Bahasa l English I have to admit, I haven’t been writing articles here as often lately. I guess it’s understandable, considering the recent surge of restaurants and cafés coming up with all sorts of innovative concepts, from creative interiors and hearty main courses to elaborate desserts.  But if you look a little closer, despite all the different concepts and aesthetics, many of the menus are actually quite similar. Jakarta’s dining scene is still largely dominated by Indonesian, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, and Korean cuisines, while French, Spanish, Latin American, Indian, and Middle Eastern restaurants remain relatively uncommon.  The same goes for desserts. There are countless bakeries, pastry shops, and cafés offering endless varieties of sweet treats. The names may sound more creative and sophisticated these days, but once you look at the actual ingredients and concepts, many of them are surprisingly alike. Basically, combining one type of sugar with another and giving...

Bahasa l English Le Comptoir adds another highlight to Jakarta’s ever-evolving culinary scene. Officially opening in May 2026 at Plaza Indonesia,  one of the capital’s most prestigious shopping destinations, the restaurant brings a refined selection of French and European cuisine to the heart of the city. From relaxed all-day dining to premium steak offerings, Le Comptoir delivers an elegant yet approachable culinary experience for Jakarta diners. Upon entering Le Comptoir, guests are welcomed by an elegant European-inspired interior that exudes timeless sophistication. Classic details such as curated paintings and sparkling crystal chandeliers elevate the refined atmosphere throughout the front area. The restaurant also features a refrigerated display of premium dry-aged meats, a stylish bar at the end of the dining area, a semi-outdoor smoking section, and an exclusive VIP room for private gatherings. With its spacious layout and generous seating capacity, Le Comptoir is also we...

Bahasa l English Some of you may have heard the term “Itameshi,” a Japanese slang combining “Ita” (Italian) and “Meshi” (food). It refers to a fusion of Italian cuisine and Japanese cooking techniques, or sometimes the other way around. Fusion cuisine itself has become increasingly popular, but it’s not as simple as it seems. Beyond high-quality ingredients and technical skill, a chef must deeply understand the characteristics of each cuisine to create balance without one flavor overpowering the other. That’s what makes Itameshi particularly challenging: the chef needs to master both Italian and Japanese ingredients, as well as their respective techniques. From my experience at Japanese fusion restaurants in Jakarta, however, the results often lean too heavily toward bold, savory flavors. Dishes can feel over-seasoned, sometimes even overly spicy like local Indonesian food, or weighed down by excessively creamy sauces, especially in pasta. This time, I had the opportunity to experien...

Bahasa l English The Michelin Guide is widely recognized, especially within the high-end dining world. Although Jakarta has yet to be included in its listings, the city is home to several notable fine dining establishments, including Crown by Kirk Westaway. But who is he? Kirk Westaway is a British chef best known for leading the 2 Michelin-starred JAAN by Kirk Westaway in Singapore. The hotel’s newest restaurant concept is set to launch around mid-2025. Located on the 22nd floor, it offers sweeping views of Jakarta from above. The elegant interior features rich, dark tones and soaring ceilings, creating a distinctly majestic ambiance. At the heart of the bar stands a sheep statue, an element often found in British architectural design, symbolizing fertility and the abundance of a farming nature. Meanwhile, the plush sofa seating enhances the space with a sense of comfort and relaxed sophistication. While the restaurant typically offers a set menu, I opted to try a selection of à la...

Bahasa l English For culinary enthusiasts, especially those with a taste for fine dining, the name Akira Back is instantly recognizable. An internationally acclaimed celebrity chef, he has built a global restaurant empire with locations in major cities around the world, including Jakarta, Indonesia. One of his most renowned concepts is ABSteak, at Senayan City shopping mall, a modern Korean steakhouse that presents an exclusive menu inspired by traditional Korean flavors. Guests are welcomed by a striking center bar framed by grand pillars, leading into a spacious dining area with ample seating, private VIP rooms, and a magnificent live stage that elevates the overall dining experience. This afternoon, I had the opportunity to try the Premium Woomakase set menu, a thoughtfully curated six-course experience that begins with a starter and a banchan platter, followed by three premium cuts of steak, including A5 Wagyu, a choice of carbohydrate, and a dessert to finish. This set menu is av...