Top 5 things to eat in Jakarta, Indonesia, to get invigorated
For Ideoli co-founders George and Chris, traveling the world is one of the most exciting parts of their roles. As they roam from city to city, and country to country, establishing connections with partners while overseeing production runs and client installations, they can’t help but get invigorated by the people they meet and the cultures they get to explore.
A recent stop for them was Jakarta, Indonesia, and it proved to be one of the favorite places they’ve visited to date. Located on the Northwest coast of Java Island, Jakarta got independence from the Dutch East India Company in 1945. Formerly known as Batavia or Djakarta, today it is Indonesia’s capital and its largest city with a population of more than 23 million people. It is the world’s largest Muslim country. A thriving metropolis that is a leader in trade, finance and education, the city is also a popular spot for Asian sports, hosting the 1962 Asian Games and the 2007 Asian Cup.
Although the city is hot and humid—Its year-round climate ranges between 75F and 93F—the sea winds offer a welcome respite from the heat. Jakarta seamlessly balances western architecture and traditional Indonesian cultures, often called Betawi cultures. Among the long-standing customs you’ll find in the city are the Betawi language, which is a creole language that combines many languages; Tanjidor, which are traditional music groups; Gambang Kromong, a traditional musical art; and various dance/drama/performing art forms such as Yapong, Betawi Mask Dance, Sirih Kuning Dance, Ondel-ondel and others. You’ll find many Kebaya, Joglo and Gudang homes, all traditional-style Betawi houses. Of course, Jakarta’s food is one of its most treasured traditions. Its cuisine is influenced by China, India and European countries, and Ideoli cofounders found themselves getting invigorated by the city’s unique cultural cuisine.
Here is their list of the top 5 things to eat and drink in Jakarta:
1. Bakso
This savory meatball soup is a very popular dish. Usually made with beef meatballs, noodles and vegetables; chicken or fish meatballs are also available options. You’ll find this throughout the city, at street vendors, local restaurants and five-star hotels.
2. Bubur Ayam (Chicken Congee)
A traditional meal to start your day, this breakfast rice congee is served with shredded chicken and condiments such as soy sauce, fried shallots, beans and crackers.
3. Sate Padang
A popular choice for a late-night snack or supper, this is a classic dish that has long been enjoyed by the people of Jakarta as well as all of Indonesia. Usually a beef-based dish, it can also be made of chicken or lamb. The meat is first boiled with herbs and spices then diced and skewered for grilling. The left over stock is the secret ingredient that makes Sate Padang’s dipping gravy so delicious.
4. Nasi Tupeng
An impressive dish meant to be shared, Nasi Tupeng is officially recognized as Indonesia’s national dish and one that is enjoyed at special events and occasions. Yellow uduk rice is shaped into a cone and surrounded by a variety of colorful side dishes.
5. Bir Pletok
Although its name makes you think ‘beer,’ this traditional Betawi drink, which is made from ginger, lemongrass, cardamom, cinnamon, sappan wood and sugar, is totally nonalcoholic. It is a drink reserved for special occasions, often served at weddings and funerals.
As they continue to visit cities and countries around the globe, George and Chris are continually inspired and invigorated by the people they meet and the unique cuisines and cultures they get to discover. Connecting with Ideoli’s partners and clients offers them unlimited opportunities to strengthen and build relationships.
