Bali Nightlife 2013

Bali nightlife is exciting! If you are there for a short holiday, or if you're an expat partying twice a month, you'll have a lot of fun. You'll find the atmosphere is generally laid-back and festive with about 10 decent options for clubbing on weekends. If you are not into clubbing, then you'll have a much larger number of bars and lounges, often with live music, cheap food and happy hours. 

It is good destination for singles too: There aren't too many prostitutes if you compare with other holiday destinations in Asia but you'll have your chance at finding a match rather easily... The fat, sweating Norwegian or Australian girls dancing in Bounty may not be your type, but trust me they are available...

To make it simple: Kuta is where young people go, Legian is for families, Nusa Dua is dead, Sanur is for working girls, Ubud is for new-age hippies and Seminyak is for expats.

Having said that, I don't need to write a long article about the best bars and nightclubs since it is pretty easy to simply develop:

If you are young, in holiday, and that you would like to experience a sort of college party, go to Kuta and especially to SkyGarden. Even if you don't like Kuta you should visit it because it is quite spectacular. You have 5-6 levels with different music and shows, and a really mixed international crowd. A real pick-up place too, with Indonesians and international backpackers/travellers. The last floor, with the terrace is pretty cool with old-school music and an older crowd. There are some decent clubs around Skygarden with similar commercial music, but they are just good for warm-up. Drinks are cheap and people tend to get drunk very early. It's a good thing because with the new rules, everything closes around 3am. Don't waste your time.

Among those other clubs, those that are usually happening: Eikon (80% Australian), Vi Ai Pi, Bounty (100% Australian), Apache, Engine Room, Paddy's (older crowd with prostitutes), MbarGo and Surfers Bar. There are a few live music bars as well with some old looking prostitutes just across the street from Paddy's and on Jalan Legian (Crusoes' and Love Shack for instance). If you just want to have a drink, there are some friendly joints in the Poppies Lane too. Popular with a younger Indonesian crowd are Brewers, Hard Rock Café, and everything located inside the brand new BeachWalk Mall.

Paddy's Club in Kuta

If you are older, and you want a more sophisticated nightlife, go to Seminyak. The best club there would be Mint in my opinion even though the crowd is worsening every week. Some other places are popular and have a nice crowd, especially Hu'u (full of Jakartans but the music is commercial, just like in Kuta), Maria Magdalena (good music but a bit empty). For live music try JP's Warung. For gay bars, try Bali Joe and the nearby places (they change the name every year so hard to keep up). For pre-party warm-up, you could try the following bars: 2nd floor of Mamasan restaurant, Rumours, Red Carpet Champagne Lounge (surprisingly popular), the bar at Ultimo, and Mantra in front of Mint. Three places I don't really enjoy but popular as well and with views on the beach: Potato Head, Ku De Ta, and one of the bars of Hotel W. In those 3 hotels, the prices are quite high but the crowd is more sophisticated. They have some special events once every two months. If there is one when you are in Bali, it is worth checking out.

Another area in Seminyak attracts a laid-back crowd, Jalan Double Six. It has some beach bars like La Plancha and similar ones. Not my cup of tea but worth checking. Also has Cocoon (best to go on a Sunday night with DJ sessions by the beach) and La Vida Loca which is the equivalent of a Blok M bar in Jakarta but near the beach.

Few other places to check: For latin nights and salsa, you have Cubana and Bahiana. The latter is the more popular but it has become a sort of prostitute bar in the past few years and as a consequence, the atmosphere has deteriorated.

At last, there are a few relatively new venues that are becoming popular in Bali nightlife. You have Pyramid in Kuta and Eatoss in Seminyak. Both have DJs playing electronic music. Pyramid is OK after 2 or 3am but I never saw it too crowded. I've not tried Eatoss but heard some good reviews.

If around 5am you are still not ready to sleep, you can go to DeeJay café in Kuta, near Kartika Plaza. Many hookers there and a lot of Ecstasy. It closes at 11am. Regarding the drug situation in Bali, I'll strongly advise not to take anything while you are here except alcohol and mushrooms. Mushrooms are surprisingly legal and will cost around 5$.

If you are more interested in Indonesian "North-Jakarta" style nightlife, you may want to try two nightclubs: Adora (ex-Blue Eyes Club) and Bosche. Both are mega-club with pumping house music, complete with karaoke rooms and lady companions. Bosche is one of my favourites and if you are a group of males from Chinese ancestry, you may want to check it out. 

Outside of those areas, the nightlife in Bali is pretty poor. Sanur is infamous for having a few massage parlours and lady bars but I have never checked one actually. In Ubud, there are also some bars with live music but it never gets rocking past 1am...

You are welcome to add comments to this page to suggest your best clubs and bars for nightlife in Bali. 

Many thanks, Thibaud.

Batam Nightlife Guide

Nightlife in Batam - Overview:

Batam is a small island in the Free Trade Zone (FTZ) located about 45 minutes from Singapore by ferry. With a population of 800,000 souls, it is the home to a small community of expatriates, most of them working in the Oil & Gas or in the High Tech manufacturing. Unlike in other parts of Indonesia, you'll find that Batam is rather well organized and clean.

The Indonesian island of Batam has long been one the best kept secrets as a low cost getaway for Singaporean local and expats.  The island has seven golf courses, several resorts and an expat entertainment area like Blok M / Kemang.

Four – Five Star hotels run from as low as USD $45 - $80 per night and green fees can range from USD $65 - $105 which includes twin buggy sharing & caddy.  Drinks at the pubs run from USD $2 - $5 and mixed drinks from $4 - $6. Batam also has a fair share of spa’s and traditional massage outlets that will cost you USD $10 for 60 minutes and slightly higher if you want sauna etc.

The Batam nightlife is very active, as you will read on this blog post and our goal is to write comprehensively as possible. We urge visitors to share your experiences, updates and feedback.

Batam for Fun: Nightlife, Massage, Pubs, Golf, Casinos and Shopping:

The main entertainment centre is located in downtown Nagoya: ‘The Nagoya Entertainment District’ or commonly referred to by expats as ‘The NED’. This area attracts a fair number of Indonesian girls working in massage parlours, karaokes, or freelancing in some bars & clubs.

The NED is a bit like Blok M in Jakarta, only bigger, with a decent concentration of nightlife venues, catering to different markets. Generally speaking though, the atmosphere is laid-back and girl-friendly, and you won't find very chic or sophisticated bars & clubs like in Singapore or Jakarta. You may meet all kind of girls there, but you should be aware that most of them are thinking in dollars.

During the day, there isn't much to do in Batam, except for golfing, some shopping (cheap clothes and fake stuff) and going to massage parlours / spa’s. All of these activities will be reviewed below.

Click on the map for larger size

Getting there:

From Singapore: 

You have to go to Harbour Front ferry terminal and there are about 5 ferry companies with service to Batam.  There are several port destinations in Batam:  Batam Centre, Sekupang, Nongsa & Harbour Bay (Batu Ampar)   The closest location to downtown Nagoya and the entertainment district is ‘Harbour Bay’ which is 5-10 minutes from The NED and all the pubs.

The ferry ticket from Singapore is SGD $48 for two ways or SGD $42 for one way. This includes the SGD $21 fuel surcharge from the ferry operators.

By Air from Jakarta:

By Air you can take Garuda, Lion Air etc. The flight is one hour twenty minutes. The air fare on Lion runs about Rp. 380,000 each way (1 week advance booking). On Garuda it can run twice that amount.

Visa from Singapore:
ASEAN nationals can get a free visa upon arrival good for 30 days. Most westerners can get a holiday visa on arrival for USD $25 for 30 days or USD $10 for 7 days. The 7 days visa for $10 is subject to change.  At one point it was not available then re-instated.  There is no guarantee you can get it.

If you require a visa it is suggested you pay with USD – otherwise you be charged a premium in the exchange rate.
 

Taxis

Taxis in Batam are far more expensive than in Jakarta. Although a law was passed to have the taxi’s metered – the taxis installed the meters but disconnected them!  Many of the taxis are substandard ‘rust buckets’ and if you are western, the taxi drivers will try to charge you a premium.

Taxi fares from the airport to the downtown Nagoya is Rp 80,000 – and the ride is approx. 30 minutes
Taxi fares from the ferry terminal to downtown Nagoya should be no more than Rp 30,000 – for a 5-minute ride!  The taxi drivers will try to charge you Rp 50,000 and show you a paper with a government logo and insist that this is the published regulated price!  Negotiate – there are tons of taxis available.
 

Hotels in Batam

There are many hotels in the Downtown Nagoya area close to The NED and the nightlife.

Planet Holiday – One of the best with rooms running about SGD $90 2 blocks from the action

Harmoni Hotel - closest hotel to all the pubs. Rooms run about SGD $80 per night

Goodway Hotel  - an older hotel but it has big rooms & a nice spa. Rooms will run around Rp, 500,000

Your best bet it to buy a hotel voucher from Kaha Travel – located in Nagoya next to the Jamsostek Bldg. I suggest you call them before you arrive to ensure availability.  Batam often has many government events and the hotels fill up quickly. It’s also wise to avoid Batam during major Singapore holidays.                                                                                         
Kaha Travel in Nagoya:  +62 778 703 4790

The Pubs

In the past few years there have been an explosion of pubs!  Way too many for a small expat community. A visitor may find many of the pubs empty or with less than a handful of customers. In our Batam Pub Listing below we only added those that are the most entertaining and/or of interest.


There are over 25 pubs and counting with more opening every few months.  Only several Batam pubs have "real" kitchens but most can provide you with a menu and will order food for you from the other pubs.  The majority of the pubs are ‘entertainment’ driven featuring SPG’s. In the past two years some pubs have adopted a Pattaya / Manila approach.  The girls will ask you to buy them ‘ladies drinks’ which can cost anywhere from USD $5 – USD $12. It’s a good idea you ask the girl what kind of drink they want before you end-up with a huge bar tab for enumerable ‘Long Island Ice Teas’.

Several pubs charge a bar fine if you want to leave with one of the girls or you will need to purchase several ‘ladies drinks’ like in Manila.  This policy varies from pub to pub. At last, most of the pubs have happy hours from 17:00 – 19:00.
 

Batam Nighlife Pubs listing:

Lucy’s Oarhouse
Lucy’s is the oldest pub in The NED. It’s the major networking hub for the oil & gas industry. A good place to catch-up with your mates and Lucy’s has the best price on Happy Hour in The NED which is from 3 Pm to 7 PM.  You can buy beers for Rp.18,000.  They just renovated and installed a new kitchen which offers western food and Mexican dishes. They have a pool table & free WiFI.

The New Place – Sports Bar
The New Place is the most popular sports pub in The NED – several large screens with every possible global sports event you can imagine.  They have an extensive menu offering western & local food. The New Place also has one of the largest selections of wines & spirits.

The Bistro
The Bistro is owned and operated by a German national.  It prides itself as a fine dining restaurant with European (mostly German) cuisine.

Hot Spot
A popular traditional British pub known for its: ‘pies, curries & beer’. One of the best place for Western food in Batam.

Cock & Bull: (Formerly known as ‘The Red Cock’): The Cock and Bull has retained the same menu as the Red Cock but no Haggis..  Good selection of Western fare & some local dishes. Prices for entree’s range from $6 - $12.  Nice ambience, consistent quality of food and some new ladies.

Fat Willy’s/Dirty Dicks – This is one of the newest and hottest pubs in The NED – a must!

Wallabies – just re-opened in The NED

Pattaya (Ex Java) – just opened and may feature Thai food…

D’Angel’s  - are set-up for ‘speed pool’

Asylum – A very popular night spot with girls dancing on the bar and overall mayhem.

Our Bar – Popular with Singaporeans

Slainte Bar – Open 2012, mostly popular with Asians.

The Last Pub – Owned by the founder of the Sugar Pub – one of the oldest pubs in Batam

Red Rose – Serves British & Scottish food

Koenigs – Great selection of wines & ladies

Other pubs to be reviewed: Ice Pub, Dragon Bar, Classic's, Bintang Bali or BB Bar, VK’s (Ex Jessey’s Pub), Monsoon (Ex CAT’s), Bar Fly, Chili's, 4Play, Barbarella (behind HotSpot).

Our Bar in Batam (Picture from Our Bar Facebook)

Please be advised that some bars will attempt to exploit an unsuspecting expat and are rip-offs.  Loaded with girls that push expensive ladies drinks and before you know it - you will have spent $100 + with nothing to show for it.  Insult to injury - if he fancies one of the girls he has to pay a bar fine OR buy a heap of ladies drinks. Then - the gal will charge him $100 + for a booking!  You may find that in some pubs the gals are older than the women you will find in Blok M or Kemang etc.
 

Discos (Trance clubs like Stadium Jakarta)

Pacific Disco: One of the most famous place for Singaporeans in Batam when in comes to nighlife, it is a huge club with loud techno and girls everywhere. North Jakarta style entertainment, not everyone will like it, especially if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.  It has a young crowd and be sure to carry a small torch with you!  (pitch black!  Beware of pick-pockets).

Planet - Located in Planet Holiday Hotel. Similar with all One Stop Entertainment nightlife venues in Indonesia.

WARNING! – using or possessing drugs in Indonesia is a criminal offense and possession can land you 5 years in jail!  & a stiff fine!   When in these clubs be very careful of women that approach you and want you to buy them ‘obat’ (Xstacy) – you may find yourself being arrested by an undercover police officer…  If a police officer wishes to search you – be sure it’s done in front of witnesses and YOU empty your pockets...
 

Good Restaurants:

As far as 'food' goes - well, Batam is not that interesting and in some cases - the prices are more expensive than Singapore !  The most popular western food locations are:  The Bistro (German food - pricey) , The New Place, The Cock & Bull and Hot Spot.  The other establishments offer rather run-of-the-mill pub grub.   If you like Indonesian food, just stick to it.

Speaking about Indonesian food, one restaurant is particularly recommended. It is Sunda restaurant, located walking distance from the NED and from The Good Way (across the street from the Harmoni Hotel, near the Lai Lai Hotel). It offers a wide buffet style – ‘no frills’ wide assortment of Sunda & Local delicacies. A meal with several courses with a soft drink runs around RP 25,000.  (try the grilled chicken!)  It’s often very crowded and a favorite with the locals. A must if you like local food.
 

Massage Parlours:

There are many, many massage parlours / spa’s in Batam. One of the best in the traditional category Adorabella, located in the Pacific Palace Hotel. In the sleazy category, you will find many that offer similar services around the bigger hotels like Harmoni. They offer massage for USD $10 for 60 minutes and are often frequented by Singaporeans.  For a little more, you can have private room / spa with a jacuzzi. The most expensive one in that category is Atalanta spa, with high end equipment and the prettiest girls. Very popular with Asian tourists.

Gambling and Casinos in Batam
Scattered about the island and in some malls are ‘arcades’ with gaming machines – locally referred to as ‘Jackpots’ (geleper: It should be noted that these types of machines are not electronic slot machines per se). Players buy tokens to use with the games and are paid any winnings in tokens. Attendants outside the arcades exchange tokens for cash, which, according to critics, is done to prevent the impression that the arcades are involved in gambling.   You should note that when redeeming your tokens for cash, expect to have 10-20% premium deducted from your winnings!   If you win $100 – you will only net $80 -$90.

The payoffs in these machines is very, very low and you should be very careful.  Although the operators have a license to operate these arcades, they are subject to being raided and closed and at any time as ‘gambling’ is outlawed under Indonesian Law and clearly, they are operated for gambling purposes.  You don’t want to be caught in one in a raid!  A no-win situation!

Regarding the situation of gambling and casinos in Batam 2012, I recommend you to read this Jakarta Post article from September: Gambling is back in Batam.
 

Dangers, Annoyances and Scams:

Taxi Drivers  - Be careful. Taxis in Batam are not metered and if you look like a newbie – you’ll be taken for a ride!  Across from Lusys there are some local drivers that you can trust or ask some of the pub owners / managers for a reliable driver

NEVER take-up a taxi driver on an offer to ‘find you woman mista?’ - !!!

One last thing about taxis: Prepare the correct amount of change if you can to avoid being rounded up...

STD ‘s – ALWAYS use protections. Statistics from 2007 state that 9% of commercial sex workers in Batam re HIV + ~ ~!

Drug Dealers – Western Expats are a far and few in-between in Batam. Be careful.  If you are in a club you could be targeted.
 

A Batam Nightlife Alternative: Golf!

Batam has 7 golf courses and green fee’s run from USD $65 - $105 which includes twin buggy sharing & caddy.

Courses:
•    Batam Hills Golf Resort
•    Indah Puri Golf Resort
•    Palm Springs Golf Resort
•    Southlinks Country Club
•    Sukajadi Golf Club
•    Tamarin Santana Golf Club
•    Tering Bay Golf & Country Club

For More Information on Golf Packages you can contact Peter Williams  (UK national) from Paradise Golf Holidays by email (pete.w@paradisegolf.co.uk) or by mobile: +62 813 64 339 449 (Batam), +65 90848070 (Singapore).

We will complete this review from time to time with new information about Batam nightlife. Please help us also keeping this updated by sending new infos or comments.

Ladies' Nights in Jakarta (Updated List)

To prepare this list of Ladies' nights in Jakarta and to make sure that the information is accurate, I've called directly all the bars and clubs listed below, one by one (on October 21st, 2011). Hopefully there won't be too many changes soon, and in case you know something, please leave me a comment or send me an email: thibaud@jakarta100bars.com.

So, lucky ladies, if you go to the following bars on their Ladies' night, you will get the following discount or promo:

Everyday, Ladies' night in:

-De Burse
50% off all drinks except wine, starting at 7pm till 9pm. 

Every Tuesday, Ladies' night in:

- Mandarin Oriental
Free selected drinks from 8pm to 1am

Every Wednesday, Ladies' night in:

- Liquid Exchange
Buy one, get one (cocktail) from 8pm to 12pm

- CJ's
Free entrance for ladies

- Luv's Bar

Free entrance + one free welcome drink

- Tribeca

Free entry all night long

50% off selected drinks from 6pm to 9pm

- X2

Free entrance + one free welcome drink all night long

- Tin Pan Alley
Free flow on selected cocktails from 7pm to 9pm

- Immigrant

Free entry for ladies all night long

- Domain
Free entry all night long
1 free drink voucher from 10pm to 12pm (can be used anytime on the same night)

- The Venue
R n'B nights with free entrance for ladies (Rp40,000 for men)

- Nu China
Free entry all night long

Every Thursday, Ladies' night in:

- Cazbar
Free flow lychee martini from 8pm to 11pm

- Aphrodite
Free selected drinks from 8pm to 12pm

- Fez
Free selected drinks (vodka, gin, bintang) from 6pm to 10pm

- De Hooi
50% off selected drinks and cocktails starting 7pm

Every Friday, Ladies' night in:

- Tempus (Ritz-Carlton):

Free entrance all night long + Welcoming drink

Every Saturday, Ladies' night in:

- Aphrodite
Free selected drinks for ladies from 10pm to 12pm

- Tipsy
Free entry & drinks for ladies until midnight

Do not have ladies' night: Dragonfly, Blowfish, Eastern Promise, BATS, 30, Satu Lagi

If you think I forgot something, let me know!

Partnership Jakarta100bars & Discover Jakarta City App for Mobile

Discover Jakarta – Free City Mobile Guide

The Smartphone App "Discover Jakarta" is a location based mobile guide that shows insider places and special offers in Jakarta. The app targets mainly the clubbing and nightlife community, both for locals and expats. 

The content is listed in 25 categories such as Nightlife, Food & Dining, Events, Health & Beauty and others and it has photos and comprehensive descriptions. 

Especially the Google Maps function is very nice. If e.g. you are looking for the closest spa in the category Health & Beauty it shows you all offers and the directions how to get there.

Jakarta100Bars has teamed up with Discover Jakarta and you can find our recommendations of the places in the App.

The App is available in the Apple app store for iPhone/iPad and in Google Play for all Android devices (download for free).

Download Links:

Apple Store

https://itunes.apple.com/id/app/discover-jakarta/id525925578?mt=8

Google Play Store

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=intouch.sby&hl=de

Email: info@prime-consultancy.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DiscoverJKT

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiscoverJKT_ID

Website: www.discoverjakarta.net

Here are some screenshots to understand how it works:

Good Japanese Restaurants in Jakarta

In four years of blogging, this review about the best Japanese restaurants in Jakarta was probably the hardest I ever wrote. I wanted to give the most accurate information as possible, so I did a lot of research, some visits, many phone calls, and spent a week on it. I hope you can help me with your comments if you find any errors (wrong phone number, restaurant closed, etc...). It would be great if you can share your best venues as well.

Almost all the good Japanese restaurants in Jakarta are listed here (as of November 2011), by alphabetical order. I will also post separate reviews about the best shabu-shabu, best sushis, most expensive restaurants, best all-you-can-eat, etc... Here are all the Japanese restaurants you should know about in Jakarta:

Ajihara (Jalan Melawai "Little Tokyo", Blok M ; Tel: +62-21 7201340): Authentic izakaya, popular with expats, with a karaoke above. Big portions, do not hesitate to share. Recommended dishes: Sashimi, teuchi soba (buckwheat noodles), soba sushi. Around Rp150-200k per person for a meal with beer.

Ajisen Ramen: Chain originally from Japan, with branches all over Jakarta and Asia (more than 200). Cheap, well-marketed, but disappointing taste.

Akane (Crowne Plaza, Gatot Subroto ; Tel: +62-21 522 0735): Modern Izakaya, regularly listed as one of the best Japanese restaurants in Jakarta. Tokyo-style, creative cuisine, yet unpretentious and not too expensive. Same owner (Ueda-San) as Boci-Boci, Konoha, Tsukinofune, Sumiya. Recommended dishes: Sushi, yakitori, bento boxes...

Aoki (Gran Mahakam Hotel, Blok M ; Tel: +62-21 7209 966): Reputed all-you-can-eat buffet shabu-shabu with grade 9 wagyu beef (Rp159++).

Asuka (Marriott Hotel, Mega Kuningan ; +62-21 5798 8898): Modern interior, with strictly authentic Japanese cuisine.Headed by a Japanese Chef. The omakaze will cost you above Rp1,5 million per person. Cheaper, you can try their buffet on Sunday Buffet for Rp300k without drinks. Voted Jakarta's Best Japanese restaurant a few times.

Aya restaurant (Jalan Mahakam 11A ; Tel: +62-21 7279 5184): Authentic restaurant, omakase for Rp1 million or more. Japanese chef.

Basara (Summitmas Tower, Jalan Sudirman ; Tel: +62-21 520 1233) Old, but underrated restaurant, popular with Japanese expats and executives. About Rp200,000 per head, rather old, - popular with japanese expats and businessman

Blowfish (Same building as the eponymous nightclub, Gatot Subroto ; Tel: +62-21 5297 1212): Chic venue, with prices higher than average. Creative fusion sushi.

Boci Boci (Ambai Building, GF, Jl. Melawai 8 No. 4 ; Tel: 7279 8463) : Great Izakaya in Blok M, excellent Japanese bistro-style cuisine, affordable. Recommended dishes: Ramen, Yakitori. Popular with Japanese expats.

Bushido (Grand Sahid Jaya Hotel, Jalan Sudirman ; Tel: +62-21 570 4444): Set lunch or à la carte. Affordable but needs to be improved both in taste and atmosphere.

Caza Suki (Mahakam ; Tel: +62-21 724 6375): Famous for its affordable, all you can eat buffet (Rp110,000++). 2 kinds: Shabu-shabu and Barbeque. Decent, popular with Indonesians. Also in Kebon Sirih, 200 meters before Jalan Jaksa, since 2008 (Tel: +62-21 344-7912)

Ebeya Steak House (Ritz-Carlton Pacific Place ; Tel: +62-21 5797 3661): Modern Japanese cuisine. Probably one of the most expensive restaurants in Jakarta: 2,5 million per person for teppanyaki. A la carte, expect to pay Rp400,000 for lunch, and Rp800,000 for dinner excluding drinks. More than just good food: Great service, atmosphere, originality and presentation of the dishes. Note: It used to be near Mid-Plaza, in the Plaza Residences but it has changed location since 2010.

Edogin (Hotel Mulia ; Tel: +62-21 574 7777 ext 4719,4720): Good for Teppanyaki. Also, rather good value-for-money all u can eat: For lunch between Rp109,000++ and Rp189,000++, and for dinner between Rp189,000++ and Rp200,000.

En Dining (Plaza Indonesia EX ; Tel:+62 21 3199 0203, and Crystal Lagoon, SenCi Tel: +6221 7278 1603) - Stylish, bright venues, more expensive than average (Rp150,000-200,000 à la carte). Specializing in Okinawa cuisine (Chinese-influenced Japanese food)

Esina (Plaza Senayan ; Tel: +62-21 5785 2767): Upscale Yakiniku/Japanese BBQ. Excellent but pricey (Rp1 million for full meal per person).

Fukuten (Plaza Senayan Arcadia ; Tel: +62-21 5790 1271): Classy restaurant specializing in Kushiyaki and Katsu. A bit too expensive.

Goemon (Wisma Kyoei Prince L. 3 ; Tel: +62-21 572 3343): Authentic Japanese restaurant, not too expensive, among the best value for money in Jakarta. Popular with Japanese expats for lunch.

Gyu-Kaku (Pacific Place ; Tel: +62-21 5140 0617, Plaza Indonesia ; Tel: +62-21 3107 196): Similar with Toranomon, well-designed, upmarket Japanese BBQ restaurant. Good quality meat, around Rp500,000 per person if you go for the grill.

Hachi Hachi Bistro (Taman Anggrek ; Tel: +62-21 5699 9527): Cheap fusion sushi. Purist will not like it, but it is crowded with Indonesians. Also in Central Park (Tel: +62-21 5698 5592).

Hakata Ikkousha (Rumah Bahagia Pertama, Jl. Muara Karang Raya 85 ; Tel: +62-21 6660 0255): Buzzing Japanese restaurant serving what some people consider the best ramen in Jakarta. So packed you may have to wait before seating, it is rather cheap (gyoza for 35k, pork ramen for 38k) and basic (you sit next to other customers).

Hanamasa (locations all over Jakarta): Maybe the most popular all-you-can-eat shabu-shabu/yakiniku restaurant in Jakarta. Less than Rp100k. Average quality, especially the meat, but worth it for most customers.

Hanei (Grand Indonesia ; Tel: +62-21 2358 0535, Senayan City ; Tel: +62-21 7278 1395, Pondok Indah ; Tel: +62-21 7592 0890): Rather affordable (around Rp70,000 per person) but the quality is not consistent. Specialties: Sushis, sashimis, shabu-shabu.

Honoka (Jalan Panglima Polim Raya, Perfect restaurant for lunch, authentic food with interesting set lunch menu ranging from Rp65,000 to Rp125,000.

HonZen (Intercontinental Hotel MidPlaza, Jalan Sudirman ; Tel: +62-21 570 7796): Contemporary Japanese restaurant, with Japanese Chef. It has a sushi bar and a kushiage bar. Very good, probably underrated.

Ippachi (Plaza Senayan Arcadia ; Tel: +62-21 5790 1461): Nice, authentic setting and good sushis/sashimis. Japanese chef. A bit pricey.

Ippeke Komachi (Mall Kelapa Gading 3 ; Tel: +62-21 4585 3722): A decent Japanese restaurants for North Jakarta. Affordable menu set 80k. Good takoyaki.

Joobu Sushi (Jl. Kelapa Gading Boulevard, Blok WD2 No. 19 ; Tel: +62-21 450 8551): Sushi bar, opened by a mixed Indo-American. Received mixed reviews so far.

Kahyangan (Hotel Nikko ; Tel: +62-21 230-1122): Supposedly the best shabu-shabu in Jakarta. Also the most expensive. Great view and romantic. See my review on Jakarta100bars.

Kaihomaru (Jalan Melawai VI ; Tel: +62-21 739 8741): This authentic restaurant has it all: great atmosphere, freshness, presentation of the dishes. The only problem is the price: Expect to pay more than Rp300,000 per person. In my Top 3 of the best Japanese restaurants in Jakarta. Also opened in Pondok Indah.

Kamogawa (Pavilion Apartment Retail Arcade, Jl. K.H. Mas Mansyur Kav. 24 ; Tel: +62-21 574 1988): Upscale restaurant serving good sushi, tempura, gyoza, udon, shabu-shabu. All-you-can-eat on weekends for Rp200k++.

Katsura (Plaza Senayan ; Tel: +62-21 5772 5226): Elegant design, it serves teppanyaki, shabu-shabu, sukiyaki. Affordable set menu for lunch (under Rp100k).

Katsusei: See my review posted on Jakarta100bars .

Kawana Sushi (Jl. Melawai IX no. 18, Blok M ; Tel: +62-21 722 0291/8842): Expensive sushi restaurant. Owned by a Japanese, their fish is imported from Japan every 2-3 days. Authentic.

Keyaki (Hotel Sari Pan Pacific, Thamrin, Tel: +62-21 2993 2752): Their sushi is recommended. You have an all-you-can-eat buffet for Rp180k/pers excluding tax. Also available: Robatayaki, Sukiyaki, Teppanyaki.

Kihana (Plaza Indonesia ; Tel: +62-21 310 7596): Same owner as Kiyadon. More expensive than better restaurants, but still decent taste with nice atmosphere and service. Recommended for sushis.

Kikugawa (Jl. Cikini Raya IV No. 13, Menteng +62 21 3150668): Old-time favourite Japanese restaurant in Jakarta, but now average compared to the best ones in the city.

Kinokawa (Menara Thamrin, Jalan Thamrin ; Tel: +62-21 315 8877): One of the best Japanese restaurants in Jakarta, it serves the best sushis and the best omakase (up to Rp1,5 million per person). The chef Tate-san left in 2011 for Tatemukai though so I don't know if the quality is still the same. Reservation necessary, it is better to visit on Tuesday and Friday, when the imported fish arrives from Japan.

Kira-Kira Ginza (Jl. Melawai IX No. 30 ; Tel: +62-21 726 2611): Specializes in katsudon (katsu with pork, rare in jakarta). Also excellent takoyaki, gyoza and okonomiyak. Good value, around Rp80k per person.

Kirishima (Gran Melia, Kuningan ; +62-21 526 8080): Teppanyaki, decent and not too expensive compared to other Japanese restaurants in 5-star hotels (not to be mixed with Kirishima Kitchen, much cheaper, in Pondok Indah)

Kiyadon (Usually in high-end malls): Rather expensive, similar to Sushi Tei (rp100k/pers). Good tempura. Even wider choice of sushi (fusion and traditional) in some branches called Kiyadon Sushi.

Konoha (Melawai 2 ; Tel: +62-21 720 6906): Authentic, good yakitori, affordable

Kushigin (Melawai IX No.10F ; Tel: +62-21 723 4289): Izakaya with good value yakitori and ramen.

Le'zzzaat (Permata Bank Tower, Jalan Sudirman ; Tel: 021-250-0528): Japanese-Italian restaurant.

Marufuku (Jl. Melawai 6 no. 11, Blok M ; Tel: +62-21 726 7777): Affordable restaurant owned by a Japanese. Rather basic but excellent food, in particular the shabu-shabu and sushi.

Marutama Ramen (Sentral Senayan 1 ; +62-21 572 4050, eX Plaza Indonesia ; Tel: +62-21 316 0705, Pluit ; Tel: +62-21 669 1199, Puri Indah Mall ; Tel: +62-21 582 3193): Chain specializing in ramen and nabe. Good service and food, but Ramen 38 may be a little better.

Midori (Kebayoran Baru ; Tel: +62-21 726 7249, Pondok Indah ; Tel: +62-21 769 2737, Kelapa Gading ; Tel: +62-21 451 3920, Puri Kencana ; +62-21 582-6855, Jl. Wahid Hasyim ; +62-21 314 8957). Authentic and unpretentious, good value-for-money. Recommended Sushis.

Misticanza (Sahid Sudirman Residance, Jalan Sudirman 86 ; Tel: +62-21 2902 2837): Italian food à la Japonaise, similar with Le'zzzaat.

Miyama (Hotel Borobudur ; Tel: +62-21 380 5555): Modern Japanese cuisine with Japanese chef. Affordable for a fine dining restaurant.

Nippon Kan (Sultan Hotel, ex-Hilton ; Tel: +62-21 570 3600). Beautiful design but not reputed.

Nishimura (Shangri-La Hotel ; Tel: +62-21 3048 8565) Replaces Nadaman. Fine dining Japanese, specializing in preparation with Wagyu Beef (Teppanyaki/Shabu-Shabu). Expensive for dinner, reasonable for lunch (with set menu and a non-alcoholic drink, less than Rp200k).

Ootoya (Senayan City, 5th floor ; Tel: +62-21 7278 1552, Pacific Place Mall 5th floor ; Tel: +62-21 5797 3858, Plaza Indonesia ; +62-21 3983 8252). Huge chain of family restaurant, originally from Japan. Best for Donburi (rice dish bowl). Rather good quality and healthy. Set menu for lunch for around Rp80k++.

Origami (Nikko Hotel, Jalan Thamrin ; Tel: +62-21 230 1122): Fresh sushis and sashimis. All-you-can-eat at Rp250,000 . The chef is Japanese chef.

Poke Sushi (Crowne Plaza Hotel, Jalan Gatot Subroto ; +62-21 522 0733): Reasonably priced quality sushis, all-you-can-eat for under Rp150k (also located in Dharmawangsa Square). Check their facebook here as well.

RA Sushi: (Bellagio Boutique Mall, Mega Kuningan ; Tel: +62-21 3002 9970): Creative, fusion sushis in a modern setting. Relatively expensive.

Ramen 38 Sanpachi (Main branch in Kamome Bldg, 2nd Floor, Jl. Melawai Raya 189B ; Tel: +62-21 7280 0268): Originally from Japan, it is a pioneer chain of Japanese noodle in Jakarta (Ramen). Good and affordable (less than Rp50k net). Famous for its spicy jigoku ramen.

Rakuzen (Pacific Place, +62-21 5140 0499): All-you-can-eat at Rp188,000++, nice atmosphere and design. The chef is Japanese and so is the fish (imported). Rakuzen is part of a chain with branches in SGP and KL. Pricey.

Sakana (MidPlaza Basement Floor, Jl Jend Sudirman ; Tel: +62-21 570 6200): Izakaya serving one of the best takoyaki in Jakarta. Authentic and affordable. Good sushis too.

Sakura (Graha Niaga, Financial Club Jakarta Sudirman ; Tel: +62-21 5296 0070, Lebak Bulus ; +62-21 751 1193, and Sakura Cikampek ; +62 264 350665). Provides buffet, bento lunchbox, sushi bar. Great ramen too.

Sekai (Jalan Suryo 30, Senopati, Tel: +62-21 7278 8750 ): Cheap all-you-can-eat sushis or shabu-shabu (Rp125k net). You get what you pay for.

Sekitei (Dharmawangsa Hotel ; Tel: +62-21 725 8181): Among the top Japanese restaurants in Jakarta: Perfect service, perfect food and atmosphere. Dinner could cost you around 1 million, but you can get much better deals if you come for lunch (set lunch menu Rp100,000). Serves sushi, sashimi, shabu-shabu, sukiyaki among others.

Shabu Nobu (Dharmawangsa square ; Tel: +62-21 7278 6650, Plaza Indonesia ; Tel +62-21 310 7710, Kemang Raya no17 ; Tel: +62-21 719 5246, The Bellezza Permata Hijau ; Tel: +62-21 2567 5874): Affiliated with Sushi Nobu, around Rp100k for shabu-shabu (more or less depending on the type your order). Average taste.

Shabu Shabu house. See my review here on Jakarta100bars.com.

Shabu Tei (Various locations in Jakarta, usually middle class malls): Affordable shabu-shabu and sukiyaki. Not great but decent considering the price (less than Rp100,000).

Shabuya (Central Park Mall ; Tel: +62-21 5698 5585): Shabu-Shabu/Sukiyaki, with all-you-can-eat at Rp115++ (with Angus beef).  Good but the prices should go up.

Shima (Aryaduta hotel ; Tel: +62 21 2352 1234): Old restaurant, decent teppanyaki, not too expensive.

Sumibian (In two locations, Mangga Dua Square (Tel. (62-21) 6231 0002), and Chase Plaza (Tel : +62-21 2512888 the best one, with great view): Authentic Japanese BBQ or Yakiniku): Best in Jakarta for authentic Japanese BBQ (Yakiniku). . Expensive, Rp400,000 per pers, all you can eat Rp700,000

Sumire (Grand Hyatt, Plaza Indonesia, Tel: +62-21 390 1234): Very, very expensive, in the top 3 of the best Japanese restaurants in Jakarta, teppanyaki at Rp1,5 million per person .

Sumiya ( STC Senayan ; Tel: +62-21 5793 1826): Izakaya serving delicious, authentic Japanese food. Excellent value-for-money (normal spend: Rp100,000). Popular especially after work, pub-like atmosphere. Must-try restaurant.

Sushi Groove: See my review on Jakarta100bars.

Sushi Nobu (Dharmawangsa square and other location ; Tel: +62-21 7278 6650): More expensive than average, fusion sushi.

Sushi Sei (Plaza Senayan ; Tel: +62-21 572 5510): Excellent sushis and sashimis, but not good value, at least Rp200,000k. If you are on a tight budget you can find cheaper options with similar taste.

Sushi Tei: (All over Jakarta): Slightly overrated (surprisingly, it is the best Japanese restaurant in Jakarta on TripAdvisor), Sushi Tei has a good marketing team, but the sushis are not impressive, nor authentic. It remains a decent venue, in particular for the service and atmosphere.

Sushi Tengoku (Jl. Radio Dalam Raya ; Tel: +62-21 739 6940): Good, traditional sushi at affordable prices.

Taichan (Plaza Senayan ; Tel: +62-21 572 5262, Jl. Melawai VI/No.5 Blok M ; Tel: +62-21 726 1281 (Izakaya Taichan)): 20 years-old, authentic restaurant. Recommended for its Stamina Ramen (Rp50,000).

Takemori (Senayan City (Sencity), 5th Floor ; Tel: +62-21 7278 1177): Mid-range shabu-shabu and grill restaurant with decent food. Meat imported from Australia. Around Rp150,000 to Rp200,000 per person, which is quite expensive. Also in Grand Indonesia (Tel: +62-21 2358 0368)

Takigawa: See my review on Jakarta100bars.

Tarakagima (Menteng ; Tel: +62-21 316 0359, Kelapa Gading ; Tel: +62-21 3281 7866): Previously called Sumo Sushi. Cheap sushi restaurant with weekend all-you-can-eat for Rp 120k++.

Tatemukai (Grand Indonesia, East Mall 3A ; Tel: +62-21 2358 1807): Reservation only, amazing dining experience, at least Rp1 million (but probably more) for Omakase . By famous Chef Tate-san

Toranomon (Grand Indonesia ; Tel: +62-21 2358 0061): Franchised from Japan (though I could find the main branch in Japan on Google), it specializes in Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ). Upmarket atmosphere, nice view on Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, but pricey (Rp500,000 for full meal). Check for discounts with some credit cards.

Torikatsu (Jalan Melawai 9 ; Tel: +62-21 723 0159): Authentic, specializes in yakitori.

Tsukinofune (Hotel Ambhara, Jl. Iskandarsyah Raya ; Tel: +62-21 270 0709): Expensive, but must-try sushi and sashimi. Well-presented Bento at Rp160k. Top Japanese restaurant in Jakarta.

Umena Dori (Plaza Senayan ; Tel: +62-21-5793 9710): People visit this restaurant for its "satay" (yakitori and Kushiyaki). More expensive than average, around Rp150,000 per person.

Yakoya (Menteng, Jalan Imam Bonjol ; Tel: +62-21 391 6337): Affordable shabu-shabu with all-you-can-eat at Rp150,000 net. Similar to Paregu/Hanamasa, maybe slightly better in terms of taste and atmosphere.

Zhuma Japanese (Crystal Lagoon, Senayan City ; Tel: +62-21 727 81 237): Stylish restaurant, with fusion sushi, (too) expensive.

I'm still missing a few, namely ShioSai, Ryoutei Aoi, Paregu, Senryo, etc... I'll add them in the following days (or weeks)..

The Best Restaurants for Dim Sum in Jakarta

In this post, I will give some recommendations about the best places to eat Dim Sum in Jakarta. Since the offer is plentiful, I made small categories to help you choose which restaurant is the one for you:

The "Top 5": The following restaurants are generally regarded as serving the best Dim Sum in Jakarta: 

1) Ah Yat Abalone in Golden Boutique Hotel Angkasa (Tel: +62-21 6220 2388) and in Mid Plaza 2 (Tel: +62-21 570 7333) with non-halal available.

2) May Star (Halal) in Central Park Mall LG (Tel: +62-21 5698 5422), in Gandaria City GF (+62-21 2905 2922), in Hotel Le Grandeur Mangga Dua ( Tel: +62-21 612 7880), in Mall Pluit Emporium (Tel: +62-21 6667 6280). The ones in Pluit and Mangga Dua have non halal available.

3) Samudra Seafood Restaurant in BRI Tower, Jl. Sudirman (Tel: +62 21 571 3600) and in Living World (Alam Sutera)

4) Taipan in WTC Mangga Dua (Tel: +62-21 3001 8877). Non halal available. All you can eat for Rp108,000++. 

5) Sun City in Mall Lindeteves, Jl. Hayam Wuruk (Tel:+62-21 6220 1900). Non halal available.

Chinese restaurants located in Jakarta's 5-star hotels: Usually more expensive, though not always tastier, but with better design and atmosphere. They are non-halal.

Table 8, Hotel Mulia Senayan (T: 021 574 7777)

Shang Palace in 
Shangri-La (
Tel: +62-21 570 7440) with a very famous "All You Can Eat" (AYCE) lunch for Rp138,000 all taxes included.

Xin Hwa, Mandarin Oriental (Tel: +62 21 2993 8888) with AYCE at Rp128,000 all included.

Pearl, JW Marriott (Tel: +62-21 5798 8888)

Teratai, Hotel Borobudur (Tel: +62-21 3805555) with AYCE at Rp141,000 all included.

Lai Ching, Four Seasons Hotel (Tel: +62-21 252 3456) with AYCE at Rp118,000 all included.

Tien Chao in Gran Melià Kuningan (Tel: +62-21 5268080) - Currently under renovation.

Large Chinese restaurants chains:

Crystal Jade: Under different names, it can be found in Grand Indonesia, Pacific Place, Plaza Senayan. Halal.

Duck King, halal, and its non-halal branch Imperial Chef

Din Tai Fung (Halal)

From the Tung Lok group (behind Taipan and Sun City), you also have:

Ming Village in Senayan City (Tel: +62-21 7278 1627) (Halal)

Ming Seafood in Setiabudu Building I (Tel: +62-21 521 0505)

Ming in Kelapa Gading (Tel: +62-21 4585 0039)

Other restaurants with decent and affordable all-you-can-eat Dim Sum buffets:

Eastern: In Lippo Karawaci, Tangerang (Tel: +62-21 558 4288). Used to be in Permata Hijau, not great but very popular for its all-you-can-eat Dim Sum (Rp60,000 all included). Halal.

OenPao: In many different locations across Jakarta. All you can eat Rp60,000 all included. Halal.

Clover Palace: In Central Park Slipi (Tel: +62-21 5698 5318): All you can eat for 49,999++. Halal.

Sands Restaurant: In Mangga Dua Square (Tel: +62-21 6231 2888), all you can eat for Rp49,000++. Non-halal.

Golden Ming in Acacia Hotel on Jalan Kramat Raya (Tel: +62-21 390 3030): All you can eat for Rp76,000 all included. Non-halal.

The prices and conditions are given as indications only. You should call the restaurant first to make sure their offer is still valid. If possible, leave me a comment with the updated price. Thanks a lot! Idem with the mention halal or not, I didn't check for every restaurant.

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/shanghaidaddy/

The Best Indian Restaurants in Jakarta

Indian restaurants are relatively easy to find in Jakarta, and their overall quality is decent. The most authentic and cheapest options are usually located where the Indian community lives (mainly in Sunter and Pasar Baru), while in the the Center and in the South, where expatriates live, you have some more expensive and stylish restaurants. 

Here is my list of Jakarta's best Indian restaurants, by category:

- Indian restaurants with both excellent food and atmosphere (Fine Dining):
1) Kinara (Kemang Raya No. 78-B, Phone number: +62 21-719 2677)
2) Hazara (click to read my review on this blog)
3) Ganesha Ek Sanskriti (BRI II Building, Jl Jend Sudirman Kav 44-46., Phone number: +62-21 5719415 / 5713567)
4) Ganesha Ek Sanskriti (Kemang Square Lt 2, Jl Kemang Raya No 5., Phone number: +62-21 7196837)

- Indian restaurants with good food and average atmosphere
1) Queen's Tandoor (click to read my review on this blog)
2) Queen of India (Sunlake Hotel, Jalan Danau Permai Raya Blok C, Sunter, Phone number: +62-21 6583 1477): Same owner as Queen's Tandoor, same opinion.
3) Namaste Hindustan (click to read my review on this blog)
4) Komala's (Sarinah Building Jl. M.H. Thamrin No.11, Phone number +62-21 3903 533): 100% Vegetarian.
5) Royal Kitchen (Bellagio Boutique Mall, GF 16 Kawasan Mega Kuningan, Phone number: +62-21 3002 9975): Great brunch on Sundays for Rp69,000++.
6) Koh-e-noor (Pasar Festival GF, Jl. HR Rasuna Said Kav. C-22, Phone number: +62-21-527-6531): Moderately priced, serves Indian and Pakistani favourites
7) Man Aur Tan (Manhattan Hotel, Jalan Prof. Dr. Satrio, Phone number: +62-21 3004 0888): I didn't try it yet, and there hasn't been a lot of buzz about it so far.

- Cheap Indian restaurants with decent food:
1) Taj Mahal (click to read my review on this blog): Must-try, cheap, friendly and authentic.
2) Bombay Tandoori (click to read my review on this blog): Slow service, but cheap and decent.
3) Martabak Har (Jl. Hayam Wuruk No.19, Phone number: +62-21 3506 094): Cheap, but limited choice of food.

4) Restaurant Pakistan (Jl. Fatmawati 23, Phone number: +62-21 7504 037): Mainly Pakistani food, around Rp60,000 for a meal.
5) Rumah Makan Rasa Sayang (Jl. Paradise Barat Raya Blok K-31 Sunter, Phone number: +62-21 6450 367): I once went to Sunter's "Little India" just to eat in Rasa Sayang, but I wasn't able to find the restaurant. Since Sunter is quite far from where I live, I'll try again but not soon. Your comments are welcome.

- Restaurants serving a mix of continental and Indian food:
1) Satoo in Shangri-La Hotel (click to read my review on this blog)
2) Eastern Promise (click to read my review on this blog)
3) Frontpage (click to read my review on this blog)

I've called each places before posting this review, so on October 2011, all the Indian restaurants listed above were operating. If you hear about any changes, please let me know.

Top German & Dutch Restaurants in Jakarta

After ranking the best Italian, French and Arab restaurants in Jakarta, I have a much easier task listing German and Dutch food in Jakarta. Let me know if I forgot one, but the only ones I can think of are:

• Paulaner Brauhaus (click to read my review)

• Die Stube (click to read my review)

• Imbiss Stube (Cilandak Town Square) - Same owner as Die Stube, Patrick Widjaja, born and raised in Germany. 

• Metro Sky Garden, owned by Andreas Stokowy, from Germany.

• Ya Udah (click to read my review), owned by a Swiss from Zurich

• The Tavern in Aryaduta Hotel

I've only tried Die Stube, Ya Udah and Paulaner. Among those three, Die Stube seemed like the best, followed by Paulaner (which is too expensive) and at last Ya Udah (which I recommend because it is affordable).

To complete this review, and even though the food is different, I'm also listing some restaurants serving Dutch food:

• H.E.M.A. (various branches in Jakarta)

• Dijan's Pannekoeken & Poffertjes, famous for its desserts, on Jl. Kemang Selatan, no. 102A, Kemang, Tel 021 7179 3538

• Dutchman Bartele Santema's pubs often have a few Dutch specialties: Check Eastern Promise, De Burse, De Hooi, Cazbar.

Photo Credit: Die Stube/Imbiss Stube

Top 10 Arab & Middle Eastern Restaurants in Jakarta

Surprisingly for the capital of the largest Muslim country in the world, the number of Arab or Middle Eastern restaurants in Jakarta is quite low. I've counted about 25 of them, and I've tried 15. It may seems like a lot, but since Jakarta is so spread, you're not likely to have more than just a few near where you live.

The good thing is that within these, most of them are decent and affordable. In particular, I advise you to try one of the Yemeni restaurants which offer the best value-for-money and the most authenticity.

As of October 2011, here is my Top 10 for my favourite Arab or Middle Eastern restaurants in Jakarta (you can click on the link to read my personal review):

1) Maroush (Morrocan Restaurant)

2) Al Nafoura (Lebanese)

3) Anatolia (Turkish)

4) Samarra (Middle-east)

5) Al-Jazeerah (Yemeni)

6) Turkuaz (Turkish)

7) Sinbad (Syrian/Yemeni) - Review not posted yet, the restaurant is located Jl. K.S. Tubun Raya No. 2 in Slipi (Tel: +62-21 530 8366)

8) Beirut Lebanon (Lebanese)

9) Hadramout (Yemeni)

10) Diritna (Lebanese)

You may see more reviews of Arab restaurants in Jakarta on this blog by clicking on the label "Middle East".

As usual, I will update this list as I discover new restaurants. You're welcome to comment as well. Also in case you are looking for Arab bars and clubs, there are two very popular places (especially among Saudis): Tiga Kuda in Menteng, and De Leila on Gatot Subroto.

My Favourite French Restaurants in Jakarta

The overall quality of French restaurants in Jakarta has improved over the past few years, particularly with the openings of Lyon, Amuz and Orient8.

Still, I think the options are limited, and most of the best venues are too expensive: Take the first six restaurants of my list, they will all cost you around Rp1 million for a 3-course meal.

Some more affordable options exist, for instance Java Bleu, Le Bistro or Escargot. In those restaurants, the cuisine and the setting remain simple, but it is authentic and you eat well. A full meal in those should cost you less than Rp450,000.

At last, you have a third category of French restaurants, in which you have great design and atmosphere, but average food. Among those, Bistro Baron, Loewy or SHY are the most happening. A full meal will cost you almost the same as in fine dining restaurants.

So far, if I had to advise someone on where to find the best French food in Jakarta, I would give them the following places, in this order (you can click on each venue to read a full review from this blog):

1) Riva

2) Lyon

3) Cassis

4) Amuz

5) Orient8

6) Sriwijaya

7) Emilie

8) Java Bleu

9) Le Bistro

10) Loewy

11) Escargot

12) SHY

13) Epilogue

14) Coquelicot

15) Boka-Buka

16) Bistro Baron

17) Rive Gauche

I  will update this list of the best French restaurants in Jakarta regularly. If you think I'm missing one, please send me a mail or comment.

24-Hour Restaurants in Jakarta

In this article, I will give a short description of restaurants opened non-stop 24 hours in Jakarta. I will update it regularly with new venues I discover.

It is well-known that Jakarta never sleeps, and this is particularly true in nightlife areas such as Sarinah, Senayan, Kuningan, Hayam Wuruk, Lokasari, or Kemang. If you are clubbing there and feel hungry, you may find the following places open 24h, 7 days a week (click on the link to see the full blog review).

In Kemang: Dim Sum Festival is THE meeting point for everyone once the clubs in the area close. They serve Chinese and Indonesian food at affordable prices, but no alcohol. People in Dim Sum Festival are usually quite young, in their twenties.

Another famous 24-hour restaurant in South Jakarta is Aneka Bubur, near Pondok Indah, on Jalan Radio Dalam Ujung no123 (Phone: +62-21 720 0175). I did not try it yet, but I know it is popular for its "Bubur Ayam". They also have some Pakistani dishes.

Thanks to a comment, we also know that near Pasar Festival in Kuningan, we have Al-Tahrir restaurant and Warung Tekko.

In Central Jakarta, you have Garuda restaurant which stays opened all night, about 200 meters from Sarinah Mall. The food is Indonesian and quite basic, but inexpensive. In the same jalan Sabang, you have other restaurants which do not close on weekends, in particular Ampera and Warung Desa.

North Jakarta is the best place to find 24-hour restaurant in Jakarta: There are many warungs and street food stalls that will not close along Gadjah Mada and Hayam Wuruk streets, but two places are the best in my opinion:

Kamseng, near Jalan Mangga Besar is a very famous restaurant, both for its bubur (rice porridge) and for its clients (many prostitutes from nearby joints). A lot of people love the food there, but for me, it is fine only after clubbing. Prices are low: Less than Rp50,000 for a meal.

Café Batavia also stays open non-stop, and it is without any doubts the most classy venue of this list. It is located in the Old Town of Jakarta, Kota, and if you've never visited it, you should. The prices are on the high side, at least Rp100,000 for a meal.

Bubur Kwang Tung is harder to find but it is worth it according to many reviewers. They are located on Jalan Pecenongan, not far from Red Top Hotel.

In general, fast food chains like McDonald's, KFC or Burger King are also open 24 hours. McD and BK in Sarinah are usually busy anytime of the night, and the same applies with those in Hayam Wuruk. You don't even have to move actually since they have an efficient and cheap home-delivery service. For that, you can call:

• McDonald's: 14045 or online here
• Burger King: 500025
• KFC: 14022

International chains of convenience stores often have some hot snacks and drinks. Not all of them are hang-out spot, but I know that the 7eleven in Jalan Wahid Hasyim (near Jalan Jaksa) and the Circle K near the BCA tower (on Jalan Thamrin) are popular with late-night clients.

If you know of more places, please let me know and I will add them to this list.