Jakarta: A Culinary Paradise 🇮🇩

Having grown up in Jakarta, I firmly believe it is the greatest city. Jakarta's vibrancy, coupled with its plethora of upscale restaurants and cafes enhances its appeal as a great place to live. Here are some of my favorite spots back in 2013-2014.

Hotel Indonesia Roundabout

Skye

Opened by the Dapper Ismaya Group, Skye is situated on the 56th level rooftop of BCA Tower (Menara BCA). It is a high-end bistro and lounge offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Jakarta’s skyline. Skye's architecture and interior design are uniquely influenced by Southern-American style, featuring spacious indoor and outdoor areas that create a distinctive atmosphere for Jakartans seeking a brief escape from their busy lives. The outdoor area transitions from a bistro during the day to a lounge at night, while the indoor area operates as an all-day dining restaurant. Skye specializes in international ethnic cuisine, predominantly Hispanic, with notable influences from Middle-Eastern and Asian delicacies integrated into their menu.

Cacaote

Cacaote is unquestionably one of the most stunning dining destinations in town. Situated not far from the renowned pastry cafe, Colette & Lola, Cacaote sets a high standard among patisseries in the Senopati area. Housed in a grand Victorian building, the venue spans two floors. The first floor exudes a casual elegance with its white decor accented by touches of gold and vintage floral chairs, creating a warm and classy ambiance. Cacaote offers an extensive selection of desserts, with their macarons being particularly noteworthy.

Fitzroy

Fitzroy is the name of a suburb in Melbourne, and the owners are a group of Indonesians who previously studied there. This restaurant serves as a nostalgic homage to their glory days in Melbourne. Before stepping out of the elevator onto the third floor, the scene of Fitzroy unfolds behind glass doors. The dining area, though not expansive, has been refurbished into a comfortably urban and artistically stylish space, featuring wooden furniture and hand-drawn deer illustrations on the walls. A Gastrobar at the center of the restaurant offers Melbourne delicacies, complemented by the restaurant's beautiful bohemian-style decor.

Ron’s Laboratory

Ron’s Laboratory specializes in molecular gastronomy desserts, with its flagship item being Liquid Nitrogen Gelato (not ice cream). Utilizing liquid nitrogen results in gelatos that boast a remarkably smooth texture, melting in the mouth and leaving a delightful aftertaste. In addition to their molecular gastronomy creations, Ron’s Laboratory offers a selection of imported coffees that complement the flavors of their gelatos and sorbets. True to its name, the concept of a laboratory permeates the establishment, evident in the staff's uniforms, formulaic text on glass surfaces, utensils, and the chalkboard decor.

Howdy Hello Hola Hey Ho!

Howdy Hello Hola Hey Ho! celebrates Southeast Asian street delicacies with a unique flair. True to its funky name, the venue offers a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere that blends the diverse flavors of Malaysian, Thai, Vietnamese, and Singaporean cuisines. Specializing in hawker-style delicacies, the menu aims to spice up familiarity and approachability. In essence, Howdy Hello Hola Hey Ho! is an ideal destination for dining, drinking, and socializing.

Fook Yew

Fook Yew is a lively and casual Chinese restaurant that draws inspiration from the tantalizing street food of Shanghai. Designed in the style of an old-fashioned Chinese-pop canteen, the restaurant welcomes guests from brunch until late night. Fook Yew aims to offer a unique ambiance not typically found in traditional Chinese eateries. Its interior design incorporates various playful elements of Chinese culture, including Chinese zodiac signs, classic movies, Kung-Fu schools, Chinese Pop Art, and more.