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Jakarta, Indonesia |
Jakarta is a city that never truly slows down. As Indonesia’s bustling capital, it hums with the rhythm of business, traffic, and endless movement. But even on a tight work schedule, there’s a way to carve out small moments of exploration. On a recent two-day, one-night work trip to Jakarta, my only free time was a short two-hour window in the morning. So, I made the most of it—taking a walk through Kuningan and indulging in a simple yet satisfying local breakfast.
A Walk Through Kuningan: Jakarta in the Morning Light
At dawn, the city feels different. The usual rush-hour chaos hasn’t taken over yet, and there’s a quietness that lingers before the day fully begins. Kuningan, known for its gleaming skyscrapers, embassies, and luxury hotels, is one of Jakarta’s most dynamic business districts. But in the early morning, it reveals a softer side.
I set out from my hotel just as the sky turned golden. The sidewalks were lined with office buildings and malls, yet here and there, I spotted small green pockets—urban parks where locals stretched, jogged, or simply enjoyed the fresh morning air. Street vendors were setting up their carts, their bubbling pots and sizzling grills releasing mouthwatering aromas.
The streets were beginning to wake up, but it was nothing like the midday gridlock Jakarta is infamous for. Instead, cyclists and runners passed by, and the occasional motorbike weaved through the quieter roads. For a city often associated with congestion, these early hours in Kuningan offered a rare, peaceful contrast.
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Baitul Mughni Jami Mosque |
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Street Food Cart in Jakarta, Indonesia |
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Mega Kuningan in Jakarta, Indonesia |
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The Road and The Skyscrapers in Jakarta |
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Morning Scene in Jakarta |
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Street Vendor Selling Local Snacks |
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Warung, The Local Eatery in Indonesia |
The Best Breakfast: Bubur Ayam Cianjur — A Comforting Start to the Day
No morning in Jakarta is complete without Bubur Ayam, the Indonesian take on rice porridge. While strolling, I made my way to Bubur Ayam Cianjur Mega Kuningan, a well-known breakfast spot in the area. The name itself carries weight among those who love a hearty, comforting meal to start the day.
Served hot, the Bubur Ayam was thick and velvety, topped with shredded chicken, crispy fried shallots, and crunchy kerupuk (crackers). A drizzle of sweet soy sauce and a spoonful of Kecap Asin (savoury soy sauce) added layers of flavour, while chopped scallions and a sprinkling of celery gave it a fresh bite. Some locals added a dash of Sambal for heat, but I opted for the milder version to savour the porridge’s natural warmth and richness.
Sitting there, watching the city gradually pick up its pace, I couldn’t help but appreciate this small but meaningful moment—a simple dish, a quiet street, and a morning that belonged to me before the demands of work took over.
Bubur Ayam Cianjur
Location: Click Here For Map
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Kantin, The Food Centre in Mega Kuningan, Jakarta |
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Bubur Ayam, Chicken Porridge |
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Highly Rated Bubur Ayam Cianjur, Jakarta |
Where To Stay:
JW Marriott Hotel Jakarta
For a short work trip, comfort and convenience are key, and JW Marriott Jakarta delivers on both. Located in the heart of Mega Kuningan, this five-star hotel offers world-class hospitality, elegant rooms, and top-tier amenities. After a long day of meetings, its plush beds, spa facilities, and fine dining options provide the perfect escape from Jakarta’s fast-paced energy. With its central location, it’s also ideal for quick morning explorations. Whether you're in town for business or leisure, JW Marriott Jakarta ensures your stay is both productive and rejuvenating. Location: Click Here For Map
Rate & Reservation: Click Here
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King, City View Room |
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JW Marriott Jakarta, Swimming Pool |
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Interior of King, City View Room |
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Bathroom with Bathtub |
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Working Desk |
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City View |
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Yu Garden |
A Short but Sweet Taste of Jakarta
With only two hours of free time in Jakarta, I had no grand itinerary—no visits to iconic landmarks or deep dives into the city’s culture. But sometimes, travel isn’t about ticking off major attractions. It’s about these fleeting yet memorable experiences: a morning walk through a business district before it fully wakes up, a warm bowl of Bubur Ayam at a humble street-side stall, and a moment of stillness in a city known for its relentless energy.
As I returned to my hotel, ready to dive into a packed day of site visits, I felt surprisingly refreshed. Even the shortest trips can offer a taste of a place—sometimes, all you need is a morning.
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