Joanna James
When it comes to Jakarta's best drinking holes, tourists have a plethora of exciting venues to experience in the country's capital. Here are some of the top favourites.
As one of the trendiest drinking hotspots in town, Social House is not for an average night at the pub as the most fashionable residents in town drop by for a cocktail at this high end bar. Frequented by local celebrities and models alike the Social House is not only the place to be but a place to be seen at. From cocktails to wines, SoHo as it is more commonly known also offers breathtaking views of Plaza Indonesia.
Often referred to as an alternative option for those who are fed up with the conventional bar and bistro experience in Asian cities, Lola is a one stop bar with a decidedly Caribbean and Mexican feel. Featuring chic interiors and an array of delicious cocktails, a night of knocking back a few can carry a hefty price tag in this popular drinking hole. Obscure and off the beaten path, tourists may have to ask for directions to find this hipster haven but those based at Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta and similar resorts or a business hotel in Jakarta will find that the venue is not far from their base.
Towering above the surrounding landscape, the Skye Bar is a spectacular venue to wind down with a drink in hand when in Jakarta. Occupying the 56th floor of a skyscraper, the bar is a landmark in and of itself and a venue most tourists visit due to its reputation and fame as well as its slightly overpriced drinks. Revellers are required to dress up beyond casual attire when heading for the Skye Bar as it's one of the trendiest spots in Jakarta.
Another roof top bar that's worthy of a night's out is Jakarta's own Bart. Decorated in fashionable black and white interiors and zebra prints everywhere the bar is renowned for its large selection of spirits. Pub food is also up for grabs although the portions are on the smaller side. Ideal for a night of bar hopping with friends or a group of travellers, Bart's view are just as inviting as its setting.
As an open air bar on a rooftop, Lucy in the Sky surpasses all expectation with its deliberately laid back decor and chilled atmosphere. While the food is nothing to write home about the drinks are not only reasonably priced but top notch. With the city's skyline providing the perfect backdrop, a night at Lucy in the Sky is an invitation to lie back and enjoy life's simple pleasures.
Although the name of the bar is pronounced as "Louis" minus the last syllable, that's about the only confusing aspect of this well-loved bar and bistro in Jakarta. As a favourite pit stop for expats and travellers the bar can get congested at around 10pm when music takes centre stage with speakers blaring tunes to the pub-goers in attendance. Leave the flip-flops behind when heading to Loewy as the venue does have an unofficial dress code.
Founded by Chris Moes, a Dutch chef in Jakarta, The Dutch is the place to be to enjoy a classic European bar experience complete with cold cuts, wooden interiors and beer on tap.
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