Petaling Street (Chinatown)

Botak Liquor Bar’s cocktails are art in a glass. The gin-based Jasmine & Tarragon on tap is a gorgeous blend of suze, jasmine cordial, tarragon, lemon bitters and a zesty fizz while the Nangka & Grapefruit is a delicious tropical mashup of tequila blanco, grapefruit soda and homemade jackfruit liquor, drunk together with a lick of the charcoal salt like you would with a margarita. The bar ain’t wallet-friendly so come here when you’re feeling spendy.

Coffee and simple fare at this cafe cum event space which will soon also welcome working nomads looking for something temporary above the main dining hall.

Set meals are the name of the game in this new entry to KL’s burgeoning food scene. Had my pick of the Grilled Fish Fried Rice set which came with a complimentary ice lemon tea for RM16. Their menu also offers a selection of other fusion dishes such as the Tom Yam Nachos and Salmon Fillet with Pasta Aglio Olio. Sorta like western food your mother would cook once in a while when she feels inspired while still maintaining some Asian elements.

Located in one of Chinatown's many small (and signboardless) nooks, the hidden Koon Kee is the locals' favourite stop for failproof Wantan Mee. (Located opposite of Tea King) The dry version is served with a bowl of wantan soup — great on its own or added to the dry noodles for extra moist (a habit of mine). The meal satisfies but give yourself an hour or two to digest or risk being unproductive at work!