A bar in Indonesia is part restaurant, part social center and often plays double-duty as a nightclub in the wee hours. Alcohol is served in most bars and only the most draconian of restrictions are enforced during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Most bars are also a hub of expat culture and, as such, cater to an international crowd.
In the heart of Jakarta, EP is a huge bar with multiple rooms that attracts expats looking to mingle with fellow foreigners in a relaxed setting. The decor is designed to meet 1950s Native American folk house standards, and the music is a mix of rock and country classics from Chuck Berry, Muddy Waters and John Denver. The venue is also part of the same group which owns Cazbar (Mega Kuningan), Double Doors and De Hooi, all with a similar clientele.
Monty’s is a grill restaurant by day and a trendy, busy cocktail/whisky bar at night. It’s a favourite for Jakarta’s young professionals and is usually full of attractive expats and locals alike.
Named the Best Bar in Indonesia for 2021, the Cocktail Club is located on the first floor of a bistro in the bustling Senopati district. Its veteran team, led by Indonesian cocktail stalwart Kiki Moka, has perfected the bistro’s French fare while winning praise for its drinks menu with modern twists on the classics and a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
The hedonistic party scene of Kuta may have lost some lustre, but Bali’s bars are just as fun and varied as ever. From high-end cocktails with a view at Potato Head to cold Bintang with a sunset beachside brew at Bali Bar, the island offers a drink for every occasion.
