Why Jajaghu Resto?
Tired of chasing viral spots in Jakarta? It’s not just about the hype—it’s a place where you can slow down, enjoy good food, and soak in an atmosphere that that last a lifetime. From the moment we stepped in, it already felt like a hidden gem worth discovering
Our story began when we stumbled upon this hidden gem in a TikTok video that suddenly appeared on our FYP. It caught our attention instantly, and we couldn’t wait—our reservation was made for the very next day. We needed to see the intricate details and uncover the untold stories behind this place. And let us tell you, this place is incredible and absolutely worth a visit.
The Impression
“Woaaah!” That’s the first thing we said upon entering.
We arrived around 3 PM, but since our reservation wasn’t until later, we spent an hour at Babah Koffie (more on that in an upcoming post—stay tuned!). The restaurant operates from 4 PM to midnight, making it a perfect spot for an early dinner or a late-night bite. Jajaghu Resto is located behind Babah Koffie, so you actually enter through Babah Koffie before stepping into the restaurant.
“As you enter through the bar seating area, you’ll be greeted by an enchanting oriental green door that leads to the dining space. The intricate dragon pattern above the door symbolizes strength and good fortune, while the rich hues of red and green evoke prosperity and luck. (Curious to see more? Head over to our Instagram for a full glimpse of the stunning ambiance!)”
The thoughtful details immediately melted our hearts. From the welcoming leaf cards to the beautiful ceiling adorned with preserved trees. Imagine yourself having a dinner under this beautiful details. Every corner of Jajaghu Resto is a feast for the eyes.
The History and Building Details
What makes Jajaghu Resto unique? The details! The statues and decorations are curated from the owner’s family collection, passed down through generations.
Did you know? This place was 15 years in the making! Its grand opening is set for February 2025, so mark your calendars—you don’t want to miss it.
The Kertanegara Statue
In the dining area, two large statues stand tall, representing the rich history of the Singhasari Kingdom.
- King Kertanegara
The last ruler of the Singhasari Kingdom (1268–1292), Kertanegara was a visionary leader with grand ambitions. He introduced the Mandala Nusantara concept, uniting Southeast Asia to protect sovereignty. Though his reign ended tragically, his vision lived on through the Majapahit Kingdom. - The Djoko Dolok Statue in Jain Style
Unlike the seated Djoko Dolok statue in Surabaya, this depiction of Kertanegara stands upright in Jain style, symbolizing spirituality and leadership. This artistic choice reflects the influence of Indian culture during the 13th century and highlights Kertanegara’s practice of Tantrayana Buddhism.
These statues embody Kertanegara’s dual role as a ruler and spiritual leader, making them an inspiring centerpiece.
Preserved Trees: A Natural Masterpiece
One of the most captivating elements of Jajaghu Resto is the preserved trees integrated into the building’s design.
As we entered, the ceiling caught our attention immediately—delicate branches stretched out like silent guardians. The preserved trees create a serene, harmonious atmosphere where nature and architecture blend seamlessly.
- How are the trees preserved?
Techniques like freeze-drying or chemical preservation may have been used, but we’re not certain. Any preservation experts out there? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’re curious! - What kind of trees are they?
We’re not sure about this either, but we’d love to hear from you plant enthusiasts. Let’s discuss!
Why the Preserved Trees Stand Out
- They harmonize nature with design, creating a tranquil vibe.
- The aesthetic appeal is unmatched; the branches combined with soft lighting feel ethereal and timeless.
- Symbolically, trees represent life, wisdom, and strength, adding depth to the dining experience.
The Food
“Where culinary artistry meets mixology mastery.”
Jajaghu Resto delivers not only exceptional food but also an unforgettable dining experience. Here’s what we ordered:
- Seafood Tom Yum
A warm, savory, and tangy broth filled with tiger prawns, scallops, and calamari slices. Perfect for starting your meal! (Pro tip: If peeling prawns feels like a battle, proceed with caution, especially on a date night!)
P.S.: Sharing isn’t recommended—we couldn’t stop at just one bowl!
- Black Duck Claypot Rice
Fragrant, flavorful rice paired with tender, black-seasoned duck. We got adventurous and mixed in a bit of Tom Yum soup—what a flavor explosion! A must-try combination for adventurous foodies. - Dragon of Ji & Ji Rainbow Maki
We also grabbed two portions of Maki to-go, but here’s the catch—we completely forgot to take pictures for you! Trust us, though, the taste was authentic and delicious, with a unique flavor you won’t find at just any sushi spot.
Not sure what to order? Just ask the friendly staff for recommendations; they won’t steer you wrong. Want a sneak peek at the menu? Check out the link below before your visit!
One last tip: be sure to make a reservation ahead of time so you can enjoy the dining experience right on schedule without any hassle.
The Memories When We Left
From the ambiance to the food and the stories behind it all, Jajaghu Resto left a special mark on our hearts.
Would we come back? Absolutely! And we wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique dining experience.
Have you been to Jajaghu Resto? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments—we’d love to hear them!
Travelogue with A+ 