Continuing its reign as Malaysia’s most exciting drinking destination, Bar Trigona at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur once again took home the title of Best Bar in Malaysia, awarded by Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023.
Renowned for its exceptional mixology and commitment to sustainable practices, Bar Trigona was awarded an impressive #36 ranking on this year’s highly anticipated list, unveiled in Hong Kong on July 18, 2023.
Bar Trigona’s innovative use of locally sourced ingredients, paired with its unwavering dedication to sustainability, has played an instrumental role in putting Kuala Lumpur on the global cocktail map. In previous years, the bar has also garnered the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award and the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award.
“We are grateful to the panel and to our patrons who have supported us in shaping Bar Trigona into what it is today. Your ongoing support is invaluable to us,” says Rohan Matmary, Head Bartender. “We are committed to continue providing an educational and engaging beverage experience for our guests. We would also like to thank our local partners, whose commitment to quality ingredients bolsters our craft every single day.”
Foraged Malaysia: A Journey of Liquid Discovery
Equal parts nostalgic and innovative, the recent Foraged Malaysia menu invites guests to sip their way through four distinct regions: Sabah, Sarawak, Peninsula and Islands.
Celebrate the country’s rich diversity of homegrown flavours and beverage rituals through a selection of signature cocktails, inspired by everything from Asam Paya and Bambangan wild mango to Teh Tarik and Penang Laksa.
Taking a hyperlocal approach, Bar Trigona sources a vast majority of ingredients from Malaysian farmers and food artisans. “Through initiatives such as Foraged Malaysia, we showcase the vibrant produce and gastronomic culture of the country, with the goal of involving consumers and the industry in building something extraordinary together,” explains Rohan.
Sustainability All the Way
Guided by a root-to-shoot philosophy, the team finds creative ways to utilise every part of the ingredient — fruits, flowers, leaves, roots, seeds and more. Doing so not only minimises food waste, a huge source of carbon emissions, but also unlocks exciting new flavour profiles.
Selected cocktails on the menu reflect this zero-waste approach. For example, Goin’ Bananas, makes use of every single part of the banana tree, including the peel, blossom, stem and leaf. As the menu quips, “Think of it as a banana tree in your glass.”
Supported by strong local collaborations, Bar Trigona has also introduced a number of eco-friendly initiatives since its inception. From the long-standing Adopt a Beehive program to the recent Tree-Volution reforestation campaign, the bar is working on multiple fronts to protect local bee habitats, protect biodiversity, and empower local communities.
A Honeybee Story
Star ingredient trigona honey is the inspiration behind the bar’s name, concept and aesthetic. Behold the alluring hive-style interiors and the signature honey-infused cocktails. For those craving more of this golden nectar, honey tasting flights are also available.
Created by stingless bees native to the tropical Malaysian countryside, trigona honey is famed for its unique hints of citrus. Bar Trigona sources artisanal, organic and sustainably farmed honey from its local partners.
Speaking of Bar Trigona’s long-term objectives, Rohan shares the team’s inspiring vision: “Through our ethos of cultural sustainability, we aim to foster Kuala Lumpur’s growth as a prominent cocktail city. With abundant local produce, talented individuals and enthusiastic consumers, it’s only a matter of time before this vision becomes a reality.”
Raise a glass to the triumph of locally inspired libations at Bar Trigona. To reserve a table, chat via the Four Seasons App.
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