Best restaurants in Jakarta

What is it? Elegant American-style bistro with a menu curated by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and his son Cédric.

Why we love it The younger Vongerichten runs an Indonesian restaurant in NYC, so he knows a thing or two about blending Western and Asian influences. We find the prosciutto-wrapped pork chop (Rp 298,000) and the charred beef ribs (Rp 288,000) particularly impressive. Indonesians who can't live without their beloved carbs can opt for the duck confit fried rice (Rp 138,000) and wash it down with the Indonesian herbal drink, jamu.

Time Out tip Snatch their brunch prix fixe menu for Rp 288,000, which includes one appetiser and one main. Available from 11 AM to 3 PM.

What is it? Ethnic Batak cuisine from North Sumatra, traditionally served in modest diners, reimagined and elevated to fine dining.

Why we love it This trailblazing restaurant takes humble Batak dishes to extraordinary heights. During our visit, the tangy freshness of the dekke naniura (Batak-style ceviche) made with Japanese hamachi (Rp 198,000) absolutely blows us away. Equally impressive is their arsik—a spiced fish dish traditionally reserved for Christmas—reinvented with Canadian lobster (Rp 1,088,000) for a luscious twist. And the grilled meats? A carnivore’s dream, with options like Iberico pork, Kagoshima kurobuta, Miyazaki-gyu, and Australian wagyu, all kissed by the smoky aroma of applewood fire.

Time Out tip Meals here come with small plates of Batak side dishes, similar to Korean banchan. Don’t over-order like we did; leave room for these delicious extras.

What is it? Bistro-style spot serving unpretentious Minangkabau cuisine from West Sumatra, with a refined presentation.

Why we love it Watching Chef Marco Lim and his team prepare dishes like cumi panggang pacak (spicy grilled squid, Rp 84,000) and ayam pop (twice-cooked chicken, Rp 65,000) in the open kitchen is almost as enjoyable as eating them. Our contributor Ari assures us that these dishes remind him of his West Sumatran relatives’ Lunar New Year spread. This is due to the chef’s Chinese Peranakan family recipes, which are milder than your typical nasi padang buffet, yet equally authentic.

Time Out tip Take home ready-to-eat versions of their signature dishes, sold in vacuum-sealed packs.

What is it? Modern interpretations of beloved Indonesian classics, made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Brought to you by the same team behind Potato Head in Bali.

Why we love it Embark on a culinary journey across Indonesia with standout dishes like batagor (fried fish dumplings, Rp 68,000), whose perfect crispiness and rich flavours might forever spoil us for Bandung’s street versions. Then there’s lempah kuning (fish and prawn in turmeric-based sauce, Rp 235,000), a zesty masterpiece that transports us straight to the crystalline waters of Bangka Belitung. Even their cocktails add a playful twist, drawing inspiration from traditional Indonesian drinks like saguer (Minahasan palm wine) and congyang (rice wine from Semarang).

Time Out tip Reservations are a must. If you’re dining solo, grab a seat in front of their open kitchen to watch the chefs display their culinary prowess.

What is it? Classic French bistro fare with a warm and pleasant ambience.

Why we love it While there are other upscale French restaurants in town, Pierre sets itself apart with its relaxed, welcoming vibe. It’s the kind of place where we feel free to laugh a little louder, clink glasses over charcuterie, and indulge in bubbly without a hint of guilt. Their l'entrecôte au poivre with Angus beef (Rp 195,000) is divine, and their baba au rhum (Rp 150,000) with chantilly cream makes for a perfect sweet ending.

Time Out tip Look out for their “La Cave du Pierre” events, showcasing wines from specific French regions paired with special tidbits and mains.

What is it? Rooftop Chinese fusion restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Tong Chee Hwee.

Why we love it This spot is a sanctuary for inventive Chinese cuisine, with jaw-dropping views of the Jakarta skyline adding to its allure. The Peking duck with Siberian caviar (Rp 1,388,000) is pure decadence, while the spicy tiger prawn (Rp 248,000) delivers a satisfying kick that has us savouring every bite. Finish your meal with a drink from the rooftop bar, where the selection ranges from expertly crafted cocktails to an impressive lineup of wines—perfect for a stylish evening above the city.

Time Out tip Our weekend favourite is their all-you-can-eat dim sum spread, available every Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM (Rp 458,000).

What is it? A mall chain restaurant focusing on Betawi cuisine, the food of Jakarta itself.

Why we love it Betawi cuisine may be Jakarta’s own, but it often takes a backseat in the city’s food scene. That’s why discovering the soto Betawi (coconut milk soup with beef, Rp 75,000) here feels like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl. Even our contributor Ari, who normally avoids vegetables, can’t resist the asinan Betawi (vegetable salad with spicy sour peanut dressing, Rp 45,000)—proof that this dish truly hits the spot.

Time Out tip No Indonesian meal is complete without krupuk crackers. We always get a bag, available on each table, with options from cassava crisps to beef chicharrón.

What is it? Jakarta’s sole entry in Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024, serving modern dishes with a local twist.

Why we love it August may not call itself an Indonesian restaurant, but its creative use of local ingredients like torch ginger and Cosmos caudatus leaves tells a different story. We are blown away by their wagyu tenderloin with Pangium-infused espagnole sauce as it melted in our mouths, and octopus laksa, which delivered a zingy Andaliman pepper kick. Knowing that their ingredients are sourced from local farmers and fishermen makes the meal even more satisfying.

Time Out tip No à la carte here; choose from a 12-course Tasting Menu (90 minutes, Rp 1,250,000) or a 16-course Chef’s Journey (120 minutes, Rp 1,650,000).