How it tastes
Coffee, cream, sweetness, in that order. The fresh milk gives the drink a cleaner texture than cream alone. The Bailey's adds the dessert side without overwhelming. The espresso is the loudest ingredient and gets to stay loud, even with the dairy. We've found people sometimes hesitate at "espresso plus Bailey's" because it sounds like an iced latte. It isn't. The shake integrates everything into something denser and more cocktail-shaped.
Why we built it
Pipe It Up is one of our oldest house drinks. The name came from a song we played too often during the bar's first month. The drink itself is exactly what it looks like, which is the point: three ingredients, properly cold, made with attention. We pour it most often at the back end of the night, especially for guests who want "something sweet but not too much." Robusta-leaning espresso is the right call here. The bitterness carries through the milk and Bailey's where arabica disappears. More on robusta in cocktails here.
Where to drink it
On request at Dissolved Solids in Damansara Kim, Petaling Jaya. Reserve a table for the easiest seat. Walk-ins welcome.
Frequently asked questions
What glass is the Pipe It Up served in?
A chilled coupe or rocks glass at Dissolved Solids. The drink is shaken hard for 12 to 15 seconds, then strained. A coupe shows the cocoa nibs and crema on top; a rocks glass reads more like a dessert pour. Both work. We default to coupe at the bar.
Can I substitute the espresso in a Pipe It Up?
Robusta-leaning espresso is the right call. The bitterness carries through the milk and Bailey's where arabica disappears. Cold brew works at higher volume (45ml instead of 30ml) but reads softer. Bailey's can be swapped for any Irish cream liqueur but the original holds up best. Whole milk is non-negotiable; low-fat thins the body and skim makes the drink taste hollow.
How strong is the Pipe It Up?
Around 6 to 8 percent ABV in the finished drink. The build is 30ml Bailey's (17 percent), 30ml espresso (zero), and 60ml fresh milk (zero), shaken hard with ice. The dairy mass dilutes the alcohol perceptibly. It drinks as a dessert finisher, not as a kick. Caffeine load is roughly one espresso shot.
Where can I order a Pipe It Up in PJ or KL?
This is a house signature at Dissolved Solids in Damansara Kim, 43-1 Jalan SS20/11, Petaling Jaya. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 15:00 to 01:00. WhatsApp +60 11-4008 7607. Pipe It Up has been on the list since the bar opened and is one of the most-ordered drinks at DS. Soluble Solids in SS2 can also build one on request.
What food pairs with the Pipe It Up?
It is a dessert cocktail, so order it after dinner. Pairs naturally with chocolate desserts, tiramisu, creme brulee, cheesecake. Strong with anything coffee-flavoured already on the dessert menu. Also works as a stand-alone end-of-night drink, no food needed. Skip with savoury food; the sweetness and dairy fight most main courses.