With Valentine’s Day coming up, the pressure is on to find the perfect spot to impress your significant other. Or if you’re single, asking out a special someone or even celebrating with your friends, picking your venue can be a struggle. Whether you’re more of a traditional wine-and-dine couple, an adventurous duo, or you prefer casual nights out with some cheeky cocktails, this guide will have something for everyone. No romantic will be left behind.
Perched on the top three floors of the Westin Hotel and being the highest dining point in Indonesia, you will surely make your partner’s jaw drop with the breathtaking views of the Jakarta skyline. On top of that, the exotic Japanese-Peruvian fusion crafted by expert Chef Hajime Kasuga will be something to rave about to your friends later. Level 67 is the bar and lounge, with Nikkei dining on level 68, and totally exclusive dining for two on level 69 if you want some privacy. Make sure to dress smart casual and reserve your spot in advance.
Fancy an elegant dining experience, rich with historical décor and charm? The Plataran Dharmawangsa will certainly deliver. The atmosphere of Javanese royalty is bound to make your partner feel special. The restaurant includes a 150-year-old wooden heritage Joglo house, wooden Javanese pavilions, a prayer house more than 50 years old, and an elegant glass-roofed conservatory. The venue also has regular cultural and live performances, adding to the ambience of being transported back in time. This will surely be a popular spot this Valentine’s Day so make sure to reserve a spot.
As evident in the name, this spot will certainly deliver some spectacular views from the 22nd floor. This fine outlet was voted the “Best European Restaurant” by NOW! Jakarta in 2017, and Chef Hans Christian has created a modern take on European cuisine infused with Asian tones. The atmosphere is cosy and intimate, perfect for spending quality time with that special someone. Pricing is higher than in some other restaurants, but it’s worth every penny. Be sure to dress to impress and make a reservation beforehand.
Located in the Sudirman Central Business District, this Italian restaurant has a charming, yet relaxed atmosphere. Their motto la dolce vita, meaning “a life of pleasure and simple luxury,” rings true during this dining experience. Maybe you could try to re-create Disney’s Lady and the Tramp scene with some spaghetti and a glass of red? This restaurant is a fabulous option if you’re looking to have a romantic night out without spending a fortune.
Is your lover more on the quirky side? Try Warung MJS, which is uniquely decorated with traditional ornaments and vibrant colours. The venue was constructed in 1959 and serves delicious and authentic Javanese cuisine. This place is not super luxurious or sophisticated, but rather has a laid-back and homey atmosphere. There’s even a small swimming pool and swing, creating a playful environment. It’s super affordable, but still a fun and intimate spot to take your date.
A rooftop dining and bar experience, surrounded by lusciously green flora? Yes please! Hause is located in Setiabudi, around 20 minutes south of the city centre. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, especially if you try some of the exotically mixed cocktails. For gin lovers there is a wide range of different fusions available. Western and Indonesian style cuisines are offered alongside several delicious vegetarian/vegan options.
Enjoy a special date on ice and beat the Jakarta heat as you skate around Sky Rink at Mall Taman Anggrek. Whether you’re a pro or a rookie, this experience will surely create some memories that will last forever. The bonus is you get to burn off some calories as well! During the week all-day skating is only Rp95,000 and at weekends Rp125,000 for two hours.
Bring your significant other to Indonesia’s oldest zoo, opened in 1864. This zoo boasts a total of 3,122 different animal species, and is spaced out over 140 hectares of land. The zoo’s Primate Centre is of international standard, containing orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees and other rare domestic and foreign primates. In the Reflection Park, you can have a romantic stroll amongst the greenery and maybe even set up a picnic spot. The entrance fee is Rp4,000 (yes, four thousand rupiah) per person meaning you can easily save cash for a drink afterwards.
Are you both adrenaline junkies who enjoy high-speed thrills? At Semanggi Plaza you can go go-karting around on the 400-metre track, maybe even challenging your date to a race. Certainly not for the faint of heart but for sure an adventure. Bookings start at Rp50,000 per person, with a bonus happy hour during the week at 5pm to 7pm priced at Rp35,000. Maybe don’t get too competitive though if you want to keep the peace.
Between the speakeasy style setup and intimate lighting, you’ll feel transported into another world once stepping into the underground, mysterious LOLA bar. Hipsters and alternatives alike are sure to enjoy this one. Owned by the successful Biko Group which is also behind Beer Garden, LOLA is perfect for a fun and casual night out, plus awesome American diner food. They have an extensive list of cocktails, or you can have one individually crafted for you by one of the mixologists.
With fabulous floor-to-ceiling windows and a lively atmosphere, Basque always delivers a good night. There are booths for dining on delicious tapas, a dance floor for grooving on weekends, and an inside elevated balcony which oversees the entire venue. It can be the perfect place to either begin or end your night out. Make sure to rock up in smart casual attire and bring your dance moves to impress your date.
Not much ever goes wrong with a rooftop, good tunes, and an aesthetically designed venue (plus awesome cocktails of course). Lucy in the Sky is a lovely spot to catch a drink at sunset with a special someone on the terrace, or even sit on comfortable lounges inside with the glasshouse-style interior. The tropical bohemian vibes are a fine way to set the mood for the night and are definitely Insta-worthy.