For me, Chinese food in Jakarta is divided into three types. First, the authentic (usually contains pork) chinese resturant, spreading through north, west and central (kota) Jakarta. Then there's modern chinese restaurant, the ones in Malls and Hotels. The third one is equally authentic but authentic in terms of Indonesian taste. Mandala goes to the third type.
As one of Jakarta's Legendary chinese restaurant. One that is halal and actually tastes good. The place itself is quite small., very packed but fortunately still cool. This place looks like those chinese restaurant in old movies. With patrons coming mostly from South Jakarta, this place serves halal chinese food. I'm a bit disappointed since IMHO pork and chinese food can't be separated.
The food:
1. Mun Tahu
I lost the receipt so I can't write the price. I think it's around 70K, pretty pricey! The mun tahu appeared like soup... Served in a pot, it's very soupy and silky. The taste, yummy :) The tofu is smooth and silky, melts in your mouth as you sip. The minced meat gives that crunchy yet meaty texture. Very fragrant and comforting. The kind of dish that you'd expect when you are sick.
2. Kakap Cah Asparagus
Another yummy dish! Asparagus is not something we often see in a chinese resturant. Usually comes in the form of soup, asparagus is a unique ingredients which tastes better in western style cooking. Mandala make this amazing dish that consists of snapper fillet, asparagus and onions in buttery sweet sauce Surprisingly tasty!
3. Bistik Ayam
The Bistik Ayam is a huge disappointment. Weird tasting sauce, thin slices of battered chicken on a plate of lettuce, boohoo. The sauce is too thick and too sweet. The chicken is sooo thin I taste more of the batter than the chicken.
Mandala's portion is BIG! But... the price is also pricey. For me, I still prefer Kota's chinese food but among those indonesian chinese restaurant, this is the best :)
Rating: 7/10
Location: Wolter Monginsidi, Jakarta
