From authentic Manadonese to molecular gastronomy, these are our top picks for must-try Indonesian restaurants in Jakarta.
With more than 17,000 islands spread out across the archipelago, it’s no wonder that the range of Indonesian cuisine is as diverse as the many spices that come from this wonderful country. From spicy Manadonese to good old Padang flavours and authentic Peranakan, let your taste buds journey through Indonesia with our picks of the best Indonesian restaurants in Jakarta.
Selamat makan, Honeys!
The best Indonesian restaurants in Jakarta
1. Nusa Gastronomy
Set in a charming colonial house in the heart of Kemang, Nusa Gastronomy takes elevated Indonesian dining to another level. The restaurant serves contemporary Indonesian cuisine inspired by the ingredients sourced from the head chef’s travels. With a tagline that reads “An edible story from Indonesia”, it’s no surprise that each dish comes with a tale of its background – rare mushrooms from Bangka, prawns from Banyumas, tuna from Maluku… It’s truly a culinary journey of the archipelago.
Nusa Gastronomy, Jl Kemang Raya No. 31, Kemang, South Jakarta, p. +62 819 1100 4996
2. Plataran
Plataran restaurants are truly in a league of their own. Not only do they serve fantastic traditional Indonesian fare from all around the archipelago, Plataran’s service is excellent as well. Their stunning locations are perfect to celebrate special occasions or for entertaining guests from out of town – from dining inside a stunning traditional Javanese house (AKA “joglo”) or a restored colonial Dutch house fit for Indonesian royalty.
Plataran, multiple locations in Jakarta.
3. Kaum
A brainchild of the ever-innovative Potato Head Family, Kaum serves up some authentic Indonesian cuisine that pays homage to traditional ways of cooking. While the extrior of this Indonesian restaurant gives you a traditional vibe, once you step inside you’ll be greeted by fun, modern interiors in true Potato Head style. Must haves include the variety of traditional sambal, jajanan pasar, and inventive cocktails inspired by Indonesian ingredients and spices.
Kaum, Jl Doktor Kusuma Atmaja No. 77 – 79, Menteng, Central Jakarta, p. +62 21 2239 3256
4. Agneya
Named after the Hindu Goddess of Fire, Agneya is a homey Indonesian restaurant in the leafy neighbourhood of Dharmawangsa. Their specialty is Indonesian cuisine grilled over an open-fire charcoal grill. You can’t go wrong with any of the meat and seafood fired to perfection, and leave some room for desserts.
Agneya, Jl Wijaya IX No. 23, Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, p. +62 21 739 2430 / +62 823 1066 3640, e. [email protected]
5. Restoran Beautika
Caution: extremely spicy foods served here! This legendary Manadonese restaurants may be hidden away in the midst of Jakarta’s high-rise buildings, but make no mistake, because they pack a punch! Try their sate, pepes and crispy corn fritters, and wait for that flavour explosion. Psst… you can even take home some of your favourites in a frozen pack.
Restoran Beautika, multiple locations in Jakarta.
6. Tesate
A modern twist on local flavours, Tesate showcases the richness of Indonesia’s culinary diversity. Go for the whole fish buried in chilli, chicken skewers, and the famous Indonesian “chendol”, jelly with brown sugar and coconut milk, or any of the jajanan pasar.
Tesate, multiple locations in Jakarta.
7. Lara Djonggrang
Lara Djonggrang is an exotic imperial Indonesian experience that should not be missed. Part of the Tugu Hotel’s collection of dining venues, this unique restaurant serves authentic Indonesian food wrapped in an eclectic atmosphere. Wine and dine like Indonesian royalty, as you browse through gorgeous antiques and a display of vintage Indonesian artifacts.
Lara Djonggrang, Jl Teuku Cik Di Tiro No. 4, Menteng, Central Jakarta, p. +62 21 315 3252, e. [email protected]
8. Dapur Babah Elite
Another one from the Tugu Group is Dapur Babah Elite. This grand restaurant specialises in Babah Peranakan cuisine, popularised when the Chinese settlers arrived in Java during the colonial times. Try one of their curated dining experiences to get a taste of it all…
Dapur Babah Elite, Jl Veteran No. 18 – 19, Central Jakarta, p. +62 21 385 5653 / +62 851 0060 2256, e. [email protected]
9. Bunga Rampai
Located in a gorgeous old colonial house, Bunga Rampai also makes our list of top Indonesian restaurants in Jakarta. With a stylish and elegant atmosphere, this is an Indonesian restaurant fit for a special occasion. We recommend their grilled chicken and traditional-style Nasi Goreng.
Bunga Rampai, Jl Teuku Cik Ditiro No. 35, Menteng, Central Jakarta, p. +62 21 3192 6225
10. Namaaz Dining
Namaaz Dining is the most original concept in Indonesian cuisine. The genius chef of this molecular gastronomic eatery calls its cuisine “fun dining,” and transforms local dishes like Opor Ayam and Rawon as disguised objects to amuse and satisfy all your senses. Its degustation only menu includes multiple courses of unexpected delights. Definitely one for the foodie bucket list!
Namaaz Dining, Jl Gunawarman No. 42, Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, e. [email protected]
Looking for more Indonesian restaurants in Jakarta? Head over to our Jakarta section for all our guides!
