Restaurants we recommend
Some of you will be flying over 11000km to attend our wedding. It would be a shame if the only culinary memories you bring back to home are those of nasi goreng and mie goreng.
To help you with that, we’ve created a list of our favorite restaurants in Jakarta.
In case you’re staying longer:
In case you’re staying for longer than one day, we’ve also created these guides for you :
Landmarks, Museums & What to do
Cool areas in Jakarta
GLODOK / CHINATOWN
Glodok is Jakarta’s bustling Chinatown, a vibrant district known for its rich cultural heritage, historic architecture, and lively markets. Located in the western part of the city, Glodok is famous for its narrow streets lined with shops selling traditional Chinese medicine, herbs, spices, and a wide variety of goods. The area is also home to many Chinese temples, including the iconic Vihara Dharma Bhakti, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Jakarta. Glodok’s food scene is a highlight, with numerous street food vendors and restaurants serving authentic Chinese dishes, including dim sum, noodles, and sweet treats. As one of Jakarta’s oldest neighborhoods, Glodok offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting the deep cultural influence of the Chinese community in Indonesia.
KOTA TUA
Kota Tua, or “Old Town,” is the historic heart of Jakarta, showcasing the city’s colonial past with its well-preserved Dutch-era architecture. Located in the northern part of the city, this district was once the center of the Dutch East Indies trading empire and is home to several important landmarks, including the Fatahillah Square, the Jakarta History Museum, and the Wayang Museum. With its cobblestone streets and classic buildings, Kota Tua offers a glimpse into Jakarta’s rich history and colonial heritage. Today, it is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, blending cultural attractions with lively cafes, galleries, and street performances. The area is also undergoing revitalization efforts to preserve its historical charm while making it a hub for tourism and cultural activities.
MENTENG
Menteng is a historic and upscale neighborhood in central Jakarta, known for its tree-lined streets, colonial-era architecture, and leafy parks. The area features a blend of elegant Dutch-influenced buildings and modern residences, along with cultural landmarks such as the Taman Suropati park and the large number of embassies that dot the area. Menteng is also famous for its vibrant arts scene, cafés, and proximity to Jakarta’s main business districts. Its calm, residential atmosphere offers a contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city’s more commercial zones.
Landmarks!
ISTIQLAL MOSQUE
The Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, standing as a symbol of Indonesia’s independence and religious harmony. Completed in 1978, it was designed to reflect Indonesia’s diverse cultural and religious heritage, with a blend of modernist and traditional Islamic architectural styles. The mosque can accommodate over 100,000 worshippers, making it a focal point for Islamic prayers and national events. Located near the National Monument (Monas) and the Catholic Cathedral, Istiqlal symbolizes Indonesia’s commitment to religious tolerance, as it stands alongside the Christian cathedral in a rare demonstration of interfaith unity. Its grand dome, soaring minaret, and expansive prayer hall make it not only a spiritual center but also a significant cultural landmark in Jakarta.
NATIONAL MONUMENT (MONAS)
Monas, or the National Monument, is one of Jakarta’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of Indonesia’s struggle for independence. Standing 132 meters tall in Merdeka Square, Monas was inaugurated in 1975 and is topped with a golden flame, representing the nation’s fiery spirit of freedom. The monument is surrounded by lush gardens and a reflecting pool, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can ascend to the top for panoramic views of Jakarta’s skyline, while the base houses a museum that chronicles Indonesia’s history, from the pre-colonial era to the independence movement. Monas serves as a national symbol of unity, pride, and the nation’s journey toward independence.
Museums!
PROCLAMATION HOUSE (RUMAH PROKLAMASI)
The Proclamation House (Rumah Proklamasi) in Jakarta is a historically significant site where Indonesia’s independence was officially declared on August 17, 1945. Located in the Menteng district, the house was the residence of Dr. Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta, Indonesia’s first president and vice president. It was here that the two leaders, along with other key figures of the independence movement, signed the proclamation of independence, marking the end of Dutch colonial rule. Today, the house has been preserved as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the pivotal moments of Indonesia’s struggle for freedom. The Proclamation House stands as a powerful symbol of the nation’s journey toward independence and national identity.
NATIONAL MUSEUM (MUSEUM NASIONAL)
The National Museum of Indonesia (Museum Nasional) is one of Jakarta’s most important cultural institutions. The museum houses an extensive collection that spans Indonesia’s rich history, from its prehistoric origins to its modern cultural heritage. The museum is renowned for its impressive displays of ancient artefacts, including prehistoric tools, classical sculptures, traditional textiles, and ethnographic exhibits that showcase the country’s diverse ethnic groups. Its central building, with its grand columns and expansive galleries, also features a fascinating array of gold, ceramics, and relics from Indonesia’s various kingdoms and dynasties. A visit to the National Museum offers a comprehensive journey through Indonesia’s history and cultural diversity, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the nation’s past.