The best of Jakarta? Really?
Hold your horses, I know what you’re thinking…
How can I claim that these 13 bars, cafes and restaurants to be ‘the best of Jakarta’, when last month marked my FIRST ever trip to the capital of Indonesia? Furthermore, I spent only five days in Jakarta.
Like you, I have my reservations about travel writers that make the bold claim of being ‘the best’ when they are visiting a city for the first time. Worse still, within an extremely short timespan! Perhaps it’s time for me to explain that such listicles are more often than not curated based on a fairly intense research (for me).
In my case, it was a mishmash of my local friends’ recommendations, following reputable publications, stalking many popular Jakarta-based lifestyle Instagrammers and stumbling upon random places. But as always, I’ll remain honest and tell you which of these places didn’t live up to expectations.
But, you are absolutely right. I do NOT know the Big Durian well at all.
And I probably missed out many awesome places that are worth featuring. However, as the title suggests, this superficial listicle is served to feed your Instagram feed. So take it with a pinch of salt and.. Enjoy!
1. Arasseo Soju Bar & Eatery – A Nordic-style Korean Restaurant
We stumbled upon Arasseo Soju Bar & Eatery by accident (after our initial plans at Pao Pao Liquor Bar & Dimsum Parlour next door were foiled) and I’m so glad we gave it a shot!
Arasseo is no typical Korean eatery. Unlike most Korean restaurants that are blasting K-pop songs and plastered with K-pop stars posters, Arasseo stands out with its sleek Scandinavian interiors. Think an all-white interior characterised by neutral toned bricked walls, light-coloured stone tiles and simple rustic wooden furniture.
Arasseo’s Kimchi Fried rice (75,000 IDR) might look the most appetising, but it isn’t. In fact, I would say.. Skip it. Order the unassuming Japchae (95,000 IDR) served with beef and vegetables, and the Honey Glazed Chicken cakes (55,000 IDR) served with Korean rice cakes instead. They were so delicious! In true Korean style, all mains are served with complimentary banchan.
Google rating: 4.2/5
Address: Jl. Senopati No.16, RT.1/RW.2, Selong, Kby. Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12110, Indonesia
2. BEAU by Talita Setyadi – Featured in Forbes’ 30 under 30 Asia
BEAU is an extremely popular bakery in Jakarta founded by celebrated pastry chef Talita Setyadi. The famous 29-year-old chef previously studied in Le Cordon Bleu Paris and her bakery currently supplies pastries to over 100 cafes in the capital of Indonesia. Setyadi is also featured in Forbes’ 30 under 30 Asia in ‘The Arts’ section. I don’t have to convince you further that Beau’s croissants’ are legit.
We dropped by Beau on a weekday afternoon and it was packed. The local bakery features an open kitchen concept; you can watch bakers in action through the clear glass! It is also worth mentioning that Beau uses natural leavens and abstains from preservatives in all their delicious baked products. Oh, I really like the coffee served at Beau too. Wouldn’t mind visiting Beau every day for a quick coffee and croissant fix!
Google rating: 4.3/5
Address: Jalan Cikajang No. 29, RT. 01 / RW. 05, Petogogan, Kebayoran Baru, RT.1/RW.5, Petogogan, Kby. Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12170, Indonesia
3. Beer Hall – This industrial warehouse serves cocktails on tap
Located in the heart of SCBD, Beer Hall is one of Biko Group’s successful ventures. The huge warehouse can accommodate 1,000 standing guests and 260 seated guests. Beer Hall opens till 1:00am on weekdays and 3:00am on weekends. It is renowned for its wood-fired pizzas; prices start from 95,000 IDR for a Smoked Chicken Pizza.
Beer aside, another interesting thing about Beer Hall is that it serves cocktails on tap! I was really excited to try a Negroni (130,000 IDR) on tap. Upon placing my order, I was told that alcohol could not be served during the Ramadan period. So I ended up having a juice at the bar instead, and remain absolutely clueless how a cocktail on tap tastes like.
Google rating: 4.4/5
Address: Kawasan SCBD Lot 19, Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav.52-53, Senayan, Kebayoran Baru, RT.5/RW.1, Senayan, Kby. Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12190, Indonesia
4. Crumble Crew – An impressive line up of cafes under one roof
It was Nalu Bowls that led us to the multi-concept lifestyle compound called Crumble Crew. The complex is home to a line up of eateries such as Pokey Studio, Cyclo Coffee and of course… Nalu Bowls. Unfortunately, Nalu Bowls at Crumble Crew was not as fresh as the various outlets in the Island of the Gods in terms of ambience and food.
I can’t comment on the other cafes since I didn’t try any other food. But Crumble Crew looks like a foodie paradise and if I were to live in Jakarta, it would totally become my usual haunt.
Google rating: 4.5/5
Address: Jalan Tulodong Bawah No 1A, SCBD, Selong, Kebayoran Baru, RT.8/RW.4, Selong, Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta City, Jakarta 12110, Indonesia
5. J.Sparrow’s Bar & Grill – Cocktail bar which serves gunpowder-infused rum
J.Sparrow’s Bar & Grill can be found at the ground floor of Noble House Building. As its name suggests, the fancy European dining establishment aspires to embody the positive traits of a sparrow.
We dropped by for cocktails at its in-house specialty rum bar on a Sunday night and prices start from 130,000 IDR for a handcrafted drink. I am totally digging its lavish interiors. The perfect spot for fancy pancy snobs. Disclaimer: I’m not one.
The bar’s signature J Sparrow cocktail was a lovely treat – it was a refreshing concoction of gunpowder-infused rum shaken with gin, lime and mint syrup. The bartender took notice of my sister’s unfinished glass (she didn’t like her drink) and immediately concocted something else at no additional charges. Warm hospitality and amazing ambience. Wouldn’t mind returning if I were to visit Jakarta again.
Google rating: 4.4/5
Address: Noble House Mega Kuningan Lantai GF, Jalan Dr. Ide Anak Agung Gde Agung Kav. E4.2 No.2, RT.5/RW.2, Kuningan Tim., Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12950, Indonesia
6. Loewy – Ranked as the best bar in Jakarta by the World’s 50 Best Bars
I love checking out bars whenever I visit a foreign city, and I constantly refer to Asia’s 50 Best Bars for recommendations. However, I frankly do not understand why Loewy was ranked as the best bar in Jakarta.
To sum it up, food was mediocre and ambience was lacklustre. I was also told that ‘professional photography’ isn’t allowed when I tried to take a picture of the bar with my camera. Oops.
Being awarded the title ‘the best bar in Jakarta’ is a big deal. But I wasn’t blown away a single bit. Verdict? I wouldn’t recommend making a special trip for Loewy. It just isn’t worth travelling for. Sorry Loewy!
Google rating: 4.1/5
Address: Oakwood Premier Cozmo, Jalan Lingkar Mega Kuningan E42 No.1, RT.5/RW.2, Kuningan Timur, Jakarta, RT.5/RW.2, Kuningan Tim., Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12950, Indonesia
7. LOLA Espíritu y Libación – This hidden underground bar is dope shit
If I were the judge of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2018, I would have picked LOLA as Jakarta’s very best bar instead. The underground specialty cocktail bar embodies all the elements of a speakeasy. With no signage in sight, Lola’s entrance is a nondescript black door located near the outdoor parking lots.
You can request for a bespoke cocktail constructed specially just for you at 130,000 IDR each. Pick your poison (choose from gin, rum, tequila, whisky and vodka), and let the mixologist know your preferred taste i.e. creamy, fruity herby and sour.
Google rating: 4.4/5
Address: No., Jl. Gunawarman No.21, RT.4/RW.3, Selong, Kby. Baru, DKI Jakarta, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12110, Indonesia
8. Lucky Cat Coffee & Kitchen – This hipster cafe is open 24/7 every day
Located at the back of Plaza Festival, Lucky Cat Coffee & Kitchen stands out with its white-bricked cottage architecture. Inside, you can expect a huge tree right smacked in the middle of the café, overhanging potted plants and marble tables. The venue is effortlessly photogenic and the best part is it’s open 24 hours daily.
Order the Nasi Lemak Malaca (65,000 IDR), which is a spicy Malaysian fragrant coconut milk rice dish cooked in pandan leaves and served with deep-fried anchovies, fried peanut, a hard boiled egg and special belachan chilli paste. Coffee here was surprisingly great – something I didn’t expect from a 24/7 café!
Google rating: 4.4/5
Address: Plaza Festival Parkir Selatan, Jl. Haji R. Rasuna Said Kav. C No. 22, RT.2/RW.5, Karet Kuningan, Setiabudi, RT.2/RW.5, Karet Kuningan, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12940, Indonesia
9. OnThree – Coffee shop hidden inside a residential apartment
When we arrived OnThree, the entire café was filled with girls posing for OOTDs. Good news is… OnThree isn’t just a pretty face. Although I have to say that its indoor dining area resembles an upscale retail boutique and a classy art gallery. And of course, not forgetting OnThree’s inviting alfresco rooftop lounge.
The specialty coffee shop can be found on the third floor of luxury residences Senopati Suites. OnThree is known for their signature Spicy Peppercorn Latte (45,000 IDR), but I was already contented with my classic Flat White (36,000 IDR). Skip the dry honey cake and order the Indonesian Tekwan (45,000 IDR).
Google rating: 4.4/5
Address: Senopati Suites 3, 3rd Floor, Jl. Senopati Raya 41, Kebayoran Baru, RT.8/RW.2, Senayan, Kby. Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12190, Indonesia
10. Plataran Dharmawangsa – Best Indonesian Restaurant in Jakarta
Ranked as the ‘Best Indonesian Restaurant in Jakarta’ by Indonesian Tatler, Plataran Dharmawangsa has truly lived up to its hype. The spectacular 200-seater restaurant’s design is inspired by traditional royal Javanese architecture. Unsurprisingly, Plataran Dharmawangsa is also a popular wedding destination.
But you don’t need to attend or hold a wedding to experience the beauty of Plataran Dharmawangsa. Simply make a reservation, and drop by the majestic restaurant to savour the restaurant’s authentic Indonesian cuisine. Order their Dendeng Batokok – air-dried thin beef slices with spiced coriander and pepper.
Google rating: 4.5/5
Address: Jl. Dharmawangsa Raya No.6, RT.4/RW.2, Pulo, Kby. Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12160, Indonesia
11. SERASA Coffeetaria – A homely cafe serving coffee and Indonesian food
At first glance, SERASA Coffeetaria might look like yet another Aussie-inspired café. But it isn’t. Instead, the homely café serves an unexpected combination of third wave coffee and authentic local Indonesian delicacies.
The wallet-friendly menu features a comprehensive variety of Indonesian dishes such as Mie Goreng (11,000 IDR) and Ayam Garlic Aisyah (14,000 IDR). SERASA Coffeetaria’s affordability has made it a hot lunch spot for nearby office workers.
Due to inadequate tummy space, I only managed to grab a cuppa at SERASA Coffeetaria. Its Flat White (29,000 IDR) was weak – turns out I should have requested for an extra espresso shot (additional 8,000 IDR). One should never assume that all cafes serve double shot flat white!
Google rating: 4.5/5
Address: Jl. Cibulan Raya No.17A, RT.3/RW.6, Petogogan, Kby. Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12170, Indonesia
12. Sushi Hiro Senopati – Drop-dead gorgeous Japanese restaurant
We drove past Sushi Hiro Senopati several times before succumbing to the Japanese restaurant. I mean, just look at how stunning the entire building is! Keep your eyes peeled for the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, a seemingly infinite number of paper craft ornaments and sushi stacked on mini wooden stairs.
While Sushi Hiro Senopati’s decor and food presentation are beyond stellar, there are still lots of room for improvement for its Japanese dishes. For instance, the aburi beef was too dry and the soft shell crab was a tad soggy. Several hits and misses overall, but I will still return for its affordable food and design.
Google rating: 4.5/5
Address: Jalan Suryo no.24, RT.10/RW.3, Rw., Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta Selatan, RT.10/RW.3, Rw. Bar., Kby. Baru, Kota Jakarta Selatan, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12180, Indonesia
13. Union Brasserie, Bakery & Bar – Coined as the 2nd best bar in Jakarta
Prior to my arrival, I was told that Union is especially popular amongst the locals. Judging from the crowd at 10.30pm, it must be true. However, I soon realised that the Indonesians really love Union for its cakes, not so much for its cocktails (despite Union being ranked as the second best bar in Jakarta by Asia’s 50 Best Bars). Indeed, Union indeed reminds me of a P.S. Café equivalent, not a watering hole!
By now, I have become really skeptical of Asia’s 50 Best Bars Awards (for its Jakarta segment). Could it be any coincidence that Loewy and Union are owned by the same group? Furthermore, they are only the Jakarta-based establishments to receive an award by Asia’s 50 Best Bars! Well, don’t take me seriously. This is just my speculation. But I dare say I would pick J. Sparrow’s Bar & Grill and LOLA any day for a drink.
But I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed the escargots and bak mie served at Union. Cake lovers will also be pleased to hear that a generous 50% discount applies to the bakery after 8:30pm.
Google rating: 4.4/5
Address: Plaza Senayan Lt. GF, Jalan Asia Afrika No. 8, Tanah Abang, RT.1/RW.3, Gelora, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10270, Indonesia
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