Co-Founder & Head Bartender, Barkadia Jakarta
I’m Andi Prestia, bartender and co-founder of Barkadia—a hidden gem tucked into the heart of Jakarta’s cocktail scene. We only seat 24 or 25 guests at a time, so everything we do is intimate, personal, and deliberate.
My journey started when a friend invited me to jump behind the bar at a local restaurant. I said yes. I asked my father for advice. And from that moment on, I was hooked.
For me, craft means starting from scratch—no shortcuts, no compromise. You can feel it when a guest finishes a cocktail in three or four sips and smiles. That’s when I know it landed. That’s the moment I chase.
My dad is still my biggest inspiration. He’s the most lovable man I know, and he taught me that the perfect cocktail shouldn’t be overly sweet—it should be balanced, beautiful, and patient. That’s what I try to capture in every pour.
My go-to comfort meal? Nasi Padang. My favourite day-off drink? Piner beer at Pagi Sore. And my bar? Come find me at Barkadia. Or if you’re ever in Semarang, Club Wisbon is worth a visit too.
Cheers.
