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.

A visit to the Bank Indonesia Museum

Jakarta - Jakarta is a city of contrasts — rapid modernisation brushing up against remnants of its colonial past. One of the most fascinating places that captures this blend of history and transformation is the Bank Indonesia Museum. Located in the heart of Kota Tua (Jakarta’s Old Town), the museum is housed in a stunning colonial-era building that once served as the headquarters of De Javasche Bank, the central bank during Dutch colonial rule.

I visited the museum on a quiet weekday morning, and as soon as I stepped through its grand entrance, I was taken aback by the architectural magnificence of the building. Towering arch ceilings, marble floors, and intricate ironwork details echoed a time when this building was the heart of financial operations in the Dutch East Indies. The design itself speaks volumes about the era it was built in — a fusion of European grandeur and tropical practicality.

Walking Into Old Jakarta’s Financial Past

The first gallery immediately transported me back in time. I entered a dimly lit scene depicting an old bank hall, complete with life-sized mannequins of customers and bank tellers dressed in early 20th-century attire. These figures recreated what banking looked like in colonial Jakarta, with men in batik shirts and women in traditional kebaya standing in line to deposit or withdraw funds. The attention to detail in this display — from the furniture to the currency boxes and teller counters — made it feel like I had stepped into a living diorama.

It was a thoughtful way to introduce visitors to the roots of Indonesia's financial system, reminding us that banking is more than just numbers — it’s deeply intertwined with culture, politics, and people’s everyday lives.

Interactive Learning for All Ages

What sets the Bank Indonesia Museum apart from other historical museums is its commitment to interactive learning. There were sections filled with digital kiosks, touchscreen panels, and animated videos explaining the evolution of Indonesia’s monetary system — from ancient spice trading and colonial currency to modern rupiah.

Many school children played enthusiastically with the kiosks. Adults, including myself, found these tools surprisingly educational and engaging. I particularly enjoyed the sections explaining the economic history of Indonesia, including key milestones such as the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis and the formation of Bank Indonesia as an independent central bank.

The Story of Currency Through the Ages

One of the most visually stunning areas of the museum was the currency gallery. Behind glass cases were rows upon rows of banknotes and coins, showcasing the changes in design, materials, and messaging across decades. From the early coins used in the Majapahit Empire to Dutch-issued gulden notes and modern rupiah, this display was a timeline of national identity and sovereignty told through money.

Each note told a story — of colonial power, independence, inflation, and the desire to build a cohesive Indonesian identity. I was fascinated by the artwork on some of the older banknotes, where local motifs and Dutch symbols clashed and coexisted.

Hidden Gems: The Grandfather Clock and the Golden Vault

Moving further into the museum, I stumbled upon a striking green grandfather clock standing silently in a corner. Its imposing height and antique finish made it feel like it held secrets of boardroom meetings and financial decisions that once shaped the nation’s economy. It was a small yet meaningful reminder of the time that had passed within these walls.

But the most jaw-dropping moment came when I reached the vault room.

Imagine this — a high-security steel vault with hundreds of glimmering gold bars stacked meticulously inside, behind reinforced glass. It was a surreal experience to stand face-to-face with so much 'tangible wealth'. The vault serves both as a symbolic representation of national reserves and a literal reminder of the power and trust that financial institutions hold.

A walk around Kota Tua and Red House

Jakarta - Jakarta’s Kota Tua (Old Town) is often described as a walk through history — a colonial-era time capsule nestled within the buzzing chaos of modern Indonesia. On a recent visit, I decided to explore the area on foot and like many of my trips that start with a vague plan, I stumbled across a few unexpected gems and oddities.

My walk began along the river boulevard near Kali Besar, where the city has made efforts in recent years to revive the once-neglected waterway. Clean, paved, and lined with benches and trees, the riverwalk offered a pleasant break from Jakarta’s usual traffic-heavy streets. As I strolled down the boulevard, something peculiar caught my attention.

Standing awkwardly in yellow t-shirt and blue pants by the riverside was a statue of a road sweeper, complete with a broom, and a white hat. The statue, although meant to be respectful or symbolic, had an unintentionally comical vibe to it.  This figure stood mid-sweep as if frozen in the act of spring cleaning eternity. 

I crossed the street and found myself in front of a building — Toko Merah - The Red Shop.

From the outside, Toko Merah looks grand but inside it was undeniably weathered. Once a prominent Dutch merchant’s mansion built in 1730, its red-painted facade still gives it character, though time has clearly taken its toll. Peeling paint, boarded windows, and cracks in the plaster all tell stories of neglect, as the building awaits restoration.

To be honest, there wasn’t much to see from a historical standpoint that day.  The building is open to the public but it's an empty shell of its once glorious self. 

A Morning in Old Batavia: Breakfast at Café Batavia, Jakarta

 Jakarta - the vibrant and chaotic capital of Indonesia, is not often associated with leisurely mornings. But nestled in the heart of the city’s historic old town, Kota Tua, there’s a colonial-era gem that invites you to slow down and savour the past — Café Batavia.

This morning, I decided to escape Jakarta’s usual hustle and take a trip back in time. My destination: Café Batavia, a storied restaurant and café facing the grand Fatahillah Square, where Dutch colonial architecture still stands proudly. This 19th-century building, lovingly restored and artfully preserved, offered not just a meal, but an experience — a breakfast I won’t soon forget.

An Atmosphere Steeped in History

As you approach Café Batavia, its tall wooden shutters, wide balconies, and antique signage immediately transport you to another era. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by rich teak interiors, walls adorned with hundreds of vintage black-and-white photographs, and soft jazz music playing in the background.

The upstairs dining room — where I chose to sit — overlooks the bustling square below. Sunlight streamed through the tall colonial windows, casting a golden hue across the white linen-covered tables. You could easily imagine Dutch officials or Indonesian intellectuals gathering here a century ago, sipping coffee and exchanging ideas over breakfast.

A Unique Breakfast Dish: Fried Butter Chicken on Pandan Waffle

When it comes to breakfast at Café Batavia, the menu features a variety of Western and Indonesian fusion dishes, but one item stood out to me immediately — the Fried Butter Chicken on Pandan Waffle.

The dish arrived beautifully plated. A generous, golden-fried chicken thigh, perfectly crisped, sat atop a thick pandan-infused waffle that emitted a subtle, sweet aroma. 

But this was far from Southern American food without the maple syrup — this was Southeast Asian indulgence at its finest.

The fried butter chicken was incredibly flavourful, juicy inside and crispy outside, with a rich buttery seasoning that wasn’t overwhelming. Each bite was balanced — savoury with just a hint of sweetness, especially when paired with the pandan waffle.

Speaking of the waffle — it was moist, soft, and fragrant, the pandan flavour delicately infused throughout. Not overpowering, but enough to give it a Southeast Asian character that made the dish feel uniquely local. The combination of textures — crispy chicken, tender waffle — was nothing short of satisfying.

This was not just breakfast. It was easily one of the most inventive dishes I’ve had in Jakarta.

Blue Batak Black Coffee: A Taste of Sumatra in a Cup

To accompany my meal, I ordered their special house coffee, the Blue Batak Black — a premium single-origin brew from North Sumatra.

The name alone intrigued me. "Blue Batak" refers to the unique processing method that gives the beans a distinct blueish hue before roasting. It’s known for producing a clean, slightly sweet cup with earthy undertones.

The coffee was served in a classic brown porcelain cup — simple, elegant. The aroma was rich and inviting, hinting at chocolate, spice, and a bit of fruitiness. I took my first sip black and was immediately impressed. It was smooth, slightly sweet, and surprisingly mellow for a black coffee. The finish was clean, leaving a pleasant lingering taste on the palate.

This wasn’t just a morning pick-me-up — it was a moment of quiet reflection. I sipped slowly, watching the early tourists and street performers below in Fatahillah Square. The city was waking up, but inside Café Batavia, time felt suspended.

Café Batavia is more than just a restaurant. Even their men's toilet is a portal to the Jakarta of old — a time when this city was still called Batavia, the capital of the Dutch East Indies. Eating here is not about speed or convenience; it’s about savouring a sense of place, of legacy, of flavors both familiar and new.

Pagi Sore - Jakarta's most popular nasi padang restaurant

Jakarta - On the evening of 7 July, I finally visited one of Jakarta’s most iconic nasi Padang restaurants, Pagi Sore, specifically the Sunter branch. For years, I’ve heard friends and locals alike mention this place with a certain reverence — both for its food and its price tag. “Yes, it’s expensive,” some would say. “But you pay for quality.” Others warned me it might be overrated. So, with cautious optimism and a hearty appetite, I went to find out for myself what the hype was all about.

The Restaurant: Spacious, Bustling, and Efficient

The first thing that strikes you about Pagi Sore in Sunter is how massive the restaurant is. It's built to accommodate crowds — and judging by the number of people dining that evening, they do just that. The layout is practical but polished, with large tables, efficient lighting, and an overall air of quiet confidence. The service was swift and professional. Despite dining alone, I was seated promptly and within minutes, my table was a sea of colourful dishes — the signature Padang "hidang" style in full swing.

The Hidang Experience: Feast for the Eyes, But...

As is customary, once you’re seated, the servers quickly bring out small plates of all the most popular dishes — this is called hidang, and it’s a big part of the experience. You can also choose a la carte if preferred, but I opted to see the full lineup. You only pay for what you actually touch or consume. Sounds fair and convenient.

Why Is Pagi Sore So Popular?

Founded in 1973, Pagi Sore has expanded to five outlets in Jakarta, cementing its reputation as one of the go-to places for Nasi Padang, a Minang cuisine from West Sumatra known for its rich flavours and bold spices.

So, what makes it so popular, even when many locals say the prices are steep?

1. Consistency – The brand has maintained a standard of taste and quality across all its outlets.

2. Efficient Hidang System – You’re presented with a full spread, and only pay for what you eat.

3. Signature Dishes – From Chicken Pop to their signature Rendang, regulars return for specific dishes.

4. Atmosphere – It’s family-friendly, group-friendly, and ideal for hosting out-of-town guests who want an introduction to classic Indonesian flavors.

Still, as I was about to discover, popularity doesn’t always guarantee satisfaction.

🍛 Beef Rendang – A Disappointment

The first dish I tore open from its thin plastic wrap was the Beef Rendang, arguably the most iconic Padang dish and the gold standard by which all Padang restaurants are judged.

Unfortunately, it was underwhelming.

I expected tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef infused with slow-cooked spices and coconut milk. Instead, I got something that felt more like beef jerky — dry, overly chewy, and surprisingly spicy. While the depth of flavour was there, the texture and spice level left me more fatigued than satisfied. I didn’t finish it.

🥥 Sayur Nangka (Jackfruit Vegetable) – A Pleasant Surprise

Next, I sampled the jackfruit vegetable dish, and this one was a win. Bathed in rich coconut milk and well-seasoned, the jackfruit was soft, flavourful, and comforting. It had a home-cooked warmth to it that stood in stark contrast to the rendang. I would definitely order this again.

🍗 Ayam Pop (Chicken Pop) – Their Most Popular Dish

Next came Ayam Pop, one of Pagi Sore’s signature offerings. It’s a lightly fried chicken dish served with sambal on the side. While the chicken was juicy and cooked well, it didn’t quite blow me away. The sambal helped elevate it, but for a dish touted as the star of the show, it felt… safe. Pleasant, but not extraordinary.

🍧 Es Campur (Dessert) – A Sweet Ending

To round off the meal, I had Es Campur, the classic Indonesian iced dessert with mixed toppings. It was refreshing and visually appealing, and definitely helped balance out the spices from earlier dishes.  The waiter took a while to bring this dessert to my table and it started to melt.  There was a strawberry topping and it fell on the table when I moved this dessert closer to me.

Price vs. Expectations

As expected, the bill came out on the higher end for a solo dinner — especially for Jakarta standards. While I knew going in that Pagi Sore isn’t cheap, I did hope the quality of food would justify the premium. Unfortunately, it didn’t live up to my expectations, especially when the highlight of my meal was the vegetable dish and dessert.

It's clear that you’re also paying for the brand — the heritage, the presentation, and the dining experience itself. For first-timers or visitors to Jakarta wanting a structured, clean introduction to Padang food, this place still holds value. But if you're a seasoned eater of local cuisine looking for authenticity and boldness at every bite, you might find better elsewhere for less.

Gai by Darren Chin - Michelin guide

Kuala Lumpur - There are dinners that fill your stomach—and then there are dinners that fill your soul. My recent evening with Edward and Donny at Gai Restaurant, a Michelin Guide-listed Thai restaurant in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, was the latter.

Gai, which literally translates to "chicken" in Thai, may sound simple in name, but what it delivers is far from ordinary. This contemporary eatery focuses on bringing the bold, layered flavours of Northern Thai cuisine to Malaysian diners. Having heard glowing reviews and seeing its inclusion in the prestigious Michelin Guide, we were eager to experience what the fuss was all about.

The Ambience: Chic Meets Thai Rustic

Walking into Gai, you're immediately greeted with a warm blend of modern aesthetics and Thai rustic charm.  Seated comfortably in a corner, the three of us were ready to dive in. The menu, while not overwhelmingly extensive, was curated with intent—each dish promising a specific aspect of Northern Thai culinary heritage.

First Impressions: Baby Squid with Chili Lime

We started the evening with a plate of Baby Squid with Chili Lime. It was a flavour bomb right out of the gate. The squid was fresh—like it had just come out of the sea that morning—and perfectly cooked to maintain its tenderness. But it was the sauce that elevated the dish: a punchy, bright blend of lime, fish sauce, chili, and herbs. It had that addictive Thai balance of sour, spicy, and umami that made us reach for seconds almost immediately.

If there was ever a dish that defines why Thai food is loved globally, this was it—simple ingredients, expertly balanced.

The Signature Crab Omelette: A Love-Hate Dish

Next came Gai’s Signature Crab Omelette—arguably their most talked-about dish and the most expensive one on the menu. It arrived looking impressive—golden, puffy, and beautifully folded. At first glance, it reminded me of Bangkok’s famous Jay Fai-style omelettes, which have taken the world by storm.

We cut into it, expecting a generous lacing of crab meat. The texture was certainly fluffy and rich, and the egg cooked with just the right amount of oil to create that crispy outer layer.

But here comes the only disappointment of the evening: for a dish that commanded such a premium price, the amount of crab meat was underwhelming. Yes, the taste was good, and the seasoning on point—but the lack of visible, juicy chunks of crab made it feel a bit like a letdown.

Still, it’s a dish you should try at least once.

Goong Ob Woon Sen: Prawns with Glass Noodles Done Right

Our next dish was the Goong Ob Woon Sen, a classic Thai favourite featuring glass noodles braised in a soy-based sauce, garlic, and pepper, served with two giant prawns. The prawns were the stars here—fat, juicy, and bursting with flavour.

The noodles absorbed all the goodness of the sauce and aromatics, especially the earthy heat from white pepper, which gave the dish a comforting warmth. The claypot kept it steaming hot throughout the meal, and we happily took turns spooning it onto our plates.

Tom Yum Seafood: Comfort in a Bowl

No Thai meal is complete without a bowl of Tom Yum, and Gai’s Seafood Tom Yum was a winner. The broth was clean and aromatic, leaning more toward the clear version rather than the creamy type. What stood out was its refreshing acidity and the generous helping of seafood inside—squid, prawns, mussels, and more.

It had the kind of depth that comes from slow-cooked lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal. Not overly spicy, but enough to leave a slight tingle on your lips—just how I like it.

Stir fried kangkong

Sweet Endings: A Trio of Thai Desserts

To cap off the night, we couldn’t resist the dessert trio: Coconut Jellies, Red Rubies (Tub Tim Krob), and Kanom Piak Poon (Black Sticky Rice Pudding).

• The Coconut Jellies were refreshing, slightly chewy, and carried that gentle sweetness that Thai desserts are known for.

• Red Rubies were a delight—crunchy water chestnuts coated in soft red tapioca, served in coconut milk with shaved ice. It was playful and nostalgic.

• Kanom Piak Poon, with its dark, almost ebony appearance, was earthy and satisfying—a dessert that makes you slow down and savour each bite.

Together, these desserts brought balance to the meal and showcased the range of Thai sweet treats, from light to indulgent.

A Serene Morning Walk at Mandai Boardwalk with Edmund

 Singapore - There’s something undeniably refreshing about starting the day in nature.  The air feels crisper, the sounds softer, and every sight seems a little more beautiful. One morning recently, I had the pleasure of experiencing just that with my good friend Edmund as we set out on a walk along the Mandai Boardwalk, a stunning new nature trail in Singapore that has quickly become one of the city’s most peaceful outdoor escapes.

The Mandai Boardwalk is a 3.3-kilometre nature corridor that winds its way around the perimeter of River Wonders and Singapore Zoo, offering visitors unparalleled views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir and the lush greenery of the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. What makes this boardwalk particularly special is that it was only opened to the public recently on 14 January 2025 and has already become a favourite spot for early-morning walkers, joggers, and nature lovers alike.

We arrived just after sunrise, greeted by the soft golden glow that spread across the reservoir’s calm surface. The boardwalk, free and open daily from 7am to 7pm, was quiet and refreshing at that hour. This was perfect for conversation and reflection. Spanning gently meandering paths with wheelchair-friendly walkways, the trail felt welcoming to everyone, from casual visitors to eager explorers.

As Edmund and I began our walk, we were immediately struck by the serenity of our surroundings. The boardwalk’s elevated design allows you to feel immersed in nature without disturbing the wildlife below, and along the way we passed several thematic stations inspired by the local ecosystem. From “Tree Frog’s Hangout” to “Iora’s Nest,” each station added character and offered resting points that invited us to pause, take photos, and simply take in the views.

One of the most memorable moments came when we reached a lookout point that offered sweeping panoramas of the reservoir. The water shimmered in the morning light while birds flitted about in the trees, each movement and chirp heightening the sense of peace. It felt like the whole world had paused just for us and a reminder of how special moments with friends can be, especially in such a beautiful setting.

Part of what makes Mandai Boardwalk so special is how accessible it feels despite being tucked in a natural reserve. Whether you’re coming from Mandai Wildlife East or the entrance near River Wonders, the path feels like a gateway — a peaceful transition from city bustle to nature’s calm.

By the time we finished our walk, the morning sun was higher in the sky, and more visitors had begun to arrive. Though the boardwalk was becoming livelier, the tranquil charm we experienced early on stayed with us throughout the day. It was one of those mornings that reminded me how restorative it can be to slow down, step outside, and share the moment with a good friend.

If you’re looking for a scenic, serene way to start your day, the Mandai Boardwalk is absolutely worth the visit — especially at sunrise. It’s a beautiful reminder that nature’s simple pleasures are often the most memorable.