The term “speakeasy” dates back to the Prohibition era (1920 to 1933) in the United States, when people were banned from consuming and selling alcohol. At that time, people drank their booze in hidden, illicit drinking houses that were only open to members and spread through word of mouth, as reported by https://www.star2.com. Today, Jakarta also has bars that apply a speakeasy style for those who wish to enjoy their drinks with exclusivity.
1. Prohibition Asia
Often recognized as one of the oldest speakeasy bars in town, Prohibition Asia started its operation around four years ago. Set like a bar in the 1920s, it is in the same location as its chophouse. Most people only recognize the entrance through the chophouse; however, the bar actually has another secret door at the back, only for their members.
The bar’s decor may remind you of some Hollywood films. Their unique bathtub gin is literally served in a bathtub-like bowl, mint julep and nachos for their snack. For the entertainment, they mostly play jazz, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday, but they also have a room for other genres, such as top 40s and pop jazz. The rate starting at Rp 2.000.000. Minimum bill on their largest sofa starts at Rp 1,500,000 on weekends. No minimum spending on weekdays.
Prohibition Asia
Address: Plaza Senayan Arcadia Lantai 2 Unit X, Pintu 1 Senayan, Gelora, Central Jakarta
Phone Number: (021) 57901295
Opening Hours: Every day: 11.30 until late
Instagram: @prohibitionasia
Photo Source: @prohibitionasia
2. Csaba at the Gunawarman
Csaba at The Gunawarman is designed like an exclusive gentlemen’s lounge with wooden walls, armchairs, bookshelves and a bar. It has wall-mounted lockers for their members’ whiskey bottles. Having operated for almost two years, it also provides meeting rooms with private restrooms. Open daily, reservations in advance are mandatory for those who want to visiting this speakeasy bar.
Here visitors will also entertained with jazz and oldies. Once in a month they hold a members and friends event where they have a jazz band and DJ who plays classic disco.
Csaba at the Gunawarman
Address: Jl. Gunawarman No.3, Kby. Baru, South Jakarta
Email: cia.lassia@syahestablishments.com
Instagram: @thegunawarman
3. Goldstein
Located beneath León, Goldstein is a speakeasy bar that fits 40 people and specializes in cocktails. It has a bar and round tables without a minimum bill, and sofas with minimum bill starting from Rp 3 million. Reservations in advance are advised. People will usually receive a golden ticket before entering the bar.
Here visitors will also entertained with live music from Tuesday to Sunday, starting from 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. The genres are usually jazz, pop, RnB or deep house. Goldstein has a homey ambiance. They also take their cocktails very seriously. The rate starting from Rp 300,000 per person.
Goldstein
Address: Jl. Wijaya I No.25, Petogogan, Kby. Baru, South Jakarta