This Jakarta brunch is so greasy you could drill for oil, yet people are still lining up?
qponx
2026-01-24
Is Jakarta's Maple & Oak worth the hype? This trendy brunch spot is famous for its cozy-but-cramped vibe and food that sharply divides opinions. Expect some incredibly greasy mains, like the infamous Big Breakfast, but don't leave without trying the amazing Peach and Berry Cobbler dessert. This review spills the tea on whether the high prices are justified by the hit-or-miss dishes and gives you the essential tips you need before you go.
The hype around this Maple & Oak in Menteng isn't new. Every time I pass by, I think, wow, the storefront is so chill, it looks perfect for nongkrong with the girls. But the online reviews are a total split personality scene, with half praising it to the skies and the other half trashing it to death. In the spirit of not just believing the hype (or hate), I decided to check it out for myself.
Vibe Mantap, Food Anjay
The moment you walk in, the atmosphere is definitely maxed out. Warm lighting, a small space packed to the brim with young people chatting and taking photos, it really has a cozy feeling[1]. But when it gets crowded, you can barely stretch your legs. The tables are super close together, so you can hear all the gossip from the next table crystal clear.
Sat down, flipped through the menu, and wow, the prices aren't cheap... After agonizing for a while, I ordered a few of their most hyped signature dishes.
Let's start with the most criticized dish, the Big Breakfast[2]. Oh my god... no exaggeration, it feels like the chef must have owned an oil mine in a past life. The whole plate was glistening, even the avocado and bread were greasy. I felt full after just two bites.
The signature Maple Butter Brioche[3] did redeem it a little. The buttery aroma and maple sweetness, paired with savory bacon, the first bite was actually pretty good. But after a few more bites, the saltiness of the bacon became a bit overwhelming. And while mine was okay, my friend's brioche was a bit dry... Quality control is a total game of luck.
The only standout of the entire meal was actually the dessert that came last, the Peach and Berry Cobbler[4]. Warm, flaky crust with sweet and sour fruit and ice cream, the texture combination was explosive. The portion is also huge, perfect for three or four people to share. This one is a must-try!
Value for Money? Non-existent
To be honest, after this meal, I have some mixed feelings. The ambiance and service (service is really slow on weekends when it's crowded[5]) are passable, but the food quality is just so inconsistent. Considering the main courses are easily 100k+, and then you have to add a 10% tax and a 7.5% service charge[6], it really hurts the wallet. At this price point, the taste is like opening a blind box. The value for money really isn't great.
The Editor's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls
For the girls who want to check this place out, here's some straightforward advice:
- 1. Don't drive! Don't drive! There's basically no parking. The unofficial parking attendants on the street will ask for 10k[7] right off the bat. You're better off just taking a Gojek/Grab to save the hassle.
- 2. Book in advance! The place is pitifully small, especially on weekends. If you don't want to wait forever at the door, you must remember to book a table[8].
- 3. Ordering is a gamble. If you're a fan of heavy flavors, you might find it okay. For friends who prefer lighter food, please steer clear or head straight for the desserts. That Cobbler dessert[9] is definitely a safe bet.
- 4. Don't go too late. They close early in the evening. I heard the last order is around 8:15 PM[10], so if you want to have dinner, you need to go early.
- Super chill facade, warm lights, and young people nongkrong create a cozy vibe here [1].
- Reviews are wildly polarized – godsend or trap? Editor uncovers this viral spot's truth.
- Must order! Peach and Berry Cobbler[2]: hot crispy crust, sweet-sour fruit, ice cream. Flavor explosion, absolute best!
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