Jakartans are naturally curious, always eager to discover new culinary spots and experiences. One neighborhood that has stood the test of time as a vibrant food and culture hub is Blok M, a beloved district in the heart of the city.

 

Since the 1970s, Blok M has been a popular hangout for cool kids—once known for its iconic ice skating rink and strong Japanese influence with “Little Tokyo.” Today, it’s evolved into a melting pot where generations, cultures, and tastes collide. Here, the old and new sit side by side: from legendary eateries and authentic Japanese restaurants to viral, modern food spots.

 

To celebrate this rich culinary legacy, Feastin’, a Jakarta-based food media platform, collaborates with GoFood and GoDineIn to launch the Feastin’ Food Guide: a curated collection of 100 culinary destinations in and around Blok M. More than just a food list, this guide captures Jakarta through a new lens, capturing not only what we eat, but also the stories, heritage, and innovation behind each dish.

 

Feastin' Food Guide Launch on July 24, 2025 in Maiku Cafe, Blok M

 

“We’ve seen Blok M transform since Gojek set up its office here back in 2016,” shared Ignatius Satrio, Head of Marketing for Food & Ads at Gojek. “This collaboration with Feastin’ is our way of encouraging a hyperlocal, proudly Indonesian perspective—showing how our food habits and culture continue to evolve.” 

 

In an increasingly digital world, the printed Food Guide offers a breath of fresh air. The curation process itself was thoroughly offline. Many restaurants had outdated digital information—or none at all. The team called every eatery, checked opening hours, attempted to make reservations, and even visited unannounced to ensure fair, unbiased judgments. 

 

For this guide, Feastin’ consulted aggregators, expert opinions, and user recommendations, but also asked deeper questions: Does this place have historical significance? Has it impacted the local community? Is the food consistent and creative? This process enables the team to spotlight restaurants with unique characteristics that may have slipped under the radar.

 

Feastin' Food Guide featuring restaurants and eateries in and around Blok M

 

What makes a lively district?

With improved connectivity thanks to TransJakarta and the MRT, Blok M has become more accessible than ever. It’s now a destination for people from all over Greater Jakarta—and even from outside the city. Unlike other more predictable areas, Blok M draws a much more diverse crowd—visitors come from various backgrounds and locations.

 

The growth of infrastructure and community in Blok M has also played a key role in the district’s boom. “Taman Literasi became a game-changer for Blok M,” said Gary Evano Daniel, Managing Director at PUYO Group. “People used to visit just one spot, now they spend the whole day exploring.”

 

Kevindra Soemantri, co-founder of Feastin’, shared key factors that signal a district’s culinary rise:

1. Accessibility: The easier it is to get to a place, the more likely people are to explore it. Improved infrastructure, especially public transportation like the MRT, plays a huge role in shaping a district’s potential. Want to know which area is next in line? Just look at the next MRT route. New lines don’t just bring foot traffic; they create fresh demand for dining experiences tailored to different types of visitors.

 

2. Community character: Even if a district doesn’t yet have a well-known food scene, a strong local community can lay the groundwork for one. Neighborhoods with active residents, creative spaces, and local events naturally attract attention—and eventually, eateries follow. A lively, engaged community can turn even a quiet area into a dynamic destination.

 

3. Untapped destination appeal: Some areas simply have an unpolished charm: distinct architecture, street life, or a vibe that sets them apart. These under-the-radar places may not be food-focused yet, but they hold great potential. As more people visit and take notice, food businesses often emerge in response, drawn by the area's uniqueness and the promise of a loyal customer base.

 

As Jakarta continues to grow, some districts will require more attention to flourish, while others like Blok M are already thriving thanks to strong infrastructure and community energy. Places like Kota Tua and Glodok are next in line for revitalization. Of course, every neighborhood has its own unique charm. That’s what makes Jakarta’s culinary map so rich and exciting—there’s always something new to discover.

 

In your eyes, what turns a district into a destination?

 

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You can get your own printed Food Guide by visiting select restaurants in Blok M marked with the “Local’s Favorites” logo or explore the digital version now on the Gojek app. Check out Feastin’s Instagram (@feastin.id) for more information.