Why Everyone Is Obsessed With REXKL (And Honestly, Same.)

There’s a lot to love about REXKL, but if there’s one thing that stops people in their tracks the moment they walk in, it’s the bookstore — a massive, maze-like literary haven built inside the old cinema hall. It’s not just a bookstore; it’s an experience of its own, and for many visitors, it becomes the highlight of the entire trip.

The bookstore spans multiple levels of wooden platforms and repurposed structures, creating an almost labyrinthine space of stories waiting to be explored. You don’t simply “browse” here — you wander. Shelves climb up the walls, narrow pathways lead you to hidden pockets of books, and every turn reveals something unexpected. It feels raw, nostalgic, and a little magical, as if you’ve stepped into a secret library tucked inside KL’s urban heart.

What makes it unforgettable is the ambiance. The warm lighting, quiet corners, and the lingering charm of the old cinema architecture give the space a cinematic feel. You can easily lose track of time flipping through titles, climbing up creaking steps to new sections, or pausing to people-watch as other visitors sink into their own discoveries. It’s the kind of place where book lovers feel instantly at home — and even non-readers find themselves drawn in by the atmosphere alone.

Only after wandering through the bookstore do you begin to appreciate the rest of REXKL’s layers. The building itself still carries the soul of the former REX Cinema, with exposed walls, preserved staircases, and a raw industrial aesthetic that makes every corner feel like a blend of history and modern creativity. The contrast is beautiful — you move from the calm, introspective world of the bookstore into the lively, social spaces that bring the community together.

One of those spaces is The Back Ground, REXKL’s bustling food hall. Here, families gather for weekend lunches, creatives tap on laptops over iced coffee, tourists sample local bites, and groups share plates at long communal tables. The vibe is warm, relaxed, and effortlessly cool — the kind of energy that makes you want to stay just a little longer.

And that’s the charm of REXKL. It’s never static. Depending on when you visit, you might stumble upon a pop-up market, a craft fair, a DJ set, a small exhibition, or a late-night performance. The building is constantly breathing, evolving, and reinventing itself through the people who pass through it.

But no matter what’s happening on any given day, the bookstore remains its anchor — the heart of the space. It’s the first thing people remember, the place they recommend to friends, and the part of REXKL that captures the imagination long after they’ve left.

Whether you’re here to eat, explore, shop, read, or simply wander, REXKL offers a refreshing escape into a world where KL’s heritage and creativity come together beautifully. But ask anyone who’s been there, and they’ll probably tell you the same thing.

You come for the experience , but you stay for the vibes.