Hidden inside an unassuming building near Bundaran HI is a secret small library that serves as an entrance to Barcadia, a speakeasy bar at the very heart of Jakarta. Serving classic cocktails as well as innovative mixes inspired by sweet treats and local delicacies, Barcadia offers patrons a sanctuary to escape the busy life in the city.

When you arrived at the building, step into the small library where you can find Barcadia’s house rules hanging on the wall next to the entrance.

House Rules (For Season Two):

Keep the Peace
Mind Your Manner
No Smoking (E-Cigs Only)
Respect the Cocktail
Love Reading Book
Payment is Mandatory
Keep This Place Exclusive ;)

This is also the place where you can search for hidden old coins that you can use to exchange for special gifts from the bartender. The coins hidden are limited per day so you might want to come early if you wish to find one.

This week, Barcadia is kicking off their Season 2—The Prohibition Era: Step Into The Twenties.

“Inspired by the clandestine speakeasies of the 1920s, we’ve crafted an immersive experience that pays homage to the spirit of defiance and indulgence that defined the era.”—Barcardia

As soon as you enter, you’ll be greeted by one (if not more) of Barcadia’s friendly bartenders who’ll quickly get you seated. The space feels like an extension of the library and is decorated with wooden panels, marble tables, leather sofas and bar stools with framed vintage art deco posters hanged on the walls. The warm dim lighting and jazz renditions of pop songs playing in the background create a cozy atmosphere to wind down after a busy day.

This (almost) 5 months old bar has about 25 seatings available inside the space—8 seats at the bar, 4 seats at the two small booths for two on one side of the room, and about 8 seats at the leather sectional sofa with an additional 4 round chairs around the circular marble table.

For their new season, Barcadia is introducing 12 new cocktails menu while keeping 2 (out of the 12) menu from season one. With 14 different unique cocktails on the menu, there are options for everybody to choose from. Or if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can always go with the “Surprise Me” option and the bartender will gladly mix you one.

Season 2 Menu. Courtesy of Barcadia Jakarta.

Tuberose (170k) | 8/10

Naked Malt Whiskey Sedap Malam, Spiked Gum, Absinthe, Peychaud’s Bitters, Aromatic Bitters.
ABV 35,7% • Floral • Spiced • Fragrant

Cheese Cake Factory (200k) | 9/10

Corazon Blanco Tequila Fat-Washed Butter, Blueberry Vanilla Liqueur, Malic Acid, Cream Cheese, Milk Clarified.
ABV 21,5% • Creamy • Toasty • Sweet

Funky Collada (190k) | 7.5/10

Roku Gin Cempedak, Roasted Grated Coconut Cordial, Pina Juice, Milk Clarified.
ABV 14,3% • Fruity • Tropical • Toasty

King of Fruits (200k) | 7.5/10

Jung & Wulff Guyana Rum, Local Leaves, Durian Syrup, Lactic Acid, Foam Agent.
ABV 16,7% • Custardy • Gentle Sweet • Aromatic

Other things that might be worth mentioning, they do serve light bites such as Wonton, French Fries and Shin Ramyun and they welcome outside food and online food delivery. There’s no minimum charge, walk-ins are welcomed and reservation is recommended for guaranteed seating. And if you make it ’til here, say this season’s magic word “Boleh pinjem buku?” to the bartender and they’ll let you mix your own cocktail behind the bar. Also, check out @munchandsnap.jkt’s reel for a special discount (valid until 30 April 2024).

Barcadia

Address: Jl. Blora No.10, RT.2/RW.6, Dukuh Atas, Menteng, Kec. Menteng, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10310, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 877-8808-0998
Hours: 6 pm - 2 am

Instagram: @barcadia.id