Namaaz Dining: A Sensory Revolution in the Heart of Jakarta
In the bustling heart of South Jakarta, tucked away in the sophisticated neighborhood of Kebayoran Baru, lies a culinary laboratory that defies every traditional law of the tuttons menu kitchen. Namaaz Dining isn’t just a restaurant; it is Indonesia’s first molecular gastronomy destination, where “Fun Dining” replaces the stiff atmosphere of typical fine dining.
The Visionary Behind the Magic
The mastermind behind this 17-course odyssey is Chef Andrian Ishak. Remarkably self-taught, Ishak approaches food like a craftsman, drawing inspiration from music, painting, and physics. His mission is as bold as his techniques: to take the soul of traditional Indonesian flavors and reconstruct them into avant-garde forms that trick the eye and delight the palate.
What to Expect: 17 Courses of Surprise
At Namaaz, nothing is as it seems. You might be served a candle that turns out to be edible sambal, or a pencil and paper that tastes exactly like Opor Ayam (chicken curry). One of the most famous dishes, inspired by the proverb “Ada Udang di Balik Batu” (shrimp behind the stone), features what looks like a common river rock but is actually a tender, slow-cooked potato hiding a succulent shrimp.
The menu changes seasonally every six to eight months, ensuring that even frequent guests are met with new “magic tricks.” Each dish is presented with a story and a specific set of instructions on how to eat it, making the diner an active participant in the performance.
The Details
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Concept: Progressive Indonesian Molecular Gastronomy.
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The Experience: A fixed 17-course tasting menu lasting approximately 2–3 hours.
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Price: Around Rp 1,250,000+ per person (subject to seasonal changes).
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Setting: Intimate and exclusive. With only a few tables available each night, the atmosphere is focused and theatrical.
How to Score a Table
Because of its immense popularity and limited seating, booking a table at Namaaz Dining is a feat in itself. Reservations must be made weeks (sometimes months) in advance through their official website. The restaurant operates on a strict pre-payment system to ensure the exclusivity of the experience.
Namaaz Dining is more than a meal; it’s a tribute to Indonesian heritage through the lens of modern science. If you are looking for a place that celebrates the “Best of Jakarta” while pushing the boundaries of what food can be, this is your destination.