The area near the malls Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia, around the iconic Bunderan Hotel Indonesia (Hotel Indonesia roundabout) is one of the most strategic to meet friends for drinks and party in Jakarta. It is also an ideal location for inviting someone on a date.
The main reason for that is that it is positioned in the center of the city, along Jalan Sudirman- Jalan Thamrin, its most important thoroughfare. It is therefore easy to reach, either by private car or by public transportation (Transjakarta and the MRT). It is no surprise that I rated it the best area to stay in Jakarta.
Naturally, you can find plenty of activities and businesses there, including 5-star hotels, luxury malls, prestigious office buildings, and, of course, a lively nightlife.
In this article, I will review my top 10 favorite bars and clubs in Grand Indonesia / Plaza Indonesia. Please don't hesitate to leave a comment if you think I forgot an important venue.
This stylish outdoor rooftop bar is particularly recommended if you are a tourist. Located in The Plaza building, it offers a spectacular view of Jakarta that will make you realize how gigantic the city is. After 6 PM, you need to dress up to access it (pants and shoes required). Electronic/Lounge music.
Paulaner Brauhaus
This restaurant has a Bavarian beer garden concept: Long communal tables, home-brewed beer, German food (including pork). Fun atmosphere, perfect for after-hour drinks. Live music every evening.
Social House is a trendy wine lounge and restaurant from the Ismaya Group. It is one of those places that are almost always busy, no matter the day or the hour. Average food, a bit expensive, but interesting for people-watching.
The main competitor of Cloud has an inferior view but a cozier design. It is also more creative (different music every night) and they organize more events (live bands, fashion show, guest chefs, yoga sessions, etc). The staff is notoriously snob, especially with tourists.
Newest luxury rooftop bar in Jakarta, on the 36th floor of the Park Hyatt Hotel (Menteng, near the American Embassy, not to be confused with the Grand Hyatt). I think its view is actually less spectacular than that of Henshin or Cloud, because the skyscrapers are further away. It is also less happening (not so many interesting events so far). It's a shame because it has potential. Prices on the high side (minimum IDR 200,000 for a cocktail and over IDR110,000 for a beer).
Similar to Social House, this wine lounge-restaurant is popular with groups of friends who often rent big tables and share bottles and food among themselves. Not really a place to visit if you are alone, but perfect for a celebration.
This Italian restaurant, part of the Union group, gets normally quite lively on weekends. I'd recommend it for dates more than anything else. Their bar has a good selection of wines.
This is not the most spectacular rooftop in Jakarta, as it is only on the 9th floor of Kosenda Hotel (near Sarinah/Thamrin), but it is nevertheless popular. Its relaxing jungle concept is exactly what you need after a hectic day in the city, and it has more affordable prices than its competitors.
