Last week, we at The Grid Asia scaled the heights of Traders Hotel KL to visit an icon: SkyBar. Stepping off the elevator onto the 33rd floor, we weren’t met with the usual humid gust typical of rooftop bars. Instead, a refreshing wave of cool air greeted us, alongside one of the most unobstructed, breathtaking views of the Petronas Twin Towers we’ve ever seen.
Because SkyBar is thoughtfully enclosed, the perennial worries of frizzing hair or sudden downpour ruining the evening were nowhere to be found. We spent the night leaning back in total comfort, watching the clouds roll over the KLCC Gardens. The auditory experience was just as perfect. We caught the live band (performing Thursday through Tuesday), which added a sophisticated, soulful layer to the evening. Though on Wednesdays it gets a bit more high-energy with a DJ.
Modern Refinements
The space has undergone a stylish upgrade. The bar now boasts a sleek copper-finished ceiling that catches the light beautifully, while a new infusion of greenery at the entrance adds a vibrant splash of colour to the sleek interior. We were seated in one of the signature sunken cabanas, where large windows frame KL’s glittering skyline, separated from the glowing, neon-lit bar by the iconic length of the pool.
Sipping on the “Spirits of Kuala Lumpur”
What really impressed us was their cocktail concept. The menu, titled “Spirits of Kuala Lumpur,” features artisanal blends inspired by the city’s famous landmarks. It felt as though we were drinking our way through a local map.
CTRL + Kopi (left), The Last Lockdown (middle), Berry Me Up (right)
The Last Lockdown
A complex, high-wire act of Bourbon, Tequila and Amaretto. Brightened by honey, ginger syrup and fresh lime, it offers a beautiful duality. Starting with a warm, spiced sweetness before finishing with a sharp, refreshing citrus kick.
Berry Me Up
If you like your drinks fruity but not sickly sweet, this is the one. It’s a Cognac-based with passionfruit and vanilla. While it goes down easy as juice, the alcohol presence is definitely there. We were pleasantly surprised that it wasn’t overly sugary, as the lime juice keeps it sharp and crisp.
CTRL + Kopi
As caffeine lovers, we had to try this. It’s essentially the Espresso Martini’s cooler, Malaysian sister. The combination of Tequila, espresso and coffee liqueur gets a local upgrade with Gula Melaka and coconut puree. The hint of palm sugar made it incredibly smooth and rich.
Beyond Bar Snacks
We didn’t just come for the drinks. The food at SkyBar is clearly designed to stand up to the strong flavours of the cocktails.
Shoyu Braised Short Ribs Pizza
Oh, how we’re still thinking about this pizza. The short ribs were braised until they were incredibly tender, laid over gooey mozzarella and topped with red onion and a dusting of Togarashi. The savoury umami from the soy-braised meat paired perfectly with the sweetness of our drinks. It’s a heavy, satisfying bite that feels much more “gourmet” than standard bar food.
SkyBar Bucket
When the SkyBar Bucket arrived, it was a literal feast. It’s their signature tasting bucket, packed with half a dozen juicy chicken wings, six crispy prawn tempuras, a dozen mixed satays with a peanut sauce that was a highlight, and crunchy cross-cut fries and chicken poppers. It’s the ultimate “guilty pleasure” platter for a group.
Crispy Fried Calamari
Crispy Fried Calamari was a masterclass in texture. Perfectly golden and served with a zesty Yuzu Mayo dip and lemon wedges that added a bright, citrusy lift to the seafood.
Fried Ikan Bilis and Sausage
If you want the authentic Malaysian drinking experience, you have to order this. It’s a mix of sweet and spicy fried sausage and anchovies (Ikan Bilis) tossed with onions and chilli. Squeezing the fresh lime over the top wakes up all the flavours. It’s salty, spicy and crunchy, which is basically the perfect companion for a cold drink.
We at The Grid Asia highly recommend SkyBar for anyone looking to bridge the gap between a tourist landmark and a sophisticated local hangout. Whether you’re there for the soulful live music or the unbeatable view, SkyBar proves that some icons only get better with time. You’ll come for the phot op, but you’ll stay for the hospitality and that perfectly chilled Gula Melaka cocktail.
