Sunday, 29 June 2025 | Semaja, Menteng, Jakarta
Jakarta’s food scene is no stranger to innovation, but few experiences blend nostalgia, creativity, and heart as seamlessly as what we experienced at the Indonesian Sunday Brunch by Semaja x Kayu Manis, last Sunday, 29 June 2025.
The moment stepped into Semaja’s warm and inviting space, we were greeted by the understated elegance of modern Indonesian design. Earthy tones, wood accents, and tasteful batik motifs created an atmosphere that felt both contemporary and rooted in heritage. Setting the perfect tone for what was to come.
Held inside the stylish and serene atmosphere of Semaja, this exclusive event offered more than just a meal. We were brought on an intimate journey through the flavours, stories, and the beauty of friendship through a series of delicacies by Chef Glenn and Chef Benvi.
A Collaboration Born from Friendship and Shared Passion
At the heart of the event was a beautiful story of two friends: Chef Glenn of Semaja and Chef Benvi of Kayu Manis.
Both chefs were childhood friends with a mutual love for Indonesian cuisine, coming together to create a curated brunch that pays homage to their shared roots and culinary passions.
Rather than a traditional buffet, this brunch was thoughtfully plated and timed, with dishes arriving in a natural rhythm, just enough to encourage conversation and contemplation, not just indulgence. It felt like being a guest at an intimate celebration rather than a public event.
From Canapés to Selendang Mayang, the set menu invited us to a culinary reunion with deep roots.
Canapés with a Cultural Twist
The brunch began with a selection of canapés, each offering a bite-sized introduction to the diversity of Indonesia’s culinary landscape.
Sate Lilit Sambal Kecombrang, one of the renowned Balinese favourites, reimagined with an aromatic torch ginger sambal (sambal jahe), offered bold flavours in an elegant presentation to the tastebuds. The Singkong Hitam & Kerupuk Daun Jeruk, served with a delicate drizzle of coconut cream, blend comfort food with a modern twist, elevating humble ingredients into something artful.
Signature Dishes Inspired by Famous Traditional Food Crafters
What followed were the signature dishes, drawn from the chefs’ personal histories and national culinary landmarks.
Ayam Bakar Bumbu Rujak, marinated with a sweet-spicy Javanese sauce, struck a balance of char, tenderness, and warmth.
Meanwhile, Bebek Cibeber brought West Java’s spiced traditions to life, with layers of flavour that lingered in the best way possible.
But what made this brunch unique was its celebration of Indonesia’s small food heroes. Highlighting beloved dishes from UMKM (local micro-businesses), the brunch featured legendary offerings like Soto Betawi H. Mamat and Gudeg Yu Djum. Both were prepared with reverence, bringing the taste of Indonesia tempo doeloe into the refined space of Semaja.
Each bite carried authenticity and soul, giving guests not just flavour, but a memory.
A Sweet Finish with Stories in Every Bite
To close, the chefs offered Es Selendang Mayang, a Betawi dessert that is as nostalgic as it is rare in today’s urban menus. A delicate reinterpretation of the vivid, jewel-toned rice flour jelly swam in sweet coconut milk, its restrained sweetness letting the natural flavours shine.
It was refreshing, sentimental, and beautifully presented, like the final note in a familiar song.
Throughout the event, both chefs mingled with guests, sharing anecdotes and insights into the menu. It added a personal dimension to the brunch that made diners feel like part of the story, not just spectators. The air buzzed with laughter, camera clicks, and conversations that lingered long after the plates were cleared.
About Semaja: A New Chapter in Indonesian Dining
Opened by the Ismaya Group, Semaja is more than just a restaurant. The extraordinary culinary establishment cordially offers modern interpretations of classic Indonesian dishes, using premium local ingredients and elegant plating to introduce tradition to a new generation.
The name “Semaja” itself is inspired by the word “semangat” (spirit), a fitting representation of its culinary mission.
Known for its attention to detail and warm service, Semaja has quickly earned a reputation among food lovers, expatriates, and locals alike. Events like this Sunday Brunch only reinforce its role as a cultural and culinary bridge in Jakarta’s ever-evolving food landscape.
Semaja – Modern Indonesian Cuisine
📍 Jl. Gereja Theresia No. 41, Menteng, Jakarta
📩 semaja.guestrelation@ismayagroup.com
📞 +62 813-8899-5556
