Passing through one of South Jakarta’s narrow streets amid soaring skyscrapers and clustered houses, you’ll likely be discovering the hidden eateries that beg to visit out of curiosity. Because seeking out the under-the-radar restaurants is a must for any true foodie.
Hidden Away: Culinary Escape to the Heart of Java at Bebek Perdikan
If you’ve ever noticed signage of Bebek Perdikan on Guru Mughni Street, it means you're nearby to the eatery. Walking past the dead-end of Gang Susu Street might be a little tricky for a few minutes but at the end of the street, that's where Bebek Perdikan lies beyond the wall. The name 'perdikan' itself means tax-free. During the Islamic kingdom, fiefs were special areas because their citizens were free from having to pay taxes. Meanwhile, during the Dutch colonial period, fiefdoms were also free from forced cultivation.
Hidden behind the otherwise very ordinary-looking wall is a verdant space full of lush trees and plants. There are bamboo plants that tower high. Apart from soothing the eyes amidst the concrete jungle, the breeze there is also very noticeable.
The dining area exudes the concept of a traditional Javanese house dominated by wood, oil lanterns, and birdcages. Actually, this restaurant only has an indoor area. Meanwhile, the base of the restaurant is deliberately filled with pebbles, giving it a rustic impression.
One of the duck dishes that is a mainstay here is Bebek Goreng Perdikan. One portion is served with rice, chili paste, and fresh vegetables like cabbage, tomatoes, and cucumber. The fried duck is fried crispy and sprinkled with fried chopped garlic. When served warm, the savoury aroma hits the nose. Unlike most ducks, which have a bit of tough meat, the fried duck here actually has a soft texture. Apart from that, the meat is also easy to fall off the bone. It's even more delicious when eaten with spicy korek chili sauce. The portion size is very fulfilling, so be ready to beat the heat due to the spicy notes from the chili sauce.
For a more moist and wet fried duck menu, Bebek Goreng Kepayang could be the alternative. The duck is served with more shimmered and glazed that oozes from their signature black seasoning which is rich in spices and herbs. Sweet and savoury to the palate, its rich taste is quite unfamiliar to the senses at first, but have it with rice and fried garlic on top of it at one go, and you’ll get the satisfying duck dining experience here.
Basically, the duck dishes take the center stage, but other side dishes are also enticing. Bebek Perdikan's version of Tumis Kangkung and Sayur Asem scream homey and hearty. Tumis Kangkung brings a savoury and spicy burst of flavour that gets along with the mains.
Meanwhile, let's call Sayur Asem a bowl of simple goodness with a decent taste of sourness coming from the tamarind along with the chayote, corn, melinjo leaves, and long beans. There's nothing wrong with slurping Sayur Asem at any time of the day even when the sun is still scorching. The abundance amount of fried shallot on top of it just adds another layer of flavour and crispy textures.
Though duck specialty restaurants can be found anywhere in the city, Bebek Perdikan has a special place for the admiration. For those who ride here, there's a car park near the main signage on the street, thus making it easier to reach by walking from there.
Bebek Perdikan
Gg. Susu No.2, Karet Semanggi, Jakarta 12930
Open: 10.00 am - 09.00 pm (Monday to Saturday), 09.00 am - 08.00 pm (Sunday)
Phone: +628126444264
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