Latest news with #BarTrigona
Rakyat Post
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Rakyat Post
The Penang Architect Who Swapped UK Blueprints For Malaysian Bartops
Subscribe to our FREE Jude Yee never thought she'd be standing in Bar Trigona at the Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, holding a trophy for Malaysia's best cocktail. Eight years ago, the 30-year-old Penang native was studying architecture, dreaming of community-based projects that could change neighbourhoods. Today, she's representing Malaysia at the Bols Cocktail Battle Grand Finals in Amsterdam this September – and she couldn't be happier about the detour her life took. 'I don't feel like I wasted my architecture degree,' Yee told TRP, reflecting on her unconventional career path. The type of architecture I studied in the UK was community-based. I wasn't keen on commercial architecture anyway. It was during a summer job at a bar in the UK that everything clicked. What started as temporary work to pay the bills became a passion that would reshape her entire future. Now working at NEO near KLCC, Yee has just claimed her first major bartending competition win with a cocktail that perfectly captures her artistic sensibilities. The Winning Formula: 'You Make Me Feel Mighty Blue' Her championship drink draws inspiration from an unexpected source – Sylvester's disco anthem. The name alone hints at the creative thinking that sets Yee apart in Malaysia's competitive bartending scene. One of the competition criteria was to get something from the disco era, Yee explains. The song by Sylvester reflects the freedom of that era – how singers expressed themselves in new ways, very androgynous, with different projections towards fashion and lifestyle. I wanted to reflect that in the cocktail itself – the balance between masculinity and femininity. The drink itself is a technical marvel wrapped in nostalgic storytelling. Yee fat-washes It's basically like blending coconut rum with blended whisky, she describes in bartender's shorthand, though the actual process is far more complex. From Shots to Sophistication Yee's relationship with Bols goes back to her bartending origins. Her first gig was at a shots bar in 2018, where she served drinks with names like 'Alien Brain Haemorrhage' – colourful concoctions built around That was my introduction to bartending. Those were our bestsellers back then, so I'm quite familiar with Bols products. The contrast between those early days and her current sophisticated approach shows just how far she's travelled. These days, when she's not crafting competition-winning cocktails, Yee's personal favourites lean classic: gin and tonic, old fashioned, and what she describes as a 'really extra dirty, filthy martini.' The Road to Amsterdam Winning the Malaysian finals means Yee will represent her country on the international stage – a prospect that still feels surreal for someone who stumbled into bartending almost by accident. It's my first time winning a bartending competition. Now I'm looking forward to representing Malaysia in the grand finals in Amsterdam. For an industry often dominated by flashy personalities and Instagram-worthy presentations, Yee represents something different. This thoughtful craftsperson approaches each drink like an architectural project, considering structure, balance, and the story each element tells. Her journey from drafting tables to cocktail shakers proves that sometimes the most rewarding careers are the ones we never see coming. And if her disco-inspired, gender-fluid, fat-washed genever cocktail is any indication, Yee is just getting started. READ MORE : The Bols Cocktail Battle Grand Finals take place in Amsterdam this September, where Yee will compete against winners from around the world. Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
Hype Malaysia
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
From Penrose KL To Reka:Bar: The 4 Malaysian Bars Listed In Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025!
Another year rolls around, and bars across Asia hold their breath as Asia's 50 Best Bars reveals its winners. This prestigious list doesn't just spotlight great drinks—it celebrates creativity, consistency, and the culture behind the bar. For bartenders and cocktail lovers alike, it's the region's ultimate benchmark of excellence and a moment of recognition that can transform a bar's future. This year, Malaysia proves once again that its cocktail scene is bold, ambitious, and world-class. From sleek hotel lounges to boundary-pushing speakeasies, these standout bars have earned their place among Asia's best. They don't just serve drinks—they tell stories, push techniques, and champion local flavours. Here are the 4 Malaysian bars that have earned their place on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 list: Penrose KL (No.10) Holding its title in the top ten, Penrose KL has quickly proven itself as a standout in the regional bar scene. Only two years since its debut, the bar has already become a serious competitor in the beverage industry. What was once a hidden gem on Jalan Petaling is now a bustling go-to for bar hoppers. Its bold, diverse menu and sharp attention to detail offer an experience unlike any other in Malaysia. Beyond the drinks, Penrose KL shines through with its atmosphere and hospitality. The space blends sleek, modern design with a warm, welcoming energy. Each visit feels intentional, whether you're seated at the bar or tucked into a booth. It's this thoughtful balance of craft and comfort that keeps guests coming back and industry eyes firmly on Penrose KL. THREE X CO (No.15) Making its way up the list every year is the famed THREE X CO. Rocketing up from its previous spot of No. 56, the bar has proven that it's more than just a one-time experience. Tailored to be a relaxing and intimate place for you to have a fun time and unwind after a long day, it maintains the traditions for cocktail making while not being afraid to push the boundaries and create completely new and playful ones. The bar emphasises using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques. This approach creates flavours that feel both familiar and surprising. The intimate setting encourages connection, making it a favourite for relaxed evenings and special occasions alike. As it rises through the ranks, THREE X CO continues to redefine what a modern Malaysian bar can be. Bar Trigona (No.39) It's no surprise that the first Malaysian bar to enter the World's 50 Best Bars keeps shining. Bar Trigona has held its place on Asia's 50 Best Bars for four years straight, thanks to its unique use of honey in both its cocktails and its ethos. With expertly crafted drinks and one of the most intricately designed interiors around, it's the perfect spot for anyone seeking a standout cocktail experience. More than just great drinks, Bar Trigona champions sustainability and local pride by partnering with native honey producers. This connection not only supports Malaysia's ecosystem but also turns each visit into a chance to appreciate the vital role bees play, making every sip both delicious and meaningful. Reka:Bar (No.47) The only bar in Malaysia that makes you feel like you've travelled to the future makes an appearance on this list once again. Reka:Bar is widely known for its 'Domino Effect' chain, where each cocktail in a series of 12 cleverly shares and reuses ingredients from the drink before it, creating a continuous, evolving tasting experience. This inventive approach not only showcases the bar's creativity, but also highlights a commitment to sustainability in every pour. The bar's cutting-edge design complements its innovative drinks, creating a space that feels more like an art exhibit than a traditional lounge. Whether you're exploring new flavours or soaking in the vibe, Reka:Bar delivers an unforgettable journey for those looking to push the boundaries of cocktail culture. Rounding out Malaysia's impressive presence on this year's list, Coley KL and Backdoor Bodega have earned spots on the extended list of Asia's 100 Best Bars 2025—bringing the national total to six. It's a clear sign of the country's rising influence in the region, driven by creativity, craftsmanship, and a strong sense of identity. As Asia's cocktail scene continues to evolve, Malaysia is no longer just part of the conversation—it's helping shape it. Zaima Humaria contributed to this article.
Courier-Mail
10-07-2025
- Courier-Mail
10 best things to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News. Here's what to add to your KL itinerary... 1. Peek inside Batu Caves It's a 30-minute train journey from the centre of Kuala Lumpur to the Batu Caves. Wear decent shoes – after passing the 43m-high statue of Hindu god Lord Murugan, you'll ascend 272 steps to the entrance of the main cave, inside of which are several Hindu shrines. Venture further into the main cave to find countless smaller ones. Keep an eye out for the monkeys – they'll take any opportunity to snatch your snacks. It's a 30-minute train journey from the centre of Kuala Lumpur to the Batu Caves 2. Shop Petaling St Market This covered Chinatown market is a great place to pick up souvenirs, whether it's batik sarongs or the obligatory I love KL T-shirts. Our top tip? Explore the alleyways leading off the main thoroughfare – this is where you'll find the city's oldest tailors and traditional Chinese medicine specialists. When energy levels flag, grab some street food – we recommend char kway teow, a noodle dish combining sweet and savoury flavours. 3. Check out a temple Sri Mahamariamman Temple is Kuala Lumpur's oldest Hindu temple, in the heart of Chinatown, and has a stunning five-tiered gopuram (tower) adorned with rainbow-hued sculptures depicting characters from Hindu mythology. Founded in 1873, it's a wonderful example of South Indian temple architecture: gold motifs, precious stones and ornate tilework feature heavily. Head inside to check out its intricate frescoes and shrines dedicated to Hindu gods, including Lord Murugan (the Hindu god of war). Sri Mahamariamman Temple is Kuala Lumpur's oldest Hindu temple 4. See the national mosque Otherwise known as Masjid Negara, the National Mosque of Malaysia combines Islamic and modern architecture, and its most notable features include the 73m-high minaret. You'll need to dress modestly, and scarves are provided for visitors without head coverings. Certain areas are closed during prayer times, but highlights include the main prayer hall, the mihrab (a wall niche indicating the direction of Mecca) and walls engraved with verses from the Quran. 5. Toast Kuala Lumpur The decor at the Four Seasons Kuala Lumpur's Bar Trigona is as gorgeous as the cocktail menu – think expanses of marble and velvet. There's a focus on Malaysian ingredients such as pickled ginger and cardamom. The cocktail menu at Bar Trigona is a must-try. Picture: Bar Trigona 6. Soak up the view The twin-tipped Petronas Towers might not be the world's tallest buildings any more, but the views from the observatory on the 86th floor are breathtaking. Don't forget to check out the 83rd floor, too – this is where you'll find a cafe and digital displays highlighting the landmarks you can see. 7. Enjoy afternoon tea The afternoon teas at the Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur are legendary. Served in the lobby to a soundtrack of harp music, they feature countless nods to local flavours, and highlights include a delicious mango and passionfruit tart. Don't forget to check out the tea bar, where you can sniff out your ideal fix (we recommend the Japanese wild cherry tea). The Petronas Towers in KL 8. Marvel at the tower The Merdeka 118 tower, which has 118 floors and a height of 679m, became the world's second tallest building when it was inaugurated in 2024. 9. Eat at the night market The go-to spot for street food, Jalan Alor, is a night market in Bukit Bintang, a neighbourhood in the centre of Kuala Lumpur. Head here to sip cheap bottles of Tiger beer and feast on Malaysian delicacies such as rendang. Feeling adventurous? Try one of the numerous frog-based dishes on offer, many of which have a Marmite marinade. The go-to spot for street food is Jalan Alor 10. Wander Kampung Baru Kampung Baru feels more like a village, despite being just 1km north of the Petronas Towers. In 1899 it was gazetted by Malaysia's British colonial administration, who agreed to provide farmers with a rural setting where they could live free from the risk of development but (more importantly) close to the city centre, which meant their produce could sustain the rapidly expanding city. Wander its leafy narrow lanes to admire traditional stilted houses, many of which have elaborately-carved exterior wooden panels. Originally published as 10 best things to add to your Kuala Lumpur itinerary
The Star
29-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
New GM to lead luxury hotel into next growth phase
Barnett now Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur general manager. FOUR Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur has announced the appointment of Simon Barnett as its new general manager, succeeding the outgoing leadership as the property enters its next phase of growth. Barnett, whose most recent stint was with Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, Thailand, brings more than 30 years of global hospitality experience to his new role. With enthusiasm for people, place and purpose, the Australian is poised to usher in a new chapter of luxury hospitality in Kuala Lumpur. A long-time visitor to Malaysia, Barnett described the move as something of a homecoming. 'I've been visiting Kuala Lumpur every year for the past decade,' he said in an exclusive interview with StarMetro. 'There's so much cultural richness here such as art, food and heritage, and I'm excited to share that with our international guests.' Hailing from Melbourne, Barnett's hospitality journey began in the front office of a five-star hotel in Brisbane before he found his niche in sales and marketing. His career has since taken him to top properties around the world. Collaborations with culinary talents in the works for Bar Trigona. Barnett, who joined Four Seasons in 2011, said his path to leadership was shaped by generous mentors and a focus on empowering his teams. Leadership, he said, was about creating a structure that supported the team's success, which is reflected in the guest experience. At Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Barnett's vision revolves around curated experiences that blend global luxury with Malaysian authenticity. He highlighted the importance of standing out, not just among hotels but also in a city brimming with dynamic dining and entertainment options. 'We will continue pushing boundaries through guest chef collaborations, dining promotions, and immersive wellness offerings. 'Bar Trigona continues to shine, and we will build on that with a collaboration with our team from Bangkok and culinary talents,' said Barnett of the hotel's award-winning bar that offers a vibrant nightlife experience with stunning views of the city. The hotel is set to welcome a new executive chef from Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Vietnam, in July. Meanwhile, Barnett is expanding the in-house spa's wellness offerings with a local twist. These include herbal teas sourced from within Malaysia, a partnership with a longevity clinic and incorporating traditional Chinese medicine elements such as acupuncture. He also hinted at more cultural initiatives to come, including an artist-in-residence programme. 'It would be lovely to host local and international artists, whether poets, sculptors or painters, and have their stay inspire creations we can share with guests.' Committed to sustainability, Barnett said the hotel also planned to build on the group's 'Four Seasons for Good' framework. This includes eliminating single-use plastics throughout the hotel, reducing food waste and supporting community initiatives such as the Terry Fox Run. A self-professed fan of Malaysian cuisine, Barnett singled out beef rendang as his go-to comfort dish. He confessed that local family-run eateries made him feel most at home. 'The thing that's most comforting for me in Kuala Lumpur is the warmth of family-run restaurants,' he shared. 'The service and the food remind me of home,' he said.
