Jakarta/Central

If you are traveling by long-distance trains, you will be very likely to arrive right away here. 🌍 Gambir railway station and 🌍 Pasar Senen railway station are the main arrival points for Jakarta, with trains to and from destinations throughout Java island. For the commuter line rail (KA Commuter Jabodetabek), key stations in Central Jakarta include 🌍 Sudirman railway station on the yellow line where you can transfer to the Dukuh Atas MRT station, 🌍 Tanah Abang railway station on the yellow and green lines, and 🌍 Juanda railway station on the red and blue lines. The train from the Soekarno-Hatta airport goes to Sudirman Baru/BNI City station, which can be reached from Sudirman station on foot.

If you are using Jakarta MRT, you can start from Lebak Bulus MRT station in South Jakarta and take the train up to 🌍 Bundaran HI MRT station.

The Transjakarta Line goes to Dukuh Atas from South Jakarta, where you can connect to Line 1 by moving to the platform upstairs. Line itself goes from Kota at the North, to Blok M at the south, passing through Jendral Sudirman, M.H. Thamrin Avenue, Hayam Wuruk and Gajah Mada.

🌍 Harmoni Central Busway is one of the hubs for many of Transjakarta's mainlines, including line 1.

Central Jakarta is circled by Jakarta's inner ring toll road. To reach the centre at the National Monument, the easiest way is to take the Semanggi exit of the southern ring road, and follow the major Sudirman and Thamrin roads to the north for about 4.5 km.

Statues and symbols that made up Jakarta can be traced roughly at the corridor between Monas and Senayan.

• 🌍 Arjuna Wijaya, Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat (southwest of the Monas). A statue of Arjuna and Krishna riding horse chariot, the scene taken from Mahabharata epic. Created by Nyoman Nuarta. 
• 🌍 Farmer Statue (Pak Tani dan Bu Tani), Jl. Prapatan (near Aryaduta Hotel). Created by Matvei Manizer and Otto Manizer (from Russia). This statue commemorated the struggle for Independence by Indonesian farmers and their family. 
• 🌍 Freedom of Irian Jaya (Pembebasan Irian Jaya), Lapangan Banteng (near Hotel Borobudur and Ministry of Finance). This statue, right at the centre of the court, celebrates the annexation of Irian Jaya (West Papua) into Indonesia from the Netherlands in 1963. Has dancing musical fountain, futsal area, children playground, jogging track, and can be used at night because of good illumination. 
• 🌍 General Soedirman, Jl. Jendral Sudirman. The statue stands on the avenue named for his namesake. Sudirman (old spelling: Soedirman) was the leader of the Indonesian forces in the guerrilla war against the Dutch in Yogyakarta (1948-1949). 

• 🌍 The National Monument (Monumen Nasional, often abbreviated Monas), Lapangan Merdeka (BRT Monumen Nasional), Gambir (only the north entrance, via a poorly signposted pedestrian tunnel, is open), ☏ +62 21 384 0451. 08:00-16:00, except the last Monday of the month. A towering 137m-tall obelisk of solid bronze platted with 50 kilos of gold shaped into flames up top, this is the most famous landmark in Jakarta. The monument was commissioned by Sukarno in 1961 to celebrate Indonesia's independence, it was completed in 1975 after his death and is consequently known irreverently as Sukarno's Last Erection. The 1 square kilometre Medan Merdeka (Freedom Square) plaza/park around it was created by bulldozing a squatter community. In its basement, look for the collection of dioramas depicting the struggle for Indonesian independence from a firmly revolutionary point of view, while the top has an observation deck. The musical fountain at the east side of the park dances on weekends at 19:00. Museum and the first platform Rp 5,000 for adult, Rp 3,000 for student and Rp 2,000 for child; observation desk Rp 10,000 for adult, Rp 5,000 for student and Rp 2,000 for child. Only 1,800 tickets are available per day for the observation desk before noon. Since April 5, 2016, the observation desk is also open from 19:00 to 22:00, with 700 tickets available at Rp 15,000/ticket and ticket sales available only until 9pm, but night observation is closed in Ramadan (fasting) month. 
• 🌍 Prince Diponegoro, Surapati Park, Jl. Diponegoro. This statue commemorates the rebellion against Dutch occupation (1825-1830), led by Prince Diponegoro from the Kingdom of Mataram, Yogyakarta. 
• 🌍 Welcome to Jakarta statue (Selamat Datang), Bundaran HI. This statue was an idea by Soekarno, designed by the vice governor of Jakarta Henk Ngantung. The statue waves to the north as athletes from the Asia Pacific region came to play the 1962 Asian Games. 

Most museum in this region has a theme of patriotism, mainly because most of the action took place here.

• 🌍 National Museum (Museum Nasional), Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat no.12 ( stop: Monumen Nasional), ☏ +62 21 3868172, +62 21 381 1551, fax: +62 21 3447778. Daily 08:00-16:00. Step back in time from humble prehistory to the Hindu Kingdoms, from the Dutch to the Independence. It has a fine collection of Hindu sculptures and cultural artifacts from around the country, as well as an impressive treasure room filled with gold items. Look out for the elephant statue at front, a gift from the King of Siam (Thailand) in 1871. The Gold room is closed 1 hour before the museum normal closing time.Closed for renovation until at least Oct 2024 Adult Rp 15,000, child Rp 7,500, foreigner Rp 25,000. (updated Apr 2024)
• 🌍 Presidential Palace (Istana Merdeka), Jl. Medan Merdeka (in front of the Monas square). Sa Su 09:00-16:00. Along with the Negara Palace and others minor buildings, it forms the Presidential Palace complex. Built in 1796 as a mansion for a Dutch businessman,, it became the centre of the Dutch administration during the 19th century, and the official residence of every single president. As of 2014, the Palace doesn’t seem to be open for public. 
• 🌍 Proclamation Museum (Museum Perumusan Naskah Proklamasi), Jl. Proklamasi 56. Tu-F 08:00-16:00 (F closes 11:00-13:00), Sa Su 08:30-17:00. This is where the Declaration of Independence is read on August 17, 1945, by the founding fathers Soekarno and Hatta. Complete storyline of how the Independence came to be, through dioramas, mock-ups, and propaganda posters. Indonesian Rp2,000; foreigner Rp10,000. 
• 🌍 Museum Sumpah Pemuda, Jl. Kramat Raya No. 106. Tu-F 08:00-16:00; Sa Su 08:00-17:00. In 1928, a group of youth at the 2nd Youth Congress declared one motherland, one nation, one language. The museum has complete information on how the dispersed youth tied to their home region gathered in unity for an idea of a country that was yet to be officially formed, and when the creator of the Indonesian national anthem, W.R. Supratman, performed this piece on violin for the first time ever. Indonesian Rp2,000; foreigner Rp10,000. 
• 🌍 Sasmita Loka, Jl. Lembang No.67, RT.11/RW.7, Menteng, Kec. Menteng ( stop: Pasar Rumput). The former house of Gen. Ahmad Yani, who was kidnapped and murdered in the communist attempt to stage a coup in 1965. The house has become a museum. (updated May 2020)

• 🌍 Istiqlal Mosque (Masjid Istiqlal), Jl. Taman Wijaya Kusuma, DKI Jakarta ( stop: Istiqlal (backdoor of the mosque) or : Juanda), ☏ +62 21 3483 0375. 24 hours daily. For non-Muslims, preferably not during prayer time (12:00, 15:30, 18:00). Not far from Gambir Station and Monas is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. Designed by a Christian architect, the mosque was deliberately erected in front of an older cathedral by former president Soekarno to show religious harmony and diversity. The mosque is grand and gorgeous both inside and out, virtually every element was designed meticulously to reflect philosophical meanings of the Muslim world. Be sure to wear proper attire if you are going here for the day, or a sarong can be lent if you are wearing shorts. Get a guide to explore if you are on your own, but expect to pay a tip (arrange the amount before the tour) both to the guide and to the mosque. 
• 🌍 Jakarta Cathedral, Jl. Katedral 7B ( stop: Juanda), ☏ +62 21 345 7746. The century-old neo-gothic church is the seat of the Jakarta Archdiocese of the Roman Catholic Church. After you admire the design inside and out, go to the 2nd floor for a museum. (updated Apr 2022)

• 🌍 Bentara Budaya Jakarta, Jl. Palmerah Selatan No.17, ☏ +62 21 548-3008. M-F 08:00-17:00. A collection of paintings, especially from Bali, ceramic from the Chinese dynasties, Buddhist statues with hand praying gestures, and other arts and crafts from across the archipelago. Sometimes there is a thematic exhibition or a cultural performance. 
• 🌍 Ismail Marzuki Park (Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM)), Jl. Cikini Raya no.73. Daily 08:00-23:00. Home of the city's planetarium, theatres, art galleries, and Indonesia's famous non-profit theatre club, Teater Koma. Planetarium: Rp7,000 children over two years until finishing elementary school, otherwise Rp12,000. Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays shows at 09:00, 12:00 and 15:00. Shows are 50-60 minutes long. (updated Sep 2022)
• 🌍 Aula Simfonia Jakarta, Jl. Industri Raya Blok B 14 Kavling 1, Kemayoran, ☏ +62 21 65867808. Concert days 10:00-end. The only building in Indonesia whose sole purpose is for classical music hall. Regular performances by the Simfonia Jakarta Orchestra conducted by Stephen Tong and the gigantic 3217 pipes of the organ. 
• 🌍 Jakarta Art Building (Gedung Kesenian Jakarta), Jl. Gedung Kesenian no. 1, ☏ +62 21 3441892. One of the most well-known places for performing arts in Jakarta. Indie and contemporary music and dance, and orchestra performances. 
• 🌍 Institut français d'Indonésie (Institut Français Indonesia (IFI)), Jl. M.H. Thamrin No. 20 (TransJakarta: Stop at K01-12 Sarinah.), ☏ +6221 23 55 79 00, info@ifi-id.com. M-F 09:00-21:30, Sa 09:00-22:00, Su 09:00-17:00. French cultural centre. Host each month several concerts of French and Indonesian musicians, film screenings & conferences about Indonesia culture. (updated Mar 2019)

• 🌍 Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa, Jl. KH Wahid Hasyim No 133, ☏ +62 21 314 3585. Daily 09:00-21:00. Pamper yourself after a day at the hectic city with Indonesian style massages. For your well-being, the spa also offers swimming pool, sauna, gym, whirlpool, and manicure & pedicure. Massages from Rp150,000; spas/body scrubs from Rp250,000. 
• 🌍 Martha Tilaar Spa Cikini, Jl. Cikini Raya No 83, ☏ +62 21 319-37616, mtc_cikini@cantika.co.id. Treatment: body, face, hand, foot, hair. splurge. 
• 🌍 Martha Tilaar Spa Wahid Hasyim, Jl. KH Wahid Hasyim No 19-21, ☏ +62 21 319-25921. Treatment: body, face, hand, foot, hair. splurge. 

• 🌍 Gelora Bung Karno Sports Complex (MRT: Istora Mandiri or Senayan, : Gelora Bung Karno). This sports complex was built in 1960 for the 1962 Asian Games and underwent a major reconstruction for the 2018 Asian Games and Asian Para Games. It consists of Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, which is the home of the Indonesia national football team, a secondary stadium used for track and field events, and the Sports Palace (Istora Gelora Bung Karno or Istora Senayan), which is used for badminton and basketball as well as music concerts. (updated May 2020)

A common stereotype is that Jakartans are all work and no play, mainly because of the rarity of parks. However, empty lands and former shanty homes have increasingly been redeveloped into public parks, oases beneath the concrete jungle. In the parks, some hawkers set up stalls for a cold drink on a hot day, and most of the visitors come here for a date! The Menteng area is well-known for such a spot behind the skyscrapers.

• 🌍 Menteng Park, Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto, Menteng. 40 hectares of excellent parkland. Wide pathways, fountains, collection of plants, are a remedy for the eyes and the body. At night and on the weekends, there are numerous community performances or doing lessons. There is a greenhouse that has no plants. 
• 🌍 Suropati Park, Jl. Untung Suropati. A smaller park that but has more high trees that can function as shade. Regular community performances, especially classical music under the trees every weekend! 
• 🌍 Situ Lembang Park, Jl. Lembang. A giant lake with a fountain at its centre, jogging track and seating area on its rim. 
• 🌍 Hutan Kota GBK, Jl. Jenderal Sudirman, Tanah Abang (inside Gelora Bung Karno Sport Complex). Tu-Su 06:00-10:00, 15:00-18:00. Green area with an array of picnic areas. (updated Sep 2022)

• 🌍 Jakarta International Expo (PRJ (Pekan Raya Jakarta)), Jl. Benyamin Suaeb No. 1, Pademangan Timur. Typically the largest events held in Jakarta are held here. The most crowded being the Jakarta Fair held in June and July where impressive deals in food, shopping, and amusement can be found. (updated May 2023)

• 🌍 Citywalk Sudirman, Jl. K.H. Mas Mansyur no. 121 (stop: Karet 2), ☏ +62 21 25556709. Daily 10:00-23:00. Many options of food and drink, decent shopping options such as Daiso Japanese 100-yen shop. 
• 🌍 Grand Indonesia (popularly called GI), Jl. M.H. Thamrin no. 1 (entrance slightly hidden, southwest of Hotel Indonesia roundabout. stop: Tosari ICBC). Daily 10:00-22:00. A big mall with high-end boutiques (both branded and independent) on its West mall, and a myriad of eating options at the East mall and the Skybridge. Highlights include Alun-Alun Indonesia arts and crafts, Seibu department store straight from Japan, the hourly Dancing Fountain at the 3A floor of the West mall, and Galeri Indonesia Kaya cultural performance at the 8th floor. 
• 🌍 Harco Mangga Dua, Jl. Mangga Dua Raya (: ITC Mangga Dua), ☏ +62 21 6129329. M-Sa 10:30-18:00. This is the place for computers and gadgets (but in most cases, not mobile phones). Come here to get a fix. 
• 🌍 ITC Roxy Mas, Jl. KH. Hasyim Ashari No. 125, Cideng, Gambir (: RS Sumber Waras), ☏ +62 21 630 5001. Daily 09:00-21:00. The Roxy strip is the place to look for mobile phones (but likely you won't get a new iPhone here). If you need a temporary smartphone and phone number, it is best to come here as you can hurriedly check for comparisons between shops. Haggling is the norm here, if possible get a local buddy to help with what is the best shop. 
• 🌍 Jakarta Design Centre (JDC), Jl. Jend. Gatot Subroto Kav. 53, Petamburan, Tanah Abang ( stop: Slipi Petamburan), ☏ +62 21 5495130. 7 floors of furniture showrooms, from vintage to modern minimalist. 
• 🌍 Mangga Dua Mall, Jl. Mangga Dua Raya No.1 ( stop: ITC Mangga Dua), ☏ +62 21 601 7771. Daily 10:00-20:00. One part of the Mangga Dua strip is where the locals shop for electronics, from game consoles to Hi-Fi speakers. Note that unless you ask not to, most of the software sold here are pirated. 
• 🌍 Plaza Indonesia (locally abbreviated PI), Jl. MH Thamrin No. 28-30 ( stop: Tosari ICBC). The standard-bearer of swank, but no longer the only game in town. Well located at the very centre of Jakarta, similar options as Grand Indonesia but with a bit more class. Good food courts and a well-stocked Periplus and Aksara bookstores. One of the top places to hang out in the Jendral Sudirman & M.H. Thamrin corridor with many F&B options, cafés and bars. 
• 🌍 Plaza Senayan (locally abbreviated PS), Jl. Asia Afrika 8 ( stop: Bundaran Senayan), ☏ +62 21 572 5555. Daily 10:00-22:00. Anchored by Sogo and Metro department stores, this is the self-proclaimed "most stylish mall in Jakarta" and they just might be right, at least if you equate style with the ilk of the Louis Vuitton, Prada and Gucci shops that fill up the first floor. Check out the Kinokuniya book store on the 5th floor of Sogo, the largest in Jakarta with an excellent selection of English books. The Arcadia annex, lurking in the back across a parking lot, has a cluster of high-end restaurants, ice cream bar, and health centre. Next to Senayan sports complex. 
• 🌍 Sarinah, Jl. MH. Thamrin No. 11 (stop: Sarinah), ☏ +62 21 322008. Daily 09:00-22:00. The first mall in Indonesia. Indonesian batik, arts and crafts for a cheaper rate, and an increasing number of eating and entertainment options. 
• 🌍 Senayan City (locally abbreviated Senci), Jl. Asia Afrika Lot 19, Jakarta (: Bundaran Senayan), ☏ +62 21 72781000. Daily 10:00-22:00. Right in front of Plaza Senayan, this new building is a combination between shopping arcade, office tower, apartment, and hotel. A lot of exclusive brands can be found there, including its major tenant, Debenhams, a big department store from UK, and Topshop, a unisex boutique from UK. For you gadget lovers, Best Denki, the biggest electronic store from Japan has its biggest outlet outside of Japan in this mall. An exclusive Studio XXI cinema with 4 deluxe theaters and 1 premiere theater and a variety of food stalls from all over the world is here as well, including Krispy Kreme and Burger King. Senayan City also has restaurants open up until midnight in its "Crystal Lagoon" section. 

• 🌍 Surabaya Street, Surabaya Street ( stop: Tosari ICBC; station: Cikini). A famous flea market located in Central Jakarta. Art, antique and souvenir shops. Favourite place for bargain hunters. Beware of pickpockets. 
• 🌍 Pasar Baru ( stop: Pasar Baru). An open market operating since the Dutch colonial era in 1820. Famous in Jakarta for selling textiles, sporting equipments, shoes, cameras and accessories. For numismatic lovers, this is also the place to go to. Tens of sellers display their collection of old Indonesian currency and also currency from around the world. Pasar Baru is also home to the Indian community in Jakarta. 
• 🌍 Pasar Tanah Abang, Jl. K.H. Mas Mansyur no.1 ( stop: Sarinah, go to the west 300 m and then to the north 250 m). This is the prime place for garments in Jakarta or even Indonesia. The biggest in Southeast Asia and usually export to Africa and Middle East, arrangement delivery in all countries in the world. Groceries and semi retail (minimum 3 pieces) sale. All types of fashion are abundant. Haggling is not too necessary, mainly if you buy in bulk to get a large discount, the prices can be the cheapest you can find in Jakarta. There are 20,000 kiosks spread in Block A to F, Metro Block AA and BB, including Kebon Dalam Market near Hok Tek Tjen Sien Temple and also including Jembatan Tinggi Tanah Abang Bukit Shops. Because of the huge multi-purpose area, make sure you get to Metro Block AA & BB (the high brown and green building) for the quality garments, but still lower quality than ITC Mangga Dua's. Due to heavy traffic jams, walking a couple hundred metres may be necessary. 
• Pasar Buku Kwitang, Jalan Kwitang Raya, Kwitang, Senen, RT.2/RW.7, RT.2/RW.7, Kwitang, Kec. Senen, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10420 (near pasar senen bus stop, east of monas). second-hand book shop. (updated Apr 2024)

While typically any restaurant at the food court belong to this category, those that wish to explore the better taste of Jakarta's multicultural foods should venture away from the air-con buildings to standalone or street side restaurants. They are pretty easy to find at the side streets of Soedirman and Thamrin. Jalan Haji Agus Salim usually called Jalan Sabang is especially famous for street food.

• 🌍 Bakmi Gang Kelinci, Jl. Gang Kelinci Raya No. 1-3, Pasar Baru (in Pasar Baru area), ☏ +62 21 3522288. Su–F 07:00–21:00; Sa 07:00–09:00, 14:00–21:00. By default, go with the mie ayam that features yellow noodles with braised chicken and mushrooms. Other dishes include vermicelli, kway teow, and Chinese style snacks and entrees. And they are halal which factors in the frequent crowds. From Rp25,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Gado-Gado Bonbin, Jl. Cikini IV No.5, ☏ +62 21 3141539. Daily 10:00-17:00. A very popular place for the Indonesian salad gado-gado and the so-called lontong cap gomeh. Entrees Rp30,000 to Rp45,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Nasi Goreng Kambing Kebon Sirih, Jl. Kebon Sirih Barat Dalam I, ☏ +62 811 190 775. Daily 16:00–23:00. A street stall that has been a longtime favourite for Middle Eastern lamb (or mutton) fried rice, in which it has a complex scent made from various spices. Expect to be very packed! Rp20,000–45,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Ragusa Es Italia, Jl. Veteran I No. 10, Gambir, ☏ +62 21 384 9123. Daily 10:00-00:00. Established by the Italian Ragusa brothers in 1932, this hole-in-the-wall gelato parlor provides your imaginable ice cream menu, but has an antique charm that entices you to come back for more. Rp20,000-Rp70,000. 
• 🌍 Happy Day (Part of Imperial Group), Jl. Ir. H. Juanda No 19, ☏ +62 21 385 8245. Daily 10:00-00:00. This restaurant can satisfy those that are on the budget while missing food especially from European or the US, or if you feel peckish for anything else. And where else can you find pizza for just Rp35,000? Rp25,000 to Rp60,000; steaks from Rp80,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Kedai Nasi Uduk & Ayam Goreng Zainal Fanani, Jalan Kebon Kacang 8 No. 5, ☏ +62 21 31903863. Come in to treat yourself with nasi uduk, Jakarta's style of rice cooked in coconut milk and your choice of chicken or beef anyhow you want to have it on the side. Rice platter Rp35,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Soto Tangkar Bang Edi, Jl. Tanah Abang II No.41D, Petojo Selatan, Cideng (1 km walking to the west of National Museum through Jl. Museum and Jl. Tanah Abang II). 07:00-22:00. Soto tangkar is a Betawi beef soup dish. From Rp30,000. (updated Jul 2022)

• Beirut Lebanon Restaurant (Beirut Restaurant), Jl. H Agus Salim 57, Menteng, ☏ +62 21 3193 8147. Reasonably authentic and affordably priced Lebanese eats, with bonus points for the bizarre decor of Arabic weaponry and plastic scenes of green rural idyll. Entrees from Rp65,000. 
• 🌍 Ganesha Ek Sanskriti, Jl. Jendral Sudirman Kav. 44-46 (BRI II Building 9th Floor), ☏ +62 21 571 9415. Su–Th 11:00–22:30; F Sa 11:00-23:00. While Indian restaurants are few and far between, this establishment nails it by serving both the northern and southern Indian delicacies. From Rp50,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Lara Djonggrang, Jl. Teuku Cik Di Tiro 4, Menteng, ☏ +62 21 315 3252. Old house named after a legend from Prambanan and retrofitted with the contents (and roof!) of a 300-year-old temple that was in Semarang, serving up pompously self-styled "imperial Indonesian cuisine". The staff will be happy to show you around if it's quiet; be sure to check out the gorgeous Lara Djonggrang room. If you are eating with a big group (more than 20 people), book ahead and you will be assigned a room just for your group, with unique interiors. Menu packages from Rp200,000; entrees from Rp50,000. 
• 🌍 Maple & Oak, Jl. HOS. Cokroaminoto No.91, RT.3/RW.5 (in De Ritz Building), ☏ +62 812 4621 9273. M–Th 08:00–22:00; F 08:00–00:00; Sa 07:00–00:00; Su 07:00–22:00. Bistro featuring all-day brunch with diner style menus and a modest selection of desserts. Or drop by to drink coffee and mocktails (soda cocktails). From Rp68,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Martabak Pecenongan 65A (Across Red Top Hotel), Jl. Pecenongan no. 65A, ☏ +62 21 3504081. Daily 11:00-23:30. Mouthwatering sweet martabak with a few classic flavours like bananas, cheese and chocolate, in addition to more expensive ingredients like the Ovomaltine, Toblerone and Green Tea Kit Kat. 10 pieces in a medium would already get you through 2 to 3 meals, and even more for the regular 16-piece. The savory egg martabak is also worth trying. From Rp50,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Pondok Laguna, Jl. Batu Tulis Raya No. 45-47, ☏ +62 21 345 9991. Daily 11:00–21:00. Seafood restaurant. Simultaneously big and noisy yet outdoors and peaceful, this popular seafood joint is packed every mealtime with punters queuing up for their famous grilled fish (gurame goreng) and fried tofu with shrimp (tahu kipas). Wash it down with an improbably tasty glass of cucumber juice (es timun). From Rp50,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Kikugawa, Jl. Cikini Raya IV No. 13, ☏ +62 21 315 0668. Daily 11:30-14:30, 17:30-21:30. Established in 1969, Kikugawa is the oldest Japanese restaurant in Jakarta since the Second World War. Serving authentic Japanese cuisine in simple Japanese house atmosphere. The owner is Japanese-Indonesian couple who had also established "Bengawan Solo" Indonesian restaurant in Tokyo. From Rp60,000. 
• 🌍 Tamnak Thai, Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto, Menteng, ☏ +62 21 392 3000, fax: +62 21 3190 2548. Daily 11:00–20:00. While their seafood and tom yam are expensive, they are worth the price for using fresh catches. Their pineapple fried rice is a hit. From Rp70,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Ya-Udah Bistro, Jl. Johar No.15, ☏ +62 21 390 9010. Daily 08:00–22:00 (00:00 during Ramadan on Sa and Su). A budget to mid-range option for European specialties, with an emphasis on German breads and pork. Don't let the old interior throw you away! Rp40,000–90,000. (updated Apr 2023)

A typical all you can eat buffet in a hotel would cost Rp300,000; in most cases you can just jump in to any hotel to ask for it. While they are frequented by families on weekends or possibly dinner, you can usually get a better deal on weekday for lunch where occupancy is the lowest.

The list below are standalone restaurants that are worth to tantalise your taste buds:

• 🌍 Al Jazeerah Signature, Jl. Johar No. 8, ☏ +62 21 2188 9061. Daily 08:00-22:00. A splurge Arabian fix frequented especially at dinnertime. The hummus and pita bread are desirable while the rice has a variety of fragrant you can choose from. Top it with a huff of shisha. Curries from Rp50,000; grills from Rp125,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Bistro Baron, Jl. M.H. Thamrin No.28-30 (In Plaza Indonesia), ☏ +62 21 2992 3505. Daily 10:00–22:00. Upscale bistro that serves French haute cuisine with a selection of premium tea and desserts to accompany. From Rp120,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Kintan Buffet, Senayan City, Jl. Asia Afrika No.19, ☏ +62 21 72781410. Daily 10:00–22:00. All you can eat Japanese BBQ where you can also upsize to savour the top quality wagyu beef. Lunch from Rp150,000; Dinner from Rp200,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Momozen, The Plaza Level 46, Jl. M.H. Thamrin No 1, ☏ +62 21 29922246. Daily 12:00-15:00, 18:00-22:30. A fusion of Japanese and French cuisine that is mainly frequented for tapas. Premium meat and seafood entrees. Reservation required. Rp80,000 to Rp350,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Skye, Jl. M.H. Thamrin No. 1 (BCA Tower 56th floor), ☏ +62 21 23586996. M-Th 16:00-01:00, F 16:00-02:00, Sa 11:30-02:00, Su 11:30-01:00. Take your dining experience up, way up on the rooftop of a 56-floor building overlooking the forest of Jakarta's skyscrapers. European and American cuisine, some with an Asian twist, and an extensive collection of booze. Appetisers from Rp55,000; entrees from Rp80,000. (updated Sep 2017)
• 🌍 Tugu Kunstkring Paleis, Jl. Teuku Umar No.1, RT.1/RW.1, Gondangdia, Menteng, (Located in Galeri Seni Kunstkring), ☏ +62 21 3900899, kunstkring@tuguhotels.com. 11:00-00:00. A Rijstafel-styled fine-dining restaurant in an old-fashioned Dutch house, serving mostly Betawi and Indonesian cuisine. About Rp500,000 for two persons. (updated Aug 2018)

Coffeehouses are abundant in Jakarta, especially in the heart of the capital city, where you can almost find many newer coffee shops around besides the big-franchises such as Starbucks and The Coffee Bean. The numbers are increasing and surely you'll almost find a new one every month or two.

• 🌍 Bakoel Koffie, Jl. Cikini Raya No.25, RT.16/RW.1, Cikini, ☏ +62 21 31936608. M 09:00–00:00; Tu–Su 08:00–00:00. The oldest coffee roaster in Jakarta since 1878. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Giyanti Coffee Roastery, Jl. Surabaya No.20, Menteng, ☏ +62 21 31923698. Tu–Su 08:30-17:30. Mainly serves coffee and has indoor and outdoor spaces for drinking. No smoking allowed. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Goedkoop Warung Kopi Belanda, Jl. Bendungan Hilir No.62, RT.5/RW.1, Bendungan Hilir (Near RSAL Dr. Mintoharjo), ☏ +62 21 5734430. M–F 09:00–21:00; Sa Su 07:00–21:00. Food starts from Rp10,000, drinks from Rp15,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Saudagar Kopi, Jl. Haji Agus Salim No.26F, RT.2/RW.1, Menteng (near the infamous Jalan Sabang (Sabang Street)), ☏ +62 21 3143270. Su–Th 07:00-23:00; F 07:00–00:00; Sa 09:00–00:00. Mostly under Rp50,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Tanamera Coffee, Jl. Kebon Kacang Raya, Tanah Abang, RT.8/RW.9 (Thamrin City Office Park Blok AA No. 7), ☏ +62 21 29625599. Daily 07:00-19:00. A wide selection of many Indonesian coffee beans. Offers training classes as well such as barista class, latte art basic class, roasting class etc. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Watt Coffee, The Capitol Park, Apartment, Jl. Salemba Raya No.16, RT.3/RW.6, Kenari, Kec. Senen, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota, ☏ +62 878 8111 1413. Daily 10:00–20:00. Has an open roasting site and comfortable seats for hanging out or just working. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Workroom Coffee, Jl. Cikini Raya No.9, RT.16/RW.1, Cikini, ☏ +62 881-1641-514. Su–Th 09:00–21:00; F Sa 09:00-22:00. A coffee shop designed for a suitable working environment. (updated Apr 2023)

• 🌍 Es Selendang Mayang Nicholas, Jl. Jati Baru, Kp. Bali, Tanah Abang. 09:00-22:00. Es selendang mayang is a Betawi cold drink made from mixed rice and palm flour jelly with sweet coconut milk and ice. Start from Rp6,000. 

• 🌍 Burgundy Bar, Jl. MH Thamrin Kav 28-30 (Grand Hyatt Jakarta, 4th floor), ☏ +62 21 390 1234. Daily 12:00–01:00. Bar with burgundy (dark shade of red) decoration. The special drink from this bar is called "burgundy crush". Facility: live jazz performance, cigar smoking room. Drinks: fine wine, frozen vodkas, spirit, martini, Caipirinha, Caipiroska etc. It also acts as a bistro that serves snacks to full fledged meals. From Rp130,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Churchill, Jl. Lapangan Banteng Selatan 1, Pasar Baru (Hotel Borobudur, 3rd floor), ☏ +62 21 380 5555. Daily 08:00-00:00. An old-school wine bar that also provides an assortment of cigars to puff. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 CJs Bar, Jl. Asia Afrika (Hotel Mulia Senayan, Mezzanine floor), ☏ +62 21 574 7777. W–Su 21:00–02:00. Attracts a younger crowd or the youth in spirit because of live music. Cover charge for non-hotel guests: Rp250,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Grand Manhattan, Jl. Lapangan Banteng Selatan 1, Pasar Baru (Hotel Borobudur, 1st-3rd floor), ☏ +62 21 384 2223. Daily 14:00–03:00. Retro style cafe with some alcoholic beverages, but the live music & DJ is what draws the crowd. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Tiga Puluh, Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 18-20 (Le Meridien, 1st floor), ☏ +62 21 251 3131. Daily 15:00–00:00. The Jekyll and Hyde of Jakarta's nightclubs: as you step in, you'll find a stylish, quiet, well-lit wine bar, but behind the double doors lies a dimly lit and noisy nightclub packed with girls. The live bands are, however, a notch above the average. Rp. 75,000 cover on weekends. (updated Apr 2023)

Jalan Jaksa as well as nearby Jalan Kebon Sirih at the northern end of Jl. Jaksa and Jalan K.H. Wahid Hasyim at the southern end are Jakarta's main backpacker hangout, with numerous low-priced hostels (dormitory beds from Rp60,000, fan room Rp80,000–120,000, aircon from Rp150,000) as well as some mid-range hotels. Whilst the area itself has a laid-back feel (which may be what attracts backpackers), it's not worth hanging around at the expense of seeing greater Jakarta. The area is just south of Gambir station (where DAMRI buses from the airport also arrive/depart every 15–30 minutes) and now fairly accessible on the busway (Sarinah stop on Line 1, just walk 200–300 m to the right from the southern end of Jl. Jaksa).

• 🌍 Bloem Steen Homestay, Jl. Kebon Sirih Timur no.174 (Just off Jl. Jaksa.), ☏ +62 21 3192-5389. 18 fan single/double rooms with outside bathrooms. Nice front terrace. Rp80,000/100,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Wisma Delima, Jl. Jaksa no.5, ☏ +62 21 3190-4157, +62 812 9919-827. The first and only IYHF-licensed hostel in Indonesia. Rp60,000/100,000/120,000. (updated Apr 2023)

• 🌍 Favehotel Pasar Baru Jakarta, Jl. K.H Samanhudi, Pasar Baru, ☏ +62 21 384 1212. Budget style boutique hotel. Standard room (the suite only has a sofa next to it). Breakfast options are slightly less than plenty but satisfactory. From Rp350,000. 
• 🌍 Kalisma Hotel, Jl. K.S. Tubun no. 15-17, Tanah Abang, ☏ +62 21 5367 9911, fax: +62 21 5367 9739. Near Tanah Abang train station. A simple room that has a small TV and fridge, and a small decent restaurant. Lots of green plants within the property. From Rp310,000. 

Most visitors coming to Jakarta stay in Central Jakarta, where a plethora of mid-range to splurge hotels are located.

• 🌍 Cipta Hotel, Jl. KH. Wahid Hasyim No.53, Menteng, ☏ +62-21-3904701, reservation@ciptawahid.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Air-conditioned rooms with comfy beds, a telephone, mini-bar, refrigerator, and a writing desk and chair along with complimentary bottles of mineral water. Breakfast for a separate fee at Blueberry Pancake House. From Rp500,000. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Paragon, Jl. KH. Wahid Hasyim no. 29, Menteng, ☏ +62 21 391 7070, fax: +62 21 316 0715. Simple hotel near Jalan Sabang. Cheap rooms and a café. From Rp500,000. 

• 🌍 City M Hotel, Jl. Tanah Abang 1, No 11 (At the northwest side of Monas, near Tanah Abang market, secluded outside the main road.), ☏ +62 21 34834741. Some standard rooms have no windows. Limited but decent options for breakfast. From Rp400,000. 
• 🌍 DoubleTree by Hilton, Jl. Pegangsaan Timur No. 17 Cikini,, ☏ +62 21 3190 4433, JakartaDiponegoro.info@hilton.com. Contemporary hotel with more than 230 rooms. 3 restaurants for lunch or tapas, considering the medium size of the property, and a bar. From Rp750,000. 
• 🌍 Grand Cemara Hotel, Jl. Cemara 1, ☏ +62 (21) 390 8215. A decent average room. Breakfast at the coffee shop. Balinese style spa and pool. From Rp500,000. 
• 🌍 Grand Mercure Harmoni Jakarta, Jl. Hayam Wuruk No. 36-37, ☏ +62 21 3453777. One of the premium hotels by Accor in Jakarta. Good hotel with spacious rooms. Only has 1 restaurant but offers 2 bars. From Rp700,000. 
• 🌍 Gren Alia Cikini, Jl. Cikini Raya No.46, ☏ +62 21 230 3000, fax: +62 21 315 1354. 8 floors. Rooms, except suites, have connecting doors. The restaurant opens 24 hours. Less than 50 metres to Ismail Marzuki Park. From Rp450,000. 
• 🌍 Harris Suites FX Sudirman, Jl. Jenderal Sudirman, ☏ +62 21 25554333. Prime location at Senayan, attached to the FX mall. Small hotel that has somewhat narrow rooms, but all of its rooms at level 40s has stunning views of the city. No breakfast in hotel but a lot in the mall. From Rp770,000. 
• 🌍 Marcopolo Hotel, Jl. Teuku Cik Ditiro No. 19, ☏ +62 21 230 1777, fax: +62 21 310 7138. A decent hotel midway between the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout and Cikini. Rooms can be booked with or without breakfast. From Rp600,000. 
• 🌍 MaxOneHotels @ Sabang, Jl. Agus Salim No. 24, reservation.maxonesabang@gmail.com. Small hotel and small rooms in a strategic location, an expat's playground. Dining at Coffee World. From Rp500,000. 
• 🌍 Millennium Kebon Sirih, Jl. Fachruddin No. 3, Tanah Abang, ☏ +62 21 230 3636, fax: +62 21 230 0880, reservations.mhsj@millenniumhotels.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Wonderful views of the Sudirman and Thamrin skyline. Close to Tanah Abang and Monas. Has Japanese restaurant, and Café Sirih that serves Indonesian and Chinese food. From Rp900,000. 
• 🌍 Redtop Hotel, Jl. Pecenongan No. 72, ☏ +62 21-3500077. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. A four-star hotel close to the Pecenongan late-night dining area. Rooms are small though. Note that Wi-Fi and airport transfer requires surcharge. from Rp700,000. 
• 🌍 Studio One Residence, Jl. Talang Betutu No. 15 (near BNI City station), ☏ +62 21 314 0777. A simple and small hotel, adjacent to Hotel Indonesia Roundabout. From Rp385,000. 
• 🌍 Thamrin ARTOTEL, Jl. Sunda No.3. A boutique hotel with artsy interior and extraordinary paintings at its rooms. There is also the real art gallery at the ground floor. From Rp575,000. 
• 🌍 The Acacia Jakarta, Jl. Kramat Raya No. 81, ☏ +62 21 390 30 30. Offers 208 well-appointed rooms and suites, all of which have individually controlled air conditioning, 40 channels of Cable TV, and free High Speed Internet up to 1 MB. Amenities include fitness centre/gym, spa, and swimming pool. The Chinese restaurant has the all-you-can-eat dimsum at lunchtime! From Rp900,000. 

The Soedirman-Thamrin strip is home to worldwide chain hotels, especially catered to businessman for easy commute for a meeting, or even to do it at the hotel.

• 🌍 Hotel Indonesia Kempinski, Jl. M.H. Thamrin No.1, ☏ +62 21 2358 3800. Most likely the first splurge hotel built in Jakarta for the 1962 Asian Games. Nestled in front of the infamous roundabout for its namesake. Renovated sleek and spacious rooms. Despite the renovation and handover to the chain brand, the hotel still lefts a portion of its heyday heritage. 6 restaurants, including the Paulaner German brewery. Accessible from Grand Indonesia as well. from Rp2,500,000. (updated Oct 2022)
• 🌍 Keraton at The Plaza, Jl. MH. Thamrin Kav. 15. Posh big hotel but has only 2 restaurants (Mexican and a tea lounge). A hidden gem behind the glory of chain brands around the Hotel Indonesia roundabout. from Rp2,500,000. 
• 🌍 Mandarin Oriental, Jl. M.H. Thamrin, ☏ +62 21 3983 8888, fax: +62 21 3983 8889. Right at the HI roundabout, the friendly staff of the hotel will pamper you with the slightest details during your stay. Airport transfer require additional fee, but offers many options. The refurbished rooms back in 2009 give a clean and modern touch. 6 restaurants and bars, the French has a Michelin starred chef. Multiple options for massage and spa. On the weekends, a complimentary chauffeur service can take you to Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia malls. From Rp2,500,000. 
• 🌍 Grand Sahid Jaya, Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 86, ☏ +62 21 570 4444, +62 21 570 1184, fax: +62 21 573 2563. A local luxury hotel chain, decent facilities for the rate. from Rp1,300,000. 
• 🌍 Sari Pan Pacific, Jl. MH. Thamrin No. 6, Menteng, ☏ +62 21 390 2707, fax: +62 21 390 4815. Midway between Monas and the Hotel Indonesia roundabout, this hotel is in a strategic location. The Keiyaki Japanese restaurant is an open kitchen concept and has a number of signature dishes. Rooms are simple for the price, but has adequate facilities. from Rp1,300,000. 
• 🌍 Shangri-La Jakarta, Jl. Jend Sudiman Kav. 1, ☏ +62 21 2922 9999. In the BNI 46 complex, nestled slightly behind the strip. The Asian chain hotel has 661 spacious rooms, all with stunning views of the city. The 6 restaurants and a New York style bar should not be missed. The Satoo even has a special station for herb drinks (the Indonesian jamu)! Even the locals do sometimes pay a visit to eat. from Rp2,750,000. 
• 🌍 The Sultan (formerly Jakarta Hilton), Jl. Gatot Subroto, ☏ +62 21 570 3600, fax: +62 21 570 3089. Old hotel famous in the heydays of Hilton. A vast outdoor garden. Close to Senayan sports complex and malls at the southern edge. Interior is rather old. from Rp1,500,000. 

• 🌍 Akmani Hotel, Jl. KH Wahid Hasyim 91, ☏ +62 21 3190 5335. A well defined hotel at the corner of Sarinah. Complete facilities in rooms and has a large bathroom. Italian style restaurant and lounge, with an indoor and outdoor bar. From Rp2,000,000. 
• 🌍 Kosenda Hotel, Jl. KH Wahid Hasyim No.127, Kebon Kacang (Midway between Thamrin and Tanah Abang. A short walk down the western branch of Wahid Hasyim, opposite Sarinah), ☏ +62 21 3193-6868, info@kosendahotel.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Boutique hotel that applies concept of natural wood throughout its furniture and colors. Restaurant specialising in peranakan flavours. Rooftop terrace bar. Walking distance to Sarinah department store, and Grand Indonesia malls. Fast WiFi in rooms and public spaces. From Rp900,000. 
• 🌍 Morrisey, Jl. KH. Wahid Hasyim No. 70, Menteng, ☏ +62 21 29933333. Surprise, this is not an international chain (yet)! Surprise, it is actually apartment style, each room has a kitchen! Downstairs is the Ocha & Bella Italian & Japanese fusion restaurant. The tricycle named Ed can take you free of charge to a culinary trip at the nearby Sabang (H. Agus Salim) street! From Rp1,400,000. 

• 🌍 Aryaduta Hotel Jakarta, Jl. Prapatan No. 44 - 48. At the east side of Monas. Another premium local brand. More than 600 rooms with glorious city views of the monument and the skylines. Has an Italian, Japanese, international restaurant, and a German tavern. The pool and spa are managed by Grand Odiseus, all in a Balinese style. from Rp2,500,000. 
• 🌍 Atlet Century Park, Jl. Pintu Satu Senayan. A cheap hotel in the middle of Senayan close to Gelora Bung Karno. Semi-Olympic size swimming pool. The restaurant only provides Indonesian food. The 16th floor executive room will also entitle you to an executive lounge with never ending helping of snacks. from Rp1,100,000. 
• 🌍 Borobudur Hotel, Jl. Lap. Banteng Selatan, Pasar Baru, Sawah Besar, ☏ +62 21 380 5555, fax: +62 21 3806533. A luxury local brand. Near Monas. Extensive garden, while rooms are slightly outdated. 7 restaurants to choose from, both local and international. The Bogor Café is known for its oxtail soup (Sop Buntut), while the Churchill Bar resembles a sports bar. From Rp1,500,000. 
• 🌍 The Hermitage, Jl. Cilacap No. 1, Menteng. Classic colonial Dutch style hotel and all-suite rooms. French restaurant, rooftop bar. From Rp1,100,000. (updated May 2017)
• 🌍 Le Grandeur Jakarta, Jl. Mangga Dua Raya, ☏ +62 21 612 8811. 350-room business hotel. At the Mangga Dua shopping complex. The La Avant is the primary restaurant and despite its French name, it is famous for the pulled Chinese noodles (La Mien) that has a silky taste. From Rp1,200,000. 
• 🌍 The Media Hotel and Towers (formerly Sheraton Media), Jl. Gunung Sahari 3, ☏ +62 21 626 3001, fax: +62 21 626 3011. Near Mangga Dua and Kemayoran area. Rooms are old. The 17th and 18th floor offer executive rooms in Chinese and Balinese theme, respectively. Chinese, Thai restaurants, many lounges. From Rp1,000,000. 
• 🌍 Hotel Mulia Senayan, Jl. Asia Afrika Senayan, ☏ +62 21 574 7777, fax: +62 21 5747888. The local luxury hotel chain. At the strip that leads to the sports stadium and Senayan shopping complexes. Rooms are many but old (on its way for refurbishment). Premium and wide options of dining experience. Wi-Fi is free in public area, paid at your room. Restaurants can be crowded deeper into meal time. From Rp3,500,000.