“I’ve had many customers tell me they’ve not met this or that person for a very long time, and all of a sudden they meet them here. So I call it a community spot,” said Keischmman Kumaresan, manager of the Chapter Group.
This sense of community lies at the heart of Benang, where its ambience and design encourage people to connect and create memories together.
Continuing the theme of “hobbies” that has come to define the Chapter Group’s speakeasies, Benang is adorned with multicoloured thread spools, sewing machines, and beautiful silk fabric.
Unlike The First Chapter, Benang is divided into four sections, each with its own story and function, catering to different crowds. Whether you’re looking for a lively dance floor or a quiet nook in which to chat, Benang has you covered.
“In one corner, some will be really loud and you’re dancing and jumping; and in another corner, it will be slightly quiet and mellow,” Keischmman, 24, explained.
This means you might start the evening in a bustling area, sipping a cocktail and busting some moves, and end it in a tranquil corner deep in conversation.
“This design concept was consciously put in because we want people to walk around and see what’s going on on the other side,” he added.
But what’s a speakeasy without mouthwatering cocktails? One standout creation is Ben’s Paloma, a shout-out to the Chapter Group’s mixologist Ben Nair.
This refreshing beverage features tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave syrup, and sea salt. Sparkling water gives it a bubbly finish.
While the tequila taste comes through, its signature potency is cut by the grapefruit juice, while the sea salt gives it a surprising flavour.
“It’s definitely a cooling drink for Malaysia’s hot weather. It’s refreshing,” said Keischmman.
Another highlight is the Mango Brulee, a sweet and creamy cocktail. This beautiful concoction includes rum, lime juice, mango syrup, and aquafaba.
Be careful as you enjoy this as it is not spirit-forward at all: the mango flavour features quite prominently, so much so that you might think you’re drinking a dessert!
What truly elevates the Mango Brulee is the torched caramel sugar on top, which gives a nice, sweet crunch with every sip.
“It’s like a bomb going off in your mouth. Your taste buds are going to go crazy, and it has a sugary, fruity vibe. A great first-date drink,” Keischmman recommended.
For something more cheeky, try the Asa Akira – yes, named after the American adult film actress. It, too, has a sweet flavour profile, and the peach liqueur and puree will remind you of summer.
Each sip is like a burst of sunshine, perfect for those warm nights when you want something light and invigorating.
So, whether you’re dancing the night away or enjoying a quiet conversation, Benang provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening. Gather your friends, explore the unique spaces, and savour Benang’s innovative cocktails for one heck of a night.
Benang The Second Chapter
Jalan Medan Setia 2,
Bukit Damansara,
50490 Kuala Lumpur
Opening hours: 6pm-3am (closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)
Contact: 011-1400 9621
For location, click here.
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