Café Batavia — Restaurant in Jakarta

Cafe Batavia: A Nostalgic Journey in Jakarta

Cafe Batavia, nestled in the heart of Jakarta’s Old Town (Kota Tua), is a beloved institution that seamlessly blends history, charm, and culinary excellence. Housed in a colonial-era building dating back to the 19th century, the cafe offers a unique glimpse into Jakarta’s rich past.

Ambiance and Decor Stepping into Cafe Batavia feels like traveling back in time. The interior is adorned with vintage photographs, antique furnishings, and classic wooden paneling, creating an atmosphere that exudes old-world elegance. The large windows offer a picturesque view of Fatahillah Square, adding to the cafe’s allure. Whether you choose to sit in the cozy downstairs area or the more spacious upper floor, the ambiance is consistently captivating.

Cuisine The menu at Cafe Batavia is a delightful mix of Indonesian and Western cuisine, catering to diverse palates. Highlights include traditional Indonesian dishes like Nasi Goreng and Sate Ayam, which are prepared with authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. For those preferring Western fare, options like the tender steak and flavorful pasta dishes do not disappoint. The cafe also boasts an impressive selection of beverages, from expertly brewed coffee to refreshing cocktails, making it a perfect spot for any time of day.

Service Service at Cafe Batavia is generally commendable. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, often providing insights into the history of the building and the surrounding area. While the cafe can get busy, especially during peak hours, the waitstaff manages to maintain a friendly and efficient demeanor.

Overall Experience Cafe Batavia is more than just a dining venue; it’s a cultural experience. The blend of historical charm, delectable cuisine, and attentive service makes it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely meal, soak in the historical ambiance, or simply relax with a drink while overlooking the bustling square, Cafe Batavia offers a memorable experience that captures the essence of Jakarta’s heritage.

In summary, Cafe Batavia stands out as a unique destination where history and gastronomy come together, offering a delightful retreat in the...

This is touted to be an iconic cafe and it surely saw better days. It’s clearly an instagram spot given the numerous people spending most of their time posing everywhere (including the ladies’ toilet). We visited twice, once without a booking and was sat downstairs (smoking area) and the following time we booked a window seat upstairs (non smoking) in the hope that might turn out to be a better experience. In both cases the food was just ok (the rice dishes being the best ones), portions were good but the coffees we had on both occasions were consistently bad, despite being served in quirky cups (yep, designed to look good on social media). The place isn’t really clean and up close it seems in a fairly advanced state of decay. Craving veg, which isn’t a staple in the Indonesian cuisine, on the second visit I ordered a side dish of stir fried water spinach. Strangely the veg arrived lukewarm but the penny dropped when I saw the roots within it (which should have been trimmed off before washing). By then I had already eaten enough to get food poisoning and that’s what I ended up getting. Unfortunately lack of proper food hygiene is common in Indonesia so I don’t want to single out this restaurant - and hence the 3 stars. If this place was made entirely smoke free, straightened up the kitchen hygiene, air con and carpets replaced, scrubbed down and repainted, it would feel and actually be like in the filtered pictures on social media and well...

Café Batavia, situated in the heart of Jakarta’s historic district, offers a charming escape into Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage. The café’s facade, featuring classic colonial architecture complete with wooden shuttered windows, is both inviting and impressive. Stepping inside, the ambiance is a seamless blend of traditional elegance and casual comfort, making it an ideal setting for both locals and tourists.

The interior exudes a warm, nostalgic feel with its polished wooden floors and an extensive collection of framed photographs that adorn the walls, each telling a piece of Jakarta’s storied past. The real highlight, however, is the authentic Indonesian cuisine that Café Batavia proudly serves. The menu is a vibrant array of local favorites, each dish prepared with care and presented with a homely touch.

From the moment I sat down, the friendly staff made me feel welcome, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The food, rich in flavors and cooked to perfection, provides a delightful culinary journey through Indonesia’s diverse gastronomy.

Café Batavia is more than just a dining spot; it’s a cultural experience that offers a window into the soul of Jakarta through its food and atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for anyone looking to enjoy a casual meal in a uniquely historical setting.

Highly recommended for a taste of local cuisine in a place that feels like a home...