Who says Indonesian cuisine can't be fine dining? Jakarta's ESA begs to differ.
qponx
2026-01-23
Discover Jakarta's ESA, a restaurant proving Indonesian cuisine can be sophisticated fine dining. Chef Aditya Muskita's "New Jakarta Cuisine" brilliantly reimagines familiar flavors with modern techniques. Don't miss signature dishes like the crispy Aged Duck and an elevated Steak and Rice. The atmosphere is bright, warm, and stylish—a refreshing change from typical formal dining. It’s a surprising culinary journey offering generous portions and incredible value for a memorable meal.
My head hurts every time I come to SCBD Park, the parking fee is ridiculously expensive[1], and finding a place takes forever[2]. To be honest, if it weren't for my friend who insisted I try this place, ESA, I probably would have just turned around and left based on the location alone. But it turns out, Anjay! I'm so glad I didn't miss it, this is definitely the most surprising meal I've had in Jakarta this year!
Sophistication Hidden in a Lively Atmosphere
The moment I pushed the door open, I fell in love with the atmosphere here. It's not that dark, cold, and pretentious Fine Dining vibe; the whole space is surprisingly bright and warm[3]. With large areas of natural wood tones and a completely open kitchen taking center stage, it feels more like walking into a stylish friend's private dining bar, making you relax instantly so you can just Chill.
The dishes were impeccable. Chef Aditya Muskita's"New Jakarta Cuisine" concept really won me over. It's not some random fusion, but rather a re-expression of familiar Indonesian flavors using more modern and precise techniques[4]. Every bite is both familiar and surprising, Mantap!
- Ikura Burrata[5]: The appetizer hit me with a powerful punch right away! Ikura, honey, and fresh burrata cheese on a banana chip—salty, sweet, savory, and crispy flavors explode in your mouth instantly. The complexity of layers is just incredible.
- Aged Duck[6]: The signature dish, a must-order! The duck skin is roasted until fragrant and crispy, while the meat is tender with a smoky flavor. The accompanying black rice wine sauce elevates the sophistication of the Indonesian flavor to the max.
- Steak and Rice[7]: Don't think it's just steak with rice. The quality of the steak is on point, and it's served with salted egg yolk and squid ink sauce on the side. The rice is cooked in broth, infused with the aroma of torch ginger, and wrapped in a lotus leaf... This is the highest form of respect Indonesians can show to rice, okay!
Praise First, Then Complain—That's True Love
Honestly, this meal is definitely not cheap; a tasting menu with wine pairing costs a little over 2 million Rupiah. But compared to other restaurants of the same caliber you'd find in Jakarta, I personally think the quality of the food and the experience here offer great value for money. It absolutely deserves the title of"Restaurant of the Year"[8].
There's also a"sweet problem"—the portions are too generous[9]! I ordered a full menu and was so full by the end I had to hold onto the wall to walk out. You definitely don't have to worry about not getting enough to eat. I even wish they offered a smaller portion option, so I could try more dishes, haha.
The Editor-in-Chief's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls (Save this now!)
Finally, for the girls who want to go check it out, here are the key points. Save this guide:
- 🚗 Parking: Definitely don't drive into SCBD Park (unless you have an electric car), the parking fee for non-electric cars is 100k! Park your car at Lot 17 or Electronic City across the street and walk over, your wallet will thank you[10].
- 📍 Finding the place: The restaurant is a bit hidden in an alley, so you might not find it on your first try. Don't be shy, just give the restaurant a call and ask for directions[11].
- 🪑 Seating: If you want to watch the chef in action for the full experience, be sure to book a counter seat[12]!
- 🍽️ Ordering: They have set menus as well as an à la carte menu. If the server only gives you the set menu, remember to ask for the à la carte menu to have a look[13], for more freedom of choice.
- 💡 Ambiance: Friendly reminder, the lighting here is on the brighter side, making it more suitable for gatherings with friends or anniversary celebrations. If you're looking for a dim, romantic date for two, you might want to reconsider, haha.
- Chef Aditya Muskita's New Jakarta Cuisine modernizes familiar Indonesian flavors. Every bite: familiar yet surprising [1]!
- Signature Aged Duck: crispy skin, smoky tender meat, black rice wine sauce. Pure Indonesian luxury [2]!
- 2M IDR Tasting Menu: portions so generous you'll roll out [3]! Definitely Restaurant of the Year material [4]!
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