The RadioDays Asia schedule is packed from morning til night for the conference days, but if you fly in early, here are some suggestions of how to spend an extra day or two, in Jakarta from radio industry locals.
We asked the team at Jakarta’s KBR, the first independent news agency in Indonesia heard on 89.9, for their favourite food outlets and places to visit. The audience at KBR68H appreciate the station’s award winning journalism and varied programming areas, which include weekly interactive talk shows on legal reform and human rights, health, religious tolerance, environment and economics, plus topics such as religion and tolerance and education.
The KBR team are happy to welcome Conference visitors and keen to share their passion for food and culture in Jakarta.
Welcome to Jakarta!
This is the first time ever that Radiodays Asia is being held in Indonesia’s busiest city.
Your schedule is packed, and you’re buzzing with excitement looking forward to the conference—but hey, you’ve got to carve out some time to enjoy the city’s all-time favourites and hidden gems!
So, we turned to one of the youngest interns in our newsroom, Dita Alya Aulia and asked her to spill the beans on what she loves most about Jakarta—from its sprawling cityscape and cultural landmarks to its bustling markets and, of course, the food!
You can get around by taxi (Blue Bird is a reliable choice, or go for online taxi options). Jakarta’s public transport is a smart way to beat the traffic—hop on the TransJakarta bus, MRT, or LRT to get around the city with ease (and maybe a bit more sanity!).
Feeling a bit adventurous? Hop on a motorcycle for a faster way to zip through Jakarta’s traffic. Just install the Gojek or Grab app to make your life a whole lot easier!
Here’s a list of KBR-approved places just for you!
We’ve divided the spots by area to make your exploring easier.
SOUTH – Blok M Area
Welcome to Blok M, the iconic district that’s been rebranded as a Gen Z lifestyle hotspot! It’s got everything you need to soak up the city’s vibrant, buzzing social scene—and the best part? It’s super easy to get to with public transport.
M Bloc Space – This is the main attraction. Once a money printing hall, it’s now a creative playground packed with local restaurants, indie music stores, and art galleries.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/TqAeU2mLzSnHaL2Q8
https://www.instagram.com/mblocspace/
Claypot Popo – Head here for their signature wheat vermicelli, served in a cozy, vintage-style setting.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/JPSWsLFwL381i4XW7
While you’re in the neighborhood, don’t miss gultik—short for gulai tikungan—a beloved Blok M street food classic. It’s basically beef curry rice served in bite-sized portions. Warning: it’s addictive. Best enjoyed after 8 PM.
Gultik Barito
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UGBKbMo3CCzSXLF6A
CENTRAL – Jalan Jaksa
Melly’s Garden is your go-to spot for cold beers and live music, all set in a breezy garden vibe. Bonus: it’s just an 11-minute walk from the Radiodays Asia 2025 venue, Hotel Aryadata.
Melly’s Garden
https://maps.app.goo.gl/iYV6UK2aPJHYgiCM8
https://www.instagram.com/mellysgarden/
While you’re here and looking for a different kind of activity to shake off the jet lag, why not treat yourself to a body massage? This spot—with its iconic red door—will leave you feeling lighter and totally recharged!
Yuyuantang Reflexology Wahid Hasyim
https://maps.app.goo.gl/qykRSKbMfpPdG9Mh8
https://www.instagram.com/yuyuantangreflexology/
CENTRAL – Menteng Area
Try out Plataran Menteng, a restaurant tucked right in the heart of Jakarta’s Menteng area. With strong Javanese charm and colonial heritage vibes throughout the space, it offers a refined Indonesian-Asian dining experience. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through Suropati Park, one of the city’s most beloved green escapes.
Plataran Menteng
https://maps.app.goo.gl/e2KhRZT8sJoSqXya8
https://www.instagram.com/plataran.menteng/
Taman Suropati
https://maps.app.goo.gl/jUfBrFho7kHstPLy6
CENTRAL – Sabang and Sarinah Thamrin Area
This is your go-to spot for Jakarta’s legendary street food market, packed with foodies of all kinds—especially after dark. No need to overthink it: just go straight for the nasi goreng kambing (goat fried rice). It’s a must-try!
While you’re in the area, swing by Sarinah, Jakarta’s first-ever mall, now beautifully restored. You’ll find all kinds of souvenirs here—from batik and wood carvings to local paintings. And just across the street, check out Jaya Pub, the oldest pub in the city and a true icon in its own right.
Jalan Sabang
https://maps.app.goo.gl/rjfidtMELo5GH8CEA
Jaya Pub
https://maps.app.goo.gl/HDqdT92JJyV8S3TAA
https://www.instagram.com/jayapub_jkt/
Sarinah – watch out, it’s a bit pricey
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ypq9p37ADW642SKC6
https://www.instagram.com/sarinahindonesia/
Pro tip: If you’re looking for more affordable batik, go to Thamrin City!
https://maps.app.goo.gl/uPMujmRAPVP1fMRDA
CENTRAL – Cikini Area
Cikini is a charming neighborhood right in the heart of Jakarta, known for its creative soul. At the Taman Ismail Marzuki compound, you’ll find everything from performing arts and paintings to sculptures—and even a planetarium!
Taman Ismail Marzuki
https://maps.app.goo.gl/sA7YFbu4LmSAvEks8
https://www.instagram.com/tim.cikini/
Camden Bar – here’s what people say: it’s more affordable than most bars, the vibe is super welcoming, the crowd’s mostly young, and there’s live music to keep things lively. Extra bonus? It’s right across from Taman Ismail Marzuki!
https://maps.app.goo.gl/GodQLeWUGymEhXK77
https://www.instagram.com/camden.jkt/
CENTRAL – Jalan Surabaya
Take a daytime stroll down this street to explore Jakarta’s most famous flea market—around since the 1970s! You’ll find all sorts of treasures here: rare antiquities, vintage silverware, old coins, and plenty more to spark your curiosity.
Jalan Surabaya antique market
https://maps.app.goo.gl/aBmQJZGgmU8R7XcR8
https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/691268220/jalan-surabaya/
Giyanti Coffee Roastery – high-quality, locally sourced Indonesian coffee
https://maps.app.goo.gl/agNUUvM2eocfwkFU9
https://www.instagram.com/giyanticoffee/
CENTRAL – Pasar Baru area
The name “Pasar Baru” literally means “New Market”—but don’t be fooled, this place is anything but new! Located in Central Jakarta, it dates all the way back to 1820, from the Dutch colonial era.
It’s also a culinary heaven, serving up everything from Chinese and Indian to Dutch-inspired dishes. Try the kue pancong, a traditional snack made from rice flour and coconut batter, cooked in a special mold pan. Or cool down with es selendang mayang, a colorful Indonesian dessert made of mung bean and red-green sago flour.
Pro tip: Don’t leave without tasting the legendary Bakmi Gang Kelinci, right in the heart of Pasar Baru!
Bakmi Gang Kelinci Pasar Baru
https://maps.app.goo.gl/NDs5MrkMioBRZYrH9
https://www.instagram.com/bakmigangkelinciofficial/
WEST – Glodok Area
Glodok is the oldest and largest Chinatown in Indonesia, nestled in West Jakarta. It’s vibrant, packed with history, and dates all the way back to the Dutch colonial era in the 17th century.
While you’re here, visit the Kim Tek Ie Temple, built in 1650, or check out the Santa Maria de Fatima Church, with Chinese architecture from 1850. And of course—come hungry. The food scene here is absolutely worth the trip!
Glodok Pancoran
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZmLYDhEh5LfVqbue8
https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/64635772/glodok—pancoran/
Kopi Es Tak Kie – serving Chinese-style iced coffee since 1927
https://maps.app.goo.gl/SE3qWzYJ4TZefb4y5
https://www.instagram.com/kopiestakkieglodok/
Fried cempedak by Cik Lina – cempedak is a tropical fruit related to jackfruit and breadfruit, made fresh by order
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Cpa6dsS5iumCvLkY8
https://www.instagram.com/cempedak_goreng_ciklina/
NORTH – Kota Tua or Old Town
This is your 24-hour doorway to Jakarta’s past—think historic buildings, the Jakarta History Museum, Wayang Museum, Maritime Museum, and plenty of charming Dutch colonial architecture.
Hop on a bicycle to soak in the local vibe and if you’re lucky, you might just catch a free guided walking tour!
Kawasan Kota Tua
https://maps.app.goo.gl/j5F94wvXxcAvdn5B7
https://www.instagram.com/kotatuajakarta.id/
Kafe Batavia – historical dining experience
https://maps.app.goo.gl/255Vw2MwzukZYqQ17
https://www.instagram.com/cafe_batavia/
If you’re into museums and galleries, here’s your top 3.
National Museum – dedicated to Indonesian history, located near Monas, the landmark of Jakarta.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/h1AuGkHCC5juai9L7
https://www.instagram.com/museumnasionalindonesia/
National Gallery – a vibrant space showcasing Indonesia’s finest classic and contemporary art, right in the heart of the city.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/iqo2CPKpmZmgU6CJA
https://www.instagram.com/galerinasional/
Museum Macan – for fans of modern and contemporary arts.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3iLyUajpCX2fMUuT9
https://www.instagram.com/museummacan/
If you’re into urban hangout places, here’s our recommendations.
Zoo SCBD – neon lights, tropical vibes, curated beats from afrobeats to electronic, and cocktails with a dramatic twist. Open from dusk ‘til dawn.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/oWKvHVdyq7yLmMg1A
https://www.instagram.com/zoo.scbd/
SKYE Bar – this place serves up global flavours with a stunning 360° view of Jakarta—making it one of the city’s most iconic rooftop bars for a memorable night out.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CQa5LTYAUDr7nsvz8
https://www.instagram.com/skye_56/
Main photo: KBR Team, Business and Marcom, with Dita at centre wearing the white shirt.