Speaking about crazy dreams, many have warned that starting a wine bar in Ipoh would be a challenge, the idea of a gastrobar be next to impossible, setting it up on a rooftop in a part of town that sees no life at night, a disaster waiting to happen. Then again, passion often runs ahead of reason. For the past year, passion has been our sustenance and reason for existence.
To say that we’re redefining bistro food might sound foolhardy and pompous, but we’re proud and glad to say that’s our goal.
As much as we can, which is most of the time, we make our food from scratch. Sauces are based off flavoured oil that we infuse with fresh ingredients or stocks simmered over hours; herb and spice mix are concocted and adjusted from day to day; we’re even silly enough to make our own bacon, curing it for days and smoking it overnight. All of that comes together in the dishes we put out. I’m probably not listing down all the ingredients, but they’re all full of heart and soul, sometimes even blood and sweat... though not literally.
Journey Fueled by Wine
The world of wine is vast and deep. For that very reason it is as intimidating as it is alluring. While we’re far from the leading authority on wine, we’d like to think that we’re a good companion to begin the journey with.
Our current selection of wine mainly tells the story of the two giants of the wine world, France and Italy. With oddly specific traditions dating back centuries and languages foreign to our shores, they’re not easy for the wine novice. That’s where we come in. We’ve carefully curated a wine list that expresses the unique grape varieties and wine styles of the respective countries so that you can journey from Alsace to Sicily, from the familiar comfort of Ipoh Old Town.
Maybe we’ll even indulge you in a few stories about how we got into wine. Maybe we’ll even get you into wine, after we get wine into you.
All Chill, No Frills
The vibe that we’re going for is one of being yourself, comfortable amidst nature and architecture, serenaded by soft music. Whether you’re to arrive in style or to jam in your pyjamas, our doors are always open.
Written by YC on behalf of all partners and staff at Above Gastrobar.
