Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week Returns with Global Flair and Local Flavor

Kuala Lumpur is gearing up for a spirited celebration as Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week (KLCW) returns for its second edition from April 22 to 27, 2025. Following a triumphant debut last year, this event promises to elevate the city’s burgeoning cocktail scene by showcasing a blend of local talent and international expertise across five dynamic zones in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya. With a packed schedule of guest shifts, exclusive dinners, and a grand Festival Village, KLCW is set to captivate cocktail enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

A Showcase of Local and Global Talent

Organized by a dedicated group of local industry leaders, KLCW aims to highlight the artistry behind cocktails while promoting Kuala Lumpur as a rising hub for mixology in Southeast Asia. This year’s event spans five distinct zones—Bangsar, Petaling Jaya/Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Damansara Heights, Chinatown, and Kuala Lumpur City Centre—each hosting unique events and guest shifts at some of Malaysia’s most acclaimed bars. Venues like Penrose, Bar Trigona, and JungleBird, which have earned spots on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list, will welcome renowned international bars, offering patrons a taste of the world’s finest drinks without leaving the Klang Valley.

Among the international stars are Handshake Speakeasy from Mexico, currently ranked No. 1 on the World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list, and Hong Kong’s Bar Leone, which holds the top spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024. These global heavyweights will make appearances alongside other celebrated names like Singapore’s Jigger & Pony, Thailand’s Mahaniyom, and South Korea’s Le Chamber, ensuring a diverse lineup of flavors and techniques.

A Week of Unmissable Events

KLCW kicks off with an Opening Party on April 20 at Pickle Social Club, setting the stage for a week of immersive experiences. Each day focuses on a different zone, starting with Bangsar on April 22, where bars like Three X Co and Astor Bar at St Regis KL will host guest shifts, culminating in a closing party at Here & Now with Bar Leone and Singapore’s Sugarhall. The festivities continue across Damansara Heights, Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, and Chinatown, with each zone offering a unique vibe and lineup of bars.

A highlight for many will be the Festival Village on April 26 at Sentul Depot, a day-long extravaganza from 2:30 pm to 11:30 pm. This event promises to be larger than last year’s, featuring drink booths from participating bars, live music by local artists like Dasha Logan and Aidaho, masterclasses, games, and more. It’s an opportunity for attendees to sample a wide array of cocktails crafted with renowned spirits while soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Culinary and Cocktail Collaborations

One of KLCW’s standout features is its emphasis on the synergy between food and drink. This year, thirteen exclusive cocktail pairing dinners will take place at some of Kuala Lumpur’s top restaurants, including Akar, Beta, and Esca. These one-night-only menus are designed to showcase how a thoughtfully crafted cocktail can elevate a dish, offering diners a chance to explore new dimensions of flavor. It’s a testament to Malaysia’s rich culinary heritage, with many cocktails drawing inspiration from local ingredients and traditions, blending seamlessly with the country’s vibrant food scene.

Learning Opportunities for Industry Insiders

Beyond the public events, KLCW also caters to industry professionals with a series of seminars addressing key topics in hospitality and mixology. On April 22, a session titled “Breaking The Paycheck-To-Paycheck Cycle” at Here & Now will feature financial expert Peter Yong discussing budgeting and investment strategies for bar owners and staff. Later in the week, Philip Bischoff, Beverage Manager at Bangkok’s award-winning BKK Social Club, will lead a seminar on “The Art Of Hospitality” at Bar Trigona, exploring leadership and guest experience. The week wraps up with an innovative workshop on “Scents & Spirits: Olfactive Mixology” at Lavantha, where attendees can learn how aroma enhances cocktail storytelling.

Celebrating Kuala Lumpur’s Cocktail Culture

KLCW is more than just a series of events; it’s a celebration of Kuala Lumpur’s growing reputation as a cocktail destination. By bringing together local bars, international talent, and unique cultural influences, the event shines a spotlight on the creativity and passion driving Malaysia’s mixology scene. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail aficionado or simply looking for a memorable night out, KLCW offers something for everyone.

As the city buzzes with anticipation, one thing is clear: Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week 2025 is poised to leave a lasting impression, blending global flair with the unmistakable warmth of Malaysian hospitality.