Bar Lai

wow! there are no words to describe this place… we are absolutely in love! when my sister took us here the first time last year, we were blown away at how beautifully done up this place was! they have retained the original architecture of the house with a little renovation here and there. even though the place is bustling with people just having drinks and hanging out, I still feel I could just sit and get away from the world. it is a hidden spot so make sure you have the address and google maps ready at hand to find this hidden gem. it will be worth it.

Old-​world, rustic and non-​descript — Barlai is like an old soul with so much stories to tell. Housed in a heritage building, this charming little nook is a ‘hidden gem’. With decaying walls, wooden blinds, outdoor garden seating, every corner of the space is screaming for an Instagram post.
The ambience is very laid-​back with a sense of tranquility, which makes it a nice escape from the hustle of city. Drinks are run of the mill, don’t expect anything fancy. After all, you’re here for the ambience, really.

Barlai Pudu is a small hidden space where you can hang out and catch up with your friends. It doesn’t have any noticeable signboard but you can always google the place beforehand. Barlai Pudu shares the space with a guest house which is Sekeping Sin Chew Kee. If you know where is Swiss Garden, it is just right beside it and it is behind VCR café. There are parking spots along the house.
When I first step in, it feels really cozy. It is actually an old house and I love it how they preserved the element but also modernize the place with contemporary decors. There is no air-​cond though. I went there at night, the atmosphere was alright. The staffs are kind and friendly too.
They offer many alcoholic drinks because it is mainly known as a bar but I ordered a caffeinated drink but I can’t seem to recall what is it. Besides that, Barlai Pudu also offers local snacks such as keropok ikan with chili. The chili certainly complements the keropok. The price for the food and drinks are reasonable.

This watering hole is a hidden gem tucked in a residential area in the middle of Pudu.
Barlai is by the Big group who are the same people behind plan b, ben’s, beast and mr brooks to name a few. Out of all their brands, this place feels the most unique and with most personality. Many flocked to barlai not just for the cozy laid back ambience but also their affordable drinks. Perfect place to hang out with your friends for a good conversation.
You would be better off finding this place with Waze because the turnings can get a little tricky for the unfamiliar. It’s just right behind VCR café.
They are closed on Mondays by the way!

There is a growing trend of hidden bars here in KL and Barlai definitely hits the sweet spot. Situated in a somewhat hard to find area, you would never expect to find a decent bar in an area like this. Another hit from the Big Group, Barlai is a real gem for a chilled night out with the girls for some pretty affordable drinks.
There is an outdoor and indoor area however do keep in mind that the mosquitoes can be a real torture out there. Bringing some mosquito repellent wouldn’t be a bad idea. If day-​drinking is your thing then come on over as they open up pretty early, about 11am on weekends. Most drinks are around RM20 so it’s not going to be breaking the bank anytime soon. The staff were very friendly and definitely recommended the Siam Mojito. All in all, a good place for a more relaxed atmosphere.