Best fine dining in Jakarta

Namaaz is Indonesia’s first molecular gastronomy restaurant. Chef Andrian Ishak combines his passion for art and science to create innovative and playful dishes, from new takes on traditional food to wacky food pairings. Each dish will take you by surprise – a bar of foamy soap in a dish is actually a sweet dessert (a play on words because in Indonesia, dessert is called ‘pencuci mulut’ or ‘washing the mouth’), while a realistic-looking lipstick turns out to be a cake. There isn’t an a la carte menu; instead, guests can try 17-course creations  (Rp 1,250,000 per person), which change with the season.

This is one of Jakarta’s most well-known establishments, located right in the heart of the city. Perched high up on the 56th floor of the BCA Tower, the views from up here are breathtaking – it’s worth coming at sunset to soak up the scenery with a cocktail. The food is equally impressive, featuring contemporary Asian and Western dishes put together under the guidance of Chef Andy Gozali. Grilled dishes are their specialty, and as well as fresh and dry-aged meats, the kitchen serves dishes like maple glazed salmon (Rp 280,000) and pepper dust confit duck leg (Rp 250,000). There’s a real party vibe on the weekend, with DJs and dancing.

As soon as you step into Twelve, you’ll feel as if you’ve entered a grand theatre with its pagodas, statues, and high, lofty ceilings. Featuring an upper level with VIP rooms and a saké bar, Twelve is the perfect venue for a celebratory meal or date night. The menu features traditional Chinese dishes made with Japanese ingredients and techniques, inspired by Japan’s largest Chinatown in Yokohama. The two open kitchens are overseen by head chef Daisuke Kamata, where patrons can watch the team firing up a range of meat, poultry, and seafood dishes like Peking duck (Rp 250,000 for half duck), sake drunken prawns (Rp 190,000), and kalbi char siew (Rp 280,000).

Tucked away in the affluent area of South Jakarta, Sofia At The Gunawarman is the best choice for a special occasion. With its high, coffered ceilings, elegant furniture, and stylish decor, the restaurant’s luxurious interiors are reminiscent of a European stately home. The food is fit for royalty too, with a range of elevated Western and Indonesian dishes. Start off with the grilled bone marrow (Rp 180,000) before moving onto the ravioli truffle (Rp 190,000). Find elevated Indonesian classics like nasi goreng wagyu (Rp 250,000), or opt for whole fresh lobster or Tasmanian steaks.

Towering above the city on the 67th floor, Henshin is the highest rooftop restaurant and bar in Jakarta. With indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a private dining area on the 69th floor, guests can take in incredible 360-degree views of the city while they dine on Nikkei cuisine, a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian food. An open-kitchen concept allows you to watch the chefs in action, led by head chef Diana Matute. Some signature dishes to order include chaufa karaage (Rp 280,000) and lomo saltado (Rp 555,000). Otherwise, go for the tasting menus (from Rp 1,300,000 per person) to sample the best of everything.

For a taste of España, make a beeline for Caspar. In addition to Spanish classics like paella and tapas, the menu (overseen by executive chef Rafael M. Millan), features a range of high-quality steaks, ribs, fish dishes, soups, and sides. The tapas range from Rp 60,000 to Rp 150,000 per dish, and if there are at least two of you, the Paella Valenciana (Rp 370,000) is highly recommended. To quench your thirst, choose from a selection of Spanish wines or let the resident mixologist whip something up from their extensive cocktail menu. The cosy dining rooms – complete with banquette seating and sofas – are perfect for unwinding with friends and loved ones, and there’s even a dance floor for post-meal boogies.

If you’re looking for sleek and sophisticated but with an unpretentious menu, Pantja may just be what you’re looking for. With a farm-to-table concept led by chef Rapha Menchaca, the restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients, fresh pasta, and open-fire cooking. As well as a mouthwatering snack and starter selection, the menu is separated into ‘farm’, ‘grain’, and ‘fire’. Try dishes like cauliflower with black garlic and Thai basil (Rp 165,000), tagliolini pasta with uni, lemon, and garlic (Rp 575,000), or indulge in Korean short ribs with ssamjang, sesame leaves, and kimchi (Rp 695,000). On the drinks side, you’re spoilt for choice with everything from classic cocktails to lesser-known historic concoctions – it’s no surprise that Pantja is listed as 27th in Asia’s Best Bars 2024.