A cafe this massive in East Jakarta, and the AC is just for show?
qponx
2026-01-24
Discover Publika, a massive and photogenic cafe in East Jakarta perfect for large groups. This review gives you the inside scoop: the space is stunning, but the indoor AC is notoriously weak, so consider visiting at night or sitting outside. The food is a hit-or-miss experience; while the Nasi Goreng Wagyu and Tom Yum are definite must-tries, other dishes may fall flat. Expect slow service, making it a spot for leisurely gatherings rather than a quick bite.
Came to Nongkrong with friends in East Jakarta over the weekend and was recommended this place, Publika, in Jakarta Garden City. When we drove up to the entrance, wow, the place was huge, felt like a standalone building. I thought,"This is gonna be good." But the moment I stepped inside, Anjay! A wave of heat hit me in the face... I was instantly confused, was the AC off or just trying to Chill? 🥵
Space is Mantap, but it feels like a sauna
Honestly, the space here is truly impressive. The ceiling is super high, the decor is quite photogenic, and the large floor-to-ceiling windows provide great natural light. There's also a very comfortable outdoor seating area, perfect for a large group of friends or a family gathering to get together[1]. It's great for taking photos, but only if you can stand the"sometimes-on, sometimes-off" indoor air conditioning. We arrived at 2 PM, and sitting inside felt like being in a steam sauna, with the high ceiling being our only saving grace[2]. People who can't stand the heat will definitely say"thanks, but no thanks."
The food is like a blind box, hit or miss
After sitting down and cooling off a bit, we started to order. The menu mainly features Indonesian and Western food, with quite a few options.
👍 Worth trying:
We ordered the recommended Nasi Goreng Wagyu[3], and this one gets a definite thumbs up! The wagyu beef was very tender and juicy, the flavor was Mantap! It's just the portion size... I feel like even a big guy would struggle to finish it, so girls with small appetites should order with caution. My companion's Tom Yum[4] soup was also on point, with a perfect balance of sour and spicy that was very appetizing. We also tried the Wagyu Sate[5]; the skewers were grilled well, a safe bet too.
👎 Kind of a letdown:
But this place is truly a case of"Schrödinger's deliciousness." Aside from a few main dishes, the Sapo Tahu we ordered was very bland, like it was missing its soul[6]. A friend also complained that the pasta sauce they ordered tasted weird[7], not recommended. As for the price, I can only say it's not cheap, and considering the taste of some dishes, the value for money feels just average.
A simple guide (copy my homework!)
- For my friends who can't stand the heat, either come at night or just sit outside! Don't be stubborn and challenge their indoor AC, especially on a sunny afternoon[8].
- When ordering, go for the main dishes: I highly recommend the Nasi Goreng Wagyu[9] and Tom Yum[10], you basically can't go wrong.
- Be patient and don't rush them: The service is really a bit slow...[11] We waited for quite a while. I suggest everyone just chat more and treat it as practice for the Indonesian 'Jam Karet' (rubber time) spirit. 🤷♀️
- Best for: A large group of friends to hang out and chat, family gatherings, or group meetings where you're not in a hurry. The space is large and tables can be combined, which is a big plus[12].
- Wagyu fried rice: tender, juicy, massive. It's an Indonesian Big Mac! [1]
- Standalone space: soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows. Perfect for groups, every shot is insta-worthy! [2]
- Jakarta's unique "sauna-style" dining! Expect indoor heat, despite high ceilings. Heat-averse people, can you handle it? [3]
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