The tented cum al-fresco establishment in a sumptuous rooftop is a picture of avant-garde sanctuary that has become the nirvana of night life.
The rooftop bar nestled on the top floor of The Papilion, a sleek glass-sheathed building on Jl. Kemang Raya, is among Kemang’s premium nightspots to enjoy drinks and a live band, with a panoramic view from its terrace.
On a recent Friday evening, Arin & The Driver belted out rock and roll and popular songs ranging from The Police and Queen, to Madonna and Rod Stewart. At one table some young professionals in their mid-30s are chatting and sipping wine. “It’s a hip and mature place,” says Angela Mulia, the owner of an advertising company.
Angela is among SHY’s business clientele who like to come to entertain clients or to unwind with business partners. “The music is just right, not too loud, not too soft. Everyone can enjoy the music, yet we can comfortably socialize with each other,” says Ira Lestari, an entrepreneur from East Jakarta.
The candle-lit lanterns and sofas neatly arranged on white washed wooden floors create an elegant, intimate atmosphere that draws young executives, along with Jakarta socialites and celebrities. Comedian Aming Sughandi, singer Iwan Fals and actress Ira Wibowo are regular visitors, according to manager Habieb Muhammad.
A live band starts up at 10 pm each evening. There are various bands that perform throughout the week, offering up music ranging from acoustic tunes to Top 40 hits, classic rock and Indonesian popular songs. SHY Rooftop also features other acoustic bands such as Request, Jakarta Journey, Urban Vibe and D’Moneymaker.
“Each band brings its own crowd,” says Habieb. Request attracts mostly youngsters with requested Top 40 songs every Tuesday. Jakarta Journey plays every Wednesday with their acoustic live playing alternatives songs. Urban Five plays R&B and soul on Thursdays bringing in a crowd of mostly young professionals.
The extensive list of cocktails includes Tiramisu Martinis and Lychee Martinis and other signature drinks, along with selections of whiskey, cognac and beer. The bar also serves white, red and sparkling wines.
SHY Rooftop is the sister establishment to SHY’s French dining restaurant below. Whether you prefer to dine out on the terrace or inside, be sure to sample SHY’s tapas menu. There are also popular local dishes such as oxtail soup, chicken porridge and fried rice. For dessert, don’t miss SHY’s divine chocolate terrine or vanilla crème brulee.
By Aulia R. Sungkar. Published in Kemang Buzz, February 2011.
