ALILA BANGSAR

AT A GLANCE, THE ALILA’S location in suburban Bangsar may seem like a minus. But with direct access to a light-rail station, proximity to the nightlife of Jalan Telawi, and enough distance from downtown Kuala Lumpur to be considered a retreat, it is in fact the hotel’s gain. Another plus are the excellent food and beverage outlets. At vintage Hollywood– style bar Pacific Standard, mix master Ruben Anandha will concoct a cocktail to match your mood (if in doubt, try his chocolate negroni). Next door at Entier, Fukuoka-born chef Masashi Horiuchi applies French technique to a nose-to-tail philosophy in dishes like oxtail consommé and chicken baked in a salt crust. Filling the top floors of a 41-story apartment tower, the Alila’s 143 rooms are simple, spacious, and stylish. Communal lounges with complimentary coffee and snacks on each floor complete the picture. It’s great value. —60-3/2268-3888; alilahotels .com; doubles from US$87