Raw Bar

There’s a new development in Mont Kiara. You may have noticed it while driving towards Jalan Duta. While it’s still a bit new and rather un-crowded to be compared to its London (or New York) namesake, this is purportedly KL’s version of Soho, imaginatively named SohoKL and also Solaris. The whole area is meant to be a conglomeration of food and entertainment outlets—good news for all of us. And one of the latest bars to open up here is Raw.

One of Raw’s partners James Ding describes it as “a blank canvas that can be filled in by the changing sensory perceptions of sight, sound, taste, smell and by the end of the night, hopefully, feel.” Sounds vague, James. But since we live in a brave new world, we decided to drop by for a peek.

Entering this Melbourne-inspired cocktail lounge “space”, you’ll notice Raw is actually quite polished. Postmodern designs and structural elements are evident all over from the wall structures, floor layout and décor patterns to the lighting design. The effect is pleasingly eclectic. This is the kind of place you go to be seen at without actually being seen.

Now, on to the drinks. At Raw, you should definitely try their delicious and special cocktails. Though a tad pricey because it’s imported from Melbourne, it’s definitely worth it. James says, “We do not skim on the alcohol pourings,” which is always a good news. They definitely have a wide range of premium cocktails and each one is unique.

The genius behind Raw’s bar is Deano, a permanent mixologist from, where else, Melbourne. Try the originals such as the Blood Orange & Passionfruit Martini, Forceful Monk, Melbournian Sling, Swedish Geisha and Forgotten Soul. Raw definitely has the potential to redefine the cocktail culture in Malaysia which is way behind of time at the moment.

There’s also food to go with the liquid, with French and Italian influenced entrées and mains. There’s also a wide range of tapas available for those who just want to nibble. You can dine on the nice tables or over some aperitifs on the big, spacious couches. For those who prefer to smoke and drink incessantly, right above Raw is a blacklit wine and cigar alcove called Murmur.

There are three main theme nights at Raw: Sin featuring DJ Nesh spinning hip hop and R&B on Wednesday nights; Revival retro music on Thursdays; and Bassline on the weekend—Fridays you get electro and breakbeats with Blastique, while Saturdays are funky house with DJ Ian Ross. At the moment, there’s no cover charge, which is always good news. In the future, Raw plans to organise “chilled out Sunday afternoon Sundowners with cocktails and wines.” Now that doesn’t sound vague at all. Don’t forget to call us, James!

Text Kevin Yeoh Photo RAW Bar