Jakpost guide to Dharmawangsa

A busy road of Jl Dharmawangsa VI in South Jakarta. (JP/Jessicha Valentina)

Dharmawangsa in South Jakarta is known as one of the most expensive residential areas in the capital.

Compared with Kemang, the neighborhood is less chaotic and filled with shady trees, making it more comfortable for first-time visitors. Here, visitors can also find trendy restaurants, beauty clinics and other interesting spots.

Curious? Check the list below for recommended activities in the area.

How to get there

Dharmawangsa neighborhood is not public transport-friendly. Those who want to visit the area are recommended to take private vehicles, taxis and on-demand transportation services, namely Go-Jek and Grab.

What to wear

Since Dharmawangsa is a residential area, you will discover most people wearing casual outfits, such as T-shirts and jeans. However, the upscale neighborhood is quite hip, so smart casual outfits, such as shirts and summer dresses, are also acceptable.

What to do

As a residential area, Dharmawangsa is filled with almost everything you need, including clinics.

Those with a skin problem can go to Natasha Skincare and Dr. Eva Y. The latter is located on Jl. Dharmawangsa XI and best known for its beauty and slimming treatments.

Those looking for a psychiatrist may want to check Sanatorium Dharmawangsa. Established in 1961, the institution is among the oldest private-run mental health clinics.

Parents looking for a child-friendly dental clinic can make an appointment with pediatric dentists at Dharmawangsa Dental Studio Clinic. Situated on Jl. Dharmawangsa Raya, the clinic opens from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

In addition to healthcare, visitors to Dharmawangsa can also find various entertainment spots in the neighborhood.

Movie buffs should schedule a visit to Subtitles. Tucked inside Dharmawangsa Square’s basement, Subtitles is an alternative cinema with over 4,000 DVDs and Blu-ray films from across the globe.

Meanwhile, yoga enthusiasts can drop by Union Yoga on Jl. Wijaya II. Here, you can find various classes, such as Vinyasa Flow, Hot Yoga and even prenatal class Yo Mama.

Alternatively, those looking for a place to exercise can become a member of The American Club, located on Jl. Brawijaya IV.


What to shop

Dharmawangsa Square on Jl. Dharmawangsa Raya is a hidden gem for shopaholics.

On the ground floor, fashion enthusiasts can find various items produced by small and medium enterprises, including batik, dresses and accessories.

Furthermore, the ground floor is also home to Niu and By The Sea. The former offers leather Italian goods, while the latter is a Bali-based brand specializing in beachwear.

Near to Ranch Market grocery store, visitors can also find Tulisan boutique, which is known for unique decorative items featuring hand-drawn sketches and prints

Those looking for bargain branded goods can come to Rococo Rack. Located on the first floor, the shop offers various brands, including Manolo Blahnik, Guiseppe Zanotti and Cole Haan, at a large discount.

In addition to Rococo Rack, the first floor also hosts two popular batik brands, namely Prajudi and Alleira Batik stores.

What to eat

The neighborhood is a home to a myriad of eateries.

Those who love Korean food can go to Chung Gi Wa on Jl. Wijaya II or Dae Gam Jib at Grand Wijaya Center.

Meanwhile, those looking for healthy food can visit Burgreens, a pioneer of vegetarian restaurants in Jakarta. Alternatively, health enthusiasts can visit a newly-opened juice bar Ramu in Dharmawangsa Square to try its refreshing concoction Segar Bugar.

Those craving Chinese-style roast pork can go to Kacamata and Nasi Campur Kenanga. Both eateries are located in Grand Wijaya Center and have been around for years.

If you fancy Japanese food you might want to make a reservation at Yakinikuya. With a starting price of Rp 168,000 (US$11.06) per person, meat lovers can enjoy an all-you-can-eat Japanese barbecue. As for sushi lovers, don’t forget to check Poke Sushi in Dharmawangsa Square. The eatery is one of the longest standing sushi restaurants in the neighborhood.

Dharmawangsa Square is a popular place for those looking for food. Among the popular eateries include IWS, Madera Kitchen and Teras Dharmawangsa.

IWS is known for its bakmi ayam (noodles served with minced chicken). Although, the price is considered expensive for an Indonesian-style bakmi, the frequently packed space is a testament to its popularity.

Western dishes can be found at Madera Kitchen. The small restaurant serves a variety of international dishes, including mushroom soup, Swedish meatballs, fish & chips and pasta. Meanwhile, Teras Dharmawangsa is where you can find Indonesian dishes. Outside Dharmawangsa Square, visitors can go to Pelaspas Dharmawangsa. The spot is popular among young Jakartans and it houses various eateries, including Bao Ji, Taco Local, Butfirst Coffee and newly-opened ice cream joint Cold Moo.

Across Pelaspas Dharmawangsa, foodies can check Ivy restaurant on Jl. Brawijaya II. Featuring both local and international dishes, the restaurant's casual ambience makes it convenient for business lunches. Those planning to host private events can make a reservation either on Plataran Dharmawangsa or Patio.

Where to stay

The Dharmawangsa Jakarta is a recommended establishment for those looking for a luxury hotel. The accommodation boasts an Indonesian-inspired interior, providing a comforting yet elegant ambience. In addition to the hotel, the establishment is also recognized for a luxury spa facility called Bimasena Spa. Alternatively, business travelers can also book a room at The 101 Jakarta Sedayu Dharmawangsa hotel. (JakartaPost)