DON’T YOU think it’s high time we wave goodbye to pretentious fine dining experiences? I mean, with all the over-the-top traditions and fancy dress codes, something as fun as eating out becomes altogether overwhelming. If we’re going to be really honest with ourselves, who wants to feel as if they have to dress up like they’re attending The Met Gala to enjoy a dinner?
Mural by Apoh, Joloko
Enter Bar Joloko – the self-proclaimed “tropical hangout” effortlessly blending together casual comfort, a colourful atmosphere and some pretty wild nights out. Located within the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, everything about this spot exudes authenticity, which is often lost among restaurants of its calibre. The interiors are designed with the intention of letting guests feel right at home as each room recreates the sensation of passing through a wonderful get together friends house. From the quaint yellow facade of the heritage house tucked behind leafy palm trees, to the eye-catching murals by local tattoo artist Apoh, Joloko is visually teeming with life.
Bar Joloko
And that rare vivacity doesn’t simply stop with the decor. In fact, every aspect of Joloko pays tribute to importance of soul; soul food, soul music and plenty of soulful cocktails are all guaranteed to lift the spirit.
Jerk Chicken, Joloko
An eclectic fusion of Caribbean, Latin American, Creole and African cuisines create a harmonious shared dining experience. Chef TJ outdoes himself by constructing a menu stocked full of flavour. There’s an array of grilled meats and fish, along with some delicious vegan options as well as a selection of unbelievable desserts. If you’re feeling particularly brave after a few cocktails, don’t hesitate to sample some of his popular homemade hot sauces with an order of Jamaican Jerk Chicken.
Exterior facade, Joloko
While we’re on the topic of cocktails, Joloko’s resident drinks aficionado, Rick Joore, is a multi-award winning bartender all the way from Amsterdam. Under his guidance, Joloko brings high quality Tequila and Mezcal to the party with 100 per cent agave. Joore elevates the already unique gastronomic experience even further with a sensational natural wine list. With a stock of sustainably sourced, unfiltered wines, Joloko staff will select for you a lovely wine to pair with any hot dishes and snacks you order off the menu.
Woulinewa Cocktail, Bar Joloko
It’s not easy to create an authentic dining experience that allows a visitor to feel at home while enjoying a world-class meal, but the team over at Joloko manage it flawlessly. There’s no better way to enrich your soul than with a plate of soul food, right?
by Maria Noyen
Joloko 43 Jalan Kamunting, Chow Kit, 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
info@bar-joloko.com