Tugu Kunstkring Paleis — Restaurant in Jakarta

I was really excited about this place because I absolutely loved the interior and the concept. The atmosphere has a colonial vibe with large paintings, most of them focused on Indonesian and Dutch history, which is such a unique touch. They even offer tours to give customers more insight into the history, and I thought that was awesome—it could’ve been a great way to learn more.

Unfortunately, the interior and concept are the only good things here. The tour itself was disappointing. I left feeling like I didn’t learn much because of how the server/tour guide handled it. To put it nicely, he didn’t meet my expectations for a tour guide. He came off as snobbish, like a know-it-all, or maybe just way too intense. At one point, he even commented on my iPhone model while taking a photo for me, which was unnecessary and honestly uncomfortable. The whole interaction was just weird, and I couldn’t wait for the tour to end.

Then there’s the food, which was... meh. I really want to say good things because I love the concept and decoration so much—I genuinely want this place to succeed. But they really need to step up their food and service quality.

We ordered bitterballen, black squid, steak, Kunstkring grilled chicken, and cendol panna cotta. The taste was just average—maybe a 5 or 6. The black squid was probably the best, but even then, nothing stood out. The presentation and texture were big letdowns. For example, the bitterballen had red plastic underneath it (why?), and the garnishing for most of the dishes felt careless.

The colors of the food were off too. The bitterballen and mushrooms in the steak weren’t browned enough, and the veggies with the steak could’ve been roasted more for a better experience. The potato au gratin with the steak was dry.

The Kunstkring grilled chicken was honestly the worst dish. It was so dry, even just by looking at it, I knew it wasn’t going to be enjoyable. The chicken was dry to the bone, and the sauce on top didn’t help at all. I don’t understand why they’d put their name on this dish if it’s supposed to be their signature—it was really disappointing.

The cendol panna cotta didn’t work for me either. The texture of the cendol was off—it wasn’t silky and broke apart too easily, probably because it was way too cold. I get that panna cotta should be chilled, but the cendol shouldn’t be so cold that it loses its texture.

We spent around 1,600,000 (including wine), but it definitely didn’t feel worth it. The only thing I actually enjoyed was the eggnog shooters—they were really good, so good that we ordered another round. That makes me think their cocktails might be solid, but I’m not entirely sure.

Overall, I really wanted to love this place because the concept and decoration are so impressive, but they need to seriously improve the food and service quality to live up to it. It’s such a shame because they have so...

A unique diversity blend of Indonesian-Dutch-Chinese dining experience. Tugu Kunstkring Paleis is an ideal choice for those seeking a fine dining experience that also offers a fresh and unique perspective. Its colonial setting unconsciously invites and ultimately enhances the experience through a selection of decorations that hold historical significance. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a colonial arch and a striking painting of Raden Saleh's The Fall of Java, all set within a space that feels like both a restaurant and an art gallery. The thoughtful blend of art, history, and dining creates a new and enriching experience for those who visit.

The service is exceptionally warm, making guests feel like royalty, truly living up to the saying that visiting here feels like being treated as a royal guest. The staff's attentiveness and professionalism further elevate the experience, making it more than just a meal but a memorable event.

Historically, this building holds great significance. On April 17, 1914, Van Heutsz in the heart of Batavia (now Jakarta) officially opened the Kunstkring building. Designed by architect PAJ Moojen, this charismatic structure was originally owned by the Nederlansch Indische Kunstkring, a group of Dutch colonial artists and intellectuals. Its legacy as a cultural hub for the arts adds a rich layer to the atmosphere, and dining here not only provides a taste of fine cuisine but also a deeper connection to the region’s cultural and artistic history.

While the food is good, there is room for refinement in both taste and presentation. The dishes, though flavorful, could benefit from further elevation, and the plating could be enhanced to better align with the artistic setting. Despite these small areas for improvement, the overall experience, set within such a historic and visually captivating space, is one that stands out, offering an unforgettable blend of fine dining and cultural...

I came here because I was in duty to find any unique and unusual wedding venue. Actually, I've been interesting for this building since I was early 20s.

When they changed it to be a restaurant and galery, I was so happy. So I came there to survey. For the first time, entering their door, the staff was greeting me so friendly, Slightly I smell aroma therapy scents. After entering their "lobby". I amazed with their interior, well I fallen in love with that building already, so when Im inside, I'm more falling in love with the whole building, interior also exterior. 🤣

When it comes to the menu, well yeah it's little bit pricey for locals. Typically Indonesian fine dining, with Peranakan-Dutch-Indonesian mixed cuisine.

Even tho its little bit pricey but I think it's a new experience, their food was also sooo good and tasty. Even their nasi goreng (Friend rice), I can't stop eating it. Its so tasty and delicious!

Maybe for some people (especially Indonesian) would feel creepy when they are visit this restaurant (Cos it has happened to my mother in law, she refused to enter the restaurant because she felt those interior and lighting was creepy) I think it's because their lighting little bit dark for a restaurant. But for me this is a perfect place.

Second floor also really good for you to have meeting...