Jakarta's Best Ox Tongue Rice, Hidden in the Smokiest "Smoking Room"?
qponx
2026-01-24
Craving Jakarta's best ox tongue rice? This review dives into Daitokyo Sakaba, a hidden izakaya in Blok M's "Little Tokyo." Famous for its incredible Gyutan Don and delicious skewers, the spot offers an authentic, private vibe. However, be prepared for a major catch: the entire place is a smoking zone. Get the essential tips on what to order (and what to avoid!), how to book a table, and decide if this smoky gem is the right spot for you.
Whenever friends visit Jakarta and specifically ask to Nongkrong in Blok M's"Little Tokyo," the first place that pops into my head is Daitokyo Sakaba. But honestly, I have mixed feelings about recommending this place. It's a love-hate relationship, you could say!
Want to eat here? Okay, but first, be prepared to book 2 days in advance or wait in line for two hours on-site during meal times[1]. It's hidden so well, there's no sign, and even when you follow the GPS to the door, you'll question your existence. You're only set once you find that inconspicuous little entrance and push your way in.
The vibe is very Japanese, but at a cost…
The moment you step inside, the vibe is just right! Dim lighting, each table is separated by curtains, giving you maximum privacy[2]. It's the perfect spot to complain about your boss with your girlfriends or drink and shoot the breeze with your buddies. The atmosphere is 100/10, feels like you've been instantly transported to a late-night street in Shinjuku.
But! However! Here comes the biggest complaint: smoking is allowed everywhere! The ventilation system is basically just for show. The smoke from the grilled skewers mixes with the cigarette smoke from the next table, turning me into an"immersive" piece of smoked human meat[3]. For my friends who are sensitive to smoke or have kids with them, I'm begging you, let's find another place to chill, you'll seriously suffocate here.
Hits and Misses Revealed: What to Order Blindly and What to Avoid at All Costs
Now that we're seated, let's get straight to the food. Once you're here, don't hesitate, give the star spot on your order to the Gyutan Don (Beef Tongue Rice)[4]. Seriously, this might be the most Mantap beef tongue rice I've had in Jakarta. The beef tongue is so tender it melts in your mouth, and the buttery rice is so fragrant it'll make you swoon. For this bowl of rice alone, I'm willing to endure the smoke!
The grilled skewers are also a must-order, especially the Kawa (Chicken Skin) and Buta Bara (Pork Belly)[5]. The chicken skin is grilled until it's fragrant and crispy, the pork belly is rich and fatty, pair it with a cold beer, Anjay! This is the life! 🍻
⚠️ Minefield Ahead: Absolutely! Do not order their ramen! I've tried it for you, the broth is sickeningly salty, with a cheap, instant-noodle-powder taste[6], and the noodles are completely soulless. The Gekikara (super spicy) ramen my friend ordered, level 1 spiciness is enough to send you to the afterlife. It's purely paying for suffering.
Wallet Warning & TL;DR Guide
To be honest, this place isn't cheap. The skewers are gone in a few bites, and for two people to eat and drink casually, it's common for the bill to head towards 1 million IDR. The value for money really isn't great. It's the kind of place that's okay for an occasional craving, but coming often will hurt your wallet.
Finally, here are some solid tips for you. If you want to go without any mishaps, listen to me:
- Book! Book! Book! I'm saying it three times because it's important. If you don't want to wait in line, call two days in advance. Otherwise, even if you rush over after work, you'll just get a number and have to wait at the coffee shop next door.
- Go green with your transport: Parking is extremely limited, and the road is narrow. Promise me, take the MRT to Blok M station or just use Gojek/Grab. It'll save you the hassle[7].
- Ordering Formula: Gyutan Don + Skewers + Beer = Perfection. For other main courses, especially ramen, please be very, very cautious.
- Know Your Crowd: A paradise for smokers, a hell for non-smokers. For family gatherings, those with kids, or friends who are particular about cleanliness, it's best we part ways on this one.
- Jakarta's Mantap ox tongue rice: melt-in-your-mouth, fragrant butter rice. Worth enduring the smoke! [1]
- Must-order Kawa (chicken skin), crispy, and rich Buta Bara (pork belly). With cold beer, Anjay! Pure life! 🍻 [2]
- No sign, yet it instantly transports you to late-night Shinjuku streets. Maximum privacy per booth – no wonder people queue two hours! [3][4]
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