Lovers of Happy Hours and discerning bon vivant who yearn
to slake their thirst can make a beeline for the much-loved Farquhar’s Bar. Remodelled
as a vintage cocktail bar, Farquhar’s Bar at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang is relocated further down the marble
and French doors walkway at the newly refreshed Heritage Wing.
Subdued, mellow lighting coupled with deep teal blue
hues and white cornices evoke a rarefied atmosphere similar to a gentlemen’s
club and private study. The oak and brass-finished long bar serves as a focal
point near the entrance whilst the inner sanctum boasts studded leather
Chesterfield sofas, retro arm and wing back chairs, antique fittings, and
collections of monochrome prints. Scenic views of Penang’s waterfront beckon
beyond its expansive picture windows.
Cocktail o’clock has never been more atas...the resident mixologists are
adept at whisking up classic and contemporary tipples. To wet our whistle, we
opted for Gin Setengah (RM45) – London Dry Gin with Grand Marnier, longan and a
splash of pineapple juice (3rd pix below); Pink Lady (RM50) – London Dry Gin with Applejack, lemon
juice, housemade grenadine and egg white (2nd pix below); and Moscow Mule (RM45) – Vodka, lime
juice and spicy ginger beer (pix below).
Should you wish to chase your drinks of choice with
light refreshments, the snack creations are worth the calorie intake. Simplistic
in approach but lush and big on flavour is Potato & Caviar (RM28),
airy-light potato crisps with sour cream and caviar dip.
Heartier but a definite palate-pleaser is the sumptuous
and melty Gruyère Cheese Sandwich (RM28). Savoury rich with a smoky aftertaste,
the brioche toast triangles were sublime and satisfying.
Delectable options to stave off hunger pangs include Peranakan Sliders (RM20) of braised duck breast sandwiched in crispy mantou with chilli dip, and
Beef Lollipop (RM28) – superbly tender and juicy marinated beef cubes with saffron and garlic aioli. Having sampled them, the snacks hit the spot well. We even ordered additional portion of the Beef Lollipop and Gruyère Cheese Sandwich. Note: Farquhar’s Bar is open daily from 230pm to midnight during the pre-Covid19 days. To sample the Sundowners' Tapas mentioned above, head over to Palm Court from 4pm to 7pm daily (refer below pix).
For more information and reservations, please call Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang, tel: 016-419 8923 or visit: