A Gastronomical Adventure in Jakarta - Part 1 of 2

In a land of 250 millions people made up of more than twenty ethnic groups and hundreds of dialects spread over a quarter of the equatorial line, Jakarta has turned into a gigantic melting pot where different cultures and traditions blend together to create multi-dimensional dynamism that has become the unique color of Jakarta.


Navigating around Jakarta - better known for chaotic traffic rules and conditions - requires steel determination and is a special skill of its own. Frankly speaking, the mention of Jakarta would simply turn away many travel goers. But to those of us who have been brought up with the local taste or to those who have accidentally been acquainted to the local culinary delights, we know how it is when our cravings seem to just override any logical reasoning and give us that necessary determination boost to get through the tough traffic condition.


Indonesia's gastronomy has somewhat gain prominence in International standing with the election of Obama as the world's most powerful figure. Obama spent four fond years of his childhood time in Jakarta. As part of his (culinary) diplomacy, Obama mentioned how he misses the Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice), Bakso (Meat Ball) and Sate (Meat Skewers). He even remembered how the street hawkers would go around shouting "Bakso... Baksooo..." and he added "Enak yah!" (meaning delicious, isn't it?).

While great food almost always contradicts health advise prescribed by dietitian, violation of personal hygiene standards is often a must but only if you want to try some of the best tasting food in town. So, advise #1 before embarking on your gastronomical adventure: Understand your stomach and buy plenty of NORIT (a kind of food poisoning neutralizer).

A Gastronomical Adventure in Jakarta - Part 2 of 2

No comments:

Post a Comment