Don't be fooled by the filters! I found the fails at this Jakarta forest restaurant so you don't have to.
qponx
2026-01-23
Thinking about visiting that viral forest restaurant in Jakarta? This honest review goes beyond the pretty pictures. It celebrates the stunning, Ubud-like atmosphere perfect for dates, but also exposes the reality of inconsistent food and service for a premium price. Learn which dishes are a must-try (like the lamb rack and desserts!) and which to avoid, ensuring your visit to this beautiful but flawed spot is a definite hit.
Girls, for real, when did South Jakarta hide a place like this? 🤯
The moment I stepped in, I thought my phone's navigation was broken and had just dropped me in Ubud. Lush greenery everywhere, sunlight pouring through the glasshouse, the whole vibe is just one word: Chill. My social media grid was instantly filled with content. But! Don't rush over just yet, sit down and let me finish, because I have a real love-hate relationship with this place.
God-tier atmosphere, but my taste buds were on a rollercoaster
The environment, seriously, can't be faulted—absolutely top-tier vibes[1]. Whether it's for a date, an anniversary, or just to Nongkrong with your besties, this place delivers the romance and relaxed feeling you're looking for. Every corner is super photogenic, and even just sitting and zoning out is so pleasant.
OK, let's talk about the main event—the food. I really splurged this time to test the waters for you guys.
👍 Highly recommended:
The Pistachio-crusted Lamb Rack[2] was plated like a work of art. The lamb was cooked just right, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with well-balanced flavors, Mantap! The desserts were also a huge surprise, especially the Valrhona Chocolate Mousse[3]. It was so rich and silky, I felt like all the day's fatigue was cured after eating it. Definitely a perfect ending.
👎 A bit Anjay:
Here comes the plot twist... The Pasta[4] my friend ordered was a bit disappointing. The noodles were overcooked, and the sauce was a bit greasy; it didn't feel worth the price. I heard the quality control for their main courses is a bit unstable, sometimes it's too salty, so it seems like ordering is really a game of luck.
Your wallet or your patience, one of them is bound to suffer
To be honest, the prices here are really not cheap. A casual meal for two easily goes over 800k rupiah, so my wallet hurts a little. And the service is also like opening a blind box[5]. The waiter we had this time was quite professional, but out of the corner of my eye, I saw some staff who weren't very attentive… emm you know what I mean. During peak hours when it's crowded, it feels like they're a bit overwhelmed.
My honest tips (Get your notebooks ready!)
- What to eat: You basically can't go wrong with the lamb chops and steak. Get the desserts without a second thought! But for things like pasta[6], I suggest you say a little prayer before ordering.
- How to take photos: The best time for sunlight is from 3-5 PM. The glasshouse and the window seats outdoors are prime spots, so remember to book in advance.
- Where to sit: When booking, avoid those sofas that look comfy but are super low[7], otherwise you'll have to hunch over the whole time you're eating. Don't ask me how I know…
- Hosting events: The atmosphere here is perfect for birthday parties or small weddings[8], but I've heard communicating event details with them can be a bit difficult. Make sure to get everything in writing and confirm repeatedly!
- A note for outdoor lovers: The outdoor area is beautiful, but it's the tropics, so there are bound to be some small insects[9]. Spraying some mosquito repellent is a good precaution.
- South Jakarta's Ubud escape! Lush greenery, sun-drenched glasshouse creates a divine, Chill vibe. [1]
- Pistachio lamb chops are art: crispy outside, tender inside, perfectly balanced. So Mantap, you'll crave more! [2]
- Desserts? A delightful surprise! Valrhona chocolate mousse: rich, silky, one bite cures fatigue. Perfect meal-ender. [3]
Similar Articles
Dare to drink Wasabi Gin? I'm rushing to this "split personality" bar in Kemang
Discover Switch, Kemang's "split personality" hot spot that transforms from a chill coffee shop by day into a buzzing experimental bar at night. This place dares you to be adventurous with its menu, featuring wild creations like a sweet-and-savory Donut Burger and mind-bending cocktails such as Wasabi Gin. It's the perfect destination for those seeking unique flavors and a lively atmosphere, though be prepared for a smoky environment and loud music after dark.
The Real Lokal Warkop in Jakarta: Forget the Trendy Cafés
Escape Jakarta's trendy cafe scene and discover a true hidden gem in Mampang. Warkop Pancong Sumber Rejeki is an authentic roadside stall famous for its traditional Pancong cake. The must-try is the 'setengah matang' version—a perfectly gooey, molten-centered cake generously topped with chocolate and cheese. This is the ultimate down-to-earth spot to soak in a real, unfiltered local vibe, far from the usual Instagram traps and perfect for a genuine taste of the city.
Kuningan Office Workers' Happy Planet: Setiabudi One is More Than a Giant Food Court
Discover Setiabudi One, the go-to "happy planet" for Kuningan's office workers! More than just a giant food court, this dining hub boasts a relaxed, retro vibe and a massive selection of cuisines, from local Indonesian to Japanese and Western. Its semi-open-air design makes it perfect for a lunch break or after-work hangout. The complex also features a cinema, gym, and supermarket, making it a true one-stop lifestyle center for the area.
Under 100k at Jakarta's OG steakhouse: Nostalgic gem or a total rip-off?
Jakarta's legendary ABUBA steakhouse is famous for its nostalgic vibe and steaks under 100k. But is it a bargain or a bust? This review explores the restaurant's biggest issue: wildly inconsistent quality. One visit could be a juicy dream, the next a tough nightmare. Before you go, check out this essential survival guide on what to order (and what to avoid) to make the most of your visit to this iconic, old-school dining spot.