Adore it or abhor it, Changkat Bukit Bintang is a treasure trove of memories for most Malaysians, for it is in this district where drinks are downed, dance-offs are issued, and bonds of friendship are formed or strengthened. Few remember what the tree-lined stretch was like before becoming KL’s unofficial backpacker street, but as someone partially responsible for its transformation, Leslie Gomez certainly does.
“Believe it or not, there used to be only two bars on the entire street.” Speaking in a low rumble befitting his rugged demeanour, Leslie reminisces: “When we opened Ghazal Mahel, now known as Sutraa, our neighbours were mostly restaurants, a lawyer’s firm, and a 7-11. Frangipani was one of the original tenants. There were also Gypsy, The Green Man, The Ceylon Bar, and a German…
