Raising A Glass: 10 Bars In Ipoh You Should Know

Beyond its Old Town kopitiams and famous limestone hills and cave temples, Ipoh has quietly cultivated a lively drinking scene. From century-old watering holes to neon-lit cocktail lounges, the city’s bars are as eclectic and surprising as its food culture. Here are 10 standouts worth your time.

In a country that seems to see most of its cultural trends understandably centred around its outsize capital city of Kuala Lumpur and its environs, the ‘secondary cities’ of Malaysia are having their moment in the sun, too.

For example, Penang Cocktail Week is fast approaching. In a city that’s beloved for its amazing street food, Malaysia’s favourite island has really seen its cocktail scene grow rather dramatically in the last several years.

Similarly, Ipoh has long been a magnet for food lovers, and while some say it rivals but still comes in second to Penang, others say Ipoh is a solid winner when it comes to street food. And equally similarly to the improvement seen in Penang’s cocktail bars, when night falls in Ipoh, the city also offers an increasingly rich and varied bar culture. Beer may still be the most common pour (after all, Ipoh is famed for its ‘snow beer’), but cocktail culture and wine sophistication have found their place here, too. Some bars lean on heritage and nostalgia, others on mixology and modern flair — and together they form a scene that’s both unpretentious and engaging.

Step inside any of these 10 venues that are currently trending (both on social media and in more mainstream titles), and you’ll find not just drinks, but stories: of old trades, hidden doors, cinematic moods, and inventive twists on tradition. Raise your glass and say cheers to Ipoh!

BRICKS & BARRELS

A familiar import from Kuala Lumpur, Bricks & Barrels brings its exposed-brick pub style to Ipoh. It’s one of the city’s most popular spots for beer, bolstered by a menu that swings from hearty local bites to Western comfort food.???? 28, Jalan Lau Ek Ching, Kampung Jawa | T: 05-253 8558

HEALY MAC’S IRISH BAR

The Irish know their pubs, and Healy Mac’s proves it in Ipoh with Guinness and Kilkenny on tap. A firm favourite among expats, it’s a convivial setting for sports, stout, and long conversations.???? 2, Persiaran Greentown 4, Greentown Avenue | T: 016-553 1092

KAFE YOON WAH

Not a bar in the strict sense, but the birthplace of Ipoh’s famous ‘snow beer’ — a frosty, slushy pint that’s been cooling locals since 1998. Pair it with their stuffed chicken wings and you’ll understand the appeal.???? 7, Jalan Bijeh Timah | T: 012-512 9980

ATAS SPEAKEASY

Hidden above a shoplot in Taman Jubilee, Atas is a small, dimly lit bar that takes its cocktails seriously. With visiting guest bartenders and carefully curated drinks, it’s one of Ipoh’s must-visit cocktail spots.???? 37, Jalan Theatre, Taman Jubilee | T: 017-407 2664

TIGA

Styled like a Wong Kar Wai film set, Tiga layers atmosphere with mixology. It’s cinematic, moody, and just the right balance of intimate and lively — a perfect backdrop for a night of thoughtful cocktails.???? 26, Jalan Bijeh Timah (entrance in alley by 99 Speedmart) | T: 019-396 1931

KIKI LALAT

With retro décor, rattan chairs, and a buzz that peaks on open-mic nights (and even spills into the street, mamak-style), Kiki Lalat is pure vintage charm. Expect beers from around the world, natural wines, and a relaxed community spirit.???? 27, Jalan Bijeh Timah | T: 019-396 1931

ASIP

Just upstairs from Kiki Lalat is Asip, its polished sibling. This intimate wine lounge is known for boutique vintages, seasonal pairings, and chef collaborations. It’s a refined retreat for those who take their wine seriously.???? 27, Jalan Bijeh Timah | T: 019-396 1931

SINHALESE BAR

Dating back to 1931, this may be Malaysia’s oldest surviving bar. Time seems to stand still here, with marble tabletops, patterned tiles, and a sense of heritage carefully preserved by its long-standing proprietor.???? 2, Jalan Bijeh Timah | T: 05-241 2235

LUMI COCKTAIL BAR

Hidden away and glowing with neon, Lumi embraces modern mixology with flair. Whether you want a signature creation or a drink tailored to your mood, the bartenders here make it a personalised experience.???? D-1-7, Soho Ipoh, Jalan Sultan Idris Shah | T: 010-275 3226

TIN CORNER 39

A quirky hideaway above the old town streets, Tin Corner 39 features vintage sewing-machine tables and an extensive range of local and imported brews. The casual self-service setup keeps the vibe relaxed and sociable.???? 39, Jalan Bijeh Timah | T: 017-357 3939

Whether you’re chasing heritage in a century-old bar, cooling off with snow beer, or sipping neon-lit cocktails crafted with flair, Ipoh’s bar scene is slowly but surely maturing into something distinctive. Of course, it may not rival Kuala Lumpur’s nightlife for sheer scale, but what it lacks in volume, it makes up for in charm and character — a fitting reflection of Ipoh itself.

...