When I was driving to this place, it seems like the area would not have a bar as it seems out from Old Klang Road. Indeed Sakura Den located at Off Old Klang Road is actually in Kampung Pasir area. After checking this place out, this would be one of a recommended speakeasy bar in Old Klang Road to hunt for.
This hidden bar in KL is head by Arsenio Mariano Jr., better known as Ash. Holding up as winner of the Bar Awards Luminaries 2019. With his vast exploration around South East Asia had is making his drinks quite adventurous. A local mixologist Sabahan that did pretty outstanding drinks with local infusion.
A place where the regulars come often for their usual drink with a glass or two before heading back to their home.
Cocktail’s Creed, which takes place every Sunday from now until March 2020, sets guests up for a surprise with every drink. Going against the grain, Ash prefers that you tell him the flavours or ingredients you don’t like, and he’ll conjure up a custom cocktail that just might make your favourites list.
Select 2 cocktails for RM70+ or 3 cocktails for RM90+ and journey with Ash through unique flavour profiles derived from using house-made ingredients such as ginseng flower and tongkat ali infusions, peach gum, and jujube syrup. Ask him about Mexican worm salt aka sal de gusano and he’ll be happy to oblige your curiosity.
For some quick snacks/bites, hit on their :
1. Tomato Salsa Bruschetta with feta cheese @ RM16+
2. Chili Garlic Prawns served with garlic bread @ RM18+
3. Fish Metti catfish with coriander, butter and Parmesan cheese baked with garlic bread @ RM18+
For a start, we try out his signature: Birds Nest – Kinsey Gin, Birds Nest, Peach Gum Infused With Longan Jujube Syrup & Ume @ RM 48. Clever mix of flavour that gives you hint of longan jujube along with peach gum gives you the substitute of bird next texture and gin that goes well with it. A nice balance of flavour.
Twisted Queen – Brugal Blanco, Carpano Antica Formula, Mangosteen Juice, Pandan Syrup, Lime @ RM 36
For a simple light drink to go with, as I want to maintain my palate for the night simple. Ginza Spritz – Kinsey Gin, Mathilde Poire Liqueur, Nigori Yuzushu, Shiso leaves, Lemon and a splash of Soda @ RM 38 is one of a right drink to hunt for. Simple yet spot on with few flavours that linger in your mouth.
This is like the limited edition bottle or its supply is very limited, only 1000 bottles produce a year. Ume Hi One of a very unique flavour. Its kind of must try if you are a gin lover. A clean and refreshing cocktail that uses Benichu 19° – an oak barrel matured umeshu.
Kopi Jantan – an espresso based cocktail with a local influence using our house-infused Borghetti liqueuer with Tongkat Ali root. A rather interesting cocktail that gives you hint of bitterness yet liquier is not too strong but slightly prominent.
I am a big fan of Negroni and especally smokey negroni. However for their version of Sakura Negroni – Sakurao Original, Umeshu,Chartreuse Gentiano @ RM 48. There is a slight twist. It is refershing yet, a strong lingering flavour of chartreuse and mild after sourness from umeshu is kinda interesting twist after it.
Now I really know there is this hidden speakeasy bar that serve pretty good cocktail. Even better if you are indecisive, just inform Ash on your flavour profile and ask him to surprise you. I think that would be quite adventurous.
Location:
Sakura Den
First Floor,
24, Jalan Kampung Pasir,
Kampung Pasir,
58200 Kuala Lumpur,
Operating Hours: 5pm – 1am
TeL: 012-393 8627
