The Renaissance Hotel in KLCC has recently revamped its R Bar, a unique and inviting space for post-work drinks or casual get-togethers. Unlike typical hotel bars, the R Bar on the ground floor offers a distinct ambience with its lounge-style setting and a variety of exquisite food and beverage options, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy.
During my visit to the R Bar for their Campari Guest Shift event, I enjoyed trying expertly crafted cocktails by Campari Brand Ambassador and renowned mixologist Giri Pancha. My companion and I savoured the three cocktails specially concocted for the event: the Solero Highball, the Spiced Longan, and the classic Negroni.
The Negroni, with its rich blend of Bickens Gin, Cinzano Rosso vermouth, and Campari, was a delightful start. My friend particularly liked the Spiced Longan, a unique blend of Wild Turkey 8 Years whiskey, Campari, and a delectable ginger and longan syrup.
I then moved on to the Solero HIghball, the only drink on the menu that didn't include Campari. It was created using Bickens Gin, lime juice and Fever Tree soda water, topped off with a delicious vegan-friendly vanilla-flavoured Aquafaba. The foam and the refreshing drink lived up to its name, conjuring up a taste similar to a Solero ice cream but with a punch!
The R Bar has a beautifully curated cocktail menu comprising stunning-looking drinks like the Flora. This drink is served in a delicate old-fashioned champagne glass placed inside a small wooden, glass-topped box and surrounded with a wreath of delicate dried flowers. While we didn't sample the food menu apart from a fresh fruit platter, the choices of bar snacks will have us coming back soon.
With a diverse menu of tapas-style dishes, catering to various tastes. From a zesty crab meat pie tee served in a crispy pastry cup with braised sweet turnip, to a classic fried calamari with French fries, and a selection of bruschetta including a vegetarian option of tomato salsa and pesto combo, there's something for everyone. Other popular choices include a selection of satay sticks, scallops ceviche, and a sea-cuterie board with cured salmon, black mussels, and grilled prawns.
If cocktails are not your thing, rest assured. The R bar caters to all tastes with a selection of other alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including beers, spirits, wines, and even prosecco by the glass. With a calendar full of regular events and a DJ performing at weekends, this snug bar in the high-end surroundings of the Renaissance Hotel offers a versatile hangout for those hoping to enjoy great food and top-class drinks in a chilled-out atmosphere.
Open daily from 10 a.m. until midnight, and with its Ritual DJ experience running from Thursday to Sunday, the R Bar is a fantastic option for those seeking something a little different from the speakeasies and other bars in the KLCC area. With upcoming events such as Cosmopolitan and World Whiskey Days, there is no better time to hang out in one of KL's newest hot spots.
