Modernhaus Jakarta is a brand new concept developed by The Union Group, well-known for its unique and stylish dining and lifestyle experiences. Stefanie Wijono, marketing manager of Modernhaus explains: “Modernhaus is essentially a mid-century modern cocktail bar. In the name “Modernhaus”, haus means two things: one is that it refers to an architectural term for a house, but it also means “haus” like “thirsty” in Indonesian. So we hope to satisfy both of those needs, here in our little house.”
Modernhaus is helmed by longtime Union Group bartender, Mirwansyah “Bule” – this is Bule’s first stint as head bartender in his over 14-year career. With the menu’s concept and artistic vision purely his own, it has been a tough challenge, but his passion for learning and the desire to provide the best craft he can give to his customers and friends alike has kept him going.
Modernhaus’ warm tones and impeccably designed interiors make you feel like walking into someone’s home. The large and uniquely designed bar station and counter resemble a large dining table. The groups of seating, made up of comfortable chairs and couches and lamps around coffee tables, hark to the home’s living room. Some of you will remember The Union Group’s earlier concept, CASA in Kemang, many furniture pieces at Modernhaus are refurbished pieces from CASA which have been brought out from storage.
Modernhaus aims to have a more relaxed drinking experience by keeping the capacity low, minimizing the number of guests standing, as well as keeping the music at a lower sound level and a set playlist instead of a live DJ set.
At the core of the Modernhaus menu is Bule’s love for plants. Each of the sixteen cocktails on the menu is designed around the different parts of a plant. All the plant ingredients are locally sourced and is a tribute to the abundance of Indonesian botanicals.
“So, our signature cocktails are inspired by plants. The menu is divided into four sections; leaves, roots, flowers, and fruits,” Bule explains.
Bule shares one of his favorites: “One of our signature drinks is the Pohpohan, it’s made from fresh pohpohan leaves, so this drink is from the leaf category. We use refined juniper mint liqueur, champagne lactic, and limeade cordial. Basically, the Pohpohan taste is vegetal, minty, sweet and sour, it is fresh and refreshing”
Here are a few highlights of the Modernhaus menu.
Kenanga
The Kenanga flower or Ylang-Ylang is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. It is valued for the essential oils extracted from its flowers which have a strong floral fragrance. Peruvian Pisco is sous vide with the Kenanga flowers to impart its flavor and aroma. This is mixed with The Plum, I Suppose by Empirical – a spirit which marries the flavors of plum and marigold, Cocchi Rosa, and Supersour, made from discarded lemons used for garnish. As Bule’s current favorite, it offers a complex and multi-layered flavor experience, combining floral, fruity, bitter, and tart elements. Served as a long drink, Kenanga appeals to those who enjoy complex, well-balanced drinks.
Pohpohan
Native to Southeast Asia, PohPohan leaves are especially popular on the island of Java, where they are cultivated in cooler growing regions. The crisp, young leaves are a popular fresh ingredient to balance heavier dishes consisting of rice, meats, and sauces. The Pohpohan cocktail is made using a refined juniper mint liqueur, champagne lactic, limeade cordial, and Methylcellulose. The cocktail retains its herbal, minty, and citrus notes balanced by a subtle sweetness and a hint of tanginess. It also has a creamy and thick mouthfeel. Perfect for a pick-me-up.
Tomato
The sweet, sour and umami flavors of the tomato are highlighted in the Tomato cocktail. A mix of Tabasco-infused whiskey, a wasabi spirit, tomato consommé, and fennel make up this light and refreshing cocktail. The first flavor you will pick up will be the spice from the Tabasco-infused whiskey and the wasabi spirit. This is immediately followed by the savory, umami-rich flavor of the tomato consommé followed by the fennel’s anise and licorice notes. This cocktail would likely appeal to those who enjoy savory drinks with a spicy kick.
Turmeric
Turmeric, part of the ginger family, is native to Southeast Asia and is primarily used as a spice and has an earthy, pleasantly bitter taste that magnifies the flavors of other spices. The Turmeric cocktail is made from shaking turmeric-infused gin, coconut chai milk, cream, salted tamarind, and lemonade soda together. This cocktail is reminiscent of a ramos gin fizz, with a blend of sweet, sour, creamy, tangy, and refreshing flavors all around. This cocktail would appeal to adventurous patrons who enjoy rich, complex drinks with a balance of sweetness, spice, and acidity.
Over the course of the three months that they’ve been open, they would consider Modernhaus one of the most successful bars in terms of opening. With an aspiration of standing through the test of time, both The Union Group and Bule would love to shape Modernhaus into a place where their regulars can call it their second home. And obviously somewhere to quench their thirst. So come on in and have a taste of their specialties, they’ll be waiting for your visit.
Modernhaus
Jl. Senopati No.79, Selong, Kec. Kby. Baru, Jakarta, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 12190
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