Award-winning but snobby service? I tried this Modernhaus in Senopati so you don't have to

Drawn by the big names of Union Group and "50 Best Discovery"[1], I went to the super-hyped Modernhaus in Senopati with high expectations. The result... well, how should I put it, my feelings were as complicated as Jakarta's traffic.

I was stopped right at the door. The security guard scanned my shoes with a sharp gaze, emphasizing "no open-toed shoes"[2]. Alright, high-end places have their rules, I get it. But that "keep your distance" vibe was at full blast right from the entrance.

Mantap Vibe, Like Crashing Someone's House Party

Pushing the door open, it was completely different from the pitch-black Speakeasy I had imagined. A huge communal long table sat in the center. The atmosphere wasn't like a bar, but more like crashing a house party in some top designer's living room[3]. The music taste was on point, and the volume was just right, making it effortless to chat with friends. Props for that.

Their cocktails are quite interesting too. You won't hear the sound of bartenders frantically shaking shakers because they specialize in premade cocktails[4]. I ordered their signature Kenanga cocktail[5]; the jasmine aroma was very unique, and the flavor profile was quite rich. My friend's House Blend Tequila[6] was said to be top-notch as well, so tequila lovers should definitely go for it.

Hardware: Full Marks, Software: Negative Points?

To be honest, the environment and design are definitely a plus; winning a Tatler design award[7] wasn't for nothing. But! What left me absolutely speechless was the service. The attitude of some staff members was truly Anjay… a cold face the whole time, unresponsive when asked a question. With that air of arrogance, you'd think I owed them millions[8]. For a cocktail priced at 150k-180k[9], am I paying to see this sour face? Suddenly, the drink in my hand didn't taste so good anymore.

Tips to Avoid Pitfalls, You're Welcome!

Overall, this place's pros and cons are extremely polarized. If you're going for the ambiance and design, it's worth a visit for some photos. But if you care a lot about service, you should really think twice. For friends who want to go, take note of these life-saving tips:

• 1. Be sure to book in advance! There are very few seats, so walk-ins will most likely have to stand, and you might even be treated like you're in the way by the staff[10].
• 2. 2-hour time limit! Don't think you can Nongkrong all night. Once the time is up, no matter how much you've spent, the staff will come on time to "ask" you to leave[11].
• 3. Happy Hour is the best deal! Every night from 6-8 PM, special cocktails are only 100k[12]. The value for money is instantly maxed out; this feels like the right way to do it.
• 4. A note for those who drive: There's no parking, so just use the valet service. The fee is 35k.