Slowly but surely, the Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK) area deep in North Jakarta is becoming one of Jakarta’s most delightful neighborhoods. The reclaimed Golf Island and its seaside cycling route are already a favorite among local cyclists and now, the Pantjoran PIK food court is ready to welcome foodies this Saturday, 7th November 2020.
Named after the Pancoran Street in Glodok, the OG Chinatown of Jakarta, Pantjoran PIK is modeled after classic Chinatown style but with a more upscale vibe.
It isn’t Chinatown without a massive gateway at the entrance
Image credit: @vera.bthree
As befitting of a Chinatown, entrance to the Pantjoran food court area is marked by a huge Chinese gateway, simply known here as gapura. The vibe continues inside with the shops designed with Chinese architecture and classic Chinese pavilions dotting the area.
The narrow lanes between shops present a great photo opportunity
Image credit: @indragsutedja
It is admittedly, a little sanitized, especially when compared with the folksy charm of the street it’s named after in Glodok – but this street does make for great photo spots. We can practically see ourselves donning our changshans and cheongsams to complement the scenic surroundings here.
The area is also decorated with murals for you to have fun with
Image credit: @iamjojojoc
As it is a food court though, the main highlight of Pantjoran PIK is, of course, the quality of food on offer. Here, the area also diverges from your typical idea of a Chinatown as the current list of places that are set to open aren’t exactly what you’d call street food.
Interior of Holywings 24, with Chinese tea house vibe
Image credit: @holywings24
Popular local watering hole Holywings is set to open another location in Pantjoran but with an interesting twist. Named Holywings 24, the Chinese-themed decor and the menu are in line with the area and it’s set to be the first Holywings outlet to open 24 hours per day, non-stop.
Wong Fu Kie restaurant in Glodok where the wait times can reach upwards of two hours
Image credit: @agusitem
We’re especially interested in Wong Fu Kie though as this will only be its second location in almost a century. This legendary Hakka restaurant, operating out of a humble shop in a small alley in Glodok, has been in business since 1925 and we can’t wait to taste how this second branch can measure up to their lofty standards.
Kopi Es Tak Kie, another legendary Glodok eatery making its way to Pantjoran PIK
Image credit: @piyoofficial_id
Aside from these two, vegetarian restaurant Namy House also has set up shop in the area, bringing more of their guilt-free Nasi Padang to the masses. For drinks, legendary ice coffee shop Kopi Es Tak Kie, started in 1927, is following in the footsteps of Wong Fu Kie although this won’t be the first time they’ve branched outside their original Glodok location.
Even before the new food court opens, Pantai Indah Kapuk is already famous for their quality and variety of food so this is just more icing on the cake. Do keep in mind that even though dining in restaurants is allowed during the current PSBB transition, COVID-19 is still a risk.
Make sure to wear a mask, keep your distance, and always keep a hand sanitizer within reach.
For more spots to check out in Jakarta, check out these stories:
Cover image adapted from @anaz.stella and @bunpiao86
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