Boutique hotels are a bit smaller but more than make up for their size in charm, character, and great customer service. The next time you have out-of-town visitors, book them in one of these properties for a unique Jakarta experience.
We love a fabulous 5-star hotel, but boutique hotels tend to have that home away from home charm that the bigger chains can’t always replicate. Whether you’re treating yourself to a staycation or looking into one-of-a-kind hotels for your friend from out of town, from the luxurious to the artsy here are some of our favourite boutique hotels in Jakarta.
Hotel Monopoli
The newest kid on the Kemang block is Hotel Monopoli – SYAH Establishment’s latest hospitality foray. Located right in the heart of Jakarta’s most charming neighbourhood, this indie boutique stay is perfect for the weekend staycation-er or the creative business traveler on a budget.
Hotel Monopoli, Jl. Taman Kemang No. 12, Kemang, p. +62 21 2271 5101
The Gunawarman
The recently opened The Gunawarman is a luxury boutique stay that is situated in the trendy Senopati ‘hood and the perfect home away from home that is giving 5-star chains a run for their money. There are loads of talking points when it comes to this intimate design hotel, from its original Donald Robertson artworks adorning the walls, the three themed suites (our favourite is the top floor Mansard Suite), and buzzy lobby lounge serving excellent tipples.
The Gunawarman, Jl. Gunawarman No. 3, Senopati, South Jakarta. p. +62 21 2277 0007
The Hermitage
Located in a grand Art Deco building, dating back to 1923, the new Hermitage hotel now holds court on a quiet, leafy corner of Menteng. Once inside, you’ll be in awe of gorgeous colonial architecture. In its previous lives, the building was formally a Dutch telecommunications office, then home to the Indonesian Ministry and Culture, and then the site of Bung Karno University. Now it has been given a plush makeover and is the first luxury heritage hotel in Jakarta. The Hermitage is home to 90 tastefully appointed rooms (all kitted out with modern amenities), La Vue rooftop bar, complete with infinity pool, and L’Avenue a chic ethno-brasserie filled with colonial-era artwork.
The Hermitage, Jl. Cilacap No. 1, Menteng, Central Jakarta, p. +62-21/3192-6888.
Artotel
This artsy urban hotel is a treat for creative guests. The graffiti-covered exterior is a gutsy move, and we love it! Inside, Artotel’s unique look can be attributed to the works made by seven local contemporary artists. The boutique hotel’s four types of studio rooms are equally fun, regardless of their size. We recommend a meal at Artotel’s 24-hour restaurant, Roca, where you will be dining against a backdrop of stone walls and murals that run up the walls and onto the ceiling. Insider tip: if you are planning to go to Roca on a Friday, wear your most stunning high heels and you’ll get a hefty discount on F&B. Before your stay is done, drop by the hotel’s art gallery and shop to take home a piece of locally produced art.
Artotel, Jl. Sunda No. 3, Menteng, Central Jakarta, p. +62-21/3192-5888
Kosenda
Now this is what we called fusion! The interior of the Kosenda is the perfect marriage of contemporary Scandinavian design and Javanese motifs. And the herringbone-pattern floor in the lobby? Absolutely stunning. Decked out in Mid-century-inspired furniture and touches, Kosenda’s interiors will transport you back to the stylish Mad Men era. If you want to set the perfect room ambiance, you can request an iPod with a special playlist to maximize the experience. At Kosenda, make sure to stop by the breathtaking rooftop Awan Lounge for a view of the bustling city center, and enjoy a chill late afternoon coffee break at 127 Cafe.
Kosenda, Jl. KH Wahid Hasyim No. 127, CBD, Central Jakarta, p. +62-21/3193-6565
The Dharmawangsa
Inspired by Indonesian art and culture, The Dharmawangsa is a hidden gem located in the leafy neighbourhood of Kebayoran Baru. Take a breather in their lush gardens, lounge by the pool or take on their famous spa treatments. Absolute bliss!
The Dharmawangsa, Jl Brawijaya Raya No. 26, Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta. p. +62 21 7258181
Morrissey
We appreciate the special amenities and perks at the other hotels in the city, but at Morrissey we feel like we’ve hit the jackpot. This boutique serviced-apartment has spacious rooms, stylish decor, outstanding hospitality, and great facilities for its guests. From the studio to the deluxe two-bedroom, each suite is designed to maximize comfort and functionality, and is also equipped with a kitchenette. Our favorite spot is the rooftop where the restaurant/lounge and covered pool have the perfect view of the city skyline. For dinner dates, head to Ocha & Bella, an innovative restaurant serving Italian-Japanese fusion dishes.
Morrissey, Jl. KH Wahid Hasyim No. 70, Menteng, Central Jakarta, p. +62-21/2993-3333
Grand Kemang Hotel
Shopping. Check. Nightlife. Check. Coffee and plenty of chow. Check and check. You’ll find everything you need in bustling Kemang just walking distance from Grand Kemang Hotel. It’s perfect for those who don’t want to pay top Rupiahs for a bed. The hotel has an exciting range of dining experiences from Indonesian and Asian fare to modern European delights. Longer stay guests or families have a choice of one, two, or three bedroom type apartments.
Grand Kemang Hotel, Jl. Kemang Raya 2H Kebayoran Baru Jakarta Selatan, p. +62 21 719 4121
