Cikini, located in the heart of Jakarta, is a vibrant culinary destination offering a variety of dining experiences. From cosy restaurants to bustling night street vendors, this area caters to every palate. Visitors can enjoy everything from legendary establishments with decades of history to trendy spots that are currently the talk of the town.
Hidden Away: Warungijo Cooks Up Comfort Local Delights in Cikini
Asatu Area, a newly popular compound restaurant in Cikini, has become a favourite among food lovers for its array of delightful dining spots. One standout is Warungijo, which has been garnering attention for its local flavours and inviting atmosphere.
Perched on the second floor of Asatu Area, Warungijo is easily recognizable by its green-themed décor and the circular staircase leading to its entrance. Adding to its charm, the sight of a long queue of eager diners makes it a standout spot for those seeking delicious food.
The Warungijo area is cozy and intimate, with an indoor seating arrangement that accommodates around 15 people. For those who prefer a more open setting, there’s a row of stools at the front, overlooking the futsal field. You can enjoy your meal while taking in the fresh breeze and the lively atmosphere of the game.
Warungijo offers a simple selection of dishes, focusing on authentic Indonesian cuisine. Among the highlights is a popular South Sulawesi specialty; Sop Saudara, a flavorful soup featuring tender beef as the main ingredient. This dish is served with a variety of accompaniments, including glass noodles, mini potato cakes (perkedel), beef lungs, and a choice of buras—a traditional rice cake that evokes a sense of nostalgia. The soup itself boasts a balanced flavor profile, with a savoury and tangy taste. Its consistency is light yet satisfying, enhanced by the rich beef broth that deepens the savoury notes. Although the portions of beef are modest, the meat is perfectly tender, adding to the dish's overall appeal.
Another must-try dish is the Bandeng Bakar, served with Sambal Rica and Dabu-dabu. The milkfish is carefully prepared, halved, and semi-fillet, leaving the meat mostly free of bones, with a small portion remaining at the ends. Its white flesh is accentuated by golden-brown spots, a testament to the perfectly even grilling process. The fish stands out for its savoury, non-fishy taste and pronounced smoky aroma. A squeeze of lime enhances the flavour, while the pairing of the earthy, spicy Sambal Rica and the fresh, zesty Sambal Dabu-dabu brings an authentic and bold taste to this delightful dish.
Several other signature dishes are also worth trying, including Bakso Cuanki and Sop Buntut. However, if you’re already full but still have room for snacks, you can choose from Jalangkote, Perkedel, and Samosa Ayam.
Jalangkote, which resembles pastel in Jakarta, is incredibly satisfying. Its generous filling and plump, oversized shape ensure a fulfilling bite. Meanwhile, the Perkedel is equally delightful. Unlike the smaller perkedel typically served with Sop Saudara, this version is larger, with a soft, fluffy texture and a savoury flavour that melts in your mouth.
The Samosa Ayam is another must-try, drawing inspiration from Middle Eastern cuisine. These plump samosas are packed with flavourful chicken filling and infused with subtle Middle Eastern spices, making them a delicious and satisfying snack.
No meal is complete without something sweet and refreshing to end the session, and Es Cincau is highly recommended for this purpose. This traditional dessert features green cincau (grass jelly), sliced into flat, oval shapes that fit perfectly onto a spoon for a delightful dining experience. Paired with syrup, coconut milk, and ice cubes, the natural bitterness of the green cincau is beautifully balanced, creating a cool and invigorating treat to round off your meal.
In addition to Es Cincau, the Es Teler here is also a crowd favorite. You can take inspiration from these recommendations or choose based on your personal taste preferences, ensuring a dessert experience that suits you perfectly.
Warungijo
Asatu Area
Jl. RP Soeroso No.1, Menteng, Jakarta Pusatm 10330
Phone: +62856 8433 738
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