It’s always exciting to discover new dining establishments with a great concept and an even greater menu. For this edition, we take a look at some of the buzzworthy culinary destinations in Jakarta and Bali.
Maza Jakarta
Maza is the latest addition to Altitude Group, one of Jakarta’s prominent F&B groups. Unlike their other restaurants, which are compounded in a single address, Maza is just a little closer to the south, finding its home on the first floor of the lavish, modern Menara Astra. The interior boasts black walls, dark wood tables with brass lining, and a bright golden emblem on the wall.
The menu at Maza focuses heavily on fresh premium ingredients, showcasing nigiri sushi, sashimi and open temaki in their purest flavours. The cooked dishes are also enticing, with unique creations such as Tuna pizza and zuke tataki jalapeño in the cold selections, and wagyu bone marrow rice and flaming ishiyaki steak among the hot dishes. Two of the world’s most prestigious ingredients, Hon Maguro Toro and A5 wagyu, also have their own dedicated section in the menu.
Maza Jakarta ( @maza.jakarta)
Smriti
Smriti means “commemoration” in Sanskrit, which is the founding concept of this new restaurant. Constructed inside a colonial home in the heart of Jakarta, Smriti is designed with an eclectic art deco interior of rustic wood panels and beams, leather seats, marble tables, and vintage rugs. A New York-style bar welcomes guests, while the early 19th century influence is more prominent in the massive main dining area, which has an open kitchen as the focal point. Just like the outer building, Smriti’s menu takes guests on a journey through the old East Indies. Unveiling menus through volumes, its very first edition is inspired by the gastronomy of Sumatera and Java, starting with unique dishes such as Oyster Bakar, Steak Saus Rendang, Bobor Jamur Asap, and Klepon Cake to name a few. The drinks also tell stories – from whiskey-based favourites to those incorporating Indonesia’s exotic tropical spices.
Smriti (smritijakarta.com)
