Kuala Lumpur nightlife is thriving and how! From some of the best bars in the world to night street food markets, you cannot afford to miss. And there is something for everyone – Sports bars with live screenings, speakeasy spirit-forward cocktail bars, hawkers on the streets, and Ramly burgers at 3 AM!
Jalan alor
This has to be the first. Because first, we EAT! Jalan Alor is the most exciting place for street food – you will get everything from Wagyu beef steak to dumplings, Malaysian satay, Thai food, Chinese and so much more! Sit down on one of the many restaurants and pick up some snacks from the hawkers while you choose where to sit down. There are plenty of locals on the streets besides tourists. The chicken wings from Wog ah Wah are a must have! And you can’t miss out on the Malaysia satay set – the signature peanut sauce is really punchy and delicious. Read all about must eats in Kuala Lumpur here.
chanGkat
If you are unable to make it to the buzzing Chinatown at night and have already done a couple of runs to Jalan alor – there is another street nearby that you must check out! Changkat is lined with so many sports bars, you literally walk from one bar to another, like a huge connected tunnel. After a heavy downpour and zero Grabs, we were loitering outside our hotel and deciding how we can make it to Chinatown. A local literally saved the day by pointing us out to Changkat street instead. With the FIFA fever in the air, many, many beer and sports bars – the energy was palpitating! You will also find Steamboats on nearby corners that are highly recommended for a midnight snack.
Petaling street
Chinatown is so culturally rich – from shopping for souvenirs to some pretty top notch copies of luxury brands, local chocolates and a LOT of food, of course! Petaling street is not as buzzing at night, but there are still plenty of restaurants and bars for you to check out. And there comes alive another side of the town with night food vendors. Your Kuala Lumpur nightlife must visits should include photo-ops in the streets of Chinatown with a lot of street art – one for the gram!
Petronas tower
The Petronas Tower is obviously a must visit – but they arestunning at night! These twin towers are now the only of their kind in the world. The KLCC park gives a beautiful view of the towers and night viewing is a must do when in Kuala Lumpur. There is also a water and light show from 7PM which is free of cost, nothing like the Wings of Fire of Singapore, but you can definitely check it out. And there are some amazing local and luxury brands to shop from at Suria KLCC. And there a a few really good bars in the viscinity.
bukit bintang
One of the most bustling neighborhoods of Kuala Lumpur. I would highly recommend choosing your hotel in Bukit Bintang. The vibe just fills you up with life! Jalan Alor and Chankwat are both close by. And so is the Pavillion Mall. There are plenty of small restaurants, Lebanese and Turkish food joints, and cafes to work out of. And this place comes alive at night – artists performing in the squares, outdoor seating in almost all bars, and music wherever you go.
Speakeasy bars
There is something about the charm of hidden bars. I have always, always found speakeasy bars so mystical. And Kuala Lumpur happens to have so many of them! From slick, minimal ones, hidden in plain sight, to ones housed in old-time brothels. You cannot experience the Kuala Lumpur nightlife without visiting a few speakeasies. From Chinatown, to KLCC park and Bukit Bintang, these bars are sprawled everywhere. And each, different and unique from the other. I have listed all my favourite bars in KL here.
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