Osu describes itself as “your preferred neighbourhood bar” and a “sleaze-free” watering hole for those seeking to pass a calm catch-up session with friends (Photo: Osu)
Occupying the ground floor space of Society Mont Kiara, a contemporary compound tucked away in a cul-de-sac, Osu describes itself as “your preferred neighbourhood bar” and a “sleaze-free” watering hole for those seeking to pass a calm catch-up session with friends. With metal chairs, exposed concrete flooring and high ceilings that peek into the pilates studio upstairs, the sparsely decorated area does an admirable job of emulating an outdoor feeling, despite the odd lack of lighting. This pet-friendly place successfully provides a casual vibe to clink glasses while watching cute puppies trot by.
Rather than pulling up to the counter and asking a bartender to shake something up, Osu is unique as all its cocktails are premixed, ensuring the exact same ratios grace your palate every time. What it lacks in grand feats of alcoholic alchemy, it makes up for with unfussy, tasteful servings in aesthetically appealing presentations that will guarantee a blushing buzz and some post-worthy pictures to boot.
Their recommended Lychee in Gin (RM32) is a straightforward yet respectably strong tincture of titular gin, lychee and green tea with an understated sweetness and gentle botanical aroma. The Rum Punch Sangria (RM35), an extra 70ml in volume, cuts a red wine with mixed fruit juice (though it comes across predominantly as orange) and rum for an added edge.
Though the rectangular green bottle may conjure up traumatic party years for some, Osu’s “Chillin” With Jäger (RM35) tames the rambunctious spirit quite well; combined with vodka, coconut liqueur and tropical fruit, this cocktail is textured and refreshing with a hint of butterscotch-caramel flavour. If you are stocking up for a party, the premixed collection can be purchased to-go too.
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Three variations of infused wine are available by the glass (RM39 each) or bottle (RM220 each), making them perfect for a group pick-me-up. The amusingly named Every Hour Is Happy Hour is a rejuvenating formula of sauvignon blanc, guava, asam boi and cucumber, slightly salty with a vegetal touch for a cooling, well-rounded beverage. A photogenic pink blend of rosé and ginger beer topped with a sprinkle of dried rose petals, flirtatiously named Which One Should I Call Tonight, is exceptionally delicious, appropriately spicy and floral with an ever-so-slightly savoury finish.
A range of imported beers by Beerfarm and Boston Brewing Co, conventional, natural and orange wines, as well as bubblies and saké, promise plenty of variety without breaking the bank. While Osu currently only offers simple nibbles like chips, guests are invited to port any food from the surrounding cafés over to their tables. The occasional live music performances in the evenings also contribute to the overall communal ambience. In a part of town where the average drink is only getting costlier, the allure of simple, yummy and strong drinks with a justifiable price tag makes Osu a magnet for crowds around and beyond the area.
4, Jalan Kiara 1, Mont Kiara. Tues to Thurs: 3pm to 11pm, Fri to Sat: 2pm to 11pm. Closed Mondays.
Noa checks all the boxes for a salt of the earth neighbourhood bar: a reasonably priced, fulfilling spread of food and drink delivered to its steady stream of eclectic patrons with pleasant, efficient service and a lively atmosphere. This well-interspersed mixture of cosy chairs and lush foliage with (slightly tacky) purple countertops and red neon lights by night teems with raucous laughter and vibrant chatter from a broad array of clientele.
An all-day spot situated within an athletic nexus of pickleball courts and fitness studios in the The Courts at Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club, Bukit Kiara, Noa has plenty of airy outdoor courtside tables for padel players to grab a quick cold one between games, as well as more intimate seating away for those not so in tune with the action.
Aside from inviting deals on beers and shot trays, this locale offers an impressive series of liquors, from soju to saké to spirits. On top of this, they boast an interesting list of honest-to-goodness cocktails, many of which are spins on classic margaritas and mojitos, in addition to original spritzers that combine white wine with sparkling water for an easy and delectable beverage.
Representing more localised twists, the coconut calamansi margarita (RM36) forgoes the lime of its namesake in favour of orange liqueur, coconut syrup and fresh calamansi juice, resulting in a punchy liquid that balances the creamy aroma of Malibu and the mild tang of calamansi. The salt rim is modest and crisp without lacing the lips with an awkward mouthful of crystals. Meanwhile, the kedondong boi mojito (RM33) with fresh kedondong juice is a bright composition of tropical plums and mint with a prevailing salty finish.
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There is something to be said about the charm of nursing a wine glass full of fizz as you float through your evening, for which Noa’s aforementioned spritzers are just right. The peach iteration (RM45) with Lillet Blanc, peach prosecco and liqueur is inoffensive in its fragrant sweetness if not a little one-dimensional, but the Ruby Rose (RM45), an invigorating tipple of Lillet Rose, Peychaud Bitters, zesty lemon and grapefruit soda with raspberry purée, deserves far more attention. Despite a meatier price tag for these bubbly beauties, the generous pours and thoughtful chemistry more than soothe an extra nick in the wallet.
A hearty menu of more filling dishes, like breakfasts and pastas for all-day dining options, accompanied by a satisfying line-up of pseudo-yakitori-style skewers and snackable plates like tacos and edamame, make perfect portions of stamina for either lazy afternoons or spirited nights spent sipping away.
While Noa may seem a bit jarring at first to those arriving without the intention of wielding a paddle, the day-drunk pickleball players ready to accost you at the entrance and convince you why this is their favourite bar are, in their own quirky way, a testament to how places like these keep one-time visitors content and repeat customers loyal.
The Courts, KLGCC, 3, Jalan Bukit Kiara 1. Open daily: 10am to 12am.
This article first appeared on Nov 18, 2024 in The Edge Malaysia.
