We’ll admit, some of these bars aren’t exactly a huge secret – or that hard to find or get into for that matter – but it’s their great vibes, fab music, and stiff drinks that have these speakeasy-type establishments on our list. Here we round up the best speakeasy bars in Jakarta.
On the hunt for some of Jakarta’s best hidden bars and speakeasies? From secret jazz bars to members-only clubs and whiskey lounges to hidden drinking dens, here are some outstanding watering holes worth looking out for.
Lola
Lola is probably one of the only, if not actually only, proper speakeasies in Jakarta. Only those in the know can seem to find this South American Tiki bar, its unassuming black door tucked away on the side of a parking lot. Small and low-key with a killer live music scene, Lola is one of our favourite watering holes in the Senopati ‘hood. Not to mention, they have an AMAZE happy hour deal on Tuesdays!
Lola, Jl. Gunawarman No. 21, Senopati, South Jakarta, p. +62 21 2751 3500
Barong Bar
Follow the musky scent of cigar smoke to Barong, Fairmont Jakarta’s suave whiskey bar that boasts an excellent selection for bonafide aficionados, no matter whether you prefer your whiskey neat or in a cocktail. This gentlemen’s drinking den is not a secret, but its intimate surroundings evoke speakeasy vibes. With masculine leather couches and dimly lit interiors, this is one heck of a sophisticated man cave.
Barong Bar at Fairmont Jakarta, Jl. Asia Afrika No.8, Gelora Bung Karno, South Jakarta, p. +62 21 2970 3333
Csaba at The Gunawarman
Sofia at The Gunawarman is one of our favourite plush spots to grab a cocktail, but have you ever noticed the roped off stairs leading towards Csaba? The exclusively members-only downstairs lounge is a cosy and elegant old world dream, with dark leather couches, private rooms and even secret karaoke! Csaba may be one of the classiest joints in town, but is not open to just anybody. If you want the full VIP treatment, members and hotel room guests have access to just about anything from premium spirits to private shopping.
Csaba at The Gunawarman, Jl. Gunawarman No. 3, Senopati, South Jakarta
Nip and Dram
Nip & Dram is a true gentlemen’s style whiskey den set in an elusive location in the neighbourhood of Kuningan, and those in the know head here for a cozy and low-key evening. Punters can enjoy the finest whiskeys in Jakarta over at Nip & Dram, and the lounge even hosts live jazz nights every once in awhile.
Nip and Dram, The Landmark Centre II, Jln. Jendral Sudirman No. 1, Ground Floor, p. +62 21 5790 3991
Prohibition
Though not exactly in a secret location, Prohibition is immediately inspired by 1920s America – where prohibition was in place and bootlegging gangsters ruled. The restaurant’s Chophouse does, in fact, serve “food fit for gangsters,” while its Speakeasy Bar serves premium whiskeys and spirits with a side of lively jazz. As an additional touch, they’ve even set up a snazzy members-only lounge, with a secret entrance accessible only by members’ fingerprints. Now isn’t that just the cat’s meow?
Prohibition, Plaza Senayan Arcadia Unit 10 215-217, Jl. New Delhi No. 9 Pintu 1, Senayan, Central Jakarta, p. +62 21 5790 1295
Bauhaus 1933
There’s something quite thrilling about walking down the stairs to Bauhaus 1933’s basement location. Sure you’re greeted by a hazy waft of cigarette smoke, but turn left into the dimly lit main room and you’ll see a crowd of fellow drinkers enjoying the bars buzzing atmosphere. Bauhaus 1933 has that typical New York speakeasy-type vibe, which is not a problem at all. The music is always impeccable, and the drinks are always strong.
Bauhaus 1933, The East Plaza, Jln. Dr Ide Anak Agung Gde Agung, Mega Kuningan Kav. E3.2 No. 1 Basement Floor, p. +62 21 29527173
