Indonesian spirit arak continues to gain recognition as producers embrace higher production standards and growing appreciation for the country’s traditional distilling heritage. Reflecting that momentum, Klub Kembali in Selong Belanak, Lombok, has opened what it describes as the world’s largest collection of Indonesian arak through its newly launched Arak Library.
The new space expands the bar and restaurant’s long-standing focus on Indonesian spirits since opening in 2022. Housing more than 60 varieties of arak sourced from Bali and other regions across the archipelago, the Arak Library is designed as both a tasting lounge and an educational space that introduces guests to one of Indonesia’s oldest traditional spirits.
The venue is divided into two areas. The main lounge allows visitors to sample more than 60 government-approved araks that meet Indonesian food safety and taxation regulations, while a second space, known as the Mini Museum, showcases artisanal araks and experimental infusions produced by small-scale farmers. Although these limited releases are not commercially available, they offer insight into the diversity and craftsmanship behind Indonesia’s evolving arak industry.
Arak’s Changing Reputation
For many years, arak was often associated with unregulated production and inconsistent quality. However, the spirit has undergone significant changes in recent years, particularly following increased regulation introduced in Bali from 2020 onwards. Improved production standards have encouraged producers across Indonesia to develop safer and more consistent products while preserving the traditional methods and cultural significance that define the spirit.
Beyond its role as an alcoholic beverage, arak continues to hold an important place in Indonesian culture. Many producers still craft arak for use in Balinese religious ceremonies, while some traditional varieties are also valued for their medicinal applications.
To introduce these traditions to a wider audience, Klub Kembali will host guided tasting sessions featuring a range of “Arak Journeys,” allowing guests to compare palm sap and rice-based araks alongside aged expressions, house infusions, and other regional styles. Selected bottles will also be available for purchase.
“For most cultures, traditional alcoholic beverages are a source of immense local pride,” said Daniel Schwizer, owner, head mixologist, and self-described “Arak Anthropologist” at Klub Kembali.
“Of course I’ll never be a ‘local’ in Indonesia, however, I firmly believe that supporting and elevating these local products is my calling at Klub Kembali. This is our collective purpose.”
Classic Cocktails with an Indonesian Spirit
Alongside tastings, the venue also incorporates arak into its cocktail programme through a collection of “Arakified Classic Cocktails.” Rather than creating entirely new drinks, the menu reinterprets familiar cocktail recipes by replacing traditional base spirits with different styles of arak, offering guests an accessible introduction to its distinctive character.
According to Schwizer, using recognisable cocktail formats helps guests become familiar with arak while demonstrating its versatility as a premium spirit.
“Our vision is that someday soon, arak will be as well-known as gin, rum, tequila, vodka or whisky,” he said. “It’s another spirit with ancient roots, but it’s finally getting the attention it deserves in the hospitality scene. We’re honored to be part of this evolution.”
As interest in locally produced spirits continues to grow, venues such as Klub Kembali are helping reposition arak from a little-known traditional beverage into a contemporary spirit that reflects Indonesia’s diverse cultural and culinary heritage.
Klub Kembali
Jl. Selong Belanak – Kuta, Selong Belanak, Kec. Praya Bar., Kabupaten Lombok Tengah, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83572
