From some of Jakarta’s best brunches to a family-friendly environment and late-night amusement, Kemang, a South Jakarta neighbourhood, has it all...
Deciding where to live in Jakarta is a huge decision thanks to its legendary traffic. Many people choose to live near their office but others are looking for a high quality of life factor. That’s where Kemang, a neighbourhood in the southern part of Indonesia’s capital city, comes in. Sure the traffic can be messy, but all of the perks make it well worth the trip, or residing in – from dining, shopping and entertainment options, to its close proximity to the best international schools and the Central Business District in the south. Not convinced yet? Read on to find out the best of Kemang!
JAKARTA NEIGHBOURHOOD GUIDE: THE BEST OF KEMANG
1. Best housing – Kemang Club Villas
Kemang is popular with expat families because of its close proximity to international schools and a strong neighbourhood feel. The small streets of Kemang are lined with large homes, many of them with their own security and household staff, it’s worth the effort to drive through and see who is renting or hire an agent to find you a place fit for your needs.
Another popular option for expats is the Kemang Club Villas, a gated community with apartments and spacious condos. Plus, it’s got a wonderful mix of amenities and privacy, as well as a convenient location.
2. Best brunch – KOI
This is one of Kemang’s specialties! Sleep in on the weekends and treat yourself to a hearty brunch. There’s a wide range of eateries with the best assortments of freshly baked savoury and sweet pastries to round out your meal. No brunch is complete without a good Bloody Mary, our favourite can be found at the beloved Kemang brunch spot, KOI. Here you can order a classic or a spicy Bloody Mary, if you need the extra kick!
3. Best lunch date spot – Komunal88
Gather your besties for a healthy, delicious meal at Komunal88. This stylish café has a large selection of beverages, including homemade kombucha, imported Italian wines, and a lovely selection of coffee (pick the lemon black coffee for a refreshing caffeine hit, trust us!). On the food front, there are great salads, fresh baked goods, and a rotational menu of specials.
4. Best after-work drinks – Eastern Promise
After finish a hard day of work, the last thing you want to do is fight the macet, AKA traffic. Instead, why not wait it out with a drink? Eastern Promise, a European pub and sports bar, has generous Happy Hour deals, live music and live games regularly.
5. Best romantic dinner – Mamma Rosy
Get in the mood and set the scene correctly at Mama Rosy Italian restaurant. Located inside a traditional Balinese house, Mama Rosy’s is not short on atmosphere or delicious dishes, cooked from home recipes – all served in a living room-style dining space.
6. Best late-night cocktails and dancing – Queens Head
If you think our Saturday night bets were a bit too low-key, try dancing the night away at Queens Head. Kemang’s club scene isn’t the strongest, with neighbouring SCBD being the nighttime hotspot, but this bar with some serious mixology brings in a lively and hip crowd that keeps you feeling great into the early hours of the morning.
7. Best home décor shopping – Cayenne Home
This is a hard one as Kemang has so many good options! For furniture, head to Jl Kemang Timur to buy or order bespoke Javanese pieces. Not only is the price super reasonable, this ornate furniture will definitely enhance your home and serve as a conversation pieces.
But when it comes to home décor items that’s elegantly designed and impeccably made, Cayenne Home is like an adult’s playground. They’ve got funky and fun printed pillows, an assortment of baskets, rugs, cushions and other unique pieces for your home.
Welcome to Kemang, Honeys!
