Merah Kitchen & Bar
Merah Kitchen & Bar is a highly Instagrammable speakeasy hidden behind a vending machine facade near JB Customs. It leans heavily into a retro arcade aesthetic, serving up weird but delicious cocktails and modern fusion dishes. While the vibe, vintage games, and drinks are universally praised, the food receives mixed reviews. A controversial attached "Cat Club" draws both feline lovers and concerns over animal welfare, making this a quirky but polarizing late-night stop.
The Insider Review
Merah Kitchen & Bar operates as a trendy speakeasy strategically located at 17 Jalan Ibrahim, just a stone's throw from the JB Customs checkpoint. Finding the entrance is half the fun—patrons access the space through a hidden vending machine or retro phone booth facade. Inside, the aesthetic goes full vintage. Expect playable old-school arcade games, retro furniture, and endless OOTD spots. It is a loud, lively, and highly visual space designed specifically for the cafe-hopping crowd.
The menu focuses on modern fusion and quirky mixology. Bartenders like Henry whip up innovative, weird-but-delicious cocktails, including solid margaritas and mojitos. On the culinary front, signature plates include the Netsum Prawn Aglio Olio and Malaysian Seabass Risotto, alongside vegan-friendly bites and a highly praised buttermilk chicken bowl. However, food consistency is a gamble. Multiple patrons report that while the drinks and atmosphere hit the mark, certain mains like the grilled chicken fall completely flat.
Beyond the bar lies the "Cat Club," a connected room housing around seven resident cats. This feature is highly polarizing. While some visitors love the feline company, others report cramped living conditions with uncleaned litter and loud house beats blasting into the enclosure. Officially, operating hours are listed as "N/A", and external sources wildly conflict—ranging from daytime service to a strict 6 PM to 12 AM late-night window. Reservations are highly recommended before making the trip.
Social Pulse
Want to see what it actually looks like right now? Check out the latest viral videos and mentions of Merah Kitchen & Bar directly on TikTok and Instagram.