Al-Nafoura: A great place for Middle Eastern food, where you will find another of my childhood madeleine: the traditional kobebah (kebbeh) of meat in a shell of crushed bulgur. The bread with za’hatar is delicious and so are the classic meze - March 2008

Emilie: Wouah! Who could imagine such an amazing French food gem in central Jakarta? Granted, you’ll pay big time for it, but the pan seared foie gras, the beef cheeks and… yes, the St Julien were simply perfect - April 2008

Hazara (021 319 25037): Another fantastic address in Jakarta, Hazara has great North Indian food, from fruity/nutty palau rice to bamias and butter chicken. And if you hesitate with Thai food, turn left instead of right inside the restaurant and go to Lan Na Thai who seems to have great food as well - March 2008

Lang Viet: Delicious food from Viet-Nam, light and flavorful with a very friendly staff. The papaya salad with dried beef is a must and so are the crepes a la mode de Saigon and the main dishes. Finish with an ice coffee! And don’t forget to check out the art gallery on the third floor - April 2008

Lara Djonggrang: A really nice setting where you eat while surrounded by Buddhist and Hindu art. Service is simply excellent and the menu offers all the Indonesian classics - April 2008

Penangbistro (021 3190 6000): Great Asian food, from shaking beef to grilled stingray and don’t forget the old coconut drink - on the sweet side but really worth it - April 2008

Trattoria (Menara Karya Building in Kuningan - 021 579 44727): A brilliant alternative if you are tired of local Indonesian food! The spinach salad with parmigiano reggiano is divine, and the gnocchi with a simple (slightly sweet) tomato sauce reminds me of my childhood! The carpaccios are excellent and so are the more serious secondi piatti - April 2008