Great Tea, Terrible Food… A Polarizing Jakarta TWG Experience
qponx
2026-01-24
Thinking about visiting TWG in Jakarta? This review spills the tea on the polarizing experience. While the elegant European ambiance, vast selection of over 800 teas, and divine desserts like scones and macarons are a must-try, there's a strong warning. The main courses are described as terribly overpriced and underwhelming. The verdict: come for the luxurious afternoon tea and photo-ops, but definitely eat your main meal somewhere else to avoid disappointment and a hefty bill.
There are so many high-end afternoon tea spots in Jakarta for the ladies, but every time I pass by TWG at Plaza Senayan, I can't help but be dazzled by that shimmering golden wall of tea. But honestly, sitting down this time, the experience was a total rollercoaster 🎢. The good parts were heavenly, but the bad parts were a bottomless pit.
Atmosphere and Tea Snacks: A Lady's Happiness is Just That Simple
The ambiance is truly impeccable, with that old-school European elegance, gold-rimmed tea sets, and velvet chairs. I felt like I instantly transformed into the young lady of some prominent family. But when it gets crowded, the tables are packed super close together. You can hear everything the next table is talking about, so privacy is basically zero[1].
Opening the menu is instantly overwhelming. With over 800 types of tea, my indecisiveness died on the spot. Luckily, the Choco Mint Truffle Tea[2] recommended by the waiter wasn't a miss. The cool mint mixed with the aroma of chocolate was absolutely stunning from the first sip, Mantap! The teapot they give you is also super generous; feels like you could drink until the end of time[3].
The desserts are the real main event here! You have to grab the Scones[4] early. They're moist and absolutely perfect with the tea. And then there are their signature Tea-infused Macarons[5]. The sweetness is just right, not like those obnoxiously sweet ones you find elsewhere.
Main Courses and Service: Anjay! Wallet-Stinging Alert
Alright, enough with the praise, it's time to complain. Girls, promise me, do NOT have a proper meal here!
I watched with my own eyes as the table next to me ordered a Wagyu burger and oxtail soup, and their expressions were hard to describe. I heard the taste is really just average, completely not worth the price[6]. A single glass of iced tea starts at 100,000 IDR, and an afternoon tea set for two is around 400,000 IDR[7]. Value for money is something that doesn't exist here.
The service is also a matter of luck. Queuing during peak hours is the norm, the staff are busy as bees, and getting a water refill depends on fate[8]. Management's attitude towards negative reviews is basically 'read and ignore,' which really doesn't win them any points.
The Real-Talk Guide: The Right Way to Do TWG
So, come on! Your big sis is here to highlight the key points on how to get the best experience for the least amount of money:
- Positioning: Treat it ONLY as a sanctuary for afternoon tea, don't even think about having a meal! Just come here to Nongkrong, take photos, drink tea, and eat dessert. That's the way.
- Ordering: Go straight for the tea + desserts. The quality of the tea is top-notch[9]. If you don't know what to order, just ask the staff for a recommendation[10]. The scones and macarons are safe bets you can order without a second thought.
- What to Avoid: Main courses! Main courses! Main courses! Important things must be said three times. Whoever orders them will regret it.
- Timing: Try to avoid the weekend afternoon peak hours, or you'll be queuing long enough to question your existence. It's best to make a reservation in advance if you want to go.
- Money-Saving Minefield: Watch out! They even charge a 10% service fee for takeaways[11]. Remember to check your bill before paying, don't be a sucker.
- TWG Plaza Senayan: gold-rimmed teaware, velvet chairs. Old-school European refined afternoon tea, you're a family's eldest daughter [1].
- Chocolate Mint Truffle Tea [2] (cool mint + chocolate!). Tea-flavored macarons [3] sweet, not cloying.
- Jakarta's fancy teas: TWG rollercoaster🎢! Tea snacks heavenly, main courses a bottomless pit [4][5].
Similar Articles
159k All-You-Can-Eat Japanese in Central Jakarta. How is this place not viral yet?
Discover a hidden Japanese gem in Central Jakarta offering an all-you-can-eat buffet for just 159k! This spacious, quiet spot is perfect for a cozy meal with friends, complete with nostalgic anime tunes. While the AYCE is the star with its generous meat selection, the large-portioned à la carte bento is also a must-try. It's an unbeatable value-for-money find, perfect for a satisfying meal without the usual downtown hustle and bustle.
Spending 100k just to stand and eat ice cream? Is Venchi really worth it?
Curious about the long queues at Venchi? This review explores if the famous Italian gelato is worth the hype. While the Pistachio and Dark Chocolate flavors are praised as top-tier, silky, and incredibly rich, the experience has its downsides. Get ready for high prices, small portions, and a serious lack of seating. We break down whether the delicious taste is truly worth the price and the hassle of eating while standing in the mall.
Calling all Jakarta parents! Is this hotel a paradise or a 'battlefield'?
Planning a family staycation in Jakarta? The DoubleTree by Hilton might be your spot, boasting the city's largest resort-style pool and a massive breakfast buffet. But this family paradise can turn into a "battlefield" during holidays with major crowds and long waits for the elevator. This review weighs the amazing amenities against the noisy, crowded reality, helping you decide if this popular hotel is the right fit for your family's getaway.
JUNI has a 4.6 on Google. Here's why you shouldn't go just to chat.
JUNI in Cikini boasts a 4.6 Google rating and a stunning, Instagram-worthy industrial-tropical vibe. It's the perfect spot if you're looking for loud live music and a club-like atmosphere. However, this review explains why it's a terrible choice for conversation. Get the full scoop on the hit-or-miss food, questionable service, and strict dining time limits to decide if the cool ambiance is worth the trade-offs before you book a table.