Marking Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day, Kayu Manis Restaurant at Hotel Tentrem Jakarta hosts three weekends of culinary collaborations. From heritage feasts to modern interpretations, celebrated chefs and beloved food icons come together to serve dishes that capture the nation’s rich and diverse flavours.
Ask any Indonesian what they remember most about Independence Day, and you might hear about the parades, the games, and the laughter. Just as often, they will talk about the food and the recipes that have been part of family tables for generations. This year, Kayu Manis Restaurant at Hotel Tentrem Jakarta is marking the nation’s 80th Independence Day with culinary collaborations honouring Indonesia’s diverse heritage. Over three weekends, the restaurant will host celebrated chefs and culinary icons, creating menus that blend nostalgic flavours with fresh ideas.
The celebrations begin on Saturday, 16 August 2025, with Cita Rasa Kemerdekaan, an evening dedicated to the Merdeka Rijstaffel. The concept recalls an era when Indonesian dining brought together influences from the archipelago in one shared feast. Chef Rachmad from KAUM Jakarta will join forces with Chef Benvi and Chef Yanto from Kayu Manis to present a menu that weaves regional traditions into a single dining experience. Dishes such as Nasi Gurih, Ayam Kenduri, Asam Udeung, Daging Ambal, and Sayur Bola Gandum will take centre stage, inviting diners to savour flavours from across the islands.
The celebration continues the next day, Sunday, 17 August 2025, with the Merdeka Sunday Brunch. The buffet will highlight signature Indonesian dishes, including Kambing Tuturaga, Bebek Cibeber, Tuna Binthe Dabu and a refreshing Kecombrang Sorbet, offering a mid-day gathering that reflects the joy and variety of the nation’s cuisine.
Closing the month, Santap Siang Bersama Pahlawan Kuliner Nusantara will be held on 30–31 August. This two-day event shines a spotlight on two beloved figures in Indonesian home cooking: Ibu Rudy, famed for her bold Surabaya-style dishes, and Ibu Nanik, known for her sweet treats.
Guests can look forward to classics like Rawon, Penyetan Surabaya, Nasi Bakar, Pisang Goreng Madu, and Cempedak. These culinary legends will be present, sharing stories, greeting diners and offering a glimpse into their kitchens.
Hotel Tentrem Jakarta
Jalan Alam Sutera Boulevard
Tangerang 15325, Indonesia
T: (+62) 2150872300
E: info.jakarta@hoteltentrem.com
W: jakarta.hoteltentrem.com
IG: @hoteltentrem.jakarta
