Lunch at Plataran Menteng
Nice music from this quartet
Menteng is the posh end of Jakarta. Much like Bukit Damansara, Bangsar and the likes. They also have several excellent restaurants, according to the locals.
The entrance from above
During my visit to Jakarta, I was lucky enough to be able to spend lunch at one such eatery, Plataran Menteng. Not only that the food was great, but the ambience was also something else. Added to that a string quartet playing soothing music, it was a winner.
I got to know Saleh through Instagram. Both of us are Fuji medium format users and happened to a Vascular Surgeon at a local hospital in Jakarta. As soon as I was invited to talk in Indonesia, I sounded him out. Initially, we had planned a photowalk, but due to the combination of my delayed flight and poor weather, he had to make do with lunch before my flight home. That was more than just a consolation.
With my host, Dr Saleh
The restaurant was a 15-minutes car ride away from Raffles Jakarta. Saleh booked the table as the place was very popular, especially on a Sunday. It was a converted villa, with a central atrium. With the quartet performing in the middle of the space, the acoustics brought to a crescendo which could be heard throughout the 4 story building. We were given a table on the ground floor right in front of the performance.
I did not sit for too long, As soon as we made our orders, I took my camera out and started exploring the place. The second floor was more formal, with private rooms and a private balcony. Next floor up was more open, with an el fresco feel to it. But the crown was the rooftop, which unfortunately was only open for dinner. It was too hot, being exposed to the sun during the day. Rumour has it that the place was used to be own by a local Gynaecologist before being converted into a restaurant. It must have been one rocking resident!
The exterior was impressive as well. Occasionally they had classic cars parked at the front porch just to add to the feel.
And the food and cocktails were amazing. It was a fusion of Balinese and oriental cuisine. Plenty of seafood and the cooking was surprisingly sweet. I thought it would taste hot judging by the colour. A friendly chat once we settled down for food, although I soon received a phone call that my ride to the airport was ready at the hotel. He was fine to wait until I got back.
The main entrance
Classic cars by the entrance
It is always best to have a local host taking you around. They certainly knew the place better, and when it comes to food, they are essential! Hopefully, I can return Saleh the favour, should he end up in KL for some reason ...