Exploring 1980s KL Hidden Bar - The Rebel Penguin of Funky Town @ Wisma Cosway

Found a hidden gem in the middle of town with a little ladies night out at The Rebel Penguin of Funky Town. Hidden behind an old barbershop in Wisma Cosway, Kuala Lumpur lies The Rebel Penguin. The Rebel Penguin puts the fun in Funkytown by paying homage to the greatest decade ever- the 1980s, by transporting the often-maligned disco era cocktails to the present with modern flair and fun. 

The alter ego of Alvin AuYong, one of Malaysia's favourite cocktail creators; this is his first self-founded bar, after previously shepherding the opening of APW's Case Study and The Sphere's The Curious Gardener. Balancing between conviviality and craftsmanship, The Rebel Penguin refashions guilty pleasures like piña coladas and lychee martinis into richly nuanced beverages with surprising flavours, served in everything from unicorn float cupholders to disco mirrorballs garbed in heart-framed sunglasses. Most of the cocktails are at RM40 each.

Recommended Drinks 🍸 

Over The Top - Warm cocktail with Popcorn rum, Amaro, Espresso, Dandelion and Burdock, Honey, Lemon and Rooibos Tea. Soothing cocktail that brought me back on the streets of Paris during a cold winter night. 

PISCOTHEOUE is all about a good time, with aloe vera wine, cranberry Pisco, lemon balm and basil served in a mirrorball paired with cute sunnies to match. You know you're in for a fun time - an aperitivo that's probably the best way to ease into the first encounter with The Rebel Penguin. If you like sweet cocktails, this is the one for you. Reminds me of F&N Grape. 

Somewhere Over The Rainbow 🌈 now this is a magical surprise. It has got to be the cutest, most charming cocktail here. With Mango Gin, Fino Sherry, Peach, Indian Borage, Lemon and Purple Yam ice cream. Packs a punch at the first sip but transforms with a bite of that creamy ice cream hidden within. Let it melt a little and take another sip and you'll realise what a pleasure it is.

Ambiance was lovely, an intimate space with minimalist interior - cozy makes me feel I can stay there all night. You'll be surprised how soundproof this place is you wouldn't realise there was anything behind that glass door. Reservations are recommended; as The Rebel Penguin took over from the previous barbershop. 

Try to spot the nostalgic remnants of the former business, from the inverted signage welcoming you in at the entrance to the mirrors within. This was somehow somewhat the perfect location for this hidden bar, tucked in a building whose now overshadowed by Pavillion in front of it. 

The Rebel Penguin of Funky Town

First Floor, Wisma Cosway
Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur,
50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Opening Hours:

Sunday - Thursday     Closed
Friday - Saturday    6pm–12am
Phone: 011-3639 0695