Since opening in Selong Belanak, Lombok, in 2022, Klub Kembali has been dedicated to creating innovative craft cocktails based on Indonesian spirits.
As they approach their fourth anniversary in July, the bar and restaurant has recently expanded its arak collection and opened their exclusive “Arak Library” — a cosy lounge offering guests over 60 different araks produced in Bali and other Indonesian islands.
Eager to introduce visitors to this significant aspect of Indonesian culture through guided tastings and cocktails, the Klub Kembali Arak Library — the largest collection in the world – boasts two intimate experiences. The main lounge area with comfy sofas and a wall of artistic bottles provides guests with an opportunity to sample over 60 araks that have received Indonesian government approvals for food safety and taxation. The second experience, known as the “Mini Museum,” showcases a second, small collection of artisanal araks and infusions crafted by Indonesian farmer-producers, which are not yet for sale, but serve as a testament to the vast, ongoing creativity involved in arak production.
A Cultural Evolution
In the past, arak has unfortunately faced a negative reputation due to uncontrolled production. Since 2020, however, Indonesian arak has undergone increased regulation, with the Balinese government spearheading legal and safe production practices. This has inspired other provinces to adopt similar measures, fostering a vibrant and safe arak craft industry across the archipelago. From a cultural aspect, most serious producers emphasise that arak is not intended for a cheap buzz but instead, created for a traditional and mindful experience; in fact, many of the araks in the collection are still used in religious ceremonies across Bali or medicinally to alleviate various ailments.
To celebrate this rich heritage, Klub Kembali will host arak tastings to invite new guests to sample and learn, and to spread the word. These tastings will offer a variety of “Arak Journeys” from traditional palm-sap and rice-based selections to house-aged speciality araks, unique infusions and more. Guests can also purchase their favourite araks by the bottle as a memorable souvenir to bring home.
“For most cultures, traditional alcoholic beverages are a source of immense local pride,” says Daniel Schwizer, owner, head mixologist and “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, “Arakified”
In addition to daily tastings, Klub Kembali also offers its exclusive arak-based classic cocktails, adhering to time-honoured cocktail legends while offering guests an easier entry point into the unique flavours of arak. Daniel explains, “We want guests to feel familiar with what we’re serving. By changing the main spirit and balancing out complementary ingredients, we make it easier for visitors to try an arak cocktail and to expand their palate.”
While the Klub’s “Arakified Classic Cocktails” may not taste the same as the originals, Schwizer explains, “that’s actually the point — they’re familiar enough to be recognisable but reimagined with a speciality arak.” He continues, “Our vision is that someday soon, arak will be as well-known as gin, rum, tequila, vodka or whisky. It’s another spirit with ancient roots, but it’s finally getting the attention it deserves in the hospitality scene. We’re honoured to be part of this evolution.”
Plan your trip to Selong Belanak and Klub Kembali now, open Monday through Saturday from 3 to 10 p.m. Book your “Arak Journey” at +62-817-9777-701.