Why to visit Opium KL

It exudes a glamorous 1930s vibe with age-old artefacts adorning the entire establishment, including an intricate opium bed in the Rose Room,abrass lion head door knocker, antiqueopium pipes,stained glass windows, and rows of Chinese wine pots displayed vividly in the communal area.While the design of Opium Bar and Restaurant is contrived, it is also so well executed that the scene is just about as stylish as you can get in this popular nightlife area in downtown KL.

Standing out from the hordes of western, European and Spanish eateries in Changkat Bukit Bintang, Opium KL’s food menu is an eclectic mix of fusion, local and Asian delicacies. Served with a choice of steamed lotus leaf buns or poppy seed rice, the Angus beef rendang (RM38)is well-seasoned with coconut, turmeric leaves and kaffir lime – easily one of the highlights of the evening.

Beautifully presented in charming ceramic bowls and glasses, Opium KL’s extensive beverage menu consists of single malt whiskies, Chinese rice wines, beers, spirits, and house wines, as well as uniquely-named signature and classic cocktails.With dishes like Curry Spaghetti, Beef Kut Teh Noodles, Deep-Fried Loh Mai Kai, and Angus Beef Rendang, the guys at Opium inject inventiveness into every item on their menu.

Their all-day dim sums (with dim sum buffets on some days!) and artisan drinks are especially popular. We propose reserving one of their couple-style dens protected by red veils for an intimate lunch with your loved ones if you're going over for a romantic dinner date.

Special Tip

I go for a chef-recommended flavoursome sliced lean meat soup, along with the good old white rice is a recommendation.

By Sparsh Kapoor