For a real, authentic taste of Jakarta, locals will tell you not to skip the iconic Nasi Padang. Many of us are no strangers to this steamed rice dish that comes with a variety of accompaniments—including Cassava Leaves, Rendang, Spicy Dendeng Balado, Gulai Otak and Gulai Kaki Sapi.

If you are unfamiliar with the dining scene in Jakarta and not sure where to start, head over to Sari Ratu Nasi Padang—a popular Nasi Padang restaurant that specialises in Minangkabau cuisine.

Offering a mouthwatering range of Indonesian dishes, this is where you can experience unadulterated local cuisine that will make a difference during your stay in Jakarta!

HOW DO LOCALS EAT IT?

The system of eating out at a typical Nasi Padang restaurant in Indonesia is served in a Minang Kabau style: Customers do not have to order any side dishes, instead, customers are only made to sit. The waiters at the restaurant will automatically serve up all the available side dishes in small plates.

The table will be filled with an array of mouth-watering sides, which can go up to 14 or more. You can also ask for a refill at an additional price. Customers are charged by the number of empty plates.

WHERE IS IT LOCATED?

With an outlet at the popular Senayan Plaza, Sari Ratu serves up one of Jakarta’s most well-received Nasi Padang and the snaking queue reflects its popularity.

The Nasi Padang chain restaurant also has many other small outlets around Jakarta and is known to be the top choice for those looking for a hearty, local meal who are drawn to the unique concept of Nasi Padang.

WHAT IS THE DINING STYLE LIKE?

Dine in true Minangkabau style: patrons are not required to do the ordering since the wait staff will fill up your table with all their signatures on small plates to share among the group.

Refills are available for a small sum and diners are charged by the number of empty plates that are on the table.

WHAT TO ORDER THERE?

The fried chicken wings at Sari Ratu are among the favourites—just one bite on the crunchy and juicy meat is all it takes for you to understand why.

Beef dishes come highly recommended by the staff and it is their signature Dendeng, a local name for marinated pieces of sliced beef, you have to try. There is also the Sup Tulang if you are keen on a bowl of tasty stewed beef bones soup.

With all that said, we highly recommend you to complement your food with the restaurant’s green chilli. While it looks simple, the tangy and zesty Thai condiment definitely heightens the taste of all their dishes.

Sari Ratu
Plaza Senayan Lantai 3 Unit 338C
Jl. Asia Afrika No.8
RT.1/RW.3, Gelora
Kota Jakarta Pusat
Daerah Khusus Ibukota
Jakarta, Indonesia
Tel: +62 215725826
Daily: 10.30am – 9.30pm

Written by: Sabrine Ong
Edited by: Julee Ooi

Read: 10 Rooftop Bars in Jakarta to have a great party

Jakarta is filled with gorgeous, towering skyscrapers and bustling nightlife. The city’s night scene is an experience you will not want to miss when you visit this dazzling city. Gather your girlfriends for a cocktail or two, immerse in the sounds of laughter and engage in hilarious up-to-date gossip.

Take some time out to unwind while you admire the panoramic views of Jakarta’s skyline. This is definitely one of the best ways to eliminate most sources of stress from your life.

Here is a list of amazing rooftop bars you can find in this thriving Indonesian capital with spectacular views.

#1 8 LOUNGE

The cosy and exclusive rooftop bar is perched on the roof of Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place. This glamorously lit space is set in the middle of Jakarta’s towering skyscrapers. If you are planning to unwind on a ladies’ night, we will encourage you to sit back, relax and relish in the view with a glass of Mojito from the bar’s extensive drinks menu.

Level 8
The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place
Kawasan Niaga Terpadu (SCBD),
Jl. Jendral Sudirman Kav 52-53,
Central Jakarta 12190, Indonesia.
Tel: +62 21 2550 1888
Fri, Sat & Sun: 6pm – 1am
Weekdays: Closed

Photo Credit: jktgo

#2 AWAN LOUNGE

If you are all for lush potted greens and a breathtaking view of Jakarta’s splendid skyline, Awan Lounge is the right place to catch a breather. Treat yourself to a tantalising assortment of bar drinks as you bounce to the catchy electronica beats resonating through this lovely rooftop garden.

Jl.KH Wahid Hasyim.No/127
Jakarta 10240, Indonesia
Tel: +62 21 3193 6868
Mon to Thu & Sun: 5pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 5pm – 2am

Photo Credit: therooftopguide

#3 BART

Bar at The Roof Top, otherwise known and abbreviated to ‘BART’, sits on the 7th floor of Artotel Hotel. It is your choice to snuggle into plush cushioned couches or sit by the edge of the rooftop. Do not forget to take in the superb view of Jakarta’s spectacular skyline with a refreshing drink from the bar!

Artotel Jakarta
Lantai 7, Jl. Sunda No. 3
Thamrin, Jakarta
Tel: +62 21 3192 5888
Daily: 5pm – 1am

Photo Credit: therooftopguide

#4 CLOUD LOUNGE & LIVING ROOM

This hot, nightlife spot occupies the 49th floor of Altitude The Plaza. Immerse yourself in one of the city’s finest nightlife haunt with a glorious 360-degree view of Jakarta’s skyline.

The Plaza, Lantai 49,
Altitude, Jl. MH Thamrin,
Thamrin, Jakarta
Tel: +62 21 2992 2450
Mon to Thu, Sun: 4pm – 2am
Fri & Sat: 4pm – 3am

Photo Credit: manual

#5 K22

Head out with your girls to Fairmont Jakarta’s sexy, open-air K22 Bar. Exuding sophisticated and chic vibes, this is one place in the city for a night of refreshing alcohol, mirth and gossip—a spectacular way to end ladies’ night.

Fairmont Jakarta,
Jl. Asia Afrika No. 8,
Senayan, Jakarta
Tel: +62 21 2188 9061
Daily: 6pm – 1am

Photo Credit: tripadvisor

#6 KARUMBA ROOFTOP RUM BAR

Karumba is a majestic rooftop rum bar with an ideal space to stargaze with the girls at night. Located on the 19th level of Mercure Jakarta Simatupang, you can expect magnificent interiors and impressive views of the city. Treat your friends to some rum cocktails and exotic concoctions at Karumba’s beautiful bar.

Mercure Jakarta Simatupang,
Lantai 19, Jl. RA Kartini No. 18,
Lebak Bulus, Jakarta
Tel: +62 21 7599 9777
Mon to Thu, Sun: 12pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 12pm – 2am

Photo Credit: zmtcdn

#7 LOBBYN SKY TERRACE

Derived from the Swedish word ‘Lobby’, Lobbyn Sky Terrace offers a glamourous area to watch the majestic sunset. This lively rooftop bar has attained many regulars and is vastly popular amongst people looking for a place to chill and enjoy the Indonesian night experience.

Favehotel
Jl. Kemang Raya No. 6
Kemang, Jakarta
Tel: +62 21 2952 9047
Daily: 10am – 1am

Photo Credit: cloudfront

#8 LUCY IN THE SKY

This bar remains the centre of attention amongst the younger generation. Lucy in The Sky is an open-air garden terrace that exudes a snug, relaxing vibe for those searching for a space to unwind.

Fairgrounds, SCBD Lot 14
Jl. Jenderal Sudirman
SCBD, Jakarta
Tel: +62 21 2188 9061
Mon to Thu, Sun: 4pm – 1am
Fri & Sat: 4pm – 3am

Photo Credit: venuerific

#9 SHY ROOFTOP

This gorgeous al-fresco establishment is located at the top of the Papilion. SHY rooftop bar boasts an extensive assortment of cocktails, spirits and live performances by popular local artists. A night with the girls will never go wrong here!

The Papilion,
Jl. Kemang Raya No.
45AA, Kemang, Jakarta
Tel: +62 217 199 921
Mon to Sat: 6pm – 1am
Sunday: Closed

Photo Credit: pinimg

#10 SKYE BAR

SKYE is located on the 56th floor of BCA Tower – Grand Indonesia, Thamrin. The bar is established to offer a unique atmosphere for guests to escape Jakarta’s hectic city life. A spacious bar where you can lounge comfortably with the girls, SKYE is a splendid place for you to grab a drink and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Menara BCA, Lantai 56,
Jl. MH. Thamrin,
Thamrin, Jakarta
Tel: +62 21 2358 6996
Mon to Thu: 4pm – 1am
Fri: 4pm – 2am
Sat: 11.30am – 2am
Sun: 11.30am – 1am

For more recommendations, read our guide on 15 Best Street Food in Jakarta you must try at least once in your life.

The congested traffic along the roads of Indonesia’s bustling capital may be daunting at first glance but we have to admit we are still very much drawn to Jakarta by the wafting aroma and tastiness of their local street food.

Sukun Goreng, Gado-gado and the Pisang Coklat are some personal favourites among the local street selections.

Here is a list of popular street delicacies and snacks to fill your rumbling stomach after a delightful day of meandering through Jakarta’s hustle and bustle.

Photo Credit: visitingjava

#1 GADO-GADO

The Indonesian Gado-gado is akin to a salad but with a local twist. It comprises vegetables tossed with fried tofu, fried fermented beans, crackers, boiled eggs and lastly, a drizzle of spicy peanut sauce that is blended with extra spicy chilli padi.

Photo Credit: flickr

#2 SIOMAY

Siomay is a type of steamed fish dumpling moulded from fish paste and vegetables. Other common varieties of Siomay are made from tuna, mackerel and prawn. The snack is prepared upon order and sellers usually cut this light treat into bite-size pieces before topping them with spicy peanut sauce and sweet soy sauce.

Photo Credit: iradiofm

#3 KETOPRAK

Readily available the minute you step into the jam-packed streets of Jakarta, Ketoprak is a great dish for a hearty, local meal. The dish consists of fried tofu, steamed rice cake, vegetables and rice vermicelli.

#4 KUE PANCONG

This is one of Indonesia’s sweetest gems and is the locals’ go-to for a quick afternoon snack. These coconut cakes are crispy, light and served with just the right amount of syrup to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Photo Credit: martabakcahayakestari

#5 MARTABAK TELUR

If you think this is merely a folded egg omelette, you’re wrong. Martabak Telur is a pan-fried egg omelette mixed with vegetables and ground meat—usually chicken or beef. Trust us when we say one serving is often not enough.

Photo Credit: delicious

#6 SATE

The aroma of Sates is always so tantalising and it doesn’t help when Sate stalls are everywhere in Jakarta. Though these sticks of marinated skewered meat are common, it is something we must eat when we return to the Indonesian city!

Photo Credit: tripadvisor

#7 MIE SOTO

If you’re looking for a heavier meal, how about a bowl of Mie Soto? There are a few variations of the Mie Soto and the ones with chicken broth is our pick. The fragrance of peppered broth, wheat noodles and chopped meat in a bowl is enough to make our mouths water.

#8 NASI UDUK

The rice in Nasi Uduk is usually prepared with an array of accompaniments and sauces to complement the dish. Fried eggs, tofu, meat, crackers and vegetables are the most common ones. This mixed-rice dish is a definite must-try!

Photo Credit: kulinersehat

#9 LONTONG SAYUR

Fall in love with Lontong Sayur’s aromatic, coconut milk curry. The dish comprises steamed rice cake, vegetables and curry broth. The wafting smell of curry was so good that no one can resist ordering a bowl.

Photo Credit:astaga

#10 GORENGAN

Basically deep-fried goodness. Banana and cauliflowers fritters are two of our favourites and also the most popular types you’ll find.

Photo Credit:zonamakan

#11 RUJAK BUAH

Rujak Buah is similar to our local rojak. The sourness of the fruits used in this dish balances out the sweet and spicy Gula Jawa sauce.

Photo Credit:resepkoki

#12 PISANG COKLAT

A piece of Pisang Coklat is always a sinful treat. The experience of having a bite of these chocolate bananas rolled in pancakes cannot be missed when you drop by this city!

Photo Credit:anindiaulia

#13 BUBUR AYAM

There are many travelling street food carts with ‘Bubur Ayam’ written on them. This bowl of flavourful chicken congee isn’t anything special but it remains a popular breakfast dish in Jakarta if you require a quick carb fix.

Photo Credit: jepratjepret

#14 SUKUN GORENG

By far one of the best snacks in Jakarta, Sukun Goreng is breadfruit fritters that are lightly salted and crunchy.

#15 MARTABAK MANIS

The last on this list but definitely not the least. In fact, it is our favourite! Martabak Manis is not just your typical pancake or sweet crepe; it is thicker and made using thick pancake batter. These pancakes are usually topped off with sprinkles of sugar, sweet corn and peanuts. THE BOMB DOT COM. Bye, skinny jeans.

Read our guide on how to travel to Jakarta for 3D2N with under S$300 (all-inclusive).

Lucky for us who stay in the little red dot, our home is in such close proximity to our neighbouring countries. This gives us an excuse to have a quick weekend getaway whenever a long weekend arrives or whenever there is an airplane ticket promo (whichever comes first).

And let’s face it, Singapore has everything we could possibly want. But once in a while, an exploring trip overseas wouldn’t hurt – for a different experience, for a weekend of alternative fun, for feasting on the food that we do not really get back home, for any and every reason you can possibly think of! Traveling needs no excuse, though.

Jakarta is literally a short one-hour plane ride away from Singapore and there is so much you might not know about this metropolitan. What if we tell you that with S$300, you could have 10 different experiences that expose you to the Indonesian culture, get a taste of some of Jakarta’s famous cuisines, and have some pampering?

If this gets your attention, keep reading this itinerary that consists of 10 things to do in Jakarta for 3D2N with under S$300.

#1 HOP-ON HOP-OFF CITY TOUR

Jakarta’s latest pride to attract tourism into the city comes in a form of these double-decker tour buses that was introduced last year. The bus route that begins at Jakarta’s iconic Bundaran Hotel Indonesia will take a loop around the city centre, and everyone onboard will be able to catch a glimpse of the city’s great monuments and tourist attractions.

If you do stay in the suggested boutique hotel, Artotel Jakarta (read about it at the end of the article), it is walking distance to one of the designated bus stops, which is the Sarinah Department Store. It takes about 1.5 hours to make a full loop but some of the destinations are worth stopping by for, including the National Museum, Pecenongan Street Food area and the National Monument better known as Monas.

$: FREE

Daily: 7am – 7pm

#2 THE NATIONAL MUSEUM

If you appreciate the beauty of art and culture, National Museum is a place you should not miss. The artefacts mostly provide a glimpse to the rich culture of Indonesia from its 300 ethnic groups that are spread across 922 inhabited islands. Look out for the English tour that is available every second and fourth Saturdays of the month.

$: Rp 5.000/S$0.50 per person

National Museum
Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No. 12, Central Jakarta
Mon to Fri: 8am – 4pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 5pm
Tel: +62 21 3868 172

#3 FEASTING AT AN AUTHENTIC PADANG RESTAURANT

You may say that you have had nasi padang many times, especially since nasi padang stalls are so common in Singapore. But you haven’t had an authentic Padang experience until you visit a Padang restaurant in Indonesia and ask the waiters to “hidangkan” your food.

Hidang literally means lay out all the food, and with that, the waiters will carry stacks and stacks of small plates filled with all kinds of Padang dishes and place them all on your table for your selection.

Don’t be surprised though, you didn’t just order everything on the menu! Eat only the dishes you want and the rest will not be charged to your bill. Any Padang restaurant will give you the same experience but Natrabu in Sabang is highly recommended.

$: Approx. Rp 60.000/S$6 per person

Natrabu
Jl. H. Agus Salim No. 29A
Menteng, Central Jakarta
Daily: 9am – 9pm
Tel: +62 21 3193 5668

#4 A FLASHBACK FROM THE PAST IN JAKARTA’S KOTA TUA (OLD TOWN)

Kota Tua is an officially designated area and heritage site in Jakarta. In 1972, the Jakarta’s governor decided that it was necessary to preserve what was left of the city’s architectural roots that were highly influenced by the Dutch.

Today, Kota Tua is still a popular area among tourists that is often circled by walking or by taking rented sepeda onthel (traditional bicycle). With just Rp 50.000/S$5, the renting of sepeda onthel will include a tour guide who will take you to five iconic places around Kota Tua.

$: Rp 50.000/S$5 per person

Kota Tua
Jl. Taman Fatahillah
No. 1, West Jakarta

#5 DINING AT JAKARTA’S HISTORIC LANDMARK – CAFÉ BATAVIA

Café Batavia is the second oldest building in Jakarta after Fatahillah Museum. Its colonial era décor is still very genuine and beautiful; it is akin to stepping into Jakarta in the 19th century.

This is definitely the place to savour the exquisite historical ambience. It is also a plus point that every corner of the place is Instagram worthy!

$: Mains from Rp 75.000/S$7.50

Café Batavia
Jl. Pintu Besar Utara No. 14, West Jakarta
Daily: 8am – 12am
Tel: +62 21 6915 531

#6 PLAY SLIDES AT WATERBOM

A water park may sound like a place for the kids, but it is not when it looks like Waterbom! Its Bali branch is an international favourite that was named the best water park in the world in 2011, but the Jakarta one is a great breezy place to escape from the Jakarta heat. With a lot of crazy slides and a “lazy river” to float around, we suggest spending half a day here for some unadulterated fun.

$: Rp 250.000/S$25 for entry per person

Waterbom
No. 1 Pantai Indah Kapuk
Jl. Pantai Indah Barat, North Jakarta
Mon to Fri: 11am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 9pm
Tel: +62 21 5596 6666

#7 CAFÉ HOPPING AT PIK (Pantai Indah Kapuk)

When in doubt of what to eat in Jakarta, go to PIK (read: peak). The area itself is a housing estate, but its entrance is filled with hundreds of restaurants, including some regional favourites such as Tim Ho Wan and Nam Nam Noodle Bar. The best part about PIK is that you could jump from one restaurant to a dessert place and then to a coffee shop, all within walking distance. It is really a whole enclave of goodies for the foodies.

For a casual yet tasty dining experience, Shao Kao is high recommended. As its name suggests, it is the Chinese version of barbecue. Authentically serving the taste of ‘shao kao’ from the streets of China, the skewered meat and vegetables to choose from are ready for grilling after being seasoned with distinctive Chinese spices. Prices range from Rp 4.000 – Rp 10.000 (S$.040-S$1) per skewer.

$: Approx. Rp 70.000/S$7

Shao Kao
Ruko Cordoba Blok F No. 6
Jl. Bukit Golf Mediterania, Pantai Indah Kapuk, North Jakarta
Opening hours: 5pm-2am
Tel: +62 21 9394 3939

Shirokuma is a Japanese dessert café that is famous for its matcha soft serve, and of course, very cute presentations. The simplest serving of matcha in a cone costs Rp 15.000/S$1.50.

$: From Rp 15.000/S$1.50

Shirokuma
Ruko Crown Golf Blok A No.32
Pantai Indah Kapuk, North Jakarta
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm – 12am
Tel: +62 21 2923 7523

#8 A FULL BODY MASSAGE PAMPERING AT ZEN SPA

Perhaps, setting time aside for a spa session is tough when in Singapore, because we are ever busy with our lives – work, family and whatnot. But when you are on a holiday, you really should treat yourself to one of these relaxing and pampering spa sessions. Zen is a family spa that has all kinds of treatments just the way you like it, be it Balinese massage, oil-free massage or a body scrub session.

A full body hour-long massage costs Rp 205.000/S$20.50 and should do the trick to ease those knots in your body!

$: From Rp 205.000/S$20.50 for an hour of full-body massage.

Zen Spa
Jl. Gunawarman No. 43, Senopati
Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta
Daily: 10am – 11pm
Tel: +62 21 726 2375

#9 QUICK BEAUTY FIX AT INSTANT PARLOUR

Going for a beauty fix in Jakarta is always a good idea as you would probably pay a quarter of what you otherwise would in Singapore. It is even better when the salon looks like a scene straight from the musical Hairspray (or Grease)!

You could the usual beauty treatments, from underarm waxing for as cheap as Rp 60.000/S$6, to a wash-and-blow for Rp 90.000/S$9, or manicure and pedicure for Rp 195.000/S$19.50.

$: Rp 195.000/ S$19.50 for manicure + pedicure

Instant Parlour
Jl. Senopati No. 16, 2nd Floor, South Jakarta
Mon to Fri: 7am – 5pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 5pm
+62 87 8817 00124

#10 FOOD ADVENTURE AT PASAR SANTA (SANTA MODERN MARKET)

Pasar Santa was actually just another traditional market. But very recently, its top floor has been converted into an interesting, cool and vibrant scene filled with Jakarta’s young crowd. The top floor is now filled with stalls selling “pop-culture food”, vinyl records, street clothing, good coffee and anything hip.

One of our favourite stalls would be Mie Chino that makes a very simple but mouth-watering bowl of Chinese Indonesian chicken noodles paired with beef balls (Rp 27.000/S$2.70). It is one of Indonesian’s comfort food packaged in an irresistible American Chinese takeaway-box style that makes you want to queue despite the long waiting time during lunch hours!

For a coffee fix, do try the interesting ice coffee options at Bear & Co. Coffee. The pipe-style beer dispenser that you’d normally see dispensing draft beer is what they use to dispense yummy drinks with names such as Nitro coffee, Cold brew, Yeti and California latte with prices ranging from Rp 35.000–Rp 50.000/S$4-S$5.

$: Rp 100.000/S$10 for a meal and drink

Pasar Santa
Jl. Cisanggiri II, South Jakarta
Daily: 3pm – 10pm (food stalls usually run out by dinner time)

ACCOMODATION & TRANSPORTATION TIPS

Jetstar Frenzy Friday:

There are about three budget airlines that fly from Singapore to Jakarta daily. Out of the three, we recommend Jetstar’s great Frenzy Friday. Prices start from S$40 for a one-way ticket from Singapore to Jakarta, taxes are inclusive. With such a weekly deal, you don’t necessarily have to wait for a travel fair or book months in advanced!

$: S$80 for return airplane tickets

Artotel Jakarta:

Artotel is a recommended boutique hotel in Jakarta, and is famed for the artistic themed rooms and décor. It is located right in the heart of the city and within walking distance to Jakarta’s famous street-food stretch. It is also a 5-minute drive from Jakarta’s two hugest shopping malls, Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia.

$: S$120 for 2 persons/S$60 per person

Jl. Sunda No. 3, Jakarta Thamrin
Central Jakarta
Tel: +62 21 3192 5888

Uber transport:

Unfortunately, in Jakarta, it is not exactly safe to rent a motorbike to get around, like what tourists would usually do in Bali. Renting a car is a possible option but driving in Jakarta can be extremely frustrating due to the daily traffic congestion. A recommended option is to rent a car and a driver, but Uber has a cheaper rate and it is more often than not reliable.

$: Approx. S$90 for 2 persons/S$45 per person for 3 days

TOTAL EXPENSES FOR A 3D2N GETAWAY

Hotel stay (2 nights): S$120 for 2 persons/ S$60 per person
Return airplane tickets: S$80 per person
City transport: S$45 per person (3 days)
Food: S$32 per person
Entertainment: S$30.50 per person
Self-pampering: S$40

TOTAL: S$287.50 per person (all-inclusive)

About the writer:
Charina Prinandita is a non-superficial person with a very superficial taste in shoes. Aside from the aformentioned shoe obsession, restaurant hopping with her girlfriends and travelling with her boyfriend sum up the few things that put her in her happy place.