Looking for a solid reason to visit Melaka? Head to one of these bars when you’re here and let history do all the talking. They’re great for a cocktail, and perfect for a grand time on your next weekend trip to Malaysia.
Malacca city, also known as Melaka, a place celebrated for its cultural richness and historical significance, has undergone significant transformations following the Covid-19 lockdown. On your next trip to this ancient city, make sure to visit some of the most distinctive bars it has to offer, including one that boasts a history extending back a century.
The city is a treasure trove of attractions, from heritage hotels that whisper tales of the past, to cosy cafes that serve as perfect spots for relaxation. While Melaka enjoys a well-deserved reputation as a haven for food enthusiasts, its lively bar scene is often overlooked.
The bars in Melaka present a wide range of experiences for their patrons. For those in the pursuit of innovative and exotic cocktails, BUDI is a must-visit. If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the city’s history, you should head to Sin Hiap Hin, a bar that has been serving customers for a hundred years. Melaka has a bar to cater to every taste and preference.
The cityscape is also speckled with a number of old-school bars, each bearing its unique narrative deeply rooted in the rich history of one of Malaysia’s oldest states. These establishments not only offer a great selection of drinks but also a glimpse into the city’s past. A tour of these bars could be the ideal reason to plan a southern sojourn.
(Hero image: Tipsy Bridge / Featured image: Lepak Panda)
The best bars in Melaka
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Jonker Street is one of the more livelier places within the city of Melaka and rightfully so as there is always something going on. However, Jonker Street is also popular mainly due to the Geographer Cafe, which cannot be missed as it’s one of the biggest bars around the area. It embodies the term ‘East meets West’ while maintaining its warm ambience and old charm. The Geographer Cafe also serves up a wide array of dishes, which ranges from your classic Western dishes as well as local delicacies. It also has plenty of beer choices on tap as well as wine and other liquors.
Operating hours: 11 AM – 11 PM (Sundays to Thursdays), 11 AM – 12 AM (Fridays and Saturdays)
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Hatten Hotel is considered to be one of the more luxurious stays you can find when in Melaka. The hotel is set against a picturesque vista of the town’s most famous historical landmarks and on the 22nd floor lies Alto Sky Lounge. It brings a whole new definition to the term “a new height of luxury” with a breathtaking view of the cityscape right before your eyes. Alto Sky Lounge also offers a wide variety of drinks, from cocktails to fine wines. Be sure to dress appropriately as Alto Sky Lounge does have a strict ‘smart casual’ dress code.
Operating hours: 4 PM – 12 AM (Sundays to Thursdays), 4 PM – 1 AM (Fridays and Saturdays)
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It appears Melaka has also caught up with the times with its very own speakeasy bar known as The Old Merchant. From a first glance, The Old Merchant carries a heavy oriental vibe to its atmosphere as it was evolved from an ancient private bank that dates back to the 1920s. The speakeasy is also located along Jalan Kampung Pantai, which was the original Chinatown back in 15th century Melaka. The Old Merchant also sticks true to the heritage of being a speakeasy as it will be a bit of a task to locate.
Lifestyle Asia KL has also collaborated with The Old Merchant to create a unique cocktail with Martell Noblige — check it out here.
Operating hours: 5 PM – 2 AM (closed on Mondays)
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If you’re looking to liven up your evening, the Hard Rock Cafe in Malacca is the place to be. The franchise has been around since the 1970s with its rock & roll themed memorabilia that adorn its walls. Fans of old school rock & roll are in for a treat as Hard Rock Cafe has plenty of that and more. It also offers a wide spread of dishes and drinks for one to pick from while you go back through the golden years of rock & roll. You can also walk away with Hard Rock Cafe souvenirs from its gift shop, located within the premises.
Operating hours: 12 PM – 12 AM
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Inspired by the golden days of Dondang Sayangs clubs, Budi is a hidden bar that offers more than just a good ol’ Old Fashioned. Sin See Tai cafe by day, and Budi by night, the bar serves a bevy of unique cocktails made using local produce including a vegetable-forward menu that incorporates homegrown ingredients like bittergourd, eggplant, corn and sweet pea into its concoction. The multi-level bar is eccentrically designed, giving a sense of mystery and cosiness at the same time. We recommend that you make a reservation before heading over because seats are pretty limited.
Lifestyle Asia KL has also worked with Budi to create a unique cocktail with Martell Noblige — check it out here.
Operating hours: 5 PM – 12 AM (Mondays to Thursdays, closed on Tuesdays), 4 PM – 12 AM (Fridays to Sundays)
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If you’re looking for something authentic and old-school, your visit to Melaka will not be complete without a drink at the 100-year-old vintage bar at Java Lane. This drinking hole is a living heritage, and is managed by Aunty Doris, the bartender in charge of serving and pouring you some of the most unconventional spirits in the market. She’s been with the bar for over 40 years, and the bar is raved for its rustic saloon-style bar that’s unpretentious yet charming. When visiting the oldest bar in historic Melaka, you’ll get more than cocktails and shots, but anecdotes of good ol’ Melaka from the owner herself.
Operating hours: 9.30 AM – 5.30 PM (Mondays to Saturdays), 9.30 AM – 4.30 PM (Sundays)
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They say the best way to explore Malacca city is by foot. If you happen to be around the heritage zone, Tipsy Bridge is a must-go for a tipple. It’s tucked in an alleyway off the main road, along Jalan Kampung Pantai across Kampung Jawa Bridge (where Sin See Tai or Budi is). Its neon-lit signage is quite hard to miss. The little street quite happening here at night, with upbeat music and neighbouring cafes like Tuju Cafe and The Bridge Cafe.
Operating hours: 6 PM – 2 AM
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Located adjacent from the famous Jonker Street, Reggae on the River is a riverside bar that allows you to chill al-fresco style while having a pint of beer or tequila shots. It’s a popular drinking place among the locals, and offers a nice view of the vibrant Melaka River.
Operating hours: 5 PM – 1 AM (Mondays to Thursdays), 5 PM – 2 AM (Fridays to Sundays)
(Image credit: Instagram/ @reggaeontheriver_)
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The Sandman is an elusive bar that’s not so easy to spot, even with the help of Google. Word has it that in order to find it, you’ll have to contact them to guide you from the street. But once you locate it, it sure won’t disappoint. The menu at The Sandman offers a harmonious blend of innovative and traditional drinks. Its whisky sours and clear Long Island iced teas are particularly popular among patrons. Try it and see for yourselves if it’s as good as what people make it out to be.
Operating hours: 6 PM – 12 AM
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Situated in a hidden location at the end of Tofu Street, Yu Neighbourhood is a cocktail bar that doesn’t have a menu (yes, you heard that right). To enter, visitors need to ring a doorbell. Inside, guests are asked to describe their favourite flavours, and the bartender will create a unique drink to match their tastes. Due to the intimate nature of the space, it’s strongly advised to make a reservation in advance.
Operating hours: 6 PM – 2 AM (closed on Thursdays)
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90 Riverside Cafe and Pub, nestled in Jonker Street in Melaka, boasts an old-school ambiance and overlooks the Melaka River. With music playing throughout the night, it serves as an ideal place for those seeking to unwind and enjoy. The venue draws a large crowd over the weekends owing to its bustling location, so make sure you’re there early!
Operating hours: 12 PM – 1 AM (Mondays to Thursdays), 12 PM – 2 AM (Fridays to Sundays)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– Which is the best bar in Melaka?
It’s difficult to definitively state which bar is the best in Melaka, as preferences for bars can vary greatly depending on individual tastes and interests. However, Melaka has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars offering different atmospheres, drinks, and entertainment options. Some of the most popular bars in town that are frequently recommended by visitors and locals include The Old Merchant, Geographer Cafe, Hard Rock Cafe Melaka, Budi, and more.
Melissa Foong
Senior Digital Writer, Entertainment and Dining
Born and raised in the beautiful city of Kuala Lumpur, Melissa loves writing all things entertainment, music and dining-related. She has written for BURO 24/7 and Augustman, and when she's not busy chasing deadlines, you can find her tucked in a blanket rereading her favourite series of fantasy novels, Harry Potter.
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