Calling all Jakarta pork lovers! I'm giving the crispy pork at this heritage cafe a 10/10.
qponx
2026-01-24
Tucked away in Menteng, this heritage cafe offers a stunning retro vibe in a converted old house. It’s a photogenic paradise with amazing coffee, but the main event is the pork. The signature Pork Porchetta is a must-try, boasting perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat that earns rave reviews. While it's on the pricier side and has some dining limitations, the incredible ambiance and unforgettable crispy pork make it a worthwhile visit for Jakarta's foodies.
Every time I pass by this area of Menteng in Jakarta, I've always been curious about this old house hidden among the greenery; it always felt like it was hiding a story. Today, I finally met up with a friend to check it out, and Anjay, it really lives up to the hype. It was totally packed on a weekend afternoon!
The moment you walk in, you're hit with this retro and cozy vibe. The sense of space in this converted old Indonesian house is just amazing[1]. The indoor area, the outdoor garden, and the greenhouse in the backyard—every corner is super photogenic. When the sunlight streams in, you can just sit anywhere and get a cinematic, atmospheric shot. It's truly an evergreen in Jakarta's cafe scene; I'm giving the ambiance top marks right away.
Of course, the coffee is the main event, since this is an Ombé Kofie. The quality of their coffee beans is always on point, widely recognized as one of the best in Jakarta. I ordered a Nimbus Latte[2], which was silky smooth with a hint of sweetness, perfect for someone like me who prefers a milkier taste. But the real star of the show today was their pork! We ordered the signature Pork Porchetta[3]. The skin was roasted to a perfect crisp, and it was so juicy and rich when you cut into it. Dipped in the sauce, one bite was just so Mantap! And then there was the Classic Bolognese[4]—the noodles were perfectly al dente and chewy, the meat sauce was generous, and it was so good I couldn't stop eating.
OK, after all the praise, let's get real for a moment. The prices here are definitely on the higher side for Jakarta; the two of us spent around 370,000 IDR for a casual meal[5]. Also, the quality control seems a bit hit-or-miss[6]. A friend who's a long-time fan complained to me that the food portions seem a bit smaller than before, so the value for money isn't as great anymore. So, if you're coming for the ambiance and that amazing crispy pork, go for it! But if you're looking for the best value, you might want to think twice.
Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls (Wajib Tahu!)
For the girls planning to visit, keep these points in mind!
- Don't expect to stay long: During peak hours on weekends, the staff will remind you of a 90-minute dining limit[7], so those hoping to Nongkrong and work here for a long time might be disappointed.
- Parking is a huge headache: Parking spots are extremely limited! It's best to take a taxi/ride-hailing service, or be prepared to use the valet service[8], which costs around 20,000 IDR.
- Not very family-friendly: Heads up, the place doesn't provide baby chairs[9], so it can be tough for families with young children.
- Non-Halal Warning: Pork dishes are the main feature on the menu[10], so friends who don't eat pork should check the menu carefully before ordering!
- Ask first for large groups: Tables for more than 8 people might have a minimum charge of 1.5 million IDR[11]. It's best to call and confirm before heading over with a large group.
- Vintage old house hidden in lush greenery, with gardens and greenhouse. Every corner is a 100% photo-op, atmospheric vibes [1].
- Signature Pork Porchetta[2]: crackling crispy skin, rich juicy meat. Dip in sauce for a Mantap bite!
- Ombé Kofie's Nimbus Latte[3] (Jakarta-renowned): silky smooth, subtly sweet – milk lover's dream.
Similar Articles
A perfect 5.0 on Google? Is this Pakistani food hidden in a Jakarta hotel really that amazing?
Discover a hidden gem in North Jakarta that’s earned a perfect 5.0 Google rating! Tucked away inside a hotel, this spot serves authentic Pakistani cuisine from a Lahore-native owner. You can't miss the rich Chicken Masala or the comforting Aloo Paranthas. Surprisingly, their Indonesian Nasi Goreng is also a standout hit. This cozy, friendly restaurant is a true carb-lover's dream, offering a heartwarming taste of homemade cooking that’s well worth the search.
Michelin Chef, but the servers are bigger divas than me? An Honest Review of Caspar Jakarta.
Curious about the hype surrounding Caspar Jakarta? This Spanish spot is a visual masterpiece with a glamorous vibe, perfect for photos. While the Basque Cheesecake is a showstopper and some tapas shine, the experience can be a gamble. This review reveals inconsistent main courses, like the risky paella, and service that often falls short of its high-end price tag. It's a place best visited for its stunning atmosphere and dessert, not necessarily a flawless meal.
I tried the Le Méridien Jakarta buffet for you all, and I need to get some things off my chest.
Curious about the hyped-up La Brasserie buffet at Le Méridien Jakarta? This honest review cuts through the polarized opinions to give you the real scoop. Discover the absolute must-tries, like the legendary oxtail soup and a dessert spread that steals the show. But get a heads-up on the letdowns, including mediocre seafood and the shocking fact that even water costs extra. Find out if it's truly worth the price and get tips to avoid potential pitfalls.
Kopi Kenangan wants to be Starbucks Reserve? Learn how to do service first
Kopi Kenangan's new flagship, Kenangan Heritage, aims for a "Starbucks Reserve" vibe with its stunning, photo-worthy decor and upgraded signature drinks. While the ambiance is a major draw, this review gives a serious heads-up about the service. Be prepared for chaotic ordering and long waits that don't match the premium prices. Get the full scoop on whether the beautiful space is worth the frustrating experience, plus essential tips for a smoother visit if you decide to go.