Jakarta's Best Croissant? Don't Rush! Here's What You Need to Know First.
qponx
2026-01-24
Is Chicory's croissant worth the hype and the high price? This review dives into Jakarta's buzziest bakery. While the signature croissant is confirmed to be divinely flaky and the omelette is a silky surprise, there are major drawbacks. Expect a tiny, noisy space, underwhelming coffee, and a total lack of Wi-Fi or power outlets. This guide gives you the essential tips on when to go and what to order so you can enjoy the good without the bad.
All of Jakarta is hyping up Chicory's croissants as No. 1, and I was wondering, are they really that good? I made a special trip to Menteng, waking up super early on a weekend to check it out. The result... well, there were pleasant surprises and some shocks. My wallet and my mood went on a rollercoaster ride. 🎢
To be honest, their prices are truly on the luxury side. A sandwich costs 210,000 IDR, which left me speechless. But for that legendary croissant, I went for it anyway!
🥐 The Texture is Divine, but the Ambiance...
The moment you walk in, the tiny space is packed with people. You basically have to shout to be heard, so for any friends wanting to find a quiet corner to Nongkrong all afternoon, you can just give up[1]. It has a vintage European vibe, but the weekend noise will make you feel like you've been instantly transported to a wet market.
However, when their signature Croissant[2] arrived at the table, all complaints were temporarily silenced. The crust was so flaky it crumbled at the touch, the buttery aroma hit you instantly, yet the inside was incredibly moist and soft. The layers were impeccable. Mantap! After one bite, I have to admit, its"best in the city" title is well-deserved.
The Omelette[3] I ordered for brunch was also a pleasant surprise. Made with four eggs, its texture was as silky as a cloud, and it melted in your mouth with the brie cheese. So good it makes you want to say Anjay! As for dessert, the Yuzu Brulee Tart[4] my friend ordered was refreshingly sweet and sour, which was pretty good. But I've heard their other tarts can be a miss, so it feels like opening a blind box.
☕️ Okay, Praise is Over, Time to Rant
Their offerings, aside from the bread and desserts, are honestly a bit underwhelming. Especially the coffee! The options are pitifully few. For iced coffee, they literally only have black coffee[5], and they don't provide sugar, only honey... The taste is also quite weak, which feels completely out of league with their amazing desserts.
The portions are small too. Considering the high prices, you can say that value for money is non-existent here. You're purely paying for high-quality ingredients and top-notch taste. 🤑
📝 Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls & Tips for Visiting
For all the girls who want to check this place out, take some advice from me to save yourself a lot of trouble:
- Digital nomads, run! Key point: There's no Wi-Fi, no power outlets, and the phone signal is so bad you'll be off the grid[6]. Don't even think about working or surfing the web here; it's purely a place for you to"focus on your food."
- Going during off-peak hours is key. It gets insanely crowded during weekend brunch, so I highly recommend going on a weekday or just getting the croissants to go. During peak hours, there might even be a one-hour time limit for dining in, which is not very Chill.
- Parking is a huge headache. There are very few parking spots out front. Although they offer valet parking service, I'd still recommend taking a taxi to save yourself the trouble.
- Don't have high expectations for the coffee. Save your budget and stomach space for the croissants, sandwiches, and the Omelette—that's the main event
- Jakarta's viral No.1 croissant! Flaky, buttery, moist, soft – truly the "city's best"! [1]
- Beyond croissants: a 4-egg cloud-like silky omelet with melty Brie. So good, you'll say Anjay! [2]
- Despite the premium price, diners happily pay for the quality and taste. Flaky croissant [3] and silky omelet [4] are a taste bud rollercoaster!
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