December 4th, 2011
One of the most popular dining and nightlife areas in Kuala Lumpur is located along a narrow street running off the busy main road of Bukit Bintang in the heart of downtown KL. The upper section of Changkat Bukit Bintang is mostly lined with restored 1930’s and 40’s buildings, which have been transformed to house an eclectic variety of restaurants, bars and nightspots. Opening in 2007, twenty.one kitchen+bar occupies a two level space in a row of terrace buildings. The contemporary design was created by the local boutique architectural design firm dplusmcreative . twentyone.kitchen+bar is a clever combination of a chic dining space, stylish cocktail bar, and vibrant music lounge. Over the years the venue has consistently achieved a high level of popularity within the constantly evolving KL nightlife scene. The dining concept is “Modern European”, with elements of Asian influences, and the upstairs bar is renowned for it’s cocktail concoctions, whilst the music style is described by the venue as “lushouse”.
The front terrace with tables for street views
The entrance to twenty.one kitchen+bar is up a few steps to a covered outdoor terrace area with tables, and is an ideal perch for taking in the passing street-life. Entering the building through large glass doors reveals the lower level restaurant setting. A long row of tables are set against the length of a mirrored wall, and the palette of white leather upholstered seating, with chrome and dark timber tables, evokes a svelte style that compliments the modern European cuisine served from the kitchen.
The downstairs dining area
The upper level bar – looking back into lounge area
Upstairs, the mood changes as the long main bar dominates the interior. With clean lines and uncluttered detailing, the bar space is a comfortable location to enjoy the cocktails, or there is the option to chill out on the outdoor balcony overlooking the street below. On a raised section at the rear of the room, the music lounge area is where the action hots up later in the nights as DJs play the “lushouse” melodies and get the crowd moving.
The lounge / music zone at rear of upper level
Upper level- looking out towards outdoor terrace
The drinks menu is highlighted by the creative cocktails that are a specialty of twenty.one kitchen+bar. An extensive range of premium spirits, wines, champagnes and beers complete the beverage offerings.
Kakariki Mai– Maori for “green water”
Russian Spring Punch
Spiced Mango Daiquiri- rum, lime , mango & chilli
The kitchen has received much acclaim for the quality of the sumptuous food presented from the extensive menu. The interpretation of “Modern European” cuisine encompasses salads, soups and appetizers for starters, and pastas, seafood and meats for main courses. Highlights from the starters include- marinated roma tomatoes; baby squid tempura; twentyone’s salad; smoked duck & sour plum spring rolls. A feature of the menu- both for starters and main courses- is that three dishes (selected) can be chosen to combine into a platter for sharing. The main courses include- braised wagyu beef burger; seared black cod; bangers & mash; gorgonzola risoto; and spaghetti seafood. A selection of desserts complete the menu and include tiramasu; passion fruit brulee; and oreo cheesecake.
Baby Squid Tempura– with red onion, cherry tomato, carrot, garlic aioli, smoked mussel and squid ink reduction
Marinated Roma Tomatoes– with sliced buffalo mozzarella, rocket & basil pesto
Pan Fried Salmon– served on a potato croquette, tomato, asparagus & caper butter sauce
Tiramsu– with mascarpone & chocolate moelleux
twenty.one kitchen+bar
Address: 20-1, Changkat Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Reservations: +603. 21420021
Website: http://www.drbar.asia
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/twentyonekitchenbar
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 12:00 pm ~ 3:00 am
Promotions: Happy Hours– Monday to Sunday 5:00 pm ~ 8:00 pm One for One on all loose drinks
Refer to twenty.one Facebook Page for regular updates on events and promotions
Related venues– twenty.one tables+terrace @BSC – www.facebook.com/twentyonetablesterrace
Note: Food & cocktail images courtesy of venue
