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Safehouse Bar and Restaurant Jakarta (Bellagio)

April 8, 2014, 11:07 pm
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In just about a few weeks, I received 3 emails from readers recommending me to try Safehouse in Bellagio Mansion in Mega Kuningan.

As I am a docile blogger, I went there last Friday with a friend. It is located where Piccolo used to be, and it is a mixed concept: Restaurant, Bar, Club, Store.

It was opened by the designer and make of the sneaker brand "SomeAreThieves" (which is why the place is called Safehouse). The idea behind the restaurant was to promote the brand by attracting the trendy crowd of Jakarta.

They hired Tomasso Gonfiantini, the Chef who opened the first Trattoria in Jakarta (before it changed its name to Pepenero). He actually came to see us, which was nice, and recommended us one of his sandwiches, which according to him are the Signature food of Jailhouse.

My sandwich was the "Gourmand" (95,000rp++) and it had Brie and Pesto inside a crispy, fresh baguette from Paul Patisserie. It was up to par for Jakarta, but nothing too special if we compare with baguette sandwiches available in France (sorry for being snob, but it is true). The fact that the baguette was from Paul helped the sandwich a lot.
The burger "Handcut Angus" (80,000rp++) was also good, as one could expect for the price.

We had a few cocktails which were rather expensive for Jakarta (135,000rp ++ for a Caipirinha). BUT the barman had a very heavy hand and he even added more cachaça when I asked him to. So, in the end, it was good value for money as only a couple of them made us cheerful...

The DJ started to play around 11pm and it was up-to-date electronic music, the kind you rarely hear in Jakarta. The bar was crowded at that time, especially with what seemed to be a gay crowd (maybe 30%). The rest was made of young expatriates and hip looking Indonesians. I felt that many people knew each other already.

Overall, a nice addition to Jakarta nightlife, which will probably get more and more busy with time.

Safehouse Bar, Restaurant and Store
Lobby Level, Bellagio Mansion
Jalan Lingkar Mega Kuningan, Jakarta
Phone : +62-21 3005 0510

Facebook : the SAFEHOUSE
Twitter: Safe House Jakarta
SomeAreThieves: www.somearethieves.com

Pictures were taken from the Safe House facebook as I didn't have my camera with me that day.
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Byblos Bistro (Pondok Indah Jakarta)

April 8, 2014, 11:34 pm
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Byblos is a pub/bar located in the new Pondok Indah Mall 3. It recently changed owner, from an Italian guy behind the Planet Hollywood to an Indonesian.

The place is very comfortable, especially with some large sofas you can never move away from. The service is friendly, you also have 1 or 2 Public Relation ladies, which seemed to be selective about the guests they would talk to.

I only had a Bintang (65,000rp), but it also has a full Pub Fare menu (Pasta, Pizza, Burgers, Asian Favourite, etc). From what I could see on other tables, the food portions seemed generous.

Byblos was not too crowded when I arrived at 6pm, but slowly it got busier. For a monday night it wasn't too bad.
Overall, I recommended Byblos for a drink if you are in Pondok Indah Mall. I should check again on Saturday or Friday nights, they have DJs so it might be good for party as well.

Byblos Bistro
Pondok Indah Mall Street Gallery (PIM 3 Second Floor)
Jalan Metro Duta Niaga Blok. B5, South Jakarta
Phone number: +62-21 29529744 or +62-21 2952 9745
Fax: +62-21 2952 9743

Twitter: Byblos Pondok Indah Jakarta
Facebook: Byblos Jakarta
Website: http://www.byblosjakarta.com/

Opening hours:
Everyday from 10am to 12pm (until 2am on Friday and Saturday)
Happy Hours: From 3pm to 7pm
Lady's Night: Every Tuesday Buy 1 Get 1 Cocktail from 6pm to 12pm
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Dharma Kitchen (Vegetarian Restaurant Jakarta)

April 9, 2014, 5:24 am
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There are few options for vegetarians in Jakarta so I was curious to try Dharma Kitchen on the 5th floor of Grand Indonesia. They have branches elsewhere in Jakarta, in Pluit, Central Park and Senayan City.

I was a bit disappointed after looking at the menu, because it features many junk food. I may ask too much, but I was hoping to finally find a place in Jakarta with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients cooked in a healthy way. This is not the concept behind Dharma: Their concept is to serve you all the food you normally have in a restaurant, but to replace the meat by an alternative product (usually made of soybean or mushroom).
Menu Dharma Kitchen
I wanted to see if they had an original way to cook their burgers, so I went for the Chicken one. It was terrible. The taste was not good at all, it was full of sauce and the french fries had a weird taste (according to my friend they use the lowest quality potatoes).
Vegetarian Chicken Burger
The décor of the restaurant had nothing special and the service was not particularly attentive.

Overall: I would not come back. If you are a vegetarian, the only reason for you to visit Dharma is that they have a wide choice so you'll be sure to find a dish you like (at least on the paper).

Locations of Dharma Kitchen Vegetarian Restaurant in Jakarta:

Dharma Kitchen Pluit
Gedung Pluit Bakery
Jalan Pluit Kencana Raya, North Jakarta
Phone number: +62-21 669 4220, +62-21 662 1658
Fax number: +62-21 660 2402

Dharma Kitchen Central Park
First Floor
Jalan Jend.S.Parman
West Jakarta
Phone number: +62-21 292 00018

Dharma Kitchen Senayan City
Jalan Asia Afrika
Jakarta 10270
Phone number: +62-21 7278 1665

Dharma Kitchen Grand Indonesia
Sky Bridge, 5th Floor
Jalan Thamrin
Phone number: +62-21 2358 0198

Email: order@dharmakitchen.com
Website: www.dharmakitchen.com
Twitter Dharma Vegetarian Restaurant Jakarta
Facebook: Dharma Jakarta

Opening Hours:
From Monday to Sunday from 10am to 10pm
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Modi & Rosa Authentic Italian Restaurant Jakarta

April 9, 2014, 6:02 am
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I saw Modi & Rosa from a taxi on Jalan Ampera and I immediately wanted to try it as it seemed like the kind of restaurants I enjoy: small, independent, and with a good value for money.

I was a bit disappointed with the general atmosphere of the place. The decoration is minimal and there was no customers. It looks like a meeting room in a 3-star hotel. The waiters were friendly but they seemed bored to death.

The music was not stable, sometimes there were songs, sometimes not. The music from the supermarket Jason's, at the lower level could be heard as well.

They have a rather small Italian only menu, with mainly pastas (from 45,000rp++ to 95,000rp++), pizzas (from 35,000rp++ to 95,000rp++) and meat dishes (between 100,000rp++ and 200,000rp++). The oven for the pizza is electric.

I took one of the dishes of the day, the Duck Confit Ravioli (65,000rp ++). The portion came very small, but it was very good. The raviolis were home-made and cooked perfectly with a delicious creamy sauce.

The food really saved Modi & Rosa because apart from that, it doesn't have much for itself. I think that if they had a nicer location, it would certainly benefit them.

Overall: I would visit again, if I was living nearby, for reasonably-priced Italian food. It is not a place for a date or serious dinner though, because of Jason's Supermarket below.
Modi & Rosa
Authentic Italian Restaurant Cilandak
Jason's Market, Second Floor
Jalan Ampera Raya 22, Cilandak,  South Jakarta

Phone number: +62 (0) 81806199788
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Halo Niko (Greek Restaurant Jakarta)

April 9, 2014, 6:36 am
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Halo Niko is the second Greek Restaurant I try this week in Jakarta. It is a very homey place, owned by a mixed couple Indonesian/Greek. The decoration is not Greek though, it looks like a cute warung with an outdoor and an indoor area.

There music was a CD of oldies songs, which unfortunately I heard 3 times in a row...

Their menu is large, featuring all the famous dishes of Greek Cuisine with some Javanese ones.

I was not so hungry so I only tried their Greek Salad (70,000rp ++). It was good but it had too many capers and seasoning. The one I had the day before in El Greco was better in my opinion (and slighty cheaper).

Overall: I really like Halo Niko. It is very small and it feels like home. Even though the food was not extraordinary, I would be happy to give them a second try to experience more items.
Warung Halo Niko!
Warung Yunani & Jawa
Gedung Promenade (ACE Hardware Parking Area)
Jalan Warung Buncit Raya No 98, South Jakarta

Phone number: +62-21 7919 1227
Website: Halo Niko Greek Restaurant Jakarta
Email HaloNiko: halo@haloniko.com

Opening hours:
Everyday from 9am to 10pm (opens at 12am on Sunday)
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Poké Sushi (Dharmawangsa)

April 10, 2014, 1:36 am
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Poké Sushi is a small Sushi chain, with currently 4 Restaurants in Jakarta. I really love this place as I find their sushis and sashimis very tasty. They make the sushis in front of you, which makes you feel safer to eat what you have in your plate. Salmon Sashimis and Philadelphia Rolls are my favourites...

The best option in this restaurant is to take the "All you can eat" option for IDR 265++ (on weekday). You will have a decent choice in the All You can Eat Menu, even though you cannot order anything from the A La Carte Menu. The Loyalty Card gives you a 50% discount, which also can be a good option...

Overall: I like this place and I recommend it. If you want go to another Japanese Restaurant, please read my review of Japanese restaurants "Good Japanese Restaurants in Jakarta".

 

Poké Sushi Dharmawangsa
Jl Dharmawangsa VI no 6
Jakarta Selatan
Phone: 727 80553

info@poke-sushi.com

Other branches:
Poké Sushi Crown Hotel
Level 3
Jl Gatot Subroto kav 2-3
Phone:  522 0733

Poké Sushi Grand Indonesia
Food Louver Bridge C
Level 3
Phone: 235 80933

Poke Sushi Summarecon Mall Serpong 2
Blok 1f 216-217
Phone: 293 10685
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Istanbul Turkey Restaurant (Kemang, Ampera)

April 10, 2014, 3:23 am
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Istanbul Turkey is a Turkish Restaurant located on Jalan Ampera, not too far from Kemang. It was opened recently by a Turkish national who owns other venues in Turkey and Saudi Arabia.

The place gave me a very good first impression as it was mostly crowded with Middle-eastern people. It doesn't look very upmarket, but it is authentic, clean and comfortable.

I tried the Iskender Meat Lamb and Beef (135,000rp). It found it was excellent, but I couldn't tell you how the original dish is supposed to taste like since I never had it before.
Iskender Lamb and Beef
As there were many Turkish customers, I imagine it must be pretty authentic.

There is Live Music (Arab and Turkish) with Belly Dancers on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night. They also have all kinds of Shishas.

Overall: Istanbul Turkey is a cheaper alternative to Turkuaz or Anatolia if you are looking for Authentic Turkish food in Jakarta.
Istanbul Turkey Turkish Restaurant Jakarta
Jalan Ampera Raya No. 7 
Kemang , Jakarta, Indonesia 12560

Phone number: +62-21 78836363
Email: istanbulturkeycafe@gmail.com

Website: http://www.istanbulturkeyrestaurant.com
Facebook: Istanbul Jakarta
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MAD Jakarta (Modern Asian Diner)

April 10, 2014, 5:45 am
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I visited MAD Jakarta (Modern Asian Diner) in the middle of the afternoon on a weekday. It was not very crowded, as one could expect at this time of the day.

MAD is currently buzzing among Jakartans, mainly thanks to the good Public Relation and Marketing team behind it. As the owner comes from Singapore (where the first MAD was opened), there is always a feeling among Indonesians that it will be modern and innovative.

My first impression was good: MAD is big, probably able to accommodate over 150 people. They have a long open kitchen, a bar area and a good view over the Jakarta skyline.

The menu is attractive as well. It combines various types of Asian and Western cuisine. After a second look though, I noticed that the wording of the menu was more creative than the dishes in itself.

I went for an expensive dish, thinking it would be a great culinary journey: The Pan Seared Sea Bream & Mushroom Barley Risotto (148,000rp++). In non marketing words, it is a Risotto with Mushroom Sauce and Fish. Not that incredible actually and not that creative.
Pan-Seared Sea Bream & Mushroom Barley Risotto
The dish arrived in a medium-sized portion. Nothing too special in the presentation. The taste was rather bland. No flavors were standing out. I have eaten dozens of better risottos in my life and I don't really undertand how this dish represents Modern Asian Cuisine.

There was nothing wrong with the food from MAD, but for the price, I know I can enjoy much superior dishes in some of Jakarta's best restaurants (La Luce, Amuz, Garçon, etc...). The whole marketing of MAD about their food seemed to me a bit empty after trying it.

Overall: My main complaint is that the price I paid do not match the quality of the food I ate. I am sure that some dishes on the menu taste better and I would like to give MAD a second chance in the future. It is still a step up compared to many competitors and the atmosphere of the place alone is worth having a look.
MAD restaurant Jakarta
Lotte Shopping Avenue 4th floor
Ciputra World 1 Jalan Prof Satrio
Jakarta, Indonesia 12940

Phone number: +62-21 2988 9499

Email Corporate Group: mad@tunglok.com
Email: info@modernasiandiner.co.id

Twitter: MAD Jakarta
Facebook: MAD Singapore
Website for the corporate group: http://www.tunglok.com

Opening Hours:
From Monday to Thursday from 11am to 10.30pm
From Friday to Sunday from 10.30am to 11pm
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Bistronomy (Jakarta)

April 10, 2014, 6:21 am
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I was very surprised with my visit of Bistronomy. Because of its name, which sounds modern, I was expecting a regular wannabe-trendy restaurant like many can be found in Jakarta.
 
Bistronomy is actually the contrary. It is a vintage restaurant, inside a house in a residential area, where every details has been made to fit with the theme (the uniforms, the menu, the design, etc). For those who know, it looks similar with Balique restaurant in Bali.

The menu has all the favourite, typical dishes of any restaurants in Jakarta (Cheeseburger, Spaghetti Bolognese, Nasi Goreng... ) and some more original (Ceviche, Shoya Fondue). I tried the Sandwich à la Méditerranée (75,000rp++).

I was quite disappointed by this dish for a few reasons: The bread was just plain white bread (probably industrial). It was impossible to eat it like a normal sandwich with hands so I had to use a fork and a knife. It was quite heavy on the sauce too and the taste very average. It is really too bad the owners of Bistronomy spent so much time on the design and marketing of their restaurant and apparently so little in the kitchen.
Sandwich à la Méditerranée: How do you eat it?

Regarding the service, it was very good (the waitresses were smart enough to do some upselling on three occasions) but I found it a bit strange that nobody was standing outside of the place to welcome guests.

Overall: I could come back to Bistronomy for its atmosphere, but certainly not for the food. I found out that it belongs to the Kawano group (http://www.kawanointl.com/) which has some excellent restaurants in the city (Sakana or The Grill). Since it is Japanese, I would say that maybe you have to stick with the Japanese food and not go for any of the Western dishes (especially the French ones).

As I was about to leave Bistronomy, the music playing was "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston, immediately followed by "My Heart Will Go On" by Celine Dion. It made me go away, but in the taxi I thought the place could be perfect to bring a date, especially if she is Indonesian. Bistronomy is kitsch, but it is romantic.
Bistronomy Jakarta
Jalan Ciranjang (Cinuru 1 No. 2)
Kebayoran Baru
Jakarta Selatan
Phone number: +62-21 709 6655
Email : Bistronomy@kawanointl.com

Facebook: Bistronomy Jakarta
Twitter: Bistronomy
Corporate Facebook page: Kawano Group
Corporate Website: Kawano International Indonesia

Opening Hours:
Everyday from 11am to 11pm (until 1am on Friday and Saturday)
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Mojo Bar + Kitchen (Jakarta)

April 10, 2014, 7:32 am
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It is only recently that I discovered Mojo Kitchen & Bar. It is small and unpretentious, similar with Treehouse in Kemang. It has a great location at the intersection of Jalan Senopati and Jalan Kertanegara, one of the most expensive residential areas in Jakarta.

They have great music, a cozy atmosphere, and a menu featuring Korean, Californian and Mexican dishes. I didn't try any of their food though, only a cocktail. Please comment if you have been there.

Overall: Recommended for a drink after work.
Mojo Bar & Kitchen Jakarta
Jalan Kertanegara No. 70, Senopati
South Jakarta, Indonesia

Phone number: +62-21 9200 0529
Email: mojo@lax-indonesia.com
Facebook: Mojo Jakarta

Opening Hours:
Every day from 11am to Midnight (until 1am on Friday and Saturday)
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Nip and Dram (Whisky Bar)

April 10, 2014, 9:02 pm
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Nip and Dram is a Whisky and Fine Spirit bar located in Landmark Center near Jalan Sudirman. In Jakarta, it is as close as it gets from a true Gentlemen's Club. While it is not member's only, it is clearly targeting a male, upper-class crowd. Women are allowed of course, but the feel of the bar is very masculine.

The team behind it is a group of 10 people, Indonesians and Expats, among which (from what the waiter told me) the owner of Blue Bird, the previous GM of Keraton at the Plaza (Klaus Woizik) or the previous GM of Buddha Bar Jakarta (Bogdan Vlase).

The prices are among the highest of any other bars in Jakarta. Cocktails start at 165,000rp++ and the (extensive) list of alcohols includes bottles costing up to 50 million rupiah per unit. They also sell cigars.

Nip and Dram is dark and intimate, with live music 4 times per week (Jazzy on Wednesday and Thursday, Top 40 on Friday and Saturday). It is recommended if you are looking for a classy, quiet place to have a drink, and of course if you enjoy alcohols that are not always available elsewhere in Jakarta.

They also have a kitchen, but I didn't try any of the dishes.
Nip and Dram Jakarta
The Landmark Centre II
Jalan Jend. Sudirman No. 1, GF
Jakarta, Indonesia 12910

Phone number: +62-21 5790 3991
Email: bogdan.vlase@nipanddram.com
Opening Hours:
From Monday to Thursday from 5pm to 1am.
From Friday to Saturday from 5pm to 3am.

Twitter: Nip & Dram Whisky Bar
Instagram: Nipanddram
Facebook: Nip and Dram Jakarta
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Ismaya Catering Co. (Grand Indonesia)

April 10, 2014, 10:18 pm
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Ismaya Catering Co is usually one of the busiest cafés in the level 5 of Grand Indonesia, which is already the most interesting area in the mall for dining/hanging out.

It is rather basic, and it is actually just an extension of their catering company, whose office is next to the cafe. Its success probably comes from the simplicity behind it, and from its hybrid status office/café. It is a bit confusing but I think the objective for Ismaya is to promote their catering business through this outlet.

The menu is rather small, but a new one is coming soon. Currently, it does not have anything special: Ismaya Catering Co. serves the usual mix of Asian and Western favourites + a lot of junk food. The prices are rather low for a café in Grand Indonesia from Ismaya (50,000rp++ for an appetizer and 75,000rp++ for a main course).

The best thing about the place is the atmosphere. The music selection was very good and it got me pumped up at 2pm. It is also rather busy so you can easily spend an afternoon there looking at people pass by (yes that's what I like to do).

Overall: I would come back but only for a drink or a small snack. Hopefully their new menu will be extended and feature more original dishes.
Ismaya Catering Co. Jakarta
Grand Indonesia - West Mall, Level 5

Phone number: +62-21 2358 1157
Mobile phone: 0818 897 878
Email :catering@ismayagroup.com

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E&O Jakarta (Restaurant, Bar)

April 12, 2014, 4:37 am
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E&O (Eastern and Oriental) is a trendy, upmarket restaurant, bar and lounge located in Mega Kuningan, not far from its main competitor in the area, Loewy (which has the same owner actually, also behind Union).

The kitchen is headed by Chef Will Meyrick, behind the famous restaurants Mamasan and Sarong in Bali. The cuisine in E&O is actually similar with that of Mamasan: Western dishes with a twist of Asia (or the contrary).

The menu is long and full and discoveries. We had lunch or dinner there quite a few times and the food can be hit-and-miss as some of the food combinations can be audacious.
Overall: If you want to discover original unique cuisine in a refined restaurant, with an upmarket crowd and atmosphere, E&O is your place.

Opening hours:
Everyday from 11am to 2am.
E&O Jakarta
Menara Rajawali, Ground Floor, Jalan Anak Agung Gede Agung
Mega Kuningan, South Jakarta
Phone number: +62-21 576 1645
Email: reservations@eandojakarta.com or info@eandojakarta.com

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Cuadrilla Restaurant (Kemang)

April 12, 2014, 5:09 am
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Cuadrilla is a small restaurant in Kemang, serving Italian, Spanish and Greek food. It has only a few tables and the prices are affordable. I tried the Greek Salad (47,000rp++) and the Pita Bread with Tzatziki (23,000rp ++).

Considering the price, it was very decent. The Paella seems to be their signature dish so I would be happy to come back to try it.

Overall: Recommended for lunch if you live in Kemang. They had fast wifi too and the waiters were very friendly. The music played was Latin mostly, including Bossa Nova, Manu Chao, and maybe Bonga (?).
Cuadrilla Restaurant Kemang
Jalan Benda No 1D (near Beer Garden Kemang)
Kemang, South Jakarta
Phone number: +62-21 782 0188

Facebook: Cuadrilla Resto Kemang
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cuadrillaresto 

Opening Hours:
Everyday from 11am to 11pm
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Air Asia: Why it is the Worst Low-Cost Airline?

April 12, 2014, 8:19 pm
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I am surprised that Air Asia can still get the title of "World's Best Low Cost Airlines" in 2013 considering it is by far the worst company and the one company I always try to avoid when flying in Asia.

It seems like AirAsia is so good with its marketing and advertising that people are brainwashed into thinking that they are receiving a 5-star service when flying with them. I hear people excited about taking AirAsia, when the truth is that they will pay more for sitting in a super tiny seat without any food or service and probably departing late.

AirAsia is more expensive than any other low cost airlines in Asia while it does not give back any thing to its customers. Obviously, they do cut on their services and operating costs but the money saved with this rationalizing is not used to decrease flight ticket prices, it is just more profit for the company. I applaud with both hands at how smart it is.

I would accept the level zero of service provided by AirAsia if they were more cheap than anybody else. This would be my reward for accepting such a shame service. But it is the contrary that happens.

My problems start with their website. It is the trickiest and most dishonest booking website that I have ever come across with.

If you use flight comparators such as skyscanner, you may have had this problem of clicking on an AirAsia flight because it seemed to be the cheaper options, and in the end realizing that when you add the taxes, the fuel surcharge, the luggages, the seats, the meal, the check in fee,  the payment fee, the priority seats, and the priority boarding, it ends up being more expensive than Singapore Airlines.

Avoiding to pay additional charges will require your full attention: For instance, if you don't want to have AirAsia Insurance, you have to refuse once, and then cancel your refusal. Tricky? Canceling your seats is so complicated as well that I booked them inadvertently at least 3 times... Same with the priority boarding that I forgot to un-tick...

Charging for additional fees is the specialty of AirAsia and its most lucrative business. They will find any possible way to make you pay additional fees. You want to add additional luggage weight to your booking at check in time? This will be charged beyond reasonable. You want a bottle of water on the plane? Take out your wallet. All other companies will give you something free even though they are cheaper: Lion Air for instance do not charge if you request a special seat and they allow 15 kilos of luggage for free. Sriwijaya will give you a free snack (very limited but still), Citilink lets you choose your seat for free, etc...  Within the price range of AirAsia, you can actually often fly with regular companies where the service is beyond any comparisons.

With AirAsia, no only do you get nothing free, you also get less for what you pay for (unless you pay more).

When you arrive at the airport, you will notice that AirAsia is the only company that forces you to check in with a machine instead of a human. If you do not check in online, you will have to pay an additional fee. The company would probably reply that it helps keeping its costs low and its prices lower, but the prices aren't lower. They are higher. It is an additional constraint on passengers that is increasing AirAsia's margin while not benefiting to the customers. Maybe one day Executives at AirAsia will find a way to make passengers clean the plane by themselves...

Let's talk about space now: I am a rather tall guy so I'm sensitive to the space between seats in an airplane. All low-cost companies are usually uncomfortable, but AirAsia beats all records. If you are more than 180cm and you didn't buy priority seats with extra leg space, your flight with AirAsia is a torture. You have to fold or squeeze your leg so that you will miraculously fit in the tiny space. If you are more than 190cm, I do not believe you can fly in those seats. If you are more than 190cm and you ever managed to fit in an AirAsia seat, please give me your testimony below.

AirAsia usually flies from and to second class airports, not the main ones. This is true in Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok. Those airports are low-cost with less comfort, less shops and restaurants, and more queuing and disorganization. If you have to connect to another flight, unless it is another AirAsia flight, you will lose precious time running from one part of a city to the other.

Air Asia is very very often late and it is not just a personal impression. Just have a look at flightstats.com. You will see that some routes like Denpasar-Jakarta are on time on average 29% of the time only... Try to get any kind of compensation or excuse from a delayed flight and you will understand what is the meaning of low-cost services...

At last, the flight attendant of AirAsia are obviously recruited on their generous looks and it makes for a pleasant flight if you are a male like me. In terms of skills and attitude, they are probably on average more snobbish and arrogant than with other low cost airlines. Comparing them with flights attendants from regular companies like Singapore Airlines is a blasphemy. In terms of skills, I am not so sure but you should probably wish that nothing goes wrong during the flight...

My conclusion:

Personally I always avoid AirAsia because I consider that they are priced as regular airlines while offering the lowest standard of low cost service.

Be smart when you book a flight and check what is the real final price you pay and what kind of service are offered.

I would say book with AirAsia only if you can get a real promo and if you are flying without luggage, and without any need for extra services. You may also be sensitive to the safety issue as the record of the company doesn't show any deadly accident (but you may want to read this article though: Accident with AirAsia).
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Eric Kayser Jakarta (Plaza Senayan)

April 14, 2014, 1:00 am
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Eric Kayser Indonesia is now opened in Plaza Senayan. Just like Paul Bakery and Patisserie, it is an international French Bakery chain, very famous in France and in some big international cities (New York City, Tokyo, Singapore). Now that Eric Kayser is in Jakarta, I can compare those 2, in order to know which one is the Best Bakery in Jakarta (and where to find the best baguette!).

Eric Kayser is upmarket: The decoration of the Plaza Senayan outlet is very unique and luxurious. For instance, they used marble to display the bread and pastries. Even if it's not the same decoration, it reminded me TWG Tea Boutique, because of the pastry display in the middle of the restaurant. 

Even though a lot of care has been put into the design of Eric Kayser, I'm not really thrilled with its overall aspect. I found it quite bland and cold.

I like their bread much more: Baguette, Healthy Breads, etc...The Bread corner is very well arranged, and you can help yourself with any kind of French Croissants, Raisins Rolls, or Chocolate Croissants. I tried the Croissant and the Chocolate Croissants and it was delicious. I was also pretty happy with the waiters and the service offered in Eric Kayser restaurant, as everybody seemed to know what they were doing.

Paul Bakery/Eric Kayser: What is the Best Bakery in Jakarta ?

The long awaited game between those two upscale bakeries can finally begin. Now we can compare, in order to make the best choice for our mouth...

First, regarding the location, there is no doubt about it, Paul Bakery has a better location, on the terrace of Pacific Place Mall. The kiosk style of the Bakery and the possibility to dine outside makes you feel a bit more like you are in Paris, and is much more pleasant. Eric Kayser Bakery has just a regular location in a fancy mall, and the place is much smaller than its competitor in Pacific Place.

Tastewise, I have to admit the pastries are more delicate and nice looking at Eric Kayser Bakery. I can't help but think that this Pistachio Eclair from Eric Kayser might be the best I ever had. It is a very sweet piece of Pastry. I also prefer the "Help Yourself" Bakery corner of Eric Kayser, which is definitely a trend in Indonesian-style bakeries.

Overall, service and atmosphere, I would rather choose Paul Bakery. Living in Jakarta makes you spend a lot of time in the malls. When you are going to a French Bakery, you want feel like you are in Paris, with a nice decoration, traditional outfits and maybe some French words written everywhere...

Winner of the Game: Paul Bakery
Eric Kayser Indonesia
Plaza Senayan, Fourth Floor
Jl. Asia Afrika, Senayan,
South Jakarta
Phone: +62-21 53660821
Email: comment@erickayser.co.id
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Why Are Ojeks More Expensive Than Taxis?

April 14, 2014, 10:39 am
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I had an argument this morning with the ojek driver (moto taxis in Jakarta) who works outside of my residence.

I was planning to go to Pacific Place Mall, just one kilometer away. This normally takes about 5 minutes and with a taxi it costs less than 10,000rp.

The ojek's starting price was 30,000rp, which is crazy, and after much talking he gave me a last price of 20,000rp. I tried to bargain harder but I felt I didn't have the upper hand. I gave up and I took a taxi (for which I paid a sweet 8,000rp).

This experience made me wonder: How can a taxi be cheaper than an ojek? This is not the first time it happens. On average, I would say it is more expensive to go around with ojek or bajaj than by taxi in Jakarta.
At first glance, it seems that taxis should be more expensive: Their job requires more skills, they provide more comfort and safety to their customers and above all, they have more costs to bear.

A taxi driver usually gives back to his company more than half of his daily revenue. A Blue Bird driver told me that they must make a minimum of 500,000rp per day before they can start making money. Once they reach that target, they get 50% from any ride (another driver told me his minimum was 450,000rp and he received only a 30% cut). They must also deduct up to a third of their revenue to pay for gasoline.

In the end, a taxi driver may get a monthly salary of approximately 1,5M rp to 3M rp. That's only a small percentage of all the money he received from clients.
On the contrary, ojek drivers keep most of the money they make to themselves. Often, they are the owners of their motorbike (or they will be if they took a credit). They pay their gasoline too but it is much cheaper. To make 3M rp per month, an ojek driver only needs to do a few rides per day.

So why are ojeks more expensive?

The reason is that the bargaining power of ojek drivers is stronger.

Ojek driver can make their prices fluctuate according to the time of the day. During peak time, they can be strong with the pricing because they know they will get another customer soon. Taxi drivers cannot do that; they just take whoever stops them (except the taxis that don't put their meters on). This logic tends to make them wait for a big fish instead of taking small jobs.

The price given by an ojek driver can also change according to who is requesting a ride. They will not give the same price to an expatriate, to a maid, or to an executive working on Sudirman. Since I am a bule, I am not surprised I got a high price.

People who need ojeks are usually in a rush: They must go somewhere fast and they need to beat the traffic. They don't have much time to negotiate or to find cheaper alternative. They will tend to agree on any price, even if it is unreasonable.

Ojek drivers are also located in strategic areas: They do not compete directly with taxis but complement them. You will find them waiting for you where there are no taxis available. They have to wait longer for a client, but to compensate they charge him more.

At last, you would think that it is very easy for an ojek to go wherever he wants and to wait for a client. This is rarely true: A newcomer will probably be rejected as he is bringing more competition. This self-regulation of the ojek's industry certainly limits the options for the client, and therefore the price war.
Ojek drivers get more money than taxi drivers, and they work less. I guess the new question that would need to be answer is why taxi drivers don't change job and become ojek?

I asked this to a few of them, and their answer was that their status as a taxi driver was more prestigious. They are clean, they wear a uniform, they can stay inside their car and they belong to a corporation. All of this makes it worth having a lighter paycheck at the end of the month.
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Le Quartier (French Restaurant)

April 16, 2014, 3:13 am
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Le Quartier ("The Neighbourhood" in French, pronounced like the jewelry brand "Cartier") is a new French Restaurant, opened in 2013 in Kebayoran Baru, near Senopati. I liked the building facade of the Restaurant as we feel like being in Europe. The inside decoration is also well done with chandeliers on the ceiling. It gives an impression of luxury and elegance.

The food was good also, with a fair choice of French meals and good bread. I liked the Steak Tartare, tasty and juicy. I had some good wine also, which is quite important for a French Restaurant. The desserts were OK and the service was friendly.

Overall: Since the decoration and the atmosphere is very nice and it feels romantic. I advise you to bring a date here, it will be a successful dinner.

For our selection on the Best French Restaurants in Jakarta, you can read this article: My Favourite French Restaurants.
 
Le Quartier
Jalan Gunawarman #34
Kebayoran Baru
South Jakarta

Phone: +62-21 7278 8001+62-21 7278 8001
Mail: Contact@lequartier.co.id

Opening Hours: Open From 07:00 - Onwards

Facebook: Le Quartier
Twitter: Le Quartier
Instagram: Le Quartier Jakarta
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Keyaki (Hotel Sari Pan Pacific)

April 17, 2014, 1:56 am
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Keyaki is a Japanese restaurant located in Sari Pan Pacific Hotel, on Thamrin. Sari Pan Pacific used to be one of the Best Hotels in Jakarta back in the 1980's. Now with growing competition on the Luxury Hotels Segment in Jakarta, it is just a good hotel with excellent location.

Two outlets are still very popular and worth the detour in this Hotel though, it's the Sari Deli (Pastry and Delicatessen) and the Keyaki Restaurant. This Restaurant is located inside the Hotel, on the right side when you enter through the main entrance.

It is still a very popular Restaurant among business men staying at the Hotel or Japanese food connoisseurs. You can read my review about Good Japanese Restaurants in Jakarta, if you want to compare.

Overall: The food, the atmosphere and the Sushis were very tasty. Recommended for a Business Lunch Meeting. Still a very good place with emphasis on service.


Keyaki Japanese Restaurant
Hotel Sari Pan Pacific
Jalan Thamrin
Jakarta 10340

Phone: 021 31923330

Keyaki Japanese Restaurant: Website
Keyaki Japanese Restaurant: Facebook (not a lot of Facebook friends!)

Opening Hours:
Open Daily from 11.30 AM until 14.30 PM for Lunch  
06.00 PM until 10.30 PM for Dinner
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Astons Specialties (Bar, Coffee, Grill)

April 17, 2014, 5:01 am
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Astons Specialties is a Singaporean chain of restaurants serving Western food and drinks. They have only one location in Indonesia currently, in Alam Sutera Living World Mall (next to Mercure Hotel).

I wanted to try this place as I read that its owner wanted to bring "affordable western cuisine" especially steaks to its customers.

I was disappointed when I saw the menu because the steaks were certainly not inexpensive: Minimum 130,000rp++ for Prime Sirloin, up to 260,000rp++ for the Wagyu Ribeye Grade 6. These prices are very standards for Jakarta and Astons will certainly not have a competitive advantage on the prices.

The steak I tried (Prime Sirloin) was perfectly cooked and the taste excellent, but the french fries and the vegetables were cold.
I think the main advantage of Astons Specialties is that there is not a lot of competition in Alam Sutera at the moment... The place is not spectacular both in terms of design and food, but it is one of the few serving western dishes and steaks in the area.

Overall: I recommend if you are in Alam Sutera and if you are precisely looking for a good steak at a regular price.

Astons Specialities
(self-advertised as the Number One Steakhouse in Singapore)
The Living World Mall - Alam Sutera - Serpong
Phone number: +62 21 2921 1948

Twitter: Astons Specialties Indonesia
Website: Astons Steak Asia

Opening Hours:
Everyday from 10am to 10pm
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