epicure Indonesia – July 2019

epicureasia.com 87

InterContinental Jakarta Pondok Indah

Jl. Metro Pondok Indah Kav. IV TA, Jakarta

Tel: +62 21 39507355

https://www.jakartapondokindah.intercontinental.com

suggestions. From cutting-edge art galleries in Kemang to Jakarta’s Batavia Old Town,

there’s certainly something for everyone. Make time for Hadiprana Art Gallery, one of

the most respected art galleries in town and known for catapulting independent young

artists to fame. Alternatively, you can spend the afternoon browsing the outlets at Pondok

Indah Mall I and II, which are conveniently connected to the hotel.

As any experienced shopaholic would know, a well-deserved break is de rigeur after

a satisfying day of retail therapy. Inaria Spa provides a rejuvenating experience. The

treatments are largely inspired by Indonesia’s indigenous and natural remedies; JUARA

skin and body care products are used exclusively at Inaria, and are known for their high

concentrations of candlenut oil, turmeric and clove. Give the 75-minute JUARA Signature

Facial Treatment a go. The highly skilled therapists will thoroughly cleanse, exfoliate and

massage your face before you unwind with hot ginger tea at the lounge. All that’s left

for the day is dinner. I make my way to Sugar & Spice, the hotel’s all-day buffet dining

restaurant offering a menu that spans five continents.

Along with the traditional buffet line, there are six show

kitchens that serve up everything from duck confit to a

comforting bowl of Sop Buntut.

And it’s back at The Lounge again. After all, it’s

the place to see and be seen, with many expats and

international business visitors streaming in from

neighbouring Kemang and Senopati. Large impressionist

paintings with vibrant hues add a delightful contrast with

the regal marble clad pillars and luxurious armchairs. I’m

tempted to have a cup of the manually brewed Malabar

single origin coffee; apparently, it’s a favourite beverage

among the city’s socialites too. But one needs to get some

undisturbed sleep, especially in a plush hotel like this.

Blissful relaxation at

Inaria Spa

Pondok Indah

Golf Course is

within walking

distance from

the hotel.

Grand and
welcoming, The
Lounge is the place
to see and be seen.

View from the top at Club

InterContinental Room