We almost couldn’t find this Kedai Runcit-themed bar in TTDI with 90’s M’sian snack cocktails

There has been a lot of hype surrounding hidden gems and undiscovered spots. Well, tucked away in the vibrant neighbourhood of TTDI is another unique establishment simply awaiting discovery: a Kedai Runcit-themed bar called Runcit Bar TTDI!

Never heard of it before? That’s because this place is truly hidden.

Read till the end for directions to the entrance.

90’s snack shack with a modern twist!

When you finally do locate this bar, trust us, it will not be what you expect. Here, patrons are transported back to the beloved era of the 90’s, where childhood memories intertwine with innovative mixology. Amidst the neon pink lights and sophisticated decor, an array of cocktails infused with iconic Malaysian snacks awaits you—promising a sensory adventure like no other and a trip down memory lane.

Join us as we delve into more detail about this watering hole, where Malaysian snack culture meets creativity in every sip.

Trip down memory lane

Step through the unassuming entrance, and you will be greeted by a setup that instantly evokes a sense of nostalgia. The walls are adorned with childhood toys and an old school calendar, and the shelves are stacked with familiar snacks and sweets.

Every detail has been meticulously curated to recreate the ambiance of our traditional neighbourhood snack stores that we all know and love. Taking you back to simpler times, this spot will remind you of all your favourite childhood snacks.

While the exterior exudes a typical ‘kedai runcit’ aesthetic, allowing feelings of childhood glee to bubble to the surface, the bar’s interior will catch you off guard. Unlike the old-school exterior, the inside of the bar is actually rather modern and sophisticated, with pink neon lights and sleek wooden flooring.

We expected rattan chairs and enamelware, but this was not the case. Plush leather chairs are scattered around the space and the bar has a slight industrial feel to it.

What did we get?

While we were vibing with the dual-aesthetics of Runcit Bar, our main mission was to try their crafted cocktails inspired by Malaysia’s popular childhood snacks! We got the Choki Choki, Manggishigh, Marie Biscuit cocktail, White Rabbit, and Haw Flakes.

The Manggishigh uses fresh mangosteen, ‘tuak’ from Sarawak, and their own super juice blend. This is a great option for those who enjoy sweet drinks with a subtle hint of acidity that creates a complex taste profile.

Our favourite was the Choki Choki; a whiskey based drink infused with bitter tea and chocolate syrup. To enjoy the drink, we were advised by the bartender to take a little bite of the Choki Choki and let it sit on the tongue, before taking a sip of the drink. The blend of textures was surprisingly good and it tasted amazing.

The Marie Biscuit cocktail was the most nostalgic out of all the drinks we tried. We were asked to dip the Marie biscuit into the cocktail. Although we were in a bar, we felt like children again, eating cream crackers with Milo! The flavours were also really enjoyable for this cocktail.

Image Credit: Runcit Bar TTDI

They also have a variety of munchies like their Prawn Salsa Pie Tee, Penang Style Spicy Devil’s Curry that comes with mantou buns, and Pulled Lamb Sliders. So if you do get hungry, they have plenty of options for you.

MFT’s Verdict

Overall, we give this hidden gem in TTDI an 8/10. The cocktail menu offers a masterful fusion of past and present, with their selection of Malaysian snack-infused drinks. The ambiance also stirs fond memories of carefree days spent exploring local ‘kedai runcits’ for hidden treasures.

Did we mention that they have a ladies night every Wednesday and Thursday with FREE drinks from 9pm onwards?

Runcit Bar offers a charming experience through a seamless blend of nostalgia and innovation. The next time you find yourself in TTDI, venture into this quaint establishment, and let its fusion of childhood whimsy and adult sophistication ignite your memory and your senses, one sip at a time.

Directions on how to find Runcit Bar: