Jakarta has an affinity for good libations, and the Smoky Barrel Aged Negroni at Beer Hall in central Jakarta may be the king of drinks. The space is sprawling and modern, the air conditioning is blissfully strong, and the drink itself a feast for all the senses.
Coaxed out of a barrel-aged tap into a crystal decanter (single serve), a mixture of special combustibles is packed into a handheld smoker. Once ignited, a luscious smoke fills the vessel, giving the dark cherry-coloured elixir – a concoction of gin, campari, sweet vermouth and orange bitters – a swamp-like appearance. Capped, it is up to the imbiber to pour their own magic potion. Watch as the smoke and thick drink flow freely from the glittering container into a perfectly cubed glass. The taste is even more sublime then the ritual of making it. Smooth and not too sweet, this negroni may be a long way from home, but it is definitely not one you want to miss.
Public transport in Jakarta can be somewhat unreliable, so it’s best to Uber, Blue Bird cab or Go Jek scooter over to Beer Hall.
This delectable drink will set you back US$12 (but it’s so very worth it)
The difficulty here is not ordering too many (!)
Beer Hall
instagram.com/beerhall
Lot 19 SCBD, Jalan Jend. Sudirman Kav. 52–53.
Jakarta, Indonesia 12190