I had been staying at the Hilton PJ for a few days already. There was an Exec Lounge at the hotel, which provided me with my much-needed beer supplies – but only until 8pm at which time the beer was cruelly taken away. I was wandering the streets looking for a new supplier when I came across Restoran Rokaro. This is a Japanese karaoke bar that offers lots of seafood (yes, you can pick your own live lobster and then eat it…) lots of drinks and some karaoke too. There was a very large sign that read “Members Only” but I think this was to deter some of the less well off locals – I was warmly welcomed and offered service immediately.
I would describe the décor here as ‘eclectic’; blue tanks with live goodies in, a few curtains to separate different areas, high bar stools and table and of course, the karaoke area. There are also a fair number of tables outside.
I took a seat outside and was joined by a colleague and had a look at the menu. Prices here weren’t bad so we opted for a bucket of Heineken (MYR 80). The beer was cold and wet and the service was great.
I visited this bar a few times for late night drinks – I was greeted with a smile each time and had some good conversation with the waiters.
If you are staying at the Hilton PJ and fancy a less expensive beer than Uncle Chilli’s then head on down here (cross the road, turn left and then right at the traffic lights; right next to Chutney’s).
Restoran Rokaro, 5 and & 7, Jalan 8/1E, 46050. No website (that I could find…)