An Ice Cream Shop in Disguise: This Viral Jakarta Bar Didn't Even Spare Tolak Angin.
qponx
2026-01-25
Don't be fooled by the cute ice cream shop! HATS Bar is a viral Jakarta speakeasy hidden behind an unassuming door. Inside, discover a moody, red-lit lounge perfect for a unique night out. The main attraction is the wildly creative cocktail menu, featuring unbelievable drinks like a savory Assam Laksa and even one inspired by Tolak Angin. It's an unforgettable experience for those seeking a one-of-a-kind spot for drinks and deep conversation.
For real, if my friend hadn't led the way, I could have passed by HATS Bar a hundred times and never guessed it was a bar inside. The entrance is just a bright and shiny ice cream shop, so cute it's almost a turn-off… until my friend pushed open that unassuming frosted glass door… Anjay! It was like switching channels instantly, and I was totally captivated by the contrast.
The moment I stepped inside, the whole world changed. The space is enveloped in a red that's both intimate and bold, with lighting that's perfectly dim, paired with velvet sofas and music with great taste. It's the kind of vibe where you can just curl up and have a deep talk with your girls all night. Definitely one of the best places to Nongkrong in South Jakarta.
When the menu arrived, my pupils literally dilated! An Assam Laksa cocktail, what the heck? I ordered it with a"do or die" attitude, and the result… Mantap![1] It's basically a drinkable bowl of laksa! The sour, spicy, and savory flavors were perfectly replicated, and it even had"noodles" made of cucumber shreds inside. Drinking a cocktail with chopsticks, the experience was just too wild. Even though one bowl costs 250k++[2], I declare it was money well spent!
Their creativity is seriously next-level; they even turned the Indonesian national 'miracle cure'"Tolak Angin" into a cocktail[3]. This one is called Mrs. Cold, with a gin base, and it has a curious herbal and fresh minty aroma. How is it that it's both slightly intoxicating and feels kind of healthy... 😂
Of course, as usual, let's get real.
The place is smoking-friendly, so friends who are sensitive to smoke should be prepared. The table next to us was smoking cigars that day, and the smell was indeed a bit strong, which kind of ruined the atmosphere.[4]
As for the ice cream at the entrance… the flavors are quite novel, they even have flavors like Bika Ambon[5], but the value for money is really not great. The scoops are tiny, some flavors taste a bit artificial, and it feels more like a supporting act for the bar. It's not necessary to come just for the ice cream. Also, premium flavors have an extra charge, but it's not clearly marked, so you might get a little surprise when the bill comes.[6]
Quick Guide & What to Avoid 📝
- How to get in: Just walk boldly into the ice cream shop and go through that frosted glass door.[7]
- What to order: For your first visit, go straight for the Assam Laksa Cocktail, trust me! It's an absolute double whammy for your taste buds and the experience.
- Beware of the smoke: Smoking is allowed everywhere, so if you're sensitive to smoke, enter with caution or try to go earlier to avoid the crowds.
- About the ice cream: You can try the novel flavors for fun, but don't have high expectations, and make sure to ask about the prices.
- Bonus point: The bar provides free drinking water, which is a huge plus. You can cleanse your palate at any time![8]
- Who it's for: Those looking for a place to have a good chat, or to bring a date for a unique experience, this is the right place for you.
- Hidden behind an ice cream shop, a bold, mysterious red bar. The ultimate contrast instantly grabs you, total vibe switch![1]
- "Assam Laksa" cocktail, eaten with chopsticks! Perfect sour, spicy, umami. A 250k++[2] flavor explosion – worth it!
- "Tolak Angin" in a cocktail? Mrs. Cold: herbal mint, gets you buzzed and healthy – pure genius![3]
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