Mixologists create magic at plush bar
If one misses a red neon sign that reads “Where Style and Sensuality Intertwine” on the second floor of shoplots at Plaza Batai, finding the Desire bar can be tricky.

But this seductive sign in the stairwell beside Ben’s Grocer is not too hard to spot.

It leads to a spacious, modern but minimalistic speakeasy bar in this cosy Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur shopping plaza.

“The bar’s interior is meticulously crafted to blend opulence with an intimate ambience.

“It also caters to a larger crowd that gets to enjoy comfortable surroundings due to the large space,” said Shawn Luke, co-owner of Desire.

Opened last December, the bar serves 12 distinct cocktails as well as a myriad selection of liquor, wine and beers.

The water ripple effect of the ceiling and round light flanking the deejay console resemble a moon lighting up an otherwise dim space.

A crystal-clear mirror with red lights decorates the space near the toilets, creating an Instagrammable spot.

Spearheading the mixologists team is Mckay Jiplin whose creation of Desire’s cocktails promises an unparalleled aperitif experience.

The drinks were a crowd pleaser with mostly gin, vodka and rum acting as the alcohol base varieties.

The Pink Panther cocktail – a hot favourite among the regulars – is mixed with Tanqueray No.10 Gin, dry Vermouth, Sauvignon blanc and raspberry reduction plus tonic water.

The Pink Panther, a refreshing favourite among guests.

It has a citrusy note with a pleasant and refreshing taste, served in a large goblet-sized glass.

The base concept for The Pink Panther comes from the classic gin and tonic mix.

Added to this is white wine and homemade raspberry reduction that gives it a hint of sweetness and acidity.

The Sloe Down Mckay is named after Jiplin and the cocktail’s alcohol base.

It is a combination of sloe gin-infused black truffle, strawberry liquor, homemade raspberry puree, apple juice, lemon and egg white for the foam that tops the drink.

It has a distinct earthy hint from the black truffle that pairs surprisingly well with the sweet citrusy mix.

Yet, it gives enough room for the palate to explore all the flavours in the drink.

Sloe Down Mckay named after Desire’s lead mixologist.

Next is the delightful Lipa Tea cocktail.

The mixture of wine cask-aged rum and cold brew passion fruit tea, passion fruit juice, lime and turmeric are stored in and served from a nitrous oxide charger.

It has a bold, rich taste and hit all the right notes.

Guests should also try The Empress, which is a mix of Empress 1908 Gin, lemon, elderflower liqueur, syrup and homemade blackberry foam, accompanied by generous sprinkles.

There’s also The Big Apple cocktail, which is made of Grey Goose Vodka, green apple liquor and green apple juice.

Desire also offers bar bites.

Some of the signature dishes include pulled beef tacos, Peruvian chicken tacos and quesadillas.

Bar bites like Peruvian chicken tacos go well with Desire’s unique drinks.

DESIRE, Lot 6-A & 6-1A, Plaza Batai, Jalan Batai, Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur. Whatsapp: 018-960 1871. Business hours: 6pm to midnight (Wednesdays to Sundays).

This is the writer’s personal observation and is not an endorsement by Star Metro.
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Twelve distinctive cocktails served amid inviting ambience in KL’s Damansara Heights.