
Glodok Chinatown Jakarta
A bustling marketplace and culinary hotspot in Jakarta, offering authentic Chinese-Indonesian food, vibrant markets, and a lively cultural experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, food stalls active

Glodok Chinatown Jakarta
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, food stalls active

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling marketplace and culinary hotspot in Jakarta, offering authentic Chinese-Indonesian food, vibrant markets, and a lively cultural experience.
"A vibrant and bustling street food destination that truly captures the spirit of local Chinese-Indonesian culture."

Ask About Halal Options
Muslim travelers: always confirm halal status with vendors. Many places are non-halal. :pray:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Navigate crowded streets and markets with ease. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Petak Enam Food Hub
Central area of Glodok Chinatown
A must-visit for diverse Chinese, Vietnamese, and Singaporean dishes. Try Kwetiaw, Laksa, and Nasi Lemak!

Street Food Galore
Along the main streets
Indulge in a wide array of traditional snacks and desserts like Es Potong and Es Cendol.

Traditional Market Exploration
Throughout Glodok Chinatown
Discover stalls selling Chinese clothes, groceries, fresh produce, and local daily necessities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bustle
Foodie Paradise & Cultural Immersion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Is this doable for me and mom for our travel to Jakarta, Indonesia in July / August?
Ask About Halal Options
Muslim travelers: always confirm halal status with vendors. Many places are non-halal. :pray:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Navigate crowded streets and markets with ease. :athletic_shoe:
Visiting Jakarta
Glodok questions
Cash is King
Many street vendors and smaller shops prefer cash. Have smaller denominations ready. :moneybag:
Explore Beyond Petak Enam
Don't limit yourself to one spot! Wander the side streets for hidden culinary gems and unique finds. :mag_right:
Chinatown @ Jakarta
Tips
from all over the internet
Ask About Halal Options
Muslim travelers: always confirm halal status with vendors. Many places are non-halal. :pray:
Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking! Navigate crowded streets and markets with ease. :athletic_shoe:
Cash is King
Many street vendors and smaller shops prefer cash. Have smaller denominations ready. :moneybag:
Explore Beyond Petak Enam
Don't limit yourself to one spot! Wander the side streets for hidden culinary gems and unique finds. :mag_right:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Glodok Chinatown is celebrated as a vibrant hub for authentic Chinese-Indonesian food and culture, offering an impressive variety of dishes and a lively atmosphere. Visitors praise the delicious flavors and the immersive market experience, though some note the need for caution regarding halal options and the bustling crowds.
"A vibrant and bustling street food destination that truly captures the spirit of local Chinese-Indonesian culture. The variety of dishes here is impressive—from savory snacks to traditional desserts, everything feels authentic and full of flavor. The atmosphere is lively, colorful, and full of character. Perfect for food lovers looking to explore something rich in culture and taste."
acidguru
"China town in the North-side of Jakarta!
A lot of foodies and beverages, especially Chinese food! I recommend to go to Petak Enam and try Ho Lai restaurant (no pork no lard!)—they serves various of Chinese, Vietnamese, Singaporean, Malaysian food such as: Kwetiaw, Laksa, Nasi Lemak, and surprisingly the taste were VERY TASTY! 😍
Beside that, you should also try the dessert & snack like Es Potong, Es Cendol, Cempedak (i guess this one’s also delicious since the queue were crowded, but sadly I haven’t tried this one), Kuo Tie and many more!
For my beloved Moslem friends, please always ask to the owner of the Restaurant about the halal thingy since there’s a lot of non-halal resto as well. :)
Enjoy Glodok everyone!"
Delira K
"A lot of traditional chinese food and snacks can find here. Can see many stall along the street like Chinese clothes, groceries, and local daily food, veg , fruit, fish , meat stall and etc.. meanwhile a lot of motorcycles across the street. Opp of the road side are quite a few of traditional medicine/ herbal shops. You can take 1-2 hours to explore here if you like the vibe."
Zann Loo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Glodok Chinatown is accessible by taxi, ride-sharing apps like Gojek or Grab, or public transport. Many visitors find ride-sharing the most convenient way to navigate Jakarta's traffic. If using public transport, look for routes that pass through the Glodok area.
Glodok Chinatown is generally safe for tourists, but like any busy market area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. Petty theft can occur in crowded places.
The best way to explore Glodok Chinatown is on foot. The streets are bustling with activity, and walking allows you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere and discover hidden food stalls and shops.
Driving to Glodok Chinatown is possible, but parking can be challenging due to the narrow streets and high volume of traffic. Ride-sharing services or taxis are often a more practical option.
When arriving, look for the main thoroughfares that are bustling with market activity. Petak Enam is a well-known food hub within Glodok Chinatown that serves as a good central point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance tickets required to explore Glodok Chinatown. It's a public market and street area, so you can wander freely. You'll only pay for food, goods, or specific attractions within the area.
Glodok Chinatown is generally open throughout the day and into the evening. However, individual shops and food stalls may have varying operating hours. The market buzzes most in the late afternoon and evening.
While it's always lively, Glodok Chinatown can get extremely crowded during peak meal times and on weekends. If you prefer a slightly less intense experience, consider visiting on a weekday afternoon.
There is no admission fee for the food stalls themselves. You pay for the food you order. Prices are generally affordable, making it a great spot for budget-conscious foodies.
Glodok Chinatown is usually open on public holidays, and often becomes even more vibrant with local celebrations. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific closures or special events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You must try the diverse Chinese-Indonesian dishes like Kwetiaw, Laksa, and Nasi Lemak at places like Petak Enam. Don't miss traditional snacks and desserts such as Es Potong and Es Cendol.
Yes, there are halal options, but it's crucial to ask vendors directly about their ingredients and preparation methods, as many establishments are non-halal. Look for restaurants that explicitly state 'no pork, no lard'.
Petak Enam is a popular food hub within Glodok Chinatown, known for offering a wide variety of authentic Chinese, Vietnamese, and Singaporean cuisines. It's a great place to sample multiple dishes.
Food prices in Glodok Chinatown are generally very affordable, especially for street food and local dishes. You can expect to spend a few dollars for a satisfying meal or snack.
While many dishes are meat-based, you can often find vegetarian options like vegetable stir-fries or noodle dishes. It's best to communicate your dietary needs clearly to the vendors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant street life, colorful market stalls, and delicious food. The bustling atmosphere and unique architecture offer endless photo opportunities. Look for candid shots of vendors and shoppers.
Late afternoon and early evening offer the best light for photography, with the golden hour casting a warm glow. The vibrant night lights also create a unique atmosphere for night shots.
The main market streets, the food stalls at Petak Enam, and the traditional medicine shops offer visually rich scenes. Don't forget to capture the dynamic street scenes with motorcycles and pedestrians.
For busy streets, use a faster shutter speed to freeze motion. In low light, consider a wider aperture or increasing ISO. A versatile lens is recommended for capturing both wide scenes and details.
It's generally acceptable to take photos of the general atmosphere and stalls. However, for close-ups of individuals, it's polite to ask for permission first.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for crowds and ensure you keep a close eye on children. While there aren't specific 'kid attractions,' the sheer novelty of the market and trying new snacks can be an adventure in itself. Bring snacks and drinks for picky eaters, and be patient as you navigate the bustling environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
When shopping for goods, remember that haggling is common, so don't be afraid to negotiate prices politely. Stick to local eateries and street vendors for the best value. Carrying cash in smaller denominations will also make transactions smoother and help you manage your spending effectively.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Market Maze
Beyond the tangible goods, the market itself is a spectacle. The narrow alleyways are often packed with people, motorcycles, and vendors calling out their wares. The air is filled with a symphony of sounds and smells – from sizzling street food to the chatter of shoppers. It’s a place that truly engages all your senses, offering a vibrant and sometimes chaotic, but always fascinating, experience.
A Culinary Adventure
Beyond the main dishes, Glodok is a treasure trove for desserts and snacks. Look out for refreshing treats like Es Potong (ice cream bars) and Es Cendol (a sweet, green jelly drink). For Muslim visitors, it's essential to be mindful that many establishments serve non-halal food. Always inquire about ingredients and preparation methods to ensure your meal aligns with your dietary needs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit