Speakeasy bars have been the buzzword in the cocktail scene. While they’re no longer a hidden secret, we still recommend you check out these five in Southeast Asia.
- Magazine 63
The first hidden bar in Penang, Magazine 63 is hidden away with no signage at the entrance and you might think you’ve lost your way. You know you’ve hit the right spot when you locate the Da Ma Cai signage, with the old-school lok lok cart outside the shop. Head to the far left and push the huge wooden door open.
Source: Tafulou.com
Inspired by the olden Chinese era, the interior of this trendy hidden bar is decorated in a vintage oriental style which is usually packed with customers, especially on the weekends. Even the alcohol containers are custom-made according to the theme.
63, Jalan Magazine, George Town,
10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
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- The BARber
The BARber, located within The Sintesa Jimbaran hotel features a unique concept with two-in-one bar and barbershop experience.
Source: Facebook
Their cleverly hidden entrance facades as a fully functional classic 1930’s themed Men’s Barbershop which reveals a full serviced bar once you push through its hidden doors. Signature craft cocktails, as well as good old Whiskeys, Vodkas, and branded liquors, are available as you chill and relax to the music.
If you’re up to it, get a haircut or a gentleman’s shave while having a tipple. Why not?
Jl. Kencana No.1 Jimbaran
Website
- Operation Dagger
[Permanently closed]
The basement bar tucked away on Ann Siang Hill is not an easy spot. “X marks the spot” for Operation Dagger with an overturned crown-shaped logo. That’s your sign to enter.
Source: Citynomads.com
The cool, concrete interior reminds you of an apothecary house, with its unlabelled bottles laid neatly and overhanging lightbulbs. Try some of their original and delicious house inventions, as they offer an Omakase menu of in-house fermented mead and distilled drinks.
You’ll be glad you stumbled upon this speakeasy bar, but be careful you might also stumble your way out from the amazing drinks they make!
- The Horse’s Mouth
A rabbit hole located at the edge of Orchard Road, The Horse’s Mouth is a small Japanese inspired izakaya bar. Can’t find it? It’s right behind a curtained door, beside the cashier within Uma Uma Ramen Restaurant.
Source: Facebook
Offering bespoke cocktails made from scratch, its small bites are equally mouth-watering. Try their Wagyu Cubes that melt in your mouth. You can skip dinner and head down here for drinks and food right away.
#B1-39 Forum The Shopping Mall
583 Orchard Road
Singapore 238884
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- Private Room
[Permanently closed. The new establishment is Collins Sake & Wine Bar]
Source: Facebook
#findtheyellowdoor. That’s the first advice you get when you want to find your way to the Private Room. The first speakeasy bar that specialises in wine cocktails, you’ll find more than 200 labels of wine from around the world that will suit your taste.
Source: Timeout
Who’d think that one could make cocktails with wine? Yet, the ones recommended were all refreshing & well-balanced with mellow, pleasing nuances. If you’re not a wine lover, fret not as the bar has whiskies, vodka, gin, brandy, rum, tequila & other liquors available.
48a-2, First Floor, Persiaran Zaaba,
Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur.