Danial Martinus/SAYS
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There’s something about terracotta tiles, wooden windows, and wrinkles in the walls that give you a glimpse of the olden days.
This 1927 historical building along Chinatown gives you that feeling.
Tucked away in what was previously Selangor Grocers’ Guild – a trade association representing the interests of grocers, retail traders, and sundry shop owners – is a three-storey building that was recently turned into a charming resto bar.
Crane KL was opened two months ago by three people: Alex Martin who’s from Malaysia, his Ukranian wife, and their good friend from Russia — an unlikely pair during these tumultuous times, but a much-needed friendship.
Paper cranes, each made by hand, float from the ceiling, and there’s a wall at the front of the restaurant dedicated to nostalgic biscuit tins Malaysians grew up with.
On the bottom floor, diners are offered fusion meals of Eastern and Western cuisines.
You’ll spot unique combinations in their extensive menu, such as ‘Japanese Udon in Curry Laksa Gravy’, ‘Salted Egg Spaghetti with Crispy Prawns’, and ‘Beef Rendang Lasagna’.
We ordered the ‘Chicken Rendang with Red Chili and Onion’ pizza (RM30), as well as the ‘Spaghetti Cabe Ijo with Tiger Prawns’ (RM38), both of which were packed with flavour and paired perfectly with their cold draught beer.
We tried their popular recommendations, ‘Cendol Panna Cotta’ (RM20)and ‘Pandan Sago’ (RM20).
The ‘Cendol Panna Cotta’ was creamy with just the right amount of sweetness, while the ‘Pandan Sago’ was topped with small cubes of watermelon — a surprising and refreshing touch.
Tip: Ask the waiters for more gula Melaka to add to the ‘Pandan Sago’ if you have a sweet tooth. 😉
A large day bed greets you on the balcony where you can chill with drinks. The interior deco of the speakeasy gets changed up every few months for a different experience.
We were told that they occasionally have DJs performing upstairs and live music downstairs. Although the house music is enough to complement the perfect ambience, in my opinion, especially after a long day of work or just a chilled night with friends.
The drinks menu has your usual liquors and beer, with a cocktail selection that’ll quench any adventurous heart.
This includes the ‘Wrestless Monkey’ (RM42), a curry leaf infused vodka with honey lemon syrup, infused chilli honey syrup, fresh ginger juice, and fresh curry leaves; and ‘The Tiger Slit’ (RM48), which is bourbon infused with rosemary, grilled pineapple juice, infused cinnamon syrup, fresh lemon juice, topped with an orchid and chrysanthemum flower.