We’ve rounded up the best spots where you can try regional dishes inspired by your favorite Ascension teams!
INDONESIA – If you’re in Jakarta for the VCT Ascension Pacific 2024 event and craving more than just the matches, why not dive into the city’s awesome food scene?
With teams flying in from all over the Pacific for Ascension, it’s the perfect chance to take your taste buds on a global adventure too. Whether you’re into spicy Thai curries or Indonesia’s own Nasi Padang, Jakarta’s got it all.
We’ve rounded up the best spots in Jakarta where you can try regional dishes inspired by your favorite Ascension teams!
ALSO READ: What to do during VCT Ascension Pacific 2024 in Jakarta?
Indonesia (BOOM Esports), RM Pagi Sore
This has always been my go-to spot when introducing someone to Indonesian food for the first time. Out of all the Indonesian dishes, Nasi Padang holds a special place in my heart. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal with white rice and a variety of side dishes, originally from Padang, West Sumatra.
What makes Nasi Padang special? Well, the taste is insanely good—so much so that even Gordon Ramsay made a special trip to Indonesia to learn more about it. The secret is in the local spices for seasoning, and to really experience it, you’ve got to enjoy it with the rice. You’ll also find one of the best Rendang here.
When you dine in, you’ll be seated at a table where they bring out all the dishes in small plates, each covered with plastic. You just pick and open what you want to eat, and leave the rest untouched if you don’t want to pay for it. If you want more, just ask the staff!
Hong Kong (Oblivion Force), Wing Heng Dimsum
Wing Heng is my go-to spot when I can’t decide what to eat or just need a late-night bite, especially since it’s open 24/7. It used to have long queues every time, but now that it has branches all over Jakarta, it’s much more comfortable.
Japan (RIDDLE ORDER), Gion The Sushi Bar
I’m not a big sushi eater and have only tried Gion Sushi once, but from the consensus of the six locals I asked, it’s undeniably one of the best sushi spots in Jakarta. The space is great—spacious with a modern, Japanese-inspired interior, and most importantly very comfortable. It can get a bit crowded during break hours since it’s in a business district, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Korea (Sin Prisa Gaming), Hanam KBBQ
Hanam KBBQ, the same chain featured in the K-dramas “Queen of Tears” and “Hospital Playlist,” is located in the Senopati area. This neighborhood, known as “Little Korea of Jakarta,” is filled with Korean restaurants and businesses adorned with Hangul signs, making it feel like you’ve stepped out of Indonesia.
Singapore (DSG), Little Red Dot
Recently opened in July, Little Red Dot has quickly become popular, always with long queues every time I pass by and no reservations accepted. The must-try dish is the Fishball Noodle, which stands out thanks to its collaboration with Douglas Ng, a Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee who brings a treasured recipe passed down from his grandmother.
Thailand (FULL SENSE), Sànùk Thai Boat Noodle
Owned by Masterchef Indonesia Season 8 winner Jesslyn, Sànùk Thai Boat Noodle is a must-visit if you’re in the Pantai Indah Kapuk area of North Jakarta. The queue was hours long when it first opened, but it’s much shorter now. The portions are smaller similar to what you’d find in Thailand, so it’s a good idea to try several flavors in multiple servings.
Vietnam (Rapid Lofi), Saigon Delight
Everyone’s go-to spot in Jakarta for Vietnamese food, especially Pho. With locations spread throughout Jakarta, you shouldn’t have trouble finding one near you.
South Asia (Revenant), Ganesha Ek Sanskriti
Ganesha Ek Sanskriti has been around for a while, with multiple locations in Jakarta and Bali. Although I haven’t tried it myself, it’s definitely the first place that comes to mind for authentic Indian cuisine.
Unfortunately, we don’t have any recommendations for dishes from the Philippines and Australia. It’s either due to closures, them not being available in Jakarta, or simply unfamiliarity. But don’t worry—our food list, “MAKAN2ASIA,” will be the perfect guide for you to try some local dishes and expand your palate while you’re in Jakarta for Ascension!
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Cover photo courtesy of VALORANT Esports Indonesia
