Crane Upstairs KL

Hey Kuala Lumpur locals! Are you searching for a sophisticated yet inviting spot to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, delicious Asian fusion cuisine, and perhaps even some live music, all within a beautifully restored heritage setting? Look no further than Crane Upstairs KL, a truly distinctive bar nestled in the heart of our vibrant Chinatown on Jalan Sultan. This isn't just another place to grab a drink; it's an experience that marries historical charm with contemporary flair, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable night out.

Crane Upstairs KL brings a fresh and exciting vibe to one of KL's most iconic heritage districts. Whether you're planning a relaxed happy hour with friends, a delightful dinner, or a lively evening enjoying the city's nightlife, this establishment offers a versatile and enchanting atmosphere. Prepare to be wowed by its unique decor, innovative drinks, and delectable food, all wrapped up in an ambiance that truly stands out.

Crane Upstairs KL is conveniently located on the 1st Floor, 78, Jalan Sultan, Kl City, 50000 Wilayah Persekutuan, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This address places it right in the bustling and historically rich Chinatown area, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Jalan Sultan is a well-known street, easily identifiable by its rows of charming shophouses.

Accessibility to Crane Upstairs KL is excellent, leveraging Kuala Lumpur's robust public transportation network:

• By MRT/LRT: The closest and most convenient public transport stations are:
  • Pasar Seni MRT & LRT Station: This interchange station is a short and pleasant walk (approximately 5-10 minutes) from Jalan Sultan. It offers connections to various parts of KL.
  • Plaza Rakyat LRT Station: Also within walking distance, providing another option for those using the LRT Sri Petaling Line.
• By Car: While parking in Chinatown can be challenging, there are several paid parking lots available in the vicinity, including those at nearby shopping complexes or dedicated parking bays along side streets. It's advisable to factor in extra time for parking, especially during peak hours or weekends.
• By Ride-Hailing Services: Services like Grab are widely used in KL and offer a convenient door-to-door option to Jalan Sultan. This is often recommended for a hassle-free night out.
• Walking: If you're already exploring the vibrant streets of Chinatown, Crane Upstairs KL is easily reachable on foot, adding to the charm of discovering hidden gems in the area.

The entrance to Crane Upstairs is often noted for its unique and subtle design, in keeping with the speakeasy vibe that many bars in heritage shophouses adopt. Look for the address 78 on Jalan Sultan, and head upstairs.

Crane Upstairs KL offers a delightful array of services designed to provide a comprehensive dining and entertainment experience:

• Signature & Classic Cocktails: A highlight is their extensive and creative cocktail menu, featuring both classic concoctions and unique signature creations. Guests can expect innovative drinks with local twists, such as the "Assam Boi Margarita" and "Povela Passion," as well as house-infused liquors.
• Asian Fusion Cuisine: Beyond drinks, Crane Upstairs serves a commendable selection of Asian fusion dishes. The menu includes interesting appetizers like "rendang pie tee" and well-executed Western dishes, making it suitable for dinner.
• Live Music Performances: The bar frequently features live singers and DJs, offering a vibrant atmosphere, particularly later in the evenings. This adds a dynamic element to the nightlife experience, with genres ranging from house and techno to hip hop and R&B.
• Happy Hour Specials: Patrons can enjoy attractive happy hour deals on select cocktails and beverages, typically during early evening hours on weekdays, making it an ideal spot for after-work drinks.
• Event Hosting: With its unique ambiance and versatile space, Crane Upstairs can accommodate private parties and events, offering a memorable setting for celebrations.
• Knowledgeable Mixologists: The bar boasts skilled mixologists, like "Rafi" mentioned in reviews, who are adept at crafting bespoke drinks and recommending choices based on customer preferences.

Crane Upstairs KL boasts several distinctive features and highlights that set it apart in Kuala Lumpur's competitive bar scene:

• Heritage Shophouse Ambiance: Located in a beautifully restored, nearly century-old neoclassical building (the Selangor Grocers' Guild), Crane Upstairs seamlessly blends historical architecture with modern interior design. This unique setting, with its preserved pillars, columns, and intricate details, offers a charming and immersive experience that pays homage to Chinatown's rich legacy. The decor often changes, ensuring a fresh look.
• Captivating & Themed Decor: The interior is thoughtfully designed, featuring plush red seating, sheer curtains, and subtle crane motifs throughout, creating a luxurious and intimate "speakeasy-style" venue. Even the restrooms are noted for their interesting decor, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal. This meticulous attention to detail makes every corner Instagram-worthy.
• Innovative Cocktail Program: The bar prides itself on its creative and original cocktail menu. Beyond classics, they offer signature concoctions with unique local twists (e.g., Assam Boi Margarita) and even utilize their own infused liquors (e.g., Cognac infused with Chinese tea and black pepper), showcasing a commitment to mixology excellence.
• Quality Asian Fusion Food: Unlike many bars where food is an afterthought, Crane Upstairs receives praise for its "pretty good" Asian fusion cuisine. Dishes like the "rendang pie tee" demonstrate a playful yet competent take on traditional flavors, making it an ideal spot for both drinks and a satisfying meal.
• Vibrant Live Music & DJ Sets: The regular presence of live singers and DJs creates a dynamic and energetic atmosphere, especially during later hours. This offers a great opportunity for patrons to enjoy good music and a lively social scene, transitioning seamlessly from dinner to dancing.
• Alfresco Balcony with Street Views: The presence of an alfresco balcony provides patrons with fresh air and a unique perspective of the bustling Jalan Sultan below. This is perfect for enjoying a drink while observing the vibrant street life of Chinatown, especially as day turns to dusk.

Crane Upstairs KL often features various promotions and special offers to enhance the customer experience. Locals should keep an eye out for these to make the most of their visit:

• Happy Hour: A consistent offering, happy hour typically runs from 6 PM to 8 PM on weekdays (Tuesday to Friday), offering select cocktails and other beverages at special prices (e.g., RM10 each). This is perfect for after-work unwind sessions.
• Ladies' Night: Some sources indicate "Midweek Mambo nights with free flow cocktails for ladies" on Wednesdays from 8 PM until midnight, or "Ladies Night with the first drinks in the house and 1 for 1 on cocktails" on Thursdays. These promotions make it an attractive spot for a girls' night out.
• Themed Nights & DJ Events: Crane Upstairs regularly hosts themed nights with specific DJ sets (e.g., Shanghai Night with hip hop and Amapiano, Saturday Sessions with house and techno). Entry for these events might sometimes include a cover charge that can be redeemed against a drink, or special promotions on specific nights.
• Seasonal Promotions: Look out for special offers during festive periods (e.g., Christmas, New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year) or major public holidays, which might include special menus, set deals, or extended happy hour periods.
• Beverage Deals: Beyond happy hour, there might be ongoing promotions on specific drinks, such as Gin & Tonic specials on Sundays or 1-for-1 on cocktails on Tuesdays.

To stay fully updated on their latest promotions, it's highly recommended that locals:

• Check their Official Social Media: Follow Crane Upstairs KL's Facebook and Instagram pages, as they frequently post about daily specials, upcoming live music schedules, and themed event promotions.
• Contact the Bar Directly: Call or WhatsApp them to inquire about current deals or to make reservations, especially for groups or during busy evenings.
• Visit Their Website: If available, their official website might list upcoming events and long-term promotions.

To get in touch with Crane Upstairs KL for reservations, inquiries, or more information:

Address: 1st Floor, 78, Jalan Sultan, Kl City, 50000 Wilayah Persekutuan, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Phone: 012-209 7057

Mobile Phone (International Format): +60 12-209 7057

Operating Hours:

• Tuesday - Sunday: Bar opens from 4:00 PM (some sources state 5:00 PM), typically closing around midnight or later, especially on weekends with live music/DJ events.
• Monday: Closed (confirm upon inquiry, as hours can change).

Reservations: Recommended, especially for dinner or on weekends, as the space can get busy. You can often make reservations through their social media channels or via platforms like UMAI.

Crane Upstairs KL is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for locals in Kuala Lumpur for a multitude of reasons, blending convenience, culture, and high-quality entertainment.

Firstly, its prime location in Chinatown with superb public transport accessibility (especially via the Pasar Seni MRT/LRT station) makes it incredibly easy for locals from all over KL to visit. This convenience eliminates parking woes and encourages impromptu visits, making it a go-to spot for after-work drinks or a relaxed weekend outing.

Secondly, the unique blend of heritage charm and modern sophistication offers a refreshing alternative to standard bars. Locals appreciate venues that celebrate KL's rich history while providing a contemporary experience. The beautifully restored shophouse, with its distinctive decor and attention to detail, creates a captivating ambiance that feels both familiar and exciting, perfect for impressing friends or enjoying a special night out.

Furthermore, Crane Upstairs KL caters to diverse preferences by offering not only an impressive array of creative cocktails but also competent Asian fusion cuisine. This means locals can enjoy a full evening, from a delightful dinner to innovative drinks, all under one roof. The option of live music and DJ sets further enhances the appeal, providing lively entertainment that adds to the city's vibrant nightlife scene.

Finally, the value offered through happy hour deals and regular promotions makes it an attractive and accessible option for quality dining and drinks. It provides a premium experience without necessarily demanding premium prices, a balance that resonates well with the local discerning crowd. Crane Upstairs KL truly offers a complete package – great food, creative drinks, captivating ambiance, and fantastic entertainment – making it an ideal choice for any KL local seeking a memorable urban escape.

Crane Upstairs KL

1st Floor, 78, Jalan Sultan, Kl City, 50000 Wilayah Persekutuan, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia