Best new bars and clubs in KL

Strictly speaking, Claret opened last December (2012). But we think this strikingly beautiful bar deserves a spot on the list. Sitting on the 24th floor of The Troika (it's part of Troika Sky Dining), the bar is styled like a New York high-end loft, with a nonchalant ambience. And the patio behind the bar offers a gorgeous KL city view. Not only can we find premium wines here; the cocktails, wine spritzers and canapés are equally amazing. Best come in the early evening, sip a cocktail and stay for dinner.

It seems like Heli Lounge bar is attracting a lot of tourists lately. With a spectacular 360-degree view of KL city (with no barriers), it’s easy to see why. The operational helipad closes everyday at 6pm and turns itself into a mobile bar. The setting is simple with just plastic chairs and stools. But that’s not what you're there for. Come at dusk, catch the sunset, and stay until the night falls to watch the stunning city lights.

It seems like rooftop bars are still trending in our city. And Mai Bar is one of them. Located on the top floor of the trendy Aloft Hotel by the pool, Mai Bar is heavy on the Tiki kitsch. Drinks are outstanding with special recommendations like Mai Tai and ‘The Birthday Drink’ which is a White Russian served in a milk bottle. Also, they have been throwing pretty cool parties on Sunday afternoon. Pool party, anyone?

Omakase + Appreciate is a speakeasy bar. Although drinking is absolutely legal here, its secretive location and entrance make things a little more interesting. Once you find the place, indulge in the cocktails served by award-winning mixologists, Shawn Cheong and Karl Too. Since they practise a ‘omakase’ format, which means ‘I'll leave it to you’ in Japanese, the mixologists are happy to tailor-make a cocktail for you. However, the place is tiny, so best come with a friend or two and have a decent night out.

If there’s an award for most popular new bar of the year, Pisco would probably win it. Even though it was opened late last year (2012), this Spanish-themed bar has garnered a lot of positive interest. Apart from its delicious Peruvian/Japanese cuisine, the drinks are really good too. Hosting Deer Society nights and throwing themed parties have earned them a steady group of friendly regulars who know how to have a good time.

They pride themselves on being the premium nightlife hub, the exclusive club. It sounds a little snobby in the beginning, but the pocket-sized club has gotten the attention of KL’s affluent crowd. With a solid sound system, a crew of great DJs and a crowd who knows how to party like rock stars (with the money to spend), Providence is the new go-to on weekends for KL’s A-listers.

With a club, a cigar lounge, a sports bar, a restaurant and a rooftop bar, The Roof is undoubtedly the biggest opening of the year. The rooftop bar, Stratosphere, is the only bar on an infinity, grassed helipad in Asia; the sports bar, Score, attracts the white collars from nearby offices while the club (PLAY, pictured) has been hosting some good gigs. It has been an impressive start. It’s definitely the place to watch (and party at) in 2014.