Justin Halim

Cozy lil spot that is better visited during the hours leading to sunset as the glass exterior and the sleek black frames makes it an ideal hipster hangout place. Their cold brew has a nice aftertaste while their white iced was kind of plain as a whole, especially after adding foam the drink.

Quaint little patisserie tucked in a small Menteng street. Chicory offers a huge spread of bread in its boulangerie section and also some heavy bites if you're looking to recreate that Parisian bistro experience. Had their turkey bacon sandwich (forgot its fancy name) and it was so mouthwateringly good, you just couldn't stop eating the turkey bacon and the fresh leaves. Their lemon citron tart was finely creamy and just a little bit tangy, pair it with their cappuccino and you're ready to go. Their mini caneles were okay but not something I would try again.

Pik's darling Thai restaurant did impress, their service was welcoming and courteous while the food was at par with those high street Thai restaurants in the hip shopping centers. The Tom Yum was a bit mild and didn't have a flaming aftertaste which was the kind i preferred, although they could have been more generous with the soup. Meanwhile, the raved about papaya salad was nothing special, you should try something else really. Moving on to their selling point, the pork knuckle, which was a really satisfying gigantic piece of succulent pork layered with fat and crackles, definitely a bang for your buck.

New Yorker deli done right in the middle of Jakarta. Once you step in, the 50's vibes gets to you and I immediately envisioned a cream cheese bagel for the good ol' dose of the Manhattan memories. The bagels here weren't all that good though, not as good as their super legit Red Velvet sundae, that's where the cream cheese was. I really liked their Montblanc as well, it was garnished to perfection and the strong coffee eliminated that oversweet sense of guilt when you savour such a dessert. Well done Union, this one's a keeper.

My go to Japanese joint in this neighborhood mall. Even though they opened branches in other areas of town, I like the MKG branch the most. My go to appetizer is their spicy mayo salmon and they never disappoint with the highly recommendable salmon belly sashimi and their grilled salmon.

Probably the most worthy café to visit in Gading if you happen to be in the area. Cookie shop and café combined in a chic industrial space. Their avocado iced coffee was uber refreshing and had a pleasant sweet taste. Meanwhile, relish in their colorful sofa as you take Instaworthy pics.

Once you've entered Fairmont, you're expected to be a balla' and with HOY's prices, it's no wonder why. However, expect the best of fancy Chinese dining, as the restaurant is supervised by the restaurant of the same group from Hong Kong. Giant portions and gorgeous platings are just a plus. The unique inventions that they serve is a tantalizing experience and I personally love their pork prawn dish, scrumptious to the very last bite. Also, their dessert platter is worth a try, that is, if you have room left in your belly.