The cosy setting of Astor Bar at The St Regis Kuala Lumpur.
Step into opulence at The St Regis Kuala Lumpur’s Astor Bar, where a series of jazz performances bring a touch of classics to the floor.
Every Thursday, the Gilded Age-inspired bar offers guests the chance to sip on creatively crafted cocktails while enjoying soothing vocals that set the tone for a relaxing evening.
The St Regis’ connection to jazz runs deep, tracing back to the early 20th century.
In the 1920s, the Astor family who founded the St Regis brand developed a deep appreciation for the music genre.
Shaping New York’s high society, they fostered an environment where jazz and other artistic expressions thrived.
Over the years, The St Regis New York became a cornerstone of the rich legacy of jazz as it welcomed legendary musicians such as Count Basie and Duke Ellington.
Continuing this tradition, Astor Bar hosts Astor’s Jazz Soirée from 5pm to midnight every Thursday, except for the last Thursday of the month.
The recitals build up to a grand finale – “Jack’s Club”, held on that final Thursday of the month.
On this special night, guests are invited to indulge in a grand atmosphere that transports them to the golden era of jazz clubs.
With a red carpet, golden accents and sparkling details, the bar sets the stage for performances featuring top-tier acts.
On one of Astor’s soirée nights, vocalist Odelia treated guests to her soothing vocals while a two-piece band provided a rich, rhythmic backdrop.
They delivered stunning renditions of popular numbers such as Your Song by Elton John, Almost Is Never Enough by Ariana Grande, Elvis Presley’s Can’t Help Falling in Love, Fly Me to the Moon and other timeless classics.
These soulful numbers sung throughout the night got me immersed in the moment, mesmerised by emotional tunes that border on the melancholy.
Between songs, the trio’s playful moments also engaged guests, making it a session that can be enjoyed with friends and loved ones.
During an Astor’s Jazz Soirée, guests can enjoy two house beverages for the price of one.
Selections include No 3 London Dry Gin, Volcán De Mi Tierra Blanco Tequila, The Naked Malt Blended Scotch Whisky and Grey Goose Original Vodka.
Meanwhile, “Jack’s Club” highlights New York-inspired cocktails with a drinks menu updated on a monthly basis.
Jazz performances for both Astor’s Jazz Soirée and Jack’s Club start at 8pm.
Guests can also explore Astor Bar’s “The Art of Drinking” cocktail menu that features standout creations such as Disco Sazerac.
It is a sophisticated mix of cognac, rye whiskey, Champagne syrup, absinthe and peach bitters, a twist to a split base classic Sazerac.
This cocktail is a tribute to Studio 54, a former New York City opera house converted into a legendary nightclub during the disco era.
Another drink that perfectly complemented the performances was the Duke of Jazz cocktail, a smooth blend of white rum, tequila, pineapple, honey, lemon and oleo saccharum.
With its citrusy notes and tropical kick, it added a refreshing touch to the evening’s experience.
Next month, performers for the Astor’s Jazz Soiree are Allan G on March 6, Halida Ramlee on March 13 and Besa Postmodern Project on March 20.
On March 27, singer songwriter Dasha Logan will be performing for “Jack’s Club”.
Reservations are encouraged for both Astor’s Jazz Soirée and “Jack’s Club”.
ASTOR BAR, Level 2, St Regis Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Stesen Sentral 2, Kuala Lumpur. (Tel: 03-2727 6680) Business hours: 5pm to midnight.
This is the writer’s personal observation and is not an endorsement by StarMetro.