100k for spoiled pasta, just for this Jakarta night view?
qponx
2026-01-24
Tempted by the stunning rooftop views at Uncle Bens 23 Jkt? This review reveals the honest truth. While the Jakarta city light panorama and photo-worthy ambiance are top-notch, the experience is let down by overpriced, poor-quality food and frustratingly slow service. Discover why this spot is a great choice for drinks with a view, but a hard pass for a meal. Find out if the spectacular scenery is truly worth the disappointing dining experience before you visit.
I went for the city light view in North Jakarta, the pictures I saw on IG were so chill… The result? Heh. This trip to Uncle Bens 23 Jkt was an emotional rollercoaster. Let me get straight to the point: The view is Mantap, the food is Anjay! 🤦♀️
To be fair, the ambiance is truly impeccable. On the 8th-floor rooftop, the breeze is super comfortable, and as the city lights slowly start to twinkle at dusk, the atmosphere is just maxed out[1]. There's also live music on site, and any photo you take looks like a masterpiece. It's great for coming to Nongkrong and chatting with friends or for a date with your doi; just for the view, it definitely passes.
BUT! When my pasta was served, I was stunned. I ordered a Fettuccine Carbonara[2], which cost almost 80k, and the noodles were not only a bit undercooked but also had a faint, not-so-fresh taste… My friend's seafood pasta was the same; the shrimp had absolutely no springy texture. Seriously, the quality was worse than street-side fried noodles. The only thing worth praising was probably the Kopi Susu Pandan[3]; the taste was decent enough.
What really pissed me off was the service. I don't know if they were understaffed or just untrained, but the waiters were incredibly slow to respond; you could call for ages and no one would come[4]. I especially heard that during Eid, even with reservations and pre-orders made a week in advance, food was served more than an hour after Iftar[5]. This kind of operation... I'm speechless… Plus, with these prices, a snack platter is almost 100k. Where's the value for money? I'm seriously making the confused black guy meme face. 🤷♀️
Editor's Guide to Avoiding the Pitfalls (You're Welcome!)
- 1. Just Drinks, No Food: If you're really craving this view, just come for a drink. Order a coffee or a safe beverage, take your photos, and leave. Do not have any expectations for the food, especially the Pasta[6]!
- 2. Wait for Your Food Like a Zen Master: If you decide to go, be mentally prepared. The waiters might"go missing" at any moment, and the speed of service depends on fate. Not for the impatient.
- 3. Bring Your Phone/Card: They only accept cashless payments here[7], so don't be a fool and bring a pile of cash.
- 4. Parking is a Matter of Luck: Parking spots downstairs are hard to find, and the separation between smoking and non-smoking areas is very confusing, so for those of you who mind, take note.
- North Jakarta's 8th-floor rooftop boasts epic city light night views. Dusk brings vibe instantly 100%[1] for IG shots.
- A Kopi Susu Pandan[2] hits the spot, complementing the charming night view.
- With live music, it's the perfect spot for Nongkrong with friends or a date.
Similar Articles
The peak of Jakarta nightlife? Just how deep does King Cross go?
Explore King Cross, a legendary nightlife hub in Jakarta's Kelapa Gading. This guide takes you inside the multi-level club, famous for its thumping sound system, live music, and a stage filled with energetic dancers from night till dawn. Learn about the vibrant atmosphere, the "ladies drink" system for interacting with performers, and the convenient wristband payment. The article also gives a crucial heads-up on the club's notoriously strict and controversial door policy, so you know exactly what to expect.
22k for two scoops, handmade by an Italian chef? This gelato shop must be a charity
Discover a hidden gem in Kelapa Gading where authentic Italian gelato is just 22k for two scoops! This seriously underrated shop, run by an Italian owner, serves up must-try flavors like a rich, natural Pistachio and the unique local favorite, Marie Regal. Beyond the amazing value, you can also grab delicious Brioche bread and get free samples before you buy. Be prepared for a potential line at this popular neighborhood spot—it’s worth the wait for this authentic taste.
The GPS almost led me into a ditch! This 'hidden' Jakarta dessert shop is SO hard to find
Discover Rodin Patisserie, a hidden dessert haven in Jakarta that’s notoriously hard to find. Tucked away above Sushi Masa, this spot reveals a stunningly quiet and chic interior, perfect for a chill hangout. The main attraction is its exquisite Japanese-style desserts, featuring six different intensity levels of matcha ice cream, a unique sake flavor, and decadent cakes. While on the pricier side, the high-quality ingredients and unique offerings make this secret spot a worthwhile discovery for any dessert lover.
Stop waiting foolishly! Wrong payment on your Jakarta PHD order = a 30-minute wait for nothing
Planning a Pizza Hut Delivery (PHD) run in Jakarta? Don't get stuck waiting! This guide reveals a crucial ordering mistake to avoid. Learn why choosing "Cash Payment" for takeaway means your pizza only starts cooking when you arrive at the store. For a truly fast fix, always pay online beforehand. Or, discover why delivery might be even quicker with their 15-minute promise. Get your pizza the smart way and skip the unnecessary wait with these essential tips.