A Refreshing Retreat Amidst Jakarta’s City Light
In the bustling heart of Jakarta, where work and life can often feel overwhelming, finding a serene oasis to unwind is essential. This city is calling out for a vibrant bar where you can let go of your daily stresses, share heartfelt conversations, and indulge in refreshing drinks. Imagine a space designed for comfort and connection, where every sip cleanses the palate and every laugh lightens the soul. It’s not just about quenching your thirst. It’s about creating memories and rejuvenating your spirit. Whether you're catching up with friends or seeking solace after a long day, these bars are set to be your go-to sanctuary amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
Bar Kotak
Bar Kotak, located on the second floor of the Bimasena building in The Dharmawangsa Jakarta, is a charming oasis that offers a unique experience in the city’s vibrant nightlife. With its Nusantara theme, the bar radiates a relaxed, living-room vibe, inviting patrons to unwind in a comfortable setting filled with creative energy. The harmonious design promotes balance and stability, making it an ideal spot to savour expertly crafted cocktails while enjoying smooth jazz in the background.
Signature cocktails like Arjuna, a spicy amaretto blend, and the refreshing Sayan Squash draw in a diverse crowd. The bar is especially popular among young professionals looking to relax after a long day, particularly on "Only Vinyl Tuesdays," when curated records fill the air with nostalgic tunes. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and commitment to heartfelt service, Bar Kotak promises every visit is a memorable experience.
Between the Sips
Located in a cosy and spacious environment, Between The Sips offers a unique space to relax and embark on a sensory adventure. Every aspect of this venue reflects meticulous attention to detail, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests. Here, mixology takes on a new dimension, with cocktails crafted using innovative scientific techniques. Each drink is prepared with dedication and a touch of passion, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor.
Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day or celebrate a special occasion, Between The Sips provides the perfect backdrop for both intimate gatherings and lively nights out. Enjoy the artistry of cocktails that tantalise the taste buds while immersing yourself in the venue's charming ambiance.
Cosmo Pony
Cosmo Pony brings a vibrant and playful flair to the Jakarta bar scene with its creative cocktails and culinary offerings. This joint venture between The Union Group and Jigger & Pony Group is led by Silvio Daniele, a Naples native who traded a promising legal career for the exciting world of mixology. Silvio’s journey has taken him from the lively bars of London to Singapore's Jigger & Pony, which was named the top bar in Asia in 2020.
The bar's inaugural menu, titled "Rising City," draws inspiration from Umberto Boccioni’s 1910 artwork, The City Rises. This theme encapsulates the energy and dynamism of Jakarta. Signature drinks include the Tequila Cosmo, featuring Don Julio Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, Rosella, Lime, and Flamed Orange Paint, providing a refreshing kick. The Ugly Bananas whisky sour creatively incorporates the entire banana, including its skin, into agar-agar dots for a unique caramel flavour. For those feeling adventurous, the Nuclear Midori Sour combines Midori, Overproof Gin, Absinthe, lime, and egg white.
Complementing the cocktails are tantalising culinary delights, such as spicy cured salmon tartare served with ikura and tapioca crackers, and grilled wagyu picanha accompanied by chimichurri and lemon, making Cosmo Pony a must-visit destination for food and drink enthusiasts alike.
Bar Luca
Bar Luca, under the renowned UNION Group, has made its mark in SCBD, offering a refined wine experience with both natural and conventional selections sourced globally. True to the signature atmosphere of UNION’s venues, the bar exudes a moody, dimly lit allure, perfect for intimate evenings. The wine list is curated by none other than Adam, the president of the Indonesia Sommelier Association, alongside an expert team of consultants, ensuring that every guest finds the perfect glass—or several—to enjoy.
If the wine stirs up an appetite, head chef Luca Pezzera is on hand to provide his personal recommendations from a menu filled with warm, comforting dishes. From exquisite wine to delectable food, Bar Luca offers an indulgent escape right in the heart of Jakarta’s bustling SCBD.
Contra
Tucked away on Jl. Ciranjang, Contra offers a sleek, modern space that shares its home with Pino and Sommelier’s Bar, all under the same group. This contemporary venue features a minimalist, concrete-and-glass design that exudes understated elegance from the bar seating right down to the bathrooms.
Contra specialises in Italian-American cuisine paired with an extensive collection of handpicked European wines, ensuring a rich dining experience. Curated by award-winning sommelier and wine director Wicien Widjaja, the wine selection is crafted to cater to every palate. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just looking for a casual glass, Contra promises a tasteful and memorable visit.