Experience The New Jakarta
Jakarta, the city of never-ending traffic and home of the ubiquitous nasi goreng and bakmie. If you thought that’s all it’s known for, you are sorely mistaken. Hidden in every nook and cranny are swanky cafes that embrace the modernity of the West and yet still strongly retain aspects of Indonesian culture that come together to form a beautiful subculture of its own. The best part? This movement is only just beginning.
We headed to Jakarta to discover this culture for ourselves to bring you this list of 25 happening places that prove this city is Asia’s next big thing. But before that, check out the video of our trip!
1. Three Buns
Singaporeans might find the bulldog icon familiar and for good reason – the folks behind this establishment are none other than PTT Family, the same group behind Potato Head Folk in Singapore!
The industrial warehouse concept seems to characterize much of Indonesia’s cafes and hangout spots these days, possibly owing to the sheer amount of room they have to work with. Creative imagination breathes life into large empty spaces, resulting in breathtaking locations like this one.
I am a massive fan of mojitos and Three Buns has an entire menu section dedicated to just that. I love that all of them are infused with local flavours like pandan and coconut, and there’s even one with mango, chilli and coriander!
I chose to go for the PTT Mojito (IDR100,000 = SGD10.00), a delicious drink sweetened with Indonesian spiced syrup, sugar cane and a PTT mojito foam to top it all off. Hands down the best mojito I’ve ever had, and way cheaper than the ones you get back home! Score!
The burger you absolutely HAVE to try would have to be the Piggie Smalls (IDR100,000 = SGD10.00). With twice cooked pork belly, smoked cheese, onions AND a 120g beef patty, embarrassing yourself in front of your date with your messy eating will be the last thing on your mind.
Address: Jalan Senopati No.90, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12190, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 29307780
Website: http://www.threebuns.com/ |
Opening Hours: Mon to Friday 11am to 12am | Sat & Sun 11am to 1am
2. Giyanti Coffee Roastery
Pulling into the driveway of Giyanti Coffee Roastery, no one could have guessed the bare concrete exterior was hiding this gem of a coffee shop (how the locals refer to cafes). Walk down the narrow alley and you’ll find yourself standing in a well-lit courtyard with colourful walls that make you feel like you’ve stepped into Andy Warhol’s backyard.
This cafe is so proud of its coffee that that’s practically the only thing you can drink at Giyanti. Food wise, Giyanti offers a choice selection of cakes like the Aussie Lamington (IDR35,000 = SGD3.50 per slice). However, if cakes aren’t your thing, you can always order hot meals from the store next door and have it sent over to Giyanti.
This is the perfect place for quiet conversations with some of your best mates over some quality locally roasted coffee.
Address: Jalan Surabaya No.20, Menteng, Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta 10310, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 31923698
Website: http://www.giyanticoffeeroastery.com/
Opening Hours: Wed to Sat 9.30am to 5.30pm | Closed on Sun to Tue
3. Monolog Coffee
The popular Plaza Senayan is home to a plethora of premium shopping boutiques but is also home to this gem of a cafe best accessible via the carpark drop off. Walk down the street of tantalizing eateries to what is by far the hippest looking one on the stretch. Look out for the black and white sign – you won’t miss it.
I was reminded of the idyllic cafe hopping days in Sydney, where delicious cakes sat in the display case just waiting to be devoured.
The Smoked Duck Rice and Potato Gratin (IDR80,000 = SGD8.00) sounded too good to resist. Unlike most baked rice dishes I’ve tasted, the cheese was soft and gooey and just the way I liked it.
We were told the Red Velvet Donut (IDR23,450 = SGD2.35) was a winner and it sure was! The cream cheese was mild and didn’t taste overwhelmingly sour or sweet. The donut was light and fluffy and came in a vibrant shade of crimson.
The Pancake Breakfast Set (IDR82,000 = SGD8.20) is also something worth ordering. Not quite pancake but more hotcake, the sweet dough is nonetheless a good contrast to the other savouries on the plate.
Address: Plaza Senayan CP 101 B, Palm Gate Entrance, Jalan Asia Afrika No. 8, Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta 10270, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 5725144
Website: http://monolog-coffee.com/
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur 7am to 10pm | Fri & Saturday 7am to 11pm
4. One Fifteenth Coffee
Wide, spacious and filled with natural light, One Fifteenth Coffee was hands down one of the most photogenic places I visited in Jakarta.
This two-storey building was practically made for Instagram. The white walls, wooden accents and cement floors make this a shutterbug’s heaven and the food doesn’t disappoint either.
On the server’s recommendation, we ordered the Bacon Burger (IDR85,000 = SGD8.50) and the Rosti and Egg (IDR68,000 = SGD6.80). I couldn’t stop stuffing myself with the salty zucchini fries, and the tomatoes that came with the rosti were char grilled to absolute perfection. Friends know I hate eggs and tomatoes with a passion, but I finished every last morsel on the plate.
There’s no way you can leave One Fifteenth Coffee without ordering their Churros (IDR45,000 or IDR50,000 with ice-cream = SGD4.50/5.00)
Address: Jl. Gandaria 1 No. 63, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12130, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 7225678
Website: http://www.1-15coffee.com/
Opening Hours: Daily 7am to 9pm
5. Luciole Bistro & Bar
Situated in another of Jakarta’s expansive malls, Luciole Bar and Bistro is a quaint little restaurant in Central Park Mall with a beautiful interior that is perfect for birthdays and gatherings.
Insta-worthy lamps hang from the ceiling of the glasshouse-like restaurant that I imagine would provide the perfect backdrop especially in the evening when they are lit.
Food wise, we all agreed the Black Squid Ink Spaghetti (IDR75,000 = SGD7.50) was the clear winner. The parmesan topping was an interesting choice that actually brought the dish to the next level.
Spaghetti Carbonara
Other than Western food, Luciole also serves classic Indonesian dishes like this one, the Buntut Sambal Ijo, or fried oxtail with green sambal. This place was nice and quiet at 3pm when we visited, but I imagine it must be bustling after office hours, so be sure to visit nice and early!
Address: Jl. Letjen. S. Parman No.28, Grogol petamburan, Kota Jakarta Barat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 11470, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 29200334
Website: http://www.luciolebistro.com/
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur 11am to 11pm | Fri & Saturday 11am to 12pm
6. Crematology
Crematology has a reputation for being the home of the BEST pasta in Jakarta. With a reputation like that, there was no way we could miss out on this place.
I absolutely loved the whole Zen vibe the place seemed to have. There were more couches than there were chairs – a clear sign from the owners that this is a place to chill out and take things slow.
Aglio Olio
We went straight for the pastas and I was pleased to see they kept it to the classic flavours with no fancy additional ingredients (that’s how you know your pasta’s going to be good). We ordered an Aglio Olio (IDR80,000 = SGD8.00) and Carbonara (IDR80,000 = SGD8.00).
If pastas were models, this carbonara would be Kendall Jenner. Al dente, light and yet packed full of flavour, forget your fancy Italian restaurants, this is the next big thing in the pasta scene. They even give you the pleasure of breaking the yolk yourself so you can watch all that eggy goodness drown your mushroom and smoked beef. Best part? This cost just $8.
Wash it all down with a delightful Nutella Frappe (IDR44,000 = SGD4.40) and all will be right in your world again.
Must Try: Carbonara (SGD8.00) and Nutella Frappe (SGD4.40)
Address: Jalan Suryo No. 25, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12180, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 72780012
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Crematology/
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 7.30am to 12am | Sat & Sun 9am to 12am
7. H Gourmet
The decor of this place is so original and different you wouldn’t even think you’re in Jakarta anymore. Wrought iron accents surround the entire cafe that make you feel like you’re in a Parisian cafe enjoying a nice afternoon tea with your friends.
Serving good old American cuisine, this place serves a mean H Stack burger (IDR115,000 = SGD11.50) with a special mint sauce. Meat lovers can even choose to include an additional patty for just IDR35,000 (SGD3.50)!
The Buffalo’s Method Chicken Wings (IDR65,000 = SGD6.50) have a reputation for being some of the best wings around. Marinated with butter with a tinge of fiery Cayenne pepper, it’s definitely worth dirtying your hands for this.
Address: Jalan Gunawarman No. 41, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12110, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 27510167
Website: http://hgroup.id/hgourmetvibes/
Opening Hours: Mon to Thur 12pm to 12am | Fri to Sat 12pm to 3am | Sun 10am to 12am
8. Colette & Lola
Colette & Lola is probably the closest thing you’ll get to a real-life Barbie house. The pastel colours and loud decor give this place an almost artificial feel, almost like you’ve stepped onto the set of a retro 1970s movie. Even their cakes look artificial!
All their cakes look way too good to eat and feature some popular characters like Mike Wazowski from Monsters Inc. pictured above! Cakes start from a very affordable IDR28,000 or SGD2.80 with a selection that changes from time to time.
Other than sweet treats, Colette & Lola serves some light snacks like fries and chicken wings to help keep your savoury munchies at bay. They have two outlets – a big one in Senopati and a smaller shop in Grand Indonesia. In my opinion you should definitely go straight to the one in Senopati for the full Colette & Lola Barbie world experience.
Address: Jl. Senopati Raya No.64, Kby. Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12110, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 29007997
Website: https://www.colettelola.com/
Opening Hours: Daily 10am to 10pm
9. PongMe! Lounge
Proudly declaring itself “Indonesia’s first social ping-pong house”, PongMe is a unique cafe concept with actual ping pong tables in the restaurant that you can play on! Pit your skills against complete strangers at one of the 5 ping-pong tables, or if you prefer something a bit more intimate you can do so at one of the 3 VIP tables!
Ping pong house by day, beer pong house by night! Apart from a wide variety of alcoholic drinks on offer, adventurous guests can challenge each other to a game of beer pong for drinks with a difference.
PongMe! also offers a wide selection of burgers, pastas, pizzas and sandwiches with interesting features like the black Angus burger featured here.
Address: Jl. Gunawarman No.37, Kebayoran Baru, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12180, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 7260989
Website: http://pongme.id/
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur 11.30am to 12am | Fri & Sat 11.30am to 2am
10. Le Quartier
Driving past this place, you’d never have guessed it housed a gorgeous cafe fit for royalty.
This delightful restaurant serves everything French. From prime beef to Belgium mussels, your satisfaction is guaranteed.
Le Quartier even has their own charcoal grill and wood stone oven to ensure your food is chargrilled and slow cooked to perfection. Do try the Escargots Le Quartier (IDR138,000 = SGD13.80), a house favourite and popular dish amongst those with refined taste buds.
Address: Jalan Gunawarman No. 34, Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta Selatan, DKI Jakarta 12110, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 72788003
Website: http://www.lequartier.co.id/
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur 7am to 11pm | Fri & Sat 7am to 12pm
11. Bistronomy
This quaint eatery is reminiscent of a little garden cottage with a spacious outdoor seating in the courtyard.
Another unique dish Bistonomy offers is their variety of ceviches. Choose from tuna, prawn and salmon and enjoy the full taste of your seafood with your choice of mango, coconut or citrus sauce.
Apart from lunch and dinner, this place also serves Afternoon Tea at IDR200,000 (SGD20.00) for two people. Expect tarts, muffins, a selection of sandwiches and coffee or tea of your choice!
Address: Jalan Ciniru I No. 2, Kebayoran Baru, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12180, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 7396655
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Bistronomy.JKT/
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur 11am to 11pm | Fri & Sat 11am to 1am
12. Amber
This multi-level boutique is truly an all-in-one stop with a pastry shop on the first floor, a library cafe on the second, and a sky bar on the rooftop!
From scones to delectable chocolate desserts, the pastry shop on the first floor is sure to satisfy those with a sweet tooth. They even do chocolate creations of branded bags like the one from Hermes that are so realistic they even fooled this writer!
They also do interesting dessert cocktails (and mocktails) like the Tiramisu (IDR100,000 = SGD10.00) with espresso, baileys, kahlua, cheese and fresh cream that are definitely worth a try!
The second floor library cafe doesn’t pale in comparison with its unique decor and dining concept. Imagine dining amongst bookshelves and rows upon rows of books – it doesn’t get any cosier. One must try would have to be the Pasta in a Jar (IDR100,000 = SGD10.00) with sundried tomatoes and black olives that literally come serve in a jar.
Address: No. Kebayoran Baru, Jl. Senopati No.61, Jakarta Selatan, DKI Jakarta, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12110, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 29044412
Website: http://amberchocolatebar.com/
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur 8am to 11pm | Fri & Sat 8am to 12am
13. 3 Wise Monkeys
This attractive restaurant is sure to pique the interest of any passerby. Serving fusion Japanese cuisine, you know you’re going to have the most creative sushi of your life at 3 Wise Monkeys.
I mean, just look at this sushi bar area. At 3 Wise Monkeys, you’re not just here for a meal, you’re here for a gastronomical experience.
Crowd favourites include the 3 Wise Monkeys Special Spicy Salmon Roll (IDR65,000 = SGD6.50) as well as the Aburi Salmon Nigiri (IDR35,000 = SGD3.50) with a special truffle sauce.
If you’re feeling particularly ravenous that day, there’s an all-you-can-eat sushi buffet at just IDR179,000 (SGD17.90) per person.
Address: Jalan Suryo No.26, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12180, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 29126528
Website: http://3wisemonkeys.co.id/
Opening Hours: Daily 12pm to 1.30am
14. Tesate
For upmarket Indonesian cuisine, you can never go wrong with Tesate (pronounced te-satay). This restaurant serving local favourites is on the top floor of Plaza Senayan and is the go-to place for many locals in Jakarta.
The Nasi Goreng Rendang (IDR93,000 = SGD9.30) came in a humongous portion that was enough for all four of us! The beef was done in the way that I had never seen before – instead of beef in gravy as I assumed it would be, the beef rendang came in the form of crispy beef pieces sprinkled on top of the rice.
Now for my all-time favourite, the Sop Buntut (IDR144,000 = SGD14.40) or oxtail soup was the best one I’ve had on this trip. The oxtail used is air flown from New Zealand and fell apart when I tried to pick it up. I could taste the herbs and spices infused in the soup and it was absolutely delicious and well worth the comparatively expensive pricetag.
If you’re thirsty, do try the Kopyor (IDR67,000 = SGD6.70), a coconut shake made out of a special kind of coconut that can only be found in a particular region of Indonesia. I love this drink to death and it’s not always available, so definitely grab one if you see it on the menu!
Address: Jl Asia Afrika No 8, Plaza Senayan Lantai 4 Unit CP-411, Komplek Cinema, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 5725521
Website: http://sarirasa.co.id/tesate/
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri & Sun 11am to 10.30pm | Sat 11am to 11pm
15. Pondok Laguna
If you’re looking for a taste of the local Indonesian cuisine but don’t know where to start, Pondok Laguna is the place to be. Housed in a spacious single-storey building hidden in an alley, the large sign with a huge 3D Gurame fish makes this place stick out like a sore thumb amidst the muted housing surrounding the restaurant.
This bustling restaurant is frequented by many locals and tourists alike and is best known (naturally) for their Ikan Gurame (IDR93,100 = SGD 9.30) or dancing fish. The fish is deep fried and served standing. Unfortunately the fish itself has very little meat, so you’ll have to order a few portions if you’re looking to share!
Another crowd favourite is the Cumi Goreng (IDR85,000 = SGD8.50) or fried squid that was well-cooked in a delicious batter. I personally enjoyed the Ayam Goreng (IDR20,000 = SGD2.00 per piece). Indonesians tend to use kampung chickens in their cooking which you can say are the skinnier, tastier versions of those we have in Singapore.
Must Try: Cumi Goreng (SGD8.50) and Ayam Goreng (SGD2.00/pc)
Address: Jalan Batu Tulis Raya No. 45, Gambir, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10120, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 3459991
Website: https://twitter.com/PondokLaguna
Opening Hours: Daily 11am to 3pm & 5.30pm to 10pm
16. Junkyard
Mismatched furniture and vintage pieces characterize the interior decor of this cafe situated above a hipster barber, The Barberbox. You’ll even be able to find some retro television sets hidden in the corners.
Aside from the eclectic furniture, Junkyard also offers interesting drinks like the Skittle Shots that are sure to inject some colour and fun to any occasion!
Address: Jl. Birah Raya No. 10 Blok S, Senopati, Jakarta
Contact No.: +62 81 291769769
Website: https://twitter.com/junkyardjakarta
Opening Hours: Tue to Thur & Sun 2pm to 10pm | Fri & Sat 2pm to 2am | Closed on Mon
17. Union
Union is another casual dining modelled after 20th century American bistros. Expect good old-fashioned burgers, wood-fired pizzas and prime cuts at this photogenic brasserie and bistro.
If you love your char siew and your siew yok you are bound to love this Crispy Pork Belly Burger. One thing’s for sure, the folks in the kitchen definitely don’t stinge on the ingredients. For those who feel like having something special, there’s also the Union Burger with bacon, aged cheddar, fries and foie gras (IDR140,000 = SGD14.00) that you can go for.
They’re most famous for their Red Velvet Cake (IDR450,000 = SGD45.00 for a whole cake), known for being the best one around! It comes served in generous portions, but one bite of this and you might just change your mind about sharing.
Address: Plaza Senayan Lt. GF, Jalan Asia Afrika No. 8, Tanah Abang, Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta 10270, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 57905861
Website: http://www.unionjkt.com/
Opening Hours: Daily 10am to 1am | Closed on Sun
18. Cloud Lounge
One of Jakarta’s hottest rooftop bars, Cloud Lounge is located on the 49th floor of the Plaza Tower. Situated in the hotbed of business activity, it’s no surprise this bar is frequented by office workers and expats.
Cloud much resembles Ce La Vi in Singapore especially in terms of the layout. Patrons can choose to lounge on one of the cushy couches available, or take a prime seat in front of a panoramic view of the city.
Drinks here tend to be more on the expensive side, but with creations like Haagen Dazs Ice-Cream Cocktails on the menu, it’s not hard to understand why. There’s even a cold room on the premises for patrons who wish to take their drinking experience to the next level.
Address: Altitude The Plaza Office Tower Lantai 46&49, Jalan M.H. Thamrin No. 28 – 30, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10350, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 29922450
Website: http://cloudjakarta.com/
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur 4pm to 2am | Fri to Sat 4pm to 3am
19. Skyebar
Skye Bar was one of the pioneers in the rooftop bar scene in Jakarta and opened to instant success, prompting the opening of many other bars in the city.
Located just two minute’s walk away from the grand Hotel Indonesia Kempinski, Skye Bar sits on the 56th floor of the BCA building with a view to die for. The bar also has a connected dining area for those looking for a fuller meal.
Sit on the pool deck and soak up the dazzling lights of the Jakarta cityscape at night or dine in comfort by the indoor bar area. Whichever you choose, Skye promises an ambience and chilled out vibe not to be missed.
Apart from the usual suspects, some interesting drink choices include the Passionfruit Creme Brulee (IDR125,000 = SGD12.50) as well as the Dragon Fruit Magarita (IDR125,000 = SGD12.50). If you’re thinking of visiting in a large group, a reservation is highly recommended. Skye also enforces a smart casual dress code policy, so do remember to dress to kill when you’re visiting this bar!
Address: BCA Tower Lt. 56, Jl. M.H. Thamrin No. 1, Menteng, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10350, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 23586996
Website: https://www.facebook.com/SKYE.jakarta/
Opening Hours: Daily 11.30am to 2am
20. Lucy In The Sky
Situated in the same complex as Potato Head Garage, Lucy In The Sky provides a quiet respite from the noisy bustling streets of Jakarta.
This outdoor bar features comfortable sofas and old-school paraphernalia that will send you back in time. They even have an old (and still functioning) pinball machine by the bar!
I had a decent Mojito (IDR115,000 = SGD11.50) here, but you should look out for their monthly shooter cocktail specials – it’s VO Vanilla for the month of February!
Address: Kawasan SCBD, Jl. Jend Sudirman Kav. 52-53 Lot. 14, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12190, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 5152308
Website: http://lucyinthesky.co.id/
Opening Hours: Sun to Thurs 4pm to 1am | Fri & Sat 4pm to 3am
21. Awan Lounge
Joining the wave of rooftop bars sprouting in Jakarta everywhere, this sky bar with a deck and colourful cushions channels an almost beachy vibe in the heart of the city.
Do save your stomach space for some of the awesome food on offer at Awan – the Crab Slider (IDR92,000 = SGD9.20) features two soft buns encasing delicious soft shell crab and goes great with a cocktail.
Don’t forget to try their drinks as well! The Lemongrass Mojito (IDR115,000 = SGD11.50) is a refreshing take on the classic cocktail and a great pick me up any time of the day.
Address: Kosenda Hotel, Jalan KH Wahid Hasyim No. 127, Tanah Abang, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10240, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 31922988
Website: http://www.awanlounge.com/
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur 5pm to 1am | Fri & Sat 5pm to 2am
22. La Vue @ The Hermitage
Located on the 9th floor of the Hermitage Hotel, La Vue offers a bird’s eye view of the Jakarta cityscape and is the perfect place for a romantic night out. The cosy seating arrangement ensures you’ll never be too far away from your loved one, but rest assured they also have couch seating if you don’t want to get too chummy.
Foodwise, they do an interesting Seafood Tom Yum Pizza (IDR150,000 = SGD15.00) and Rendang Pizza (IDR150,000 = SGD15.00) that are worth a try.
Address: The Hermitage, Jl. Cilacap No. 1, Menteng, Jakarta
Contact No.: +62 21 31926888
Website: http://www.jakarta.hermitage.co.id/hotel/la-vue-2/
Opening Hours: Daily 11am to 1am
23. ¿Por Que No?
¿Por Que No? is one of the younger additions to Jakarta’s burgeoning casual dining scene, having opened just last April. However, its psychedelic quirkiness (aptly encapsulated in its name, which is Spanish for ‘why not?’) and eclectic menu has already let it stand out as one of the trendiest restaurants in the city.
The establishment is nestled in the fifth floor of De Ritz Building surrounded by the urbanesque charm of Menteng, and prides itself in its Spanish culinary offerings ranging from diverse aperivitos (appetisers), to more classical dishes such as paella and gazpacho. Its signature dishes, however, are undoubtedly its tapas, crafted under the direction of Spanish chef Ana Maria Martin Diaz.
Special attention is paid to ensuring the authenticity of ¿Por Que No?’s dishes, but the way in which they are served will definitely surprise you. From a trio de hamburguesitas (three mini hamburgers filled with double cheese, avocado and egg) (IDR 80000 = SGD 8.00) graced with Lego figurines to a salmorejo (Andalucian tomato dip with serrano ham, apple and egg crumbles) (IDR 80000 = SGD 8.00) served in an old-style school lunchbox, their presentation never fails to amuse and delight.
Don’t forget to try their signature chocolate con chilli with olive oil ice cream (IDR 50000 = SGD 5.18). Consisting of a dark chocolate brownie doused in a chili-laced chocolate fondant and served with a side of olive oil ice cream, this unique dessert is a scintillating way to end your meal on a sugar high.
Address: De RITZ Building LT. 5, Jalan HOS. Cokroaminoto No. 91, Menteng, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10310, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 3901950
Website: http://porqueno.co.id/
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur 12pm to 12am | Fri & Sat 12pm to 2am | Closed on Mon
24. Social House
From the outside, Social House may not look like much, but walk in and you’ll find these photogenic trees that will be the perfect addition to your Instagram feed. Located in Grand Indonesia and just a minute from Hotel Indonesia Kempinski, Social House serves brunch by day and transforms into an atmospheric bar by night.
I particularly enjoyed the small plates on the menu including the likes of thinly sliced wagyu beef wrapped around enoki mushrooms (IDR99,000 = SGD9.90) that provide the perfect start to your meal. Do also try the weekend brunch menu, with items like a soft shell crab burger in a nori bun (IDR130,000 = SGD13.00) that are sure to entice you.
Social House also has cocktail promotions from time to time with two going for as low as IDR160,000 (SGD16.00)! With cocktails going for at least SGD15.00 back home, true discipline was required to prevent ourselves from ordering every cocktail on the menu.
Address: Jl. M.H. Thamrin No.1, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10310, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 23581818
Website: http://www.ismaya.com/socialhouse
Opening Hours: Daily 8am to 1am
25. Potato Head Garage
Despite its unassuming name, Potato Head Garage is no mere backlot. This surprisingly swanky family steakhouse, tucked away next to Senayan Sudirman, is decked out with opulent European antiques and elegant glass fixtures, giving it a regal air. Gracing its menu are choice wood-grilled cuts hailing from areas ranging from Australia to Japan, complemented by a variety of appetisers, salads, and a central bar serving up one-of-a-kind whisky cocktails.
One way to start your meal right would be with their mini crab cake with green curry sauce and chili oil. As per their speciality, the restaurant’s wagyu beef ragout parpadelle with Parmigiano cheese and grilled flank steak are both hearty offerings that won’t fail to satisfy a meat lover’s cravings.
The establishment is equally known for its vibrant nightlife. With a room like this, it’s easy to see why throngs of people flock to this joint to party the night away. Potato Head Garage hosts a variety of parties all year long – visit their Facebook page to find out more!
Address: SCBD Lot 14 (Ex Bengkel Kafe), Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 52-53, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12190, Indonesia
Contact No.: +62 21 57973330
Website: http://www.pttgarage.com/
Opening Hours: Mon to Thur 11am to 1am | Fri & Sat 11am to 2am | Closed on Sun
Bonus: Experience the true meaning of luxury at Hotel Indonesia Kempinski
Situated in the heart of the city at the famous Thamrin roundabout, this luxurious hotel could not have been more conveniently located. Connected to mega malls such as Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia, you literally won’t have to venture far to experience a taste of Indonesia’s famous mall culture.
One of Jakarta’s oldest and most renowned hotels, this establishment has housed the likes of our very own Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and other notable foreign dignitaries. Its rooms were unbelievably comfy and spacious and it was apparent great attention was paid to every small detail of the room.
Our stay at Kempinski was so gloriously enjoyable we had to peel ourselves away from the opulent bed and head home. There’s truly no better place to pamper yourself. Thank you for making us feel like Princesses, we will definitely be back!
Book a room at Kempinski here now!
If You Thought You Knew Jakarta, Think Again
There was an unspoken energy and youthful vibe all throughout Jakarta with its people effortlessly channeling hipster vibes and unabashedly embracing their own sub culture. The creativity of its people shows in the decor of some places alone and to think we had only just scratched the surface! More good things are to come from this promising city and I cannot wait to see where it is headed. Jakarta, I will definitely be back!
Celebrate 50 years of Indonesia-Singapore flights with Garuda!
We were so privileged to travel in style on our way to Jakarta aboard Garuda Indonesia’s newly revamped Business Class. This 5-star airline had just gone through a massive cabin overhaul and the plush seats and soothing colours had me actually wishing our flight was more than 1.5 hours.
Garuda Indonesia is also one of the few airlines to offer Fast Track passes to its passengers. This trump card enables the holder to speed past snaking immigration lines, which leaves more time for food, shopping and fun in Changi Airport!
Apart from the snazzy new aircraft, Garuda’s staff have also won awards for their service in true Indonesian hospitality. Before your return flight, grab a snack or a drink at the exclusive Emerald Lounge in Jakarta and pamper yourself silly.
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