The Beauty in Bartending: Meet Anna Koh of Reka:Bar

Welcome to ‘The Beauty in Bartending’, a five-part series featuring a quintet of Malaysia’s leading female bartenders, who dish on their careers and beauty routines. Why beauty? Because who knows more about long-lasting makeup looks more than these powerhouses who spend long hours shaking up a storm behind the bars. In this read, we get to know Anna Koh of Reka:Bar. 

Anna Koh may appear reserved upon first meeting but her drinks are anything but. Koh has become one of the city’s most reliable and talented makers of classic cocktails. Her knack for mixing and stirring have put a healthy collection of accolades in her back pocket—say hello to the Monkey Shoulder Ultimate Bartender Championship 2024 winner. After a successful tenure at Terumi, Koh is starting a new chapter at Reka:Bar this month. With her move, we can expect to see her hone her craft even further…without her makeup looks moving an inch. 

In this interview series, we’re taking our conversations one step further by asking our tipple talents about their makeup looks and self-care regimens that get them through the demanding hours. Read on to find out more about how Koh knew she wanted to be a bartender and how she achieves her long-lasting look for shift.     

At what point did you realize you wanted to be a bartender/could do this for a living?

It clicked during my last semester of university in Taiwan. I started bartending part-time to earn extra cash, but the more time I spent behind the bar, the more I realized how naturally it came to me—and how much I enjoyed it. It was the perfect blend of creativity, human connection, and performance. I just kept going, and one bar led to another until I realized, “Yeah, this isn’t just a job…it’s my thing.”

What is one responsibility most people don’t know about when it comes to bartending?

Most people think bartending is just about mixing drinks or chatting with guests, but there’s a whole invisible layer to it. One big responsibility people overlook is emotional regulation—not just your own, but the atmosphere of the entire space. You’re constantly reading the room, adjusting energy, de-escalating tension, and making sure everyone feels safe and seen. That kind of emotional labour is real.

How do you get guests to keep coming back to your bar?

By making them feel like they’re more than just customers. It’s about genuine connection. Remember their preferred drink, their name, their stories, and be present. You can even offer small surprises or tweaks to their usual order to show you care. Most people don’t return just for the cocktails—they return for the experience you create.

What is your mantra when it comes to the bartending profession?

“Stay humble, keep learning.” No matter how long you’ve been doing this, there’s always something to learn, from new spirits to guest psychology. And staying humble keeps your ego in check. The bar isn’t about you—it’s about the people you serve.

Would you agree that bartending has become a boys club and how has that impacted your career?

It definitely has been, and in many places, it still is. There’s still a tendency to take male bartenders more seriously, especially in whisky or high-volume cocktail bars. I’ve been underestimated more times than I can count. But instead of trying to be “one of the boys,” I leaned into my own strengths—my sensitivity, my storytelling, my palate—and built respect through consistency and intention. Things are slowly shifting, but we still have a long way to go.

What’s one piece of advice you have for young women looking to join the industry?

Don’t wait for permission. You belong here just as much as anyone else! Own your space, keep learning, and don’t let anyone tell you how you should be. Find your style, your voice, and your rhythm behind the bar and let that shine.

Shoutout your three favourite bars to visit as a guest in KL!

Coley, Three X Co, and Cabinet 8 KL.

What are your best tips for long-lasting beauty beat behind the bar?

Less is more, but make it intentional. I focus on a solid base (primer is non-negotiable) and a good setting spray to lock everything in. Cream products tend to last longer for me under heat and movement, and I always go for waterproof eyeliner and mascara because you just never know when the bar turns into a sauna. Also, blotting paper over re-powdering! It keeps the skin looking fresh instead of cakey.

What is your go-to hairstyle for work? How do you stay cute and F&B-friendly?

A ponytail or a neat bun, always. It’s practical, keeps my hair out of the way, and still looks clean. But beyond all that, the most important thing is wearing a genuine smile! It’s what truly makes me look approachable and friendly behind the bar.

What are your must-have beauty products for every shift? 

My toner, serum, and emulsion from Laneige are great at keeping my skin hydrated. I rely on Shu Uemura for my makeup with its primer, foundation, loose powder, eyebrow pencil, lipstick, and makeup fix mist. These are my simple and basic but solid makeup essentials. 

How do you cope with the challenging sleep schedule?

I actually have two jobs: HR for my family company during the day and bartending at night. Because of that, my schedule is usually packed and I often don’t get enough sleep. On my days off, I try not to fight my natural rhythm. I don’t force early mornings if my body isn’t ready. Hydration is key as well, especially before bed and right after waking up. I also have a few wind-down rituals after shifts: some light stretching, a hot shower, and sometimes a cup of herbal tea. Not to mention, blackout curtains and relaxing essential oil have been lifesavers for me.

What’s the first thing you do when you get back home from a long shift?

Shoes off, makeup off, and a hot shower—those are my three non-negotiables. Then, I usually sit in silence for a few minutes to decompress. No music, no phone. Just pure quiet. It helps me mentally step out of work mode and settle back into myself.

Find the rest of ‘The Beauty in Bartending’ series here.