Ong Chin Huat speaks to Victor Wang, the co-founder of Kuala Lumpur’s Lane 23, a destination offering an immersive club experience, multi-concept dining and entertainment, the latest technology and a world-class sound system.
Lane 23 is set to redefine the pulsing nightlife in Kuala Lumpur. This multi-concept destination boasts a café and bar offering internationally inspired dishes with a local twist and an immersive club experience.
The venue will host world-class and homegrown DJs who will be spinning curated beats courtesy of a L’Acoustic sound system, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. It is a destination inspired by Tokyo’s listening bars, where audiophiles will congregate to indulge in their love of music.
Luxurious Magazine: Could you tell us about the concept behind Lane 23 and how the name and venture came about?
As for the name, Lane signifies our location on Market Lane at The Exchange TRX, with our unit numbers being 2 and 3. At the same time, a lane often evokes the sense of discovering something tucked away, special, and worth finding. We wanted a name that felt memorable yet understated, reflecting the venue’s curated yet accessible nature. Lane 23 encapsulates the essence of exploration, sophistication, and the unexpected—all in one.
LM: What will Lane 23 bring to KL’s nightlife?
Victor: Lane 23 adds a layer of diversity to KL’s nightlife. It’s a place where you can have a relaxed dinner, enjoy a drink in an intimate setting, or let loose on the dance floor—all under one roof. What I think sets us apart is the attention to detail, from the design of the space to the music and drinks we offer.
We’re not trying to be the loudest or flashiest venue. Instead, we want to be a place people naturally gravitate to—a spot where they feel comfortable and excited to spend their time. Lane 23 is about creating those moments that stick with you, whether it’s the perfect song, an amazing cocktail, or simply good company in a great setting.
LM: What do you think sets Lane 23 apart from the others?
Victor: What sets Lane 23 apart is the thought and heart we’ve put into every detail. The space is versatile yet cohesive. It’s not just a club; it’s a place that evolves with your evening.
I’m really proud of the L’Acoustic sound system in the club—it’s the first in KL, and it makes a huge difference in how you experience the music. But beyond the technology, it’s the way the space feels that matters to us. Whether you’re dancing in the main area or enjoying a quieter moment in our semi-enclosed VIP spaces, there’s an energy that feels exciting but never overwhelming.
And, of course, the drinks are a big part of the experience. From the champagne collection to the mocktails, everything is crafted with care.
We wanted Lane 23 to be a place where everyone feels included and inspired, whether they’re here for the music, the atmosphere, or just to connect with good company. It’s those little details—designed with intention—that make Lane 23 different.
LM: You lived and worked in Shanghai before coming to Malaysia. Could you tell us how the two cities differ in terms of nightlife?
Victor: Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur have their own unique energies, and that’s reflected in their nightlife. Shanghai’s nightlife scene is incredibly fast-paced and constantly evolving—it’s a city that thrives on being ahead of the curve. You’ll find massive, high-tech clubs, intimate speakeasies, and everything in between. There’s a certain boldness to it, a drive always to push boundaries and experiment.
Kuala Lumpur, on the other hand, has a more grounded and intimate vibe. It’s less about scale and more about community. People here appreciate spaces that feel personal, where they can connect with others and enjoy the moment without feeling overly curated or intimidating. That’s something I love about KL—it’s not just about the spectacle but the shared experience.
With Lane 23, we wanted to bring a little of that Shanghai boldness while staying true to KL’s warmth and inclusivity. It’s about creating a space that’s dynamic but still feels like home—somewhere people can return to and always discover something new.
LM: With your extensive club experience, could you tell me what trends you see in nightclubs post-COVID and any emerging ones?
Victor: Post-COVID, nightlife has shifted in some interesting ways. People now look for spaces that do it all. There’s also a big focus on safety, like better ventilation and contactless everything, which is just part of the new normal.
Local talent has also really come into the spotlight, with more clubs supporting homegrown DJs and artists. Sustainability is starting to matter more, too— things like cutting down on single-use plastics and being energy-conscious.
At Lane 23, we’ve leaned into these trends. It’s all about creating a modern and safe space while still delivering an amazing night out.
LM: What inspired you to create the retro-inspired Lane 23, and what was the idea behind hosting the largest champagne collection in Kuala Lumpur?
Victor: The retro inspiration for Lane 23 came from a love of spaces that feel timeless. I’ve always been drawn to design elements that bring a sense of nostalgia but still feel fresh and relevant.
With Lane 23, we wanted to create a comfortable, familiar place with an edge.
As for the champagne collection, it just felt right for the space. Champagne naturally brings people together—it’s celebratory but can also be intimate.
The largest collection in KL wasn’t the goal initially; it was more about offering something special, whether a quiet toast or a bigger celebration. It’s about adding that extra touch to make moments more memorable.
LM: What are the popular drinks people are currently favouring, and what trends do you see when it comes to drinking in bars, restaurants, and nightclubs?
Victor: Right now, people are really into classic cocktails with a twist—like a Negroni with a unique infusion or an Old Fashioned with a surprising flavour profile. At the same time, there’s a big shift toward non-alcoholic and low-ABV drinks.
People want something creative and flavorful, even if they’re skipping the alcohol, which is why we’ve put a lot of thought into our mocktail menu at Lane 23.
I’ve also noticed a growing appreciation for sustainability. Guests are more aware of where their ingredients come from and how things are made, so local and eco-friendly options are becoming really important. And, of course, champagne is always popular—it’s timeless and celebratory, which is why it’s such a big part of what we offer here.
Ultimately, people are looking for drinks that match the moment, whether it’s something bold, mindful, or just really well-crafted.
LM: What kind of music is favoured by DJs and nightclubgoers these days?
Victor: These days, there’s a real mix when it comes to music in nightclubs. DJs are leaning into genres like melodic house, Afrobeat, and tech house—something with good energy but still a bit layered. At the same time, classic 90s and early 2000s throwbacks are making a big comeback. People love the nostalgia, especially when it’s mixed in unexpectedly during a set.
What’s interesting is how open people are to blending genres now. You’ll hear hip-hop transitioning into house or even some indie remixes. Nightclubgoers are looking for variety—they want something they can dance to but also something that surprises them.
At Lane 23, we’ve tried to curate a lineup that reflects that versatility, giving people a reason to stay on the dance floor all night.
LM: What ingredients make for a fantastic night out on the town?
Victor: A fantastic night out starts with the right vibe—it’s all about the atmosphere. You need a space that feels inviting but still has that buzz of excitement, where people can instantly feel at ease and ready to enjoy themselves.
Great music is key—it sets the tone for the night. Whether it’s a DJ dropping the perfect track or a playlist that just hits right, it needs to keep the energy flowing. Drinks, of course, play a big part too. It’s not just about what’s in the glass; it’s the experience around it—the craftsmanship, the presentation, and how it fits the moment.
But honestly, the people make the night. Whether you’re out with friends or meeting new ones, the connections you make define the evening.
LM: What do you think people look for when going to a nightclub?
Victor: People go to a nightclub for more than just a night out—looking for an experience. It’s about escaping the routine, letting loose, and being part of something bigger, even just for a few hours. Music is a huge part of that—it sets the energy and gives people something to connect with, whether dancing or just soaking it in.
People also want a space that feels special but not intimidating. A great nightclub should strike that balance between being exciting and welcoming. But most importantly, it’s about connection.
Whether out with friends or meeting new people, a good nightclub gives you the space to create those moments that stick with you long after the music stops. That’s what we’ve tried to create with Lane 23.
For reservations, detailed event listings and the latest updates, please visit www.lanetwentythree.com or follow them on Instagram @lane23.kl.