Durbar at FMS

Imagine a place where time seems to have stood still in the early 20th century. This is exactly how Durbar at FMS feels—a legendary establishment located in the historic center of Ipoh. It is not just a restaurant or bar, but a true monument to the colonial era, revived with attention to detail. The building itself is a landmark, attracting attention with its classic architecture.

Visitors come here not just for the food, but for the unique atmosphere. The interior transports guests back to the days of British rule in Malaysia: high ceilings, antique wooden furniture, old photographs on the walls, and slowly rotating fans create a sense of coziness and nostalgia. It is the perfect place for those who want to touch history while enjoying modern comfort.

"Durbar at FMS" is famous for its status as one of the oldest bars in the country. Today, it is a gastropub where traditions of the past and present blend harmoniously, offering guests a unique experience that is hard to find in ordinary modern cafes.

To help plan your visit to this historic establishment, check out the current contact information. Here you will find the address, phone number, and a link to the official website.

The main thing to do here is to immerse yourself in a gastronomic journey by trying dishes of classic Hainanese cuisine. Their signature Chicken Chop and other dishes, adapted by Chinese chefs to European tastes back in colonial times, are particularly popular. The food here is part of the cultural code, allowing you to better understand the region's history.

Don't miss the opportunity to simply sit at the bar and enjoy refreshing drinks. The selection includes both classic beer and various cocktails. Sitting at the antique wooden counter, you can easily imagine how planters and tin miners relaxed in this very spot a hundred years ago.

History and photography enthusiasts should definitely take time to explore the interior. Examine the old black-and-white photos on the walls, which tell the story of the city and the building itself. Every detail, from the floor tiles to the light fixtures, is selected to preserve the spirit of the era, making for incredibly atmospheric photos.

The establishment is located in the very heart of the city's historic district, so getting there is easy. If you are already walking around the Old Town, it is easiest to reach on foot. The building is located on Jalan Sultan Idris Shah, within walking distance of many other architectural monuments and famous murals.

For those traveling from distant areas or the railway station, the most convenient option is to take a taxi or use the popular regional app Grab. The ride from the station will take literally 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic. Public transport in the very center can be less predictable, so a car remains the preferred mode of transport for tourists.

The history of this place dates back to the early 20th century when the building was known simply as the FMS Bar. The abbreviation in the name stands for Federated Malay States, which directly refers to the region's colonial past. Founded in 1906 by a Hainanese immigrant, the establishment is considered one of the oldest bars and restaurants in Malaysia still standing today.

For decades, this place served as a major social hub for European planters, tin miners, and colonial officials. Business deals, rubber and tin prices, as well as local gossip were discussed here. The interior has witnessed changing eras, surviving both the heyday of British rule and the turbulent years of World War II.

After a long period of neglect and closure, the building was carefully restored and reopened its doors under the updated name "Durbar at FMS". Restorers made every effort to preserve the authentic spirit of antiquity: from wooden panels to antique furniture, allowing modern guests to touch the living history of the city.

For a full visit to "Durbar at FMS", it is usually enough to set aside 1 to 2 hours. This time is sufficient to leisurely enjoy lunch or dinner, try signature drinks, and soak up the unique atmosphere of the establishment.

If you stopped by just for a cup of coffee or a glass of beer, the visit might take about 45 minutes. However, given the historical value of the interior and the relaxed pace of service, many guests prefer to stay longer, resting from the heat and city bustle.

When planning your visit, pay attention to the establishment's schedule. The restaurant is open to visitors six days a week. From Monday to Tuesday, as well as from Thursday to Sunday, the doors are open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, allowing you to stop by for both lunch and a late dinner.

It is important to remember that Wednesday is a day off, and the establishment is closed. Keep this schedule in mind when planning your route around the city so you don't find yourself facing closed doors.

After visiting the restaurant and immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the past, it is worth paying attention to the surroundings. The area is rich not only in history but also in various entertainment and natural sites that will help complete the picture of your journey.

Below is a table of interesting places located at various distances from the establishment, including several aquariums and recreational spots: