Jakarta's OG LOEWY: A Timeless Classic or Time to Blacklist?

In Jakarta, there are always a few places that are the first to pop into your head when you don't know where to go. For me, LOEWY is one of those places. As the big brother under the Union Group, it's been open since '08, making it an OG-level restaurant and bar that has witnessed the changing landscape of Jakarta.

But to be honest, my last few visits felt like seeing an old friend. You love the familiarity, but some of its unchanging "bad habits" are starting to get on my nerves. 🤷‍♀️

Half Classic, Half Complaint-worthy

Walking into LOEWY, you're instantly enveloped in that classic bistro atmosphere. The iconic long bar, the dim, warm lighting, the air mixed with the aroma of food and a faint scent of perfume, surrounded by bule (foreigners) from all over the world—that chill yet sophisticated vibe is truly undeniable.

When it comes to food, there are a few things I've been ordering for years. For example, their Spicy Garlic Chicken Wings[1] are crispy and flavorful, definitely a Top Tier bar snack, mantap! 👍 The brunch French Toast[2] has also never disappointed, slightly crisp on the outside and moist on the inside, perfectly paired with the sweet and sour berries. If you're there for a proper meal, the Tenderloin Steak[3] is consistently good, always cooked to just the right doneness.

The drink menu is also impressive. After all, the mixologist Kiki Moka is a world-class master who's been on global lists[4], and the selection of cocktails and wines is both extensive and professional. Coming here for a business lunch or a brunch with the girls during the day, the atmosphere is top-notch.

Okay, let me give it to you straight…

But! We can't just sing its praises without mentioning the flaws. LOEWY's downsides are becoming more and more obvious.

First, the price. It's really not cheap. A casual lunch for two can easily set you back 650k[5], and they even charge 150k for valet parking[6]. My wallet really hurts!

Second, the service is extremely inconsistent. Sometimes it's warm and attentive, other times the receptionist looks at you like you owe her a fortune. Walk-in? You'll most likely be told there are no tables, even when there are clearly empty ones inside. Anjay!

What drives me craziest is the environment. At night, the entire indoor area is filled with smoke, which is so unfriendly to non-smokers like us[7]! And the music is blasting so loud, you basically have to shout to have a conversation[8]. It feels like eating steak in a nightclub; you can't have a proper conversation at all.

The food quality control is also becoming a gamble. While the signature dishes are solid, there are plenty of misses too. A friend once got smoked salmon that wasn't even fully thawed[1], and a cheesecake I ordered had absolutely no cheese flavor[9]. It's just confusing…

【Nongkrong Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls】

So, is it still worth going? My advice is: it depends!

• Book in advance! Especially on weekends and evenings, otherwise you'll really only be able to sit at the bar or wait by the entrance.
• Choose the right time! If you want to have a quiet meal and chat, definitely come during the day! At night, it's a social scene, so be prepared for the blast of music and secondhand smoke.
• Ordering Guide:
• ✅ Can't-go-wrong picks: Spicy Garlic Chicken Wings, French Toast, Steak, Duck Confit. These classic dishes are almost always a safe bet.
• ⚠️ Depends on your luck: Some desserts, juices, and creative dishes. The quality can be a bit inconsistent, so you might want to ask the staff for recommendations before ordering.
• Getting there: Just skip that ridiculously expensive valet parking and take a Grab instead. It's the most hassle-free option. After all, the money you save can go towards another drink, right? 😉