Cabinet 8 KL

Cabinet 8 KL is one of the newest stars of Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown bar scene. It sits on Jalan Sultan, just one street over from Petaling Street, and in 2026 it entered the extended Asia's 50 Best Bars 51-100 list for the first time, at number 65. The bar is led by self-taught bartender Justin Tay, and its whole menu is built on Malaysian ingredients.

From the outside, it looks unassuming. The frontage carries an illuminated sign for Neighbour Club, the daytime shop that shares the space, and the bar itself is hidden behind cabinet doors, which gives arriving an element of discovery. Inside, the room has sleek wooden tables, low brass lighting and booths that suit group drinks, so it is more relaxed and sociable than some of the city's counter-only bars.

The drinks are inventive and rooted in local flavours. Tea plays a big role, with an entire section of the menu devoted to tea-based cocktails, and other drinks borrow from Malaysian kitchens. The Macurryta, a margarita infused with curry leaves from Johor Bahru, is a signature, and the Double Special is a burger-inspired savoury drink that uses instant noodle seasoning, a playful idea that shows the bar's sense of humour. Ask the bartenders to explain the ingredients; they are a good introduction to Malaysian produce in liquid form.

Cabinet 8 opens every day of the week, which makes it useful for a drink on a Sunday or Monday when some other bars are closed. Check its Instagram for current opening times and booking information. Prices are in line with other craft cocktail bars in the city. It suits couples, groups of friends and visitors curious about Malaysian flavours, and the booths make it one of the better choices in Chinatown for a small group.

Jalan Sultan is in the heart of Chinatown, with Pasar Seni and Plaza Rakyat stations within walking distance. The street is also home to two Bib Gourmand favourites, Nam Heong Chicken Rice and Lai Foong Lala Noodles, which make an easy dinner before drinks, and Penrose is a short walk away on Jalan Petaling for a second round. Take a taxi or ride-hailing car back to your hotel late at night.