Everything Random

Jakarta was my “almost” home for five years when I was still working at Indonesia’s Open Data Lab. Back then, I was fascinated by how modernity was interspersed with tradition and nagging eccentric conservatism. After more than three years, I visited the city again, and it’s amazing that while so many have changed, so many things persist to remain the same.

Regardless, the food is still amazing. And the teak doors that usher you to rooms of dark roast arabica beans remain open.

This time around I visited two Menteng favourites. I went to the lush surrounding of The Acre, a favourite lunch and dinner place for young people and families, and Giyanti, the coffee shop that boasts of delectable desserts and good coffee. Both did not disappoint.