Where To Stay And What To Eat In Jakarta
Jakarta is one of the world’s biggest cities and trying to figure it out can be daunting. It’s definitely a place worth visiting, as there is no where else like it. It’s full of cultural surprises and incredible tastes will delight your palate. Here’s my advice on where to stay and what to eat while there.
Where To Stay In Jakarta
For Tranquility-Merlyn Park Hotel
The location of the Merlyn Park Hotel is perfect. It is at the very heart of the city. The most impressive thing about the hotel is the infinity swimming pool along with 2 other pools. If you are looking for an easy online hotels booking, this is a great option.
For Luxury-The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta
If you’re looking for a place where everything is done to the highest standard, then book a room at The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta. The Pacific Place Mall is just below, and there are also several great restaurants there. There are also impressive views of the Jakarta skyline.
Near The Airport-FM7 Resort Hotel
If you need a hotel that’s convenient to the airport, I recommend the FM7 Resort Hotel. It has a very modern design, a spa, and a pool with a rooftop bar. There is a free shuttle bus to the airport, and you can choose between an Asian and an Italian restaurant.
What To Eat In Jakarta
Jakarta has an incredible street food culture, and you will find the best bites to be had at the street food stalls. There are many street food centers in areas such as Sabang, Bloc M, or Pecenongan Street. Here’s some of what you will find.
Otak Otak
Photo by Su-Lin, Flickr CC
Otak Otak is a fish paste made with wahoo fish, lemongrass, coconut milk, and spices which is grilled or steamed in a banana leaf. It’s dipped in a spicy peanut sauce, and is a wonderful street food. Otak means brain, and it’s called that since the fish paste looks very similar to brains.
Recommended Stall:
Otak-Otak Sangaji: Jl A.M. Sangaji, Petojo, Jakarta, Indonesia
2. Bakso
Photo by deku kertorahardjo, Flickr CC
Bakso is a meatball soup that is very beloved by the people of Indonesia. The meatballs are usually made from chicken, beef or pork, and the soup is garnished with fried shallots, boiled egg and wontons.
Recommended:
Bakso Lapangan Tembak Senayan, near Senayan City Mall
3. Ape Cake
Photo by Mo Riza, Flickr CC
Ape Cake (pronounced AH-Peh) is a delicious crêpe like dessert. The middle is made of coconut, sugar, and pandan flavoring which gives it the green coloring.
4. Bakpao (Meat Bun)
Photo by Chung Dha Lam, Flickr CC
You can also find excellent food in Jakarta’s Chinatown, one of these being Bakpao, or steamed meat buns. They are originally made with pork, but you will often find chicken or veggie ones in Indonesia.
Recommended Stall:
Bakpao Lombobattang: Jl. Boulevard Raya PD9 No. 11, Kelapa Gading, Jakarta, Indonesia
5. Satay
Satay are meat skewers, made from a variety of meats that have been marinated in turmeric, which often gives them a yellowish color. They are served with peanut sauce and are one of my favorite Indonesian treats.
Recommended:
Sate Ragusa (Jl. Veteran 1 No. 10)