Non-Smokers Beware! This Bali Bar Above a Bakmi Shop is a Totally Split Experience.

Girls, you have no idea how hard it is to find a legit Speakeasy in Seminyak. I followed the GPS and walked around a ramen shop three times, I almost thought I was being pranked. Who would've thought the real entrance was hidden behind an inconspicuous staircase at the very back of the ramen shop[1]! Anjay, I give this disguise full marks.

The Vibe is Truly Old-School Movie, The Drinks are Truly Polarizing

The moment you push the door open and go upstairs, the whole style changes abruptly. Dim lighting, vintage decor, and an old-movie quality filling the air, paired with the DJ spinning Funk and R&B, the vibe was dialed up to the max[2]. Felt like I could pull out a cigar and talk about a multi-million dollar deal any second (as if!).

I didn't look at the menu and just let the bartender do his thing, getting an off-menu Pandan Sour[3]. The fresh aroma of pandan leaves balanced out the harshness of the whiskey, it was really something special, mantap! My friend's Gunpowder Spritz[1] was also okay, it was fruity and balanced, not too strong on the alcohol, perfect for friends who can't handle their liquor. But honestly, the reviews for the drinks are very polarizing. Some people absolutely love the signature cocktails here, while others complain that they use cheap base spirits and sell them at a high price. To each their own, I guess.

Alright, Time for Some Real Talk…

Done with the praise, now for the complaints. The biggest flaw here is: the smoke! It's! OVERWHELMING![4] Smoking is allowed everywhere, and the ventilation is basically non-existent. After sitting for a while, I felt like I had just come out of a BBQ restaurant, reeking of smoke. For my friends who are sensitive to smoke, I urge you to think twice.

Also, the prices are really not cheap. One signature vodka cocktail easily set me back 234k[5], and the signature large ice cube means you only get a few sips of the actual drink. My wallet and my heart both hurt a little.

A Veteran's Guide to Avoiding the Pitfalls 📝

For the babes who want to go on an adventure, remember these tips:

• 1. The Secret Entrance: Don't hesitate, just walk into the Mad Ronin ramen shop, go all the way to the back, find the stairs, and head to the second floor. That's the spot.
• 2. Non-smokers & People Who Get Cold Easily, Beware: I'll say it again, the smoke is strong enough to turn half the people away[6]. Also, the AC is blasting like it's Siberia[7], so definitely, definitely bring a jacket!
• 3. Wallet Warning: Be prepared to spend around 500k-1M Rupiah per person for 2-3 drinks. Ask about the price before ordering, especially for custom cocktails, as there might be an extra "creation fee". If you want to save money, you can wait for Happy Hour[8].
• 4. Nongkrong Time: It's packed on weekends, so if you want a quiet drink, I suggest coming on a weekday[1]. The day we went, there was a DJ. The music was good but loud, so if you want to have a proper conversation, you'll basically have to shout[9].
• 5. Service is Hit-or-Miss: The staff's attitude... is pretty random. Some are super friendly and will chat with you for ages[10], while others are... well, you know. Don't take it to heart, you're mainly there for the experience and the vibe.