The Rebel Penguin in KL
When we think about the early 80s, flashy neon colours and the head-bopping tune of “Funky Town” by The Lipps Inc. inevitably come to mind. If groovy retro vibes are your thing, and if you’re looking for a fresh spot for meeting up with your besties this weekend, check out The Rebel Penguin in KL. This under-the-radar speakeasy will charm you with its ultra funky cocktails and cosy-yet-dynamic ambience.
Hidden bar with an ’80s disco theme
Image credit: @heycilipadi via Instagram
The Rebel Penguin is a hidden bar located unexpectedly within Wisma Cosway, an old office building in the heart of the city. With an interior designed to resemble a penguin’s lair, it offers a selection of creative dessert cocktails, along with a range of beers and wines.
The actual location of the bar is kept under wraps – guests will only get to find out where the bar is after making a reservation.
Image credit: @heycilipadi via Instagram
Once you discovered the entrance and step inside this hidden bar, you’ll be captivated by the eye-popping neon lights that give this establishment its distinctively fun and quirky feel.
The cosy hole-in-the-wall ambience of the bar will have you grooving the night away to catchy ’80s hits.
Image credit: @jeanyfc via Instagram
Unique twists on ’80s cocktails
The Rebel Penguin offers three categories of dessert cocktails: Chill, Radical, and Legit – each one with its own distinct flavour and unique twist on classic ’80s cocktails.
Image credit: @jeanyfc via Instagram
If you’re planning to go all in with the disco theme, consider the Piscotheque (RM40) from the Chill selection. This groovy-looking cocktail is served in a dazzling disco ball with a heart-shaped garnish for an extra dose of retro flair.
Consisting of cranberry pisco, lemon balm, and aloe vera wine, it’s ideal for those who lean towards fruity or tropical drinks.
Somewhere Over The Rainbow (RM40) is the showstopper in the Radical selection. This cocktail dessert is served with a quirky looking unicorn and is made with hand-whipped purple yam ice cream accompanied with layers of mango gin, fino sherry, and Indian borage.
While sipping on this, you can expect to travel somewhere over the rainbow as it offers a creamy and delicate taste with a unique combination of alcohol and ice-cream.
Image credit: @chinggetslow via Instagram
Meanwhile, the Permanent Surprise (RM40) from the Legit selection is a crowd favourite here. This cocktail comes in a cute doughnut mug filled with rice chocolates which remind us of the familiar snack from our childhood days.
Consisting of bak kwa whiskey, milk oolong tea, and peanut foam, this selection pairs a creamy texture with whiskey and is especially recommended for those who enjoy nutty flavours.
Image credit: @heycilipadi via Instagram
Throw back quirky cocktails at the retro The Rebel Penguin
Drinking with friends can create shared experiences while being a fun way to relax and unwind after a long week. So, let your hair down this weekend and visit this hidden bar for a trip back to the ’80s – complete with one-of-a-kind dessert cocktails.
Address: Lot 1.24, Cosway Guesthouse, 88, Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: Wed-Sat 6pm-11pm (Closed on Sundays, Mondays & Tuesdays)
Contact: 011-2506 3313 | The Rebel Penguin Instagram
Cover image adapted from: @heycilipadi via Instagram, @jeanyfc via Instagram
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