Discover Hidden Culinary Gems in Jatinegara, Jakarta

Jakarta always has a story to tell. From its non-stop city buzz and cultural melting pot to its mouthwatering food scene.

When people talk about Jakarta’s culinary hotspots, the spotlight usually falls on the classics of West Jakarta or the trendsetters in South Jakarta. But here’s the thing, there’s another neighborhood stealing the show lately: Jatinegara.

Yep, tucked away in East Jakarta, Jatinegara is quietly becoming a go-to destination for food lovers on the hunt for something different. This area is packed with hidden culinary gems, some legendary, others refreshingly new, that are just waiting to be explored.

So if you’re the type who lives for a good food hunt, it might be time to chart a new route. Your next flavor adventure might just be in Jatinegara.

7 Culinary Hits Jatinegara Jakarta

Combro Bu Aminah

• Location: Gang Tai, RT.1/RW.6, Bali Mester, Jatinegara
• Price: Around IDR 3,500 per piece

Craving something local with a real kick? Make your way to Terminal Combro, or as the regulars call it, Combro Bu Aminah.

Tucked away in a narrow alley in Bali Mester, this spot is a true hidden gem for fans of traditional Indonesian snacks. Don’t let the modest setting fool you, when it comes to flavor, this place delivers.

Each combro is golden and crisp on the outside, packed with spicy, savory oncom on the inside. The portion? Generous. The taste? Unforgettable. It’s the kind of snack that hits just right with a hot cup of coffee in the late afternoon.

Siomay Wawa

• Location: Gg. Banten X No.99 12, RT.10/RW.5, Bali Mester, Jatinegara
• Price: Around IDR 20,000 per portion

Deep in the alleys of Jatinegara, you’ll find Siomay Wawa, a low-key favorite for those in the know. The star here is the siomay, made with a smooth and flavorful blend of chicken and shrimp that’ll have you reaching for the next bite before you even finish the first. It’s soft, savory, and seriously addictive.

But that’s not all. They also serve ngohiong (or gohyong), a deliciously seasoned meat roll wrapped in tofu skin, perfect for mixing things up. Since the spot’s a bit tucked away, don’t be shy about asking locals for directions. Most will know exactly where to point you.

Sate Keroncong

• Location: Jl. Matraman Raya, Gang Lele No.224, RT.3/RW.6, Bali Mester, Jatinegara
• Price: Around IDR 50,000–75,000

If you’re after a satay experience that literally and figuratively hits all the right notes, Sate Keroncong is the place to be.

Officially named Sate Sederhana and around since the 1960s, this legendary spot earned its nickname from the keroncong street musicians who used to perform out front. The music may have faded, but the name and the flavors live on.

Here, you can choose from rich, smoky goat or chicken satay, grilled to perfection. Craving something more? Their gulai and tongseng are just as satisfying, adding a comforting, spiced kick to your meal. It’s a taste of old-school Jakarta that still holds up.

Soto Sapi Ni’mat Betawi

• Location: Jalan Pintu Timur, RT.6/RW.6, Bali Mester, Jatinegara
• Price: Around IDR 30,000

Open since 1952, Soto Sapi Ni’mat Betawi is proof that some things are better left unchanged. This humble stall has stood the test of time by sticking to its original recipe, and trust us, the name Ni’mat (which means “delicious”) doesn’t lie.

Served in a hearty portion and packed with tender cuts of beef, the soto here is rich, warming, and deeply flavorful. You can go for the classic all-beef version or mix it up with tendon and lungs for a little extra depth. Add a squeeze of lime and a spoonful of sambal before diving in. You’ll thank us later.

Bakmi Lorong

• Location: Jalan Pintu Timur, RT.6/RW.6, Bali Mester, Jatinegara
• Price: Around IDR 30,000

West Jakarta may get most of the noodle hype, but Bakmi Lorong proves that East Jakarta can hold its own. Tucked deep inside a narrow alley near the market, hence the name, this hidden spot serves up a bowl of noodles that’s simple, satisfying, and full of character.

Expect thin, curly noodles cooked just right and topped with a trio of minced chicken, shredded white chicken, and savory mushrooms. It’s the kind of comforting dish that doesn’t need much dressing up, just pure, honest flavor that speaks for itself.

Roti Gelora

• Location: Gang Obat, RT.14/RW.5, Bali Mester, Jatinegara
• Price: Starting from IDR 13,000

Soft, nostalgic, and generously filled, Roti Gelora is the kind of old-school bakery that makes you miss a time you didn’t even know you loved.

Known for its fluffy, classic-style loaves, this spot has been winning over locals for years with its variety of sweet, savory, and plain white breads, perfect for a no-fuss breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Beyond their signature breads, they also offer an impressive selection of pastries and traditional cookies that could give any modern bakery a run for its money.

Got a special occasion coming up? They even take orders for lapis legit that’s rich, dense, and baked to perfection.

Kopi Bis Kota - Toko Sedap Jaya (Wong Hin)

• Location: Jalan Pintu Pasar Timur No. 40, Bali Mester, Jatinegara
• Price: Starting from IDR 17.000

Don’t expect a sleek café or latte art here. Kopi Bis Kota is as old-school as it gets. Tucked inside Toko Sedap Jaya (also known as Wong Hin), this humble grocery store has been around since before Indonesia’s independence and remains one of Jatinegara’s best-kept secrets for coffee lovers.

Instead of sipping on-site, you’ll be picking up freshly ground coffee or whole beans to take home, perfect for your daily brew or a thoughtful souvenir after a business trip.

Their signature is the rich and earthy robusta, but you can also grab arabica or a house blend known as WB. All are available in practical 100-gram packs and up.

Make Your Jakarta Food Hunt Easy with TRAC Car Rental

Ready to chase down all these hidden culinary gems in Jatinegara? Don’t let transportation slow you down. With TRAC’s Jakarta car rental service, exploring the city’s food scene becomes way easier and a whole lot more comfortable.

Whether you prefer driving yourself or riding with a professional driver, TRAC has you covered. Choose from compact city cars that breeze through traffic or roomy MPVs perfect for food adventures with friends or family. It’s the ideal setup for a full-day culinary tour without the stress.

Booking is simple. Just head over to the TRAC website or download the TRACtoGo app on Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. A few taps, and your car is ready to go.

Want more insider tips, travel inspiration, and the latest promos? Follow TRAC on Instagram @trac_astra, Facebook (TRAC – Astra Rent a Car), and Twitter (X) @TRACastra. And don’t forget to subscribe to the TRAC newsletter so you’re always in the loop.

Whatever the track, just use TRAC!