If you thought that Jakarta’s lifestyle scene has finally reached a plateau, then you’re mistaken. Sure, it has its ebbs and flows, but somehow it remains a promised land for the F&B business. Kilo Kitchen, an established player in the field, is now here in Jakarta and its arrival is one that is long-awaited. In fact, following its popularity and success in its home country, Singapore, Kilo continues to build a reputation with its branch in Bali too. Yet, the Jakarta branch can brag, for it goes all out by introducing both its restaurant and the lounge, where the two share their home in the robust Gunawarman strip.
If you come without any clue on what Kilo is all about, the establishment sets the scene lucidly for first-timers (or even for regulars). The open plan interior allows an unobstructed view of the whole restaurant, defined by its tuneful tinkle of dining utensils and merry chatter of the patrons. It is communal get-together over hearty food and excellent drinks that lies at its core, backdropped against its spacious, snazzy living-room ambiance.
Likewise, its communal-focused ethos is mirrored in the menu, which mostly offers dishes in good-sized portions to be shared. A plate of Crispy Soft Shell Crab with watermelon cubes or Truffled Tai Yuzu Roll are good to prepare your palate for the next few courses. For the mains, tuck right into their ever-popular Squid Ink Rice (deliciously jazzed up with garlic aioli and salmon roe) and Korean Chicken Bulgogi (noted for its pleasant balance between the sweet-tangy gochujang and wasabi mayo).
Of course, that is not to say that other dishes aren’t as equally delightful as the previously mentioned. Even the dessert range – though kept short – would satisfy, be it the Coconut Tembleque (pineapple sorbet, coconut crumbs and cinnamon) or Pistachio Cake (parmesan custard, sesame crisp and mint jelly).
With a venue this comfortable, conversations tend to carry on. To do that, Kilo’s cocktails will ease your get-together even more – whether it’s by the bar as you watch the engrossing view of the open kitchen, or downstairs at Kilo Lounge, which opens for the evening. Pick your favourite plush couch and plump yourself down there for a long loungey night with good talks, soulful music and of course, feisty drinks.