Venturing into the JW Marriott for their famed Sunday Dim Sum Brunch at the Pearl Chinese Restaurant presents an intriguing dichotomy of charm and challenge. The hotel, adorned with somewhat dated decor, nonetheless offers a certain nostalgic allure not commonly found in more modern establishments.
Value was a driving factor in choosing this venue, particularly due to a tempting 'buy 1 get 1 free' offer. However, initial excitement was dampened by slight discrepancies between the promotional materials and the actual offering. Promises of lobster and xiao long bao prominently featured on their Instagram were conspicuously absent during our visit, leading to a somewhat disappointing start.
The dining experience was further marred by service that unfortunately did not meet expectations. Particular note must be made of a staff member in a golden cheongsam who, though efficiently clearing our table of dishes, did so with a demeanor that was more icy than inviting. An interaction requesting a simple tea refill was met with a curt response and, ultimately, no refill – a basic expectation unmet.
On a more troubling note, the brunch was overshadowed by a lapse in hygiene standards that one would not anticipate at a Marriott establishment. Discovering a strand of hair in a steamed egg yolk bao is disconcerting and unacceptable. While both the manager and chef were prompt in their apologies, such an incident does raise concerns about overall food safety practices.
While the aging charm of the hotel holds a quaint appeal, and the pricing structure (under promotional conditions) appears attractive, these factors are overshadowed by the execution of service and food quality concerns. Significant improvements are necessary, both in updating the decor to bring it into the modern age and enhancing the food selection and safety protocols. Until such changes are implemented, it may be difficult to justify a return visit to Pearl Chinese Restaurant at the...
Read moreA Culinary Journey to China in the Heart of Jakarta
Dining at the Pearl Chinese restaurant in JW Marriott Hotel, Jakarta, is an experience not to be missed. From the moment you step in, the atmosphere sets the tone—a perfect blend of luxury and authenticity, with an elegant interior inspired by traditional Chinese decor.
The menu is extensive and thoughtfully curated, featuring a range of dishes from dimsum to Peking duck, each prepared with fresh ingredients and impeccable attention to detail. The Peking duck, carved tableside, is especially a highlight, with its crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. The dimsum selection is equally delightful, offering a variety of bites that are both delicate and bursting with flavor. Ohh I love the fried Yam dimsum (wu gok).
What truly stands out is the impeccable service. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready to recommend dishes based on your preferences. They make you feel welcome and ensure every part of your meal flows smoothly.
Whether you’re visiting for a business lunch, family gathering, or a special dinner, this Chinese restaurant at JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta is a top-tier choice. It’s not just a meal, but a culinary journey that transports you to China with every bite.
Highly...
Read moreI was invited to have lunch here with my family. My expectations went high when she said we were going to dine in one of the most luxurious hotels in Jakarta. It turns out there are other restaurants besides Pearl. The decoration portrays a classic Chinese restaurant.
We ordered all of their available dishes that day. Fried wonton, fried beancurd, salt & pepper fried tofu, beef black pepper, prawn mayonnaise, bak kut teh, and steamed fish were my favorites.
I was quite disappointed because they didn't serve Pearl's Pork Special that day. So, they replaced it with chicken charsiew instead. Also, they didn't have ice cream. The fruit pudding was not fresh either. Luckily, they still had chocolate cake and Chinese pancakes, which tasted good. The sliced fruits (melon, pineapple, and watermelon) were fresh and sweet.
The dining room was surprisingly not as big as I thought it would be. There were no buffet areas, only round tables because they have this pre-order system where they will serve what we order the day before reservation time.
Overall, the dishes tasted great, but they went below my expectations. It was not memorable in a way that I wanted to visit it again. However, it was still a nice and fancy 3-hour...
Read more