Hotels
The Gunawarman, Selong, Kebayoran Baru
Opened in 2016, The Gunawarman’s Victorian-inspired façade, wood-panelled interiors and 35 generously-sized rooms are aimed at a wealthier clientele, while its sister lodge Hotel Monopoli in south Jakarta seeks out a more youthful crowd. Downstairs at bar and restaurant Sofia, blue velvet banquettes set the scene for leisurely breakfasts or martinis after dark in what has become one of Jakarta’s liveliest districts. The Ashta shopping mall and artisan bakers Braud sit just around the corner on Senopati.
The Dharmawangsa, Pulo, Kebayoran Baru
One of the city’s most distinguished addresses, The Dharmawangsa’s gated compound channels an old Jakarta of breezy verandas, marbled corridors and service that anticipates rather than interrupts. Here, luxury isn’t loud – it’s woven into the details from seamless hospitality to the discreet, knowing nods of long-time staff. Doze off by the pool by day and spend the evening at the Majapahit Lounge or members’ club Bimasena, which is tucked behind the main hotel. Shikaku and Bar Kotak, a Japanese restaurant and cigar lounge, are both on the second floor.
Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta, Menteng, Menteng
Jakarta’s first five-star hotel remains its most storied. The mid-century, Abel Sorensen-designed landmark is steps from the Monumen Selamat Datang (the Welcome Monument) and its refreshed interiors house airy suites, a rooftop pool and a selection of dining options. The spread of Indonesian cuisines at Signatures Restaurant is worth lingering over and Jakartans still buzz about the breakfast.
25hours Hotel The Oddbird, Senayan, Kebayoran Baru
A new edition to Jakarta, 25hours is conveniently housed inside the luxury shopping mall Ashta. Indonesia’s take on the rapidly expanding Hamburg-based hotel chain is called The Oddbird and embraces every opportunity to be bold and whimsical. Rooms are equipped with Freitag bags and Schindelhauer bikes – a practical option for cruising the cycle-friendly streets of the Sudirman Central Business District. Copa, the Latin-infused all-day dining restaurant on the eighth floor, continues with this playful take and has become a popular canteen for large groups of fun-loving Jakartans. Also recommended is The Langham, which is attached to Ashta.
