Travel Insider: A Sensory Journey Through Iconic Kempinski Bars

From gin joints and speakeasies to wine cellars and cocktail lounges, bars in all their forms are stages on which life has unfolded through the ages; backdrops for budding friendships, business deals and whirlwind romances, where local culture is revealed in music, décor and of course the drinks list. The Kempinski collection is dotted with beautiful bars that go beyond expectations to immerse visitors in local heritage and craftsmanship. 

At this collection of stylish venues, creative cocktails are shaken and stirred by some of the most talented bartenders and managers in the business. With modern interior design that captures the character of each destination and dining designed to complement the liquid libations, each of these innovative bars tells a story of flavour and heritage. 

For each venue on the list, we asked Serhan "Charly" Kusaksizoglu, Corporate Director of Bars & Concepts at Kempinski, to share some thoughts on what he likes most. From Munich to Bali, the list spans the Eastern Hemisphere, focusing on venues where innovation and creativity are complemented by distinct local ingredients and a profound sense of place. Come on in and pull up a chair.

Bangkok – High design meeting global flavours

FIREFLY BAR (SINDHORN KEMPINSKI HOTEL BANGKOK)

Ignite the night at Firefly Bar, where the warm glow of soft lighting radiates from an emerald-green bar, framed by a gold-fringed canopy and a swirling sea of geometric black and white tiles. This is no mere watering hole, but a sensory experience that promises wine, whisky and whimsical cocktails; an elegant jazz lounge with dark wooden panelling, plush armchairs and tropical accents that lead into a leafy terrace, the perfect setting for sultry evenings and decadent nights. Accompanied by the soundtrack of live jazz, the drinks list takes you on a journey into ‘The Great Adventures of Firefly’, featuring cocktails from around the world given a Firefly twist with local flavours like jasmine and lamuduan flowers, Thai black rice and fresh tropical fruits. Have the bartenders craft something bespoke from the roaming bar trolley; build your own tailor-made G&T; or choose from a selection of zero-proof cocktails. Suave, sharp and the recipient of numerous awards, Firefly proudly claims the title of one of the best bars in Bangkok. 

Mood: Smooth, sophisticated modern-Colonial jazz lounge.
Signature Cocktail: Elegant Lady in Red – Tanqueray gin, raspberry, blueberry, yuzushu, red wine and rose reduction, and a squeeze of citrus. 
Charly says: 'Firefly Bar earns its reputation with outstanding drinks and delicious food, but the unique draw is its singing bar manager Dicky Hartono and the live band, delivering an experience unlike any other.'

Budapest – Hungary’s hottest nightspot

BLUE FOX THE BAR (KEMPINSKI HOTEL CORVINUS BUDAPEST) 

When the sun goes down, the cool lights of Blue Fox The Bar come up, inviting locals and visitors alike to one of the coolest nightspots in Budapest. From the bar – an elegant ensemble of burnished and beaten gold framed by moody blue lighting – views of Erzsébet Square and the Ferris Wheel of Budapest are revealed through floor-to-ceiling windows, providing the inspiration for the new menu concept, ‘The Cycle of Life’. Based around the idea of growth, transformation and renewal, the ‘Signature Sensations’ cocktail list features specially crafted concoctions that incorporate seeds, flowers and fruits, while ‘Our Beloved Friends’ presents a collection of classic cocktails given a unique twist with the addition of local touches like Hungarian vermouth, microgreens and vinegars. Fresh from a recent head-to-toe redesign that helped it earn a place in the Top 500 Bars, Blue Fox The Bar also offers a selection of elevated bar snacks including truffle parmesan fries, shrimp tacos and Wagyu tagliata; delectable bites that make this one of the best hotel bars in Budapest. 

Mood: Advanced mixology that’s modern, creative and a little bit seductive.
Signature Cocktail: Pink Cadillac – a blend of gin, rhubarb, strawberry and freshly squeezed lemon juice. 
Charly says: 'At Blue Fox The Bar, you'll feel like you're in a chic, standalone venue, yet it's conveniently located within a luxury hotel, offering service that's anything but stiff.'

Singapore – Celebrate the art of travel

THE BAR AT 15 STAMFORD (THE CAPITOL KEMPINSKI HOTEL SINGAPORE)

History stalks the corridors around The Bar at 15 Stamford, once home of the US Consul to Singapore, Joseph Balestier. Today, it’s a neighbourhood favourite that blends easy elegance with unlimited creativity. Traditions and rituals from a bygone era are still celebrated, from the Spanish colonial revival décor and ‘The Lost Highway’ menu, to the daily bellringing at 20:00, a relic from the days when sailors were called back to their ships by the tolling of the Consulate bell. Celebrating the art of travel and discovery, ‘The Lost Highway’ features a quartet of rum-based signature classics in honour of Balestier, who set up his own rum distillery during his time in Singapore. The cocktail list journeys from North to South America, with flavours and aromas that evoke distant lands, while themed whisky, rum, tequila and mescal flights introduce connoisseurs to new brands and styles. On Saturdays, the ‘Boozy Liquid Brunch’ eases you into the weekend with free-flow cocktails and Charles Heidsieck Champagne, and a decadent selection of seafood, charcuterie and sharing plates.

Mood: Cultured, urbane and exceptionally well-travelled. 
Signature Cocktail: Plantation 1840 – Black Tears Cuban spiced rum, sweet vermouth, pineapple citrus and sugar cane syrup, served in a copper mug. 
Charly says: 'This is a beautifully designed space that offers comforting cosiness alongside its innovative pan-Americana drinks. Hosts Mate and Karvish excel at providing warm Asian hospitality, ensuring everyone enjoys a memorable visit.'

Munich – Heritage meets high craft 

JAHRESZEITEN BAR (HOTEL VIER JAHRESZEITEN KEMPINSKI MUNICH)

Step into a world of understated elegance at this legendary Munich institution, where cool jazz and classic design create an atmosphere of quiet, timeless luxury. The low-level bar counter gives you a front-row seat to the alchemy as bartenders prepare cocktails inspired by the flavours of Bavaria. Below a backlit display of premium and vintage spirits illuminated by gold-domed lights are jars of pears, quince, apricots and bright beetroot; locally grown ingredients that lend a distinct character to luscious libations. Beyond the bar, the space exudes a sense of royal luxury harking to the era of King Maximilian II, with burnished bronze and sage green banquettes framed by a collection of modern art and Bavarian landscapes. Everywhere you look, you’ll find a dash of theatre: signature beef tartare prepared at your table; live swing and jazz music on Friday nights; and a roaming drinks trolley disguised as a vintage steamer trunk.

Mood: Classic, crafted and unapologetically elegant.
Signature Cocktail: Jahreszeiten Martini – equal parts Jahreszeiten Bar gin and vodka complemented by a blend of white vermouths and seasonal flavours. 
Charly says: 'This is a beautiful classic American bar with creative cocktails, great food and live jazz. Alex Vujin truly elevates the experience with his incredible hospitality as the perfect host.'

Bali – A taste of the tropics

PALA RESTAURANT & ROOFTOP BAR (The Apurva Kempinski Bali) 

With Balinese sunshine or starlit skies overhead, you’ll immerse yourself in Indonesian culinary culture at Pala Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, a tropical haven nestled in the lush gardens of The Apurva Kempinski Bali. ‘Pala’ is the Indonesian word for nutmeg, which grows in abundance in the highlands of the ‘Island of the Gods’ and was a treasured commodity during the Majapahit empire, to which the hotel’s architecture and design pay tribute. The influence of this aromatic spice and many others is evident in the Pala cocktail list, which features cooling classics and local signatures inspired by the tropics. Distinct local flavours like pandan leaf are used in the signature cocktail, Acaraki, named after the Indonesian word for the women and men who make the traditional herbal elixirs collectively called jamu. You’ll also find a refreshing G&T selection and a collection of zero-proof cocktails that use unique ingredients like temulawak (Javanese ginger) and kunyit asam, a traditional jamu made with turmeric and tamarind.

Mood: Tropical vibes and open-air indulgence in boho Bali.
Signature Cocktail: Acaraki – pandan leaf-infused arak, Bali tangerine marmalade, rice galangal cordial and sparkling water.
Charly says: 'First, enjoy the breathtaking Indian Ocean views at Pala Restaurant, where you can sample delightful tropical beverages paired with fresh grilled seafood, then head to Pala Rooftop Bar, your go-to spot for cigars, shishas and cutting-edge mixology.'

Muscat – Golden evenings and Arabian Nights

ZALE CLUB & LOUNGE (KEMPINSKI HOTEL MUSCAT)

Derived from the Greek term for the ‘power of the sea’, Zale is an oceanfront oasis on the shore of the Arabian Gulf, a spectacular open-air setting where fiery sunsets set skies ablaze and intimate evenings unfold. Taking its cues from the ocean, this indoor-outdoor bar and lounge displays a nautical setting embellished with local flavours: walls of rigging ropes and ceilings of bamboo and thatch, complemented by rattan furnishings and low lighting that sets the mood. Local flavours permeate the drinks list: the signature cocktail, It’s Hot on the Beach, is an Arabian twist on the popular classic (Sex on the Beach), infused with cardamom vodka, pickled ginger and onion ash, creating a savoury, pine-infused finish. By night, the terrace transforms into an intimate hideaway where the fragrant aroma of shisha drifts through the air and lights twinkle on Muscat’s ancient skyline. 

Mood: Oceanfront vibes, stylish sundowners and Arabian aromas.
Signature Cocktail: It’s Hot on the Beach – cardamom vodka, peach, ginger pickle, orange peel, dried cranberry and onion ash.
Charly says: 'I'm a big fan of Zale: its large open terrace with that incredible view over the Arabian Sea is simply fantastic. The delicious drinks, crafted with local ingredients, add that perfect special touch.'

Malta – Mediterranean landscapes meet Maltese heritage

IL-BALDAKKIN GASTROBAR (KEMPINSKI HOTEL SAN LAWRENZ)

Welcome to the best seat in Gozo, perfectly primed for spectacular sunsets over the Mediterranean landscape during long evenings and warm summer nights. Inspired by the land and its rich bounty, every element of Il-Baldakkin Gastrobar reflects the natural and culinary heritage of Gozo. Created by Oslo-based design company Behind Bars, this super-chic space is flushed with warm, earthy tones and materials reflecting the island’s rustic charm, with modern interiors that blend comfort and character, and a west-facing terrace bedecked in traditional tiles and southern Mediterranean flora. The menu is also inspired by Malta’s landscape, with a selection of signature cocktails flavoured with Maltese ingredients such as prickly pear, carob and dates, as well as unique homemade specials like mushroom vodka, served with a side of sunshine and mesmerising panoramas. 

Mood: Sun-kissed sanctuary with spellbinding views.
Signature Cocktail: Coconut-aged Negroni – a classic Negroni (Tanqueray gin, Poli Gran Bassano Rosso Vermouth, Campari and fresh coconut water) aged inside a coconut for three days, served over ice with an orange twist. 
Charly says: 'Il-Baldakkin is our exciting new spot, nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean. It's a very cosy place where our locally inspired drinks make every visit truly special.'

Dresden – 1920s glamour meets legendary libations

BAR 1705 (HOTEL TASCHENBERGPALAIS KEMPINSKI DRESDEN)

Dark wood panelled walls, high-back leather armchairs and a grand piano set the tone in Bar 1705, an homage to the legendary Oak Room in New York that celebrates the glitz and glamour of the 1920s. Named for the year Taschenbergpalais was founded, this elegant hideaway in the heart of the palace is a refuge for connoisseurs, with an epic selection of whiskies and spirits and a signature cocktail list with a distinctly film noir mood thanks to names such as Detective, Dancer, Poet and Crook. Bartenders pay tribute to a city famous for its bakeries, sweets and desserts with little touches like chocolate, marshmallow and pastries embellishing each creation. The food menu is loaded with time-honoured classics including beef tartare and truffle fries, as well as local favourites like the Taschenberg Currywurst, the perfect complement to beautifully presented cocktails. Bar Manager Thang Viet Trinh was nominated as Newcomer of the Year by Mixology Magazine in 2022 and Rolling Pin magazine called him Rising Bar Talent of the Year in 2023.

Mood: Film noir and nostalgia with an elevated twist.
Signature Cocktail: Detective – Islay single malt whisky, French herbal liqueur, Caribbean spices, peach, mint and clarified coconut milk. 
Charly says: 'What I appreciate about Bar 1705 is its classic American bar-inspired design, which pairs perfectly with the delectable drinks created by Thang and his talented team.'

Berlin – Roaring Twenties elegance meets fine cigars

ELEPHANT BAR (HOTEL ADLON KEMPINSKI BERLIN)

Steps from the iconic Elephant Fountain in the lobby of Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is its namesake saloon, Elephant Bar; a refined cocktail bar and cigar lounge for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Designed in soft sage green with plush velvet armchairs and artwork depicting Hollywood stars, the bar has a Golden Age atmosphere where the strains of smooth jazz and the aroma of fine cigars set the scene for intimate evenings. Boxes of premium cigars are displayed like museum exhibits in a ceiling-height humidor beside the bar, curated by the cigar and spirits boutique Noblego, which is headquartered at the hotel. A selection of signature cocktails travels the world celebrating premium ingredients from the Caribbean and beyond, and a generous selection of whiskies and rums provides the perfect accompaniment for an indulgent smoke. 

Mood: Demure, barrel-aged cigar lounge.
Signature Cocktail: Coco Lopez – coconut liqueur with banana, citrus and roasted coconut. 
Charly says: 'Indulge in Elephant Bar’s distinctive Milk Punch-inspired cocktails, complement them with a fine Cuban cigar and let the smooth jazz music set the perfect mood.'

Istanbul  – Superb sunsets and stylish smokes

LE FUMOIR (ÇIRAĞAN PALACE KEMPINSKI ISTANBUL)

The aroma of fragrant shisha drifts between the palm trees at this stylish haunt, set in the picturesque gardens of Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul. Overlooking the twinkling lights of the Bosphorus Bridge and the magnificent historical wing of the palace, Le Fumoir captures the magic of Arabian Nights with a distinctly Far Eastern ambience, an idyllic setting for sundowners or a post-prandial beverage selected from the list of exclusive cognacs, malt whiskies, fine wines and Champagnes. Premium cigars are served in hand-crafted humidors alongside a selection of flavoured shisha tobacco, the quintessential aroma of the Middle East at the crossroads of continents. In June 2025, Le Fumoir was recognised in the prestigious Star Bar Awards by Forbes Travel Guide, highlighting its exceptional beverage list, presentation and unrivalled service. 

Mood: Indoor-outdoor indulgence on the banks of the Bosphorus.
Signature Cocktail: Rakitini – Turkish raki, skinos liqueur, melon puree and a refreshing squeeze of citrus.
Charly says: 'I particularly love Le Fumoir for its prime location by the Bosphorus, where you can soak in the amazing panoramic views stretching from Europe to Asia. It's the ideal setting to enjoy excellent Turkish-inspired drinks, perhaps with a cigar or a shisha.'

Bangkok – Cuban cigars and creative cocktails for connoisseurs

1897 BAR (SIAM KEMPINSKI HOTEL BANGKOK)

One of just a handful of Bangkok venues to offer a premium selection of fine Cuban cigars, 1897 Bar at Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok is a rare and exclusive venue for aficionados. Inside, the soaring space is defined by high ceilings, plush velvet furnishings and rich wood panelling, while ambient lighting sets the mood for sampling a selection of exceptional whiskies, rums and cognacs. The innovative cocktail list features playful concoctions created by a team of master mixologists, infused with local flavours like lychee and coconut, Thai tea and butterfly pea; ideal to sip on the al fresco terrace on warm tropical evenings. There’s a trio of fruit-infused martinis, or you can ask the bartender to prepare yours just the way you like it. To accompany the liquid libations, a selection of light bites and snacks courtesy of the adjacent 1897 Lounge includes grilled satays and crispy cornflake chicken fingers, as well as larger dishes such as salads, burgers and hot and cold Middle Eastern mezze. 

Mood: Refined and discreet retreat for cigar aficionados
Signature Cocktail: Melt me Please – Bombay Sapphire gin, honey herb syrup, lemon juice, butterfly pea juice and tonic served over an ice ball. 
Charly says: 'Exciting times are coming for 1897 Bar, with a new bar counter and new beverage menu.'

Whether you’re in the mood for a glass of Champagne, an innovative cocktail infused with local flavours or an evening of al fresco indulgence, the Kempinski collection has something for you – an inviting collection of bars and lounges where every sip is infused with local culture and culinary heritage. 

If you enjoyed this, why not read Joe’s round-up of immersive dining experiences?