Who said Lokal spirits can't be sophisticated? This Blok M bar has cracked the code on Arak.
qponx
2026-01-24
Tired of the usual speakeasies? Discover Lokaholik, a hidden gem in Blok M that champions local Indonesian spirits. This bar transforms Arak and Cap Tikus into sophisticated, creative cocktails you won't find anywhere else. From the jasmine-infused Kembang Desa to a wild Nasi Liwet-inspired drink, the menu is full of surprises. With a chill, nostalgic vibe playing 80s hits, it's the perfect spot to experience a truly unique taste of Jakarta's nightlife.
Honestly, every time a friend comes to Jakarta and asks me where to get a drink with a real"Indonesian flavor," I'm always at a loss for words. I'm so tired of all the cookie-cutter speakeasy bars in SCBD, until I recently discovered this place in Blok M, Lokaholik.
The entrance is so small it's almost negligible[1], I almost walked right past it. But push the door open and it's a whole different world inside. The space isn't large, a bit compact, but the vibe is super chill. The lighting is dim, playing nostalgic Indonesian hits from the 80s and 90s, instantly pulling you back to that golden era, perfect for coming with friends to Nongkrong and chat.
Specializing in Lokal Flavors, The Cocktail Menu is Full of Wild Moves
Their biggest highlight is this"Lokal first" concept[2], the cocktail menu is full of Indonesian elements you'd never expect. Local spirits like Arak and Cap Tikus take center stage here.
I randomly ordered their signature Kembang Desa[3], which uses Balinese Arak as its base. On the palate, it has the fresh aroma of jasmine and citrus, with a smooth texture like a gentler version of tequila, Mantap! It has none of that harsh kick you'd expect from a"local brew," so even friends who don't drink can handle it easily.
My friend's order, the Lokapon[4], was even more interesting. It actually tasted like the traditional Indonesian cake, Klepon, full of coconut sugar aroma, but it has a strong after-kick, so those with low alcohol tolerance should take it easy, haha. The most Anjay part was the Nasi Liwet Cocktail[5]... it actually had the savory aroma of nasi liwet (coconut rice), and it was even garnished with two fried grasshoppers! I have to respect the bartender for being a true badass; I give this creation full marks. Daring friends should give it a try.
Real Talk: The Drinks are True Love, but Skip the Food
To be fair, this place is only suitable for drinks. The drinks cost around 100k-125k IDR per glass[6], not including service charge and tax, which is pretty reasonable for a bar in Jakarta.
But the food is honestly a bit of a letdown. We ordered the Nasi Jeruk Pork Belly[7] to fill our stomachs, but the rice was fragrant but a bit hard, and the fat-to-lean ratio of the pork belly was a game of chance. The main issue is the small portion size, so it's not great value for money. If you want a full meal, I'd recommend eating somewhere else first.
A No-BS Guide to Avoid Pitfalls
Finally, for the girls planning to check this place out, here are the key points, so get your little notebooks ready:
- Make a reservation: Especially on weekends, the seats are in high demand, and there might be a 2-hour time limit[8]. Don't just show up excitedly only to find no seats.
- Minimum charge: On weekends and public holidays, there's a minimum charge of 200k IDR per person[9]. Honestly, ordering two drinks will pretty much cover it.
- Seating tips: The window seats in the smoking area have a street view, but without AC, it can get a bit hot[10]. Friends who can't stand the heat should choose carefully.
- Closes relatively early: They usually close around 1 AM, which is considered early for Jakarta[11]. So don't make this your last stop if you're planning an all-nighter.
- A Nasi Lemak cocktail?! Salty, fragrant, with fried grasshoppers [1]! Bold enough for you?
- Menu features Lokal flavors [2]. Signature Kembang Desa [3] uses Bali Arak for jasmine-citrus notes, so smooth non-drinkers love.
- Behind a small door, a super Chill space [4] with nostalgic tunes. Dim lights whisk you to Indonesia's 80s/90s.
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