Stunning new Tiki-themed rooftop bar- an exotic new party destination in Kuala Lumpur
June 13th, 2013
Occupying an expansive space on the 30th floor rooftop of the newly opened (March 2013) Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral hotel, the Mai Bar is the latest addition to the growing roster of stylish rooftop nightlife venues in the centre of KL. With its distinctively themed decor, and spectacular views over KL and the surrounding landscape, Mai Bar also exudes a refreshingly relaxed and casual attitude- consistent with the Aloft brand’s hip, urban lifestyle approach to hospitality. Mai Bar by day is a casual, laid-back environment for refreshing poolside drinks, and after the sun sets, transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination with resident and guest DJs spinning their eclectic mix of tunes late into the night.
Mai Bar is the design creation of acclaimed Singapore-based hospitality interior design studio Poole Associates who have created for Aloft a contemporary space of “urban cool in unexpected places”- infused with a distinctive Malaysian and Pacific Rim flavor. An impressive juxtaposition of a modern “industrial chic” template and an exotic South Pacific theme, Mai Bar features bare concrete walls, exposed ceiling ductwork, glass, stone and metal surfaces, that blend harmoniously with the colorful highlights of soft furnishings and specially commissioned artworks.
The main bar space features a dramatic black curving bar counter that spans almost the entire length of the room. A glass encased corner room- at the far end of the space- functions as a cigar lounge- or is suitable for small private functions; and a vividly carpeted outdoor terrace presents postcard views from the corner of the rooftop. Authentic hand-carved Tiki totems lining the deck space between the pool and the bar interior make a bold statement. Other artistic elements include the timber carvings of Australian artist Tony Twigg- “Five Sticks in Any Order” – inspired by the local fishing traps on kelongs ( floating coastal farms) which were incorporated into the pivoting doors that provide shade over the hot pink sunbeds on the pool deck.
Further evoking the tropical South Pacific Tiki theme, the drinks selections at Mai Bar are headlined by a specially crafted range of cocktails that utilise fresh local ingredients and infusions to create drinks such as the signature Malaysian Princess Mai Tai – silver rum pressed with blueberries and kaffir lime, topped with golden rum, pineapple and orange juices, and served in a Tiki-themed mug. The well-stocked bar also serves a full selection of premium spirits, wines and beers, and complimenting the drinks- tapas-style small plates created by the Aloft chefs.
And for information on the latest parties and promotions at Mai Bar check out the Aloft Facebook Page for all the details.
A look around Mai Bar
Suspended from the ceiling above the bar are a series of black painted Bamboo Chandelier components custom made in Indonesia for Mai Bar. Large colorful Polynesian style paintings are featured on the walls throughout the interior.
Comfortable sofas and armchairs made from Balinese Water Buffalo leather.
At one end of Mai Bar is the Cigar Lounge and sports viewing room- known as the “Freek Lounge”. The lounge can also be booked for small private parties.
The entire facade of Mai Bar looks out over the swimming pool through full height glass – with the KL skyline as the backdrop.
The passageway between the swimming pool deck and the Mai Bar is guarded by life-size Tiki totems- hand-carved from aged timber in authentic Polynesian style. In the evenings, pivoted doors are lowered to enclose the Mai Bar from the outdoor pool deck.
Hand-carved wooden Tiki totems and Polynesian paintings evoke the exotic South Pacific.
The outdoor corner terrace with fabulous panoramic views from the 30th floor rooftop.
Spectacular rooftop infinity pool – known as “Splash”- adjacent to the Mai Bar.
Mai Bar- rooftop at Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral
Address: 30th floor Rooftop at Aloft, No. 5 Jalan Stesen Sentral, Kuala Lumpur Sentral. Malaysia
Reservations: +603. 2723 1188
Website: www.starwoodhotels.com/alofthotels/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AloftKualaLumpurSentral
Opening Hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 pm ~ 12:00 am
Friday & Saturday: 12:00 pm ~ 02:00 am
Promotions: Happy Hour- daily between 5 pm ~ 9 pm.
Dress Code: Smart casual
