Sari Ratu - 2nd time for this delicious nasi padang

Jakarta - This is my second visit to this Nasi Padang restaurant - Sari Ratu. There’s something deeply comforting about Padang cuisine: bold flavours, hearty textures, and dishes that feel like they were cooked in a home kitchen. So when my friend Elton and I found ourselves looking for a no-fuss, satisfying lunch near our hotel, we made our way to Sari Ratu at Sarinah Mall.

Located in the bustling heart of Jakarta, Sarinah Mall is an iconic shopping destination with deep historical roots — being the first government-owned department store in Indonesia, and a symbol of post-independence pride. Amid its modern revamp, Sarinah now houses a mix of stylish boutiques, cafés, and traditional eateries. Nestled among them is Sari Ratu, a well-established name in the realm of Padang cuisine.

The Feast Begins

Gulai Kambing was the first dish to arrive — a robust lamb curry swimming in golden turmeric-rich coconut broth. The meat was tender and flavourful, having absorbed the spices and aromatics. It was the kind of dish that demands slow appreciation — spooning the sauce over warm rice, alternating bites of lamb and a bit of sambal on the side. A true standout and the centerpiece of our meal.

In Indonesian, "gulai" generally means a type of spiced stew or curry, typically made with coconut milk and a blend of spices. 

Another traditional favourite was Sayur Nangka — young jackfruit simmered in coconut milk with herbs and spices. Creamy, slightly sweet, and earthy, it’s a dish that highlights the subtlety of Padang flavors. There’s no heat here, but it complements the spice-laden gulai perfectly.

Next came Perkedel Kentang, the humble yet ever-satisfying Indonesian potato fritter. Slightly crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, it added a comforting texture contrast to the richer dishes. It’s easy to overlook this side dish, but Sari Ratu’s version was well seasoned and beautifully fried — just as it should be.

And then came what turned out to be the surprise hit of our lunch: Telur Dadar Special — Sari Ratu’s special fried omelette. Unlike the usual home-style omelettes, this version was thick, fluffy, and spiked with chopped chilies and herbs. The edges were crisp, the center moist, and the flavor was unmistakably Indonesian. It brought everything together on the plate and added a layer of heartiness to the meal.

All of this was, of course, anchored by a mound of warm white rice, the essential base that ties every Padang dish together. Add a spoonful of sambal here and there, and the flavours sang.

What I appreciated most about our meal at Sari Ratu was its honesty. There was no gimmick, no over-the-top presentation. It was all about authentic, time-tested recipes and the kind of cooking that has been comforting generations of Indonesians.

Sari Ratu has long been respected for upholding Minangkabau culinary traditions. Their commitment to freshness and consistency shines through — from the fragrance of their coconut-based gravies to the perfect fry on their omelettes. While some might consider it “just another Padang restaurant,” it’s precisely that familiarity and reliability that keeps people coming back.

Yes, in comparison to some warungs (street-side food stalls), prices here may be slightly higher — but you’re paying for quality, hygiene, and the convenience of dining in comfort. In a busy urban mall like Sarinah, it’s the kind of place that offers a break from the noise without compromising on taste.