to try there:
If you’re looking for a drink that truly signifies how well Malaysian flavours and rum go together, try the Ambarella & Rum, which combines the refreshing sourness of the kopitiam staple ambarella (kedondong) juice drink and rum for a great twist on a Malaysian favourite. And for something really out of left field, check out the Ron de Jeremy rum. Yes, it’s a rum that is named after the famous porn star Ron Jeremy. And it’s actually pretty tasty too. Location: 8 Jalan Kemuja, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur