Japanese bars have made their mark in KL, blending traditional Japanese drink culture with a modern twist.
From authentic sake to Japanese whiskey and crafted cocktails, these bars offer an inviting ambiance and cosy atmospheres where people can relax, socialise, and unwind over expertly crafted drinks.
KL boasts a range of Japanese style bars, from casual izakayas to upscale whisky lounges, reflecting Japan’s rich bar culture and catering to both locals and international visitors.
Here’s a guide to some of the best Japanese bars in KL, each offering a distinctive take on Japan’s celebrated drinking culture.
Top Japanese Bars in KL
1. Tansen Izakaya
Tansen Izakaya offers a wide selection of sake, shochu, and Japanese beers, along with a wide variety of creative cocktails, allowing guests to discover the perfect pairing with authentic dishes.
The interior reflects a modern yet cosy interpretation of a traditional Japanese pub, featuring wooden elements, lantern-style lighting, and an open kitchen. It’s the ideal spot for after-work drinks or casual nights out.
Address: No. 36, Jalan SS 22/25, Damansara Jaya, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Phone Number: +6011-3993 7622
Opening Hours: 1 PM – 3 PM; 5 PM – 11 PM
2. Butaya Izakaya
Butaya Izakaya boasts an extensive list of sake, highballs, and Japanese craft beers. Their cocktails are also thoughtfully crafted using Japanese flavors like plum wine and citrus.
The bar serves flavorful dishes like yakitori and other izakaya-style snacks, making it the perfect spot for a casual night out.
The relaxed and festive atmosphere, featuring warm wooden panels, Japanese calligraphy, and lanterns, brings a touch of authentic Japanese drinking culture to KL.
Address: 14, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri Hartamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6011-3993 7622
Opening Hours: 4:30 PM – 11:30 PM
3. Teppan Sakaba
Known for its impressive selection of Japanese whiskies, sake, and umeshu (plum wine), Teppan Sakaba offers drinks designed to complement its teppan dishes. The bar also features unique cocktails infused with Japanese ingredients.
Guests can enjoy the dramatic experience of watching their food prepared in front of them while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails or whiskey.
The contemporary design features a central teppanyaki grill, with a stylish yet cosy bar area.
Address: Faber Towers, Lot G13, Jalan Desa Bahagia, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6011-3993 7622
Opening Hours: 12:30PM – 3PM ; 5:30 PM – 11:30 PM
4. Yakitori Kakusu
Specialising in yakitori and a broad selection of Japanese beverages, Yakitori Kakusu offers a curated list of sake, shochu, and Japanese cocktails. Their drinks are carefully selected to complement the rich, smoky flavors of grilled dishes.
The minimalist interior with an open kitchen creates a rustic yet modern atmosphere, offering an authentic izakaya experience perfect for casual dining and drinks.
Address: 20, Changkat, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6011-3993 7622
Opening Hours: 4:30 PM – 12 AM
5. Ryu’s Bar
Ryu’s Bar is a cosy Japanese-inspired cocktail spot in TTDI, Kuala Lumpur, known for its curated selection of Japanese whiskies, sakes, and shochus.
The staff’s in-depth knowledge ensures an authentic experience, whether you’re new to Japanese beverages or a seasoned connoisseur.
Seasonal cocktails highlight traditional flavors—like yuzu and matcha—while the modern-meets-minimalist décor provides a relaxed yet refined setting.
From casual after-work drinks to celebratory gatherings, Ryu’s Bar caters to various occasions with warm hospitality. Tastings and special events further enhance guests’ appreciation for Japan’s rich drink culture.
Address: 167b Jalan Aminuddin Baki, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 60000
Phone Number: +60123583772
Opening Hours: 4PM – 2AM (Monday – Sunday)
6. Moromi KL
Moromi KL is known for its handcrafted infused sakes from various regions of Japan, offering flavors ranging from fruity and light to earthy and robust. The bar also features Japanese cocktails, including whiskey highballs and umeshu-based drinks, tailored to guests’ tastes.
The cosy and inviting atmosphere combines traditional Japanese drinking culture with modern design. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet drink with friends or colleagues.
Address: 22, Level, 1, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6012-232 5281
Opening Hours: 4 PM – 12 AM (Monday – Thursday); 4PM – 2AM (Friday – Saturday)
7. Bar Terumi
Located in Taman Paramount, Bar Terumi features an all-female team serving sophisticated and innovative cocktails that incorporate Japanese ingredients like yuzu, matcha, and umeshu.
Their cocktails blend Japanese spirits with locally sourced fruits and herbs, creating unique flavor profiles.
With its dim lighting, contemporary interior, and comfortable seating, Bar Terumi is perfect for those who seek a refined and elegant drinking experience with izakaya-style dishes.
Address: 9a, Jalan 20/16, Taman Paramount, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Phone Number: +6011-5915 0308
Opening Hours: 6 PM – 12 AM (Monday – Thursday); 6PM – 1AM (Friday – Saturday)
8. Ikiya 2.0
Ikiya 2.0 offers Japanese-inspired creative cocktails, along with an excellent selection of Japanese whisky, sake, and shochu. With an emphasis on high-quality ingredients, the bar creates drinks that highlight traditional Japanese spirits while incorporating local flavors and modern techniques.
In addition to drinks, the bar serves a variety of izakaya-style dishes that complement its drink offerings, making it a great place for food and drinks in a casual setting.
Ikiya 2.0 combines rustic wooden furniture with modern lighting, creating a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere that still maintains the refined nature of Japanese drinking culture
Address: 14a, Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 1, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Phone Number: +6011-1756 5496
Opening Hours: 5 PM – 1 AM (Monday – Saturday); 5PM – 12AM (Sunday)
Japanese Beverages to Try
Experiencing Japanese style bar culture isn’t complete without sampling some of Japan’s iconic beverages. Here’s a list of must-try drinks:
- Sake – A fermented rice beverage, served warm or chilled, with flavors ranging from sweet to dry
- Shochu – A distilled spirit made from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice, known for its smoothness and versatility
- Japanese Whiskey – Typically smooth and well-balanced, perfect for enjoying neat or in cocktails like the highball
- Umeshu – A sweet, tangy wine made from ume (Japanese plums), often served over ice or with soda
- Japanese Beer – Crisp and smooth, with a lighter, less bitter taste than Western lagers, making it a great pairing for many Japanese dishes
- Chuhai – A refreshing cocktail made by mixing shochu with carbonated water and fruit juice, like lemon or grapefruit
- Japanese Whiskey Highball – A light, refreshing cocktail made with Japanese whiskey and soda water, ideal for whiskey newcomers
- Yuzu Sour – A zesty, tangy cocktail made with yuzu citrus juice, shochu, and a splash of soda
Conclusion
Each of these bars offers a unique twist on Japanese drinking culture, whether it’s the lively energy of an izakaya, the interactive teppanyaki experience, or a focus on traditional sake, rare Japanese whiskies, creative cocktails, and beverage pairings.
With their authentic settings and offerings, these venues are perfect for anyone seeking an immersive drinking experience, complete with exceptional beverages and warm hospitality.
Start your Japanese drinking experience at one of our authentic Japanese restaurants, where you can enjoy a wide range of Japanese beers, whiskies, sake, and shochu in KL.
