Colosseum is among the top clubs in Indonesia, not only for its massive size but also for its crafty lighting, superb audio system and world-class DJ acts. The sheer height of the ceiling and the breadth of the place along with its fantastic display of fancy lights will mesmerize you. Showcasing the best of house and EDM DJs from across the nation and internationally, it is a hot-spot for clubbers. Some of the artistes that have performed here are Diplo, Afrojack, Bassjackers and Vortex. Dress to impress at this sleek club.
Befittingly named for a spot located on the rooftop of a high-rise, Skye has become an iconic venue among the young crowd in Jakarta. The indoor area features an eclectic decor with colorful cushions, cane and wooden seating, and floor to ceiling windows offering a breathtaking view of the surroundings. The rooftop space is even more impressive. A small, rectangular pool has been created at the edge of the terrace. The cool breeze and blue water set the tone for the rest of the magical evening. Chef Hamish Lindsay has created an elaborate menu featuring signatures such as Tuna Feuillette, Black Angus Beef Tenderloin, Chicken Liver Bruschetta and Crispy Shrimp Taco. Pair them with a Skye Sour cocktail or a Bellini to end the evening on a great note.
A staple of Jakarta's nightlife scene for over 14 years, Blowfish is the destination for an unforgettable night out. The nightclub boasts a spectacular design - a futuristic setting aglow with ambient light and replete with Asian influences. The entertainment line-up features top DJs and dazzling light shows, drawing in a crowd of the city's young and beautiful. The dance floor comes alive as the music reaches a crescendo and the revelers come together to celebrate the night at Blowfish.
The JimBARan Lounge promises the elusive escape of an island in the midst of bustling concrete depths in Central Jakarta. Part of the AYANA Midplaza Jakarta, the lounge is set in a verdant space punctuated with cozy seating pods, replete with wicker chairs, cushions and alcoves sheltered by parasols. Come evening, the entire space transforms into a twinkling wonderland and is filled with a lively milieu of after-work patrons and people looking to unwind, even as the skyline of the city unfolds in the backdrop. A lush landscape design surrounds this ethereal oasis. Once you're able to pull yourself away from the mystical beauty of this place, enjoy a tipple of delicious cocktails and fruity mixes, alongside fresh plates of elevated European and Asian cuisine.
Decked up in glossy white with matching couches and tables, Empirica SCBD plays a dual role of a nightclub and event space rather well. This trendy spot is a hit among the city's hipsters. The fantastic array of lighting and 3D projection mapping gives it a whimsical glow and ambiance. The highlight of this club is its 38-meter (124.67 feet) long bar. Showcasing the best of EDM artistes, this is the place to be if you love grooving to house music in the area.
There's only one word to describe the space that makes up Queens Head. Wow! The carefully-thought out interiors of this resto-bar, designed by Rob Sample, have striking features, such as a wall made up of exposed bricks stacked diagonally to create a chequered pattern. Another wall has a beautiful design created by colorful tiles, while some have graffiti art. The rich, eclectic furnishings have warm, bold colors, accentuated by the cane lamps and greenery all around. But the wow factor does not end here. The food, by Chef Blake Thornley, is well-executed and prepared in an open kitchen. It blends British and Indonesian flavors to create delicious results, complemented beautifully by signature cocktails and wines. Recommended dishes include Whipped Chicken Liver Parfait, Warm Chocolate Espuma and the signature QH Zombie cocktail.
The Velvet Lounge & Bar is a classy venue, which, as you might expect, features a lot of velvet upholstering to give the place an elegant and cozy ambiance. The place is not particularly large: there are seats for only around 100 people – with room for another 250 standing. Yet this is what gives it its intimate feel, making it an excellent place to enjoy live music in a romantic setting. However, if you need privacy VIP rooms are also available. The drink list is extensive, containing exotic cocktails to the best spirits, but the wine list steals the show with over 400 types of wine from countries such as France, Italy and Australia. – Martin Jenkins
D’s Place is one of a number of bars located on Jalan Falatehan, a quiet and unassuming little street in South Jakarta’s Blok M shopping district. Both cozy and stylish, the bar has become a popular watering hole for Jakarta’s expatriates looking for an enjoyable night out. Like at all good bars, decent food can be had here as well. The Roasted Chicken in a Basket is enough to tame the biggest appetites, although the Mixed Salad would undoubtedly be the better choice for those worried about their waistlines! Service is good, and the bar’s waitresses will do their best to make you feel at home. Have fun. Cheers! - Martin Jenkins
Located in the leafy expat enclave of Kemang, Eco Bar is a cool and trendy venue noted for its DJ's and pulsating special events. The vibe is cool and friendly, and the crowd is mixed, although leaning more toward the younger side. The bar's green philosophy is admirable since the building and furniture are made mostly from recycled materials. Choose from a comprehensive range of drinks, including long drinks, cocktails, spirits, rare vodkas, tequilas, etc. Bar food is also available. Phone for more info regarding the special events – Martin Jenkins
OKU at the Hotel Indonesia presents the age-old culinary traditions of Japan with a modern twist. Chef Kazumasa Yazawa leads the way through a culinary tour of Japanese cuisine from a contemporary perspective. Each evocative dish is a beautiful rendition of authentic Japanese fare, tempered by the chef's skill and finesse. The decor too reflects this ethos through a simple, sleek design that is hewn from the interplay between glass, stone and wood. The adjacent lounge is the perfect complement, with a bar serving an impressive selection of whiskeys and creative cocktails made with the finest ingredients. A modern dining experience rooted in tradition, a meal at OKU is a connoisseur's delight.
Amidst all the pastries and scones, the Writers Bar Jakarta is a reinvention of the same place in Singapore. Usually flocked by people during the afternoon to enjoy a nice drink or their mixed concoctions, this bar is revered by wordsmiths for being the kind of place that can inspire any writer. The air is thick with the light savor of fine scotch and wine and you can find some great tables inside. Intimate and cozy, yet open and contemporary, the modern setting is a delight to the eyes.
With a name that does justice to the outstanding view it offers to those who happen to venture into its open embrace, La Vue is a contemporary rooftop bar. Wooden floors, warm pastel hues, dimmed lights, and potted plants make up the place, giving it a friendly vibe. Bar bites and desserts are served if you are in the mood to eat, or you can just relax with a Jager Bomb or La Berrie's under the night sky while the stars watch in envy.