Tucked within the elegant surrounds of The Ascott Menteng Jakarta, a.ra.sa. is more than just the anchor restaurant of the serviced residence—it is a thoughtful culinary destination that reflects Indonesia’s rich gastronomic diversity while embracing global influences. Designed as a welcoming all-day dining space, a.ra.sa. offers a relaxed yet refined setting where flavours, cultures, and stories converge.
We at TIPSS had the chance to savour the delicacies and the classy yet casual ambience of this establishment. Truthfully, this is what we think.
From the moment we stepped in, the restaurant’s ambience set the tone: warm, contemporary interiors paired with an unhurried atmosphere that invites guests to linger. Whether you are a resident starting your day, a business traveller in between meetings, or a local diner seeking comfort and familiarity, a.ra.sa. feels effortlessly inclusive.
Our dining journey began on a lighter note with the Smoked Salmon Salad, a Western classic executed with finesse. Fresh greens, delicately smoked salmon, and a well-balanced dressing came together harmoniously—clean, refreshing, and ideal as an opening act.
The menu then took us on a deeper exploration of Indonesian heritage. One of the standouts was the Satay Maranggi, a beloved traditional delicacy from Purwakarta. Tender, well-marinated meat grilled to smoky perfection, it delivered bold flavours that were both nostalgic and deeply satisfying—an homage to Indonesia’s regional culinary identity.
From the shores of Bali came the Jimbaran Coast Snapper, a dish that captured the spirit of seaside dining. Perfectly cooked fish, infused with aromatic spices served with rice, evoked the laid-back charm of Jimbaran’s coastal grills, offering a taste of Bali right in the heart of Jakarta.
Equally memorable was the Madura Duck, rich and robust in flavour, showcasing the depth and complexity that Indonesian cuisine is known for. The dish was hearty yet refined, a testament to a.ra.sa.’s ability to honour tradition while maintaining a polished presentation.
To conclude, dessert arrived as a delightful duo: the Mango Cheesecake and Forest Dark Chocolate Mousse. The mango cheesecake was light and tropical, striking a pleasant balance between sweetness and freshness, while the dark chocolate mousse offered a deeper, indulgent finish—silky, intense, and satisfying without being overwhelming.
These are just hints of their spectacular menu, for there is so much more to discover if you have the time (and space in your tummy) to unravel the other dishes conjured by their talented cooks and chef.
What sets a.ra.sa. apart is its versatility. The menu is carefully curated to cater to diverse palates, blending international favourites with authentic Indonesian dishes, making it equally appealing to global travellers and local diners. It is this balance—between comfort and curiosity, familiarity and exploration—that defines the restaurant’s identity.
At a.ra.sa., Ascott Menteng Jakarta, dining becomes a journey across regions and traditions, all within one welcoming space. It is a restaurant that understands its role not just as a place to eat, but as a culinary extension of the city it calls home—vibrant, diverse, and quietly confident.
For more info check out the link here and their delightful menu here.
