MAZE is the latest addition to KL’s long list of specialist bars. What distinguishes MAZE from the rest is that they are probably the only gin bar on that list.
Recently opened in Menara Lien Ho in Tropicana, they aren’t just a gin bar, but a coffee saloon too – they serve coffee in the day and switch to gin when night falls. The opulent decor is reminiscent of a Hollywood set of a mob boss’ mansion, which makes for an interesting setting to have coffee with friends. At night, the place transforms into a lounge by way of dim lights and loud music while the tall red drapes give a bit of a seedy French cabaret feel to the space.
The highlight of MAZE is the selection of gin they have on offer. They boast a collection of over 150 imported craft gins – probably the largest in the country. If you’re new to gin, you should know that cucumber isn’t the only garnish to pair your gin and tonic with. Here, you can purchase the services of a ‘gin sum’ cart (similar to a dim sum cart) where you can test your gin and tonic with all sorts of fresh garnish like blackberry, watermelon and many more. Apart from that, the gin-based cocktails here are good. We particularly enjoyed ‘The Reviver’ – a refreshing and smooth fruity cocktail made up of Gordon’s gin, homemade elderflower syrup, lime juice and sugar syrup.
If you have room for dessert (always make room for dessert), try the lychee watermelon cake. Inspired by the famous Sydney bakery Black Star Pastry, MAZE’s version of the cake is delightful – not too sweet and not too fruity.