The last remaining Sid’s Pub has undergone a revamp but remains as friendly as ever.
PLAZA Damansara, nestled in the leafy suburb of Bukit Damansara just 20 minutes from downtown Kuala Lumpur, seems to be home to an increasing number of pubs and bars, with over half a dozen of them now spread along two stretches of the area.
One of the longest residents here is Sid’s Pub, a convivial little hangout and sacred ground for the rugby faithful around these parts.
Sid’s Pub was once a Kuala Lumpur favourite in British-style neighbourhood pubs.
The first outlet opened in 2007, quickly followed by three more up to 2010.
Banoffee Martini, one of the pub’s signature cocktails.Fast forward to 2023 and it is down to just the one, the baby of them all at Plaza Damansara.
Sid’s Pub was refitted some months ago, with an additional management team and new head chef, but “your home away from home in Bukit Damansara” it still says, and stays.
The man behind the brand is Sid, or Geoff Siddle.
Sid’s Pub is his special baby, driven by passion and brought about after years of thought and planning.
Besides the venue being dog- and children-friendly, warm and welcoming service is to be expected at Sid’s.
Regular patrons have grown accustomed to its hearty meals, good company and lively conversations.
One of the major highlights at Sid’s is that it regularly shows big sports events on its five screens such as Six Nations, Rugby World Cup, Cricket World Cup, English Premier League, European League football, Australian Rugby and Australian Football, boxing matches and golf.
On days or nights with big games, the small pub can be abuzz with people, like the recent National Rugby League Final and the boxing match earlier that day, for example.
We are now also halfway through the 2023 Rugby World Cup, with the Final in a few weeks.
Cricket fans have something to look forward to here (in addition to the other cricket-influenced pub just down the road) with the 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup being broadcast live from India through to mid-November.
All in, it’s still the neighbourhood British-styled pub serving up good, hearty pub grub and fresh, cold drinks in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, with no nonsense, no pretensions and no gimmicks.
It has a diverse enough menu that includes snacks, main meals, classic British dishes and some distinctly Australian offerings, like the Chicken Parmagiana I tried recently.
The pork burger with bacon and cheese topping remains a fan favourite. Other appetising finds include Pigs in Blankets, Scotch Egg and Roast Beef Bap.
And don’t forget the ever-available favourites on the menu – Sunday Roast and Great British (all day) Breakfast.
When it comes to drinks, Sid’s has a well-rounded selection.
On tap, you’ll find Guinness and Strongbow Cider, alongside other standards in Kilkenny, Tiger and Heineken.
Bottled beer is also available. There’s an array of liquors and spirits too, with a fondness for Jameson whiskey.
Cocktails are a thing too in most pubs these days and Sid’s has a selection of signature cocktails with creative twists on classics, from Banofee Martini and Pat’s Peachy Long Island to Bailey’s Banana Colada and Sloe Down.
Classics include Tuck Sun’s Original Long Island, Red Wine Sangria, Paloma and Johnny J (with Jameson whiskey no less). For the party (or birthday party) drink, you could cheekily ask for the Irish Car Bomb.
Over the years, Sid’s Pub has maintained its reputation as a local hangout with big TVs, friendly staff, great food and a welcoming atmosphere.
It was even voted Best British Overseas Pub in 2012-13 by UK newspaper The Telegraph.
Looking ahead, with Sid’s Pub having undergone a revamp while keeping its beloved traditions intact, the owners are definitely talking about an expansion in the near future, which is exciting news for those who appreciate a good old-fashioned pub experience with a modern twist.
Sid’s Pub, No.10, Jalan Medan Setia 2, Plaza Damansara, Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur. Reservations: 03-2094 7437.
This is the writer’s personal observation and not an endorsement by StarMetro.
