The best restaurants in Indonesia to book a seat at right now

What is it Upscale Indonesian dining in South Jakarta, ideal for special occasions or to impress a date.

Why we love it Inspired by Javanese royalty, Plataran Dharmawangsa mimics a traditional Javanese royal family compound, with a 150-year-old heritage Joglo house, pavilions, and a conservatory overlooking a garden. The food is fit for royalty too, with an array of elevated Indonesian dishes from all over the archipelago, such as Sei Sapi Asap, smoked sirloin with spices (Rp 265,000), and Bebek Kari Manggis, which is roasted duck with mangosteen and curry sauce (Rp 159,000).

Time Out tip For a light meal, pop in for the Afternoon Tea, which includes an assortment of traditional cakes, snacks, and herbal teas.

What is it Contemporary Chinese food in fancy digs with a rooftop lounge and panoramic city views.

Why we love it Spanning the 25th and 26th floor of Alila SCBD, Chāo Cháo is one of the best places in Jakarta for dinner with a view. Led by Michelin Star Chef Tong Chee Hwee, the food is equally impressive, featuring traditional Chinese flavours with a modern flair. Favourites include the Chāo Cháo Spicy Tiger Prawns in Yellow Curry Sauce (Rp 248,000) and the Braised Crab Noodles (Rp 228,000). Visit on a Sunday for the all-you-can-eat dim sum from Rp 458,000 per person.

Time Out tip Head to the open-air terrace for after-dinner drinks, where cabanas, sofas and a dance floor are the perfect spot to unwind.

What is it Want to eat the whole of Indonesia? Kaum is a one-stop for authentic dishes from around the archipelago. Housed in a Dutch colonial bungalow, seating includes a bright and airy dining hall, cosy private rooms, and al fresco tables. 

Why we love it There’s nothing pretentious about the food at Kaum – in fact, their ethos is to serve familiar, down-to-earth dishes which have been elevated through locally sourced, high-quality ingredients. From small plates such as Batagor, a popular West Javanese snack of fried fish and prawn dumplings (Rp 68,000) to large plates like Kepiting Soka Saus Padang, or West Sumatran crispy soft shell crab in a sweet and spicy sauce (Rp 130,000), Kaum serves the best of each region of Indonesia.

Time Out tip Arrive a little early for an aperitif at the bar, where unique cocktails make the most of local fruits, spices, and herbs – the Kaum Highball (Rp 140,000) and the Sunda Margarita (Rp 130,000) are highly recommended.

What is it From the marble tabletops to the curved bar and velvet banquette seating, this chic bistro wouldn’t look out of place on the streets of Paris. 

Why we love it Combining old-world charm with contemporary elegance, Kong offers a stylish dining experience ideal for date nights or catch-ups with friends in the heart of Berawa. Heavy on the meat and seafood (but with plenty of vegetarian options, too), the menu focuses on European dishes such as the Salmon Carpaccio (Rp 135,000) and Duck Confit (Rp 215,000), as well as bistro classics like the 12-Hour Braised Short Ribs (Rp 345,000). The food is beautifully presented, and this goes for the handcrafted cocktails too – the Auburn River (Rp 155,000) is particularly recommended, a refreshing blend of vodka and butterfly pea, with hints of watermelon, vanilla and lychee.

Time Out tip Every Friday from 9pm onwards, Kong’s Fridays is the place to be for classic tunes and signature cocktails. 

What is it Latin-American fusion food with a rooftop tapas bar for sundowners.

Why we love it Colombian chefs Andres Beccera and German Rincon bring the flavours of Latin America to Bali, melding together European influences with local ingredients. Expect fresh and zingy ceviches, generously stuffed empanadas, premium cut steaks, and plenty of vegetarian options. Seafood, such as the Yellowfin Tuna & Salmon Roe Tartelette (Rp 55,000) and the Chargrilled Octopus (Rp 220,000), features heavily on the menu. 

Time Out tip The rooftop is a slice of Barcelona in Canggu with its plants, mural artwork, and sunset views. Catch live music here every Wednesday.

What is it Casual fine dining specialising in globally-inspired tapas, cocktails, and desserts. 

Why we love it The quality of food is hard to beat, a testament to award-winning chef and co-founder Kevin Cherkas (not to name drop, but he’s trained at Michelin Star restaurants, including El Bulli in Spain and Daniel in New York). Cuca’s whole concept is inventive comfort food meant for sharing – think Roasted Pork Buns (Rp 120,000), Turkish Meatballs (Rp 175,000), and Ricotta Gnocchi (Rp 210,000). 

Time Out tip Made with low-fat milk, dark chocolate, vanilla and hazelnut liqueur, the Moo cocktail (Rp 150,000) is a delightful adult’s version of your favourite childhood drink.

What is it Sitting above the treetops in the Four Seasons Resort, Ayung Terrace is the spot for long, lazy lunches overlooking Ubud’s rainforest.

Why we love it Head Chef Suta brings a wealth of local food knowledge, combining traditional recipes with contemporary techniques. Standout dishes include the creamy Beef Rendang (Rp 385,000) and the Grilled Lobster Asem Padeh (Rp 480,000). If you can’t quite decide what to go for, the Tasting Menu (Rp 1,500,000 per person) offers a selection of the most iconic Indonesian dishes. Add on a Four Seasons service and you’ll see why this place is worth visiting.

Time Out tip Wellness-oriented diners should check out the Sattvic Soul Food menu, packed with locally sourced whole grains, nuts and seeds, medicinal spices and herbs, and organic fruit and vegetables.