Sharing our dining experiences: Djournal @ Grand Indonesia

Friday, June 7, 2013

Djournal @ Grand Indonesia

My host for my latest Jakarta trip was so keen in showing me Djournal, said I'd love Djournal decor and furnishing.
It turned out to be correct and another surprise was the location, I didn't expect it would be so accessible and so smack on your face kinda location. I think Ismaya Group, the boss behind Djournal, really scored a good deal on this spot.

It definitely eye-catching by the time you reach Djournal, with its open seating area at the mall ground floor and its turqouise and black colour. They did put a lot of thought on all the small furnishings to complete the decor. Commendable to the effort in pulling this concept on its detail.

Albeit, I heard quite a sinister remark from local interior designer circle about the work of this establishment, since this establishment was done by the in-house staff of Ismaya than external party.

The word of rustic, vintage, retro came to my mind when I walked further in to the seating area. From the tiles, the seats and tables.

Too bad, we only had time to visit Djournal during tea break time as I had my lunch earlier, so, I didn't have time to sample their pasta dishes but I was looking forward to their Garlic Fries.

We got to the order counter and were given a 'cup' tag for our fries order. Somehow, I always dislike the menu that displayed on top shelf, it always discouraging to order during busy time if we are new to that venue. But Djournal did put their cute menu on the counter shelf.

I was half-wishing that the counter staff could chat up some of recommended drinks or dish considering there was no one ordering at that time...

Staff were friendly and courteous but service a bit tad too slow, perhaps due to quiet times.

I only managed to sample one of the Fries trio, the Garlic, Truffle and Parmesan Cheese; love to sample the Truffle next time and the pasta.

Djournal does give an impression of coffee specialty cafe/bistro but my host told me that the coffee was just so-so, nothing special. Well, I couldn't comment as I am more a tea person than coffee person.

For a tea break or casual chat place, Djournal certainly fits the bill, not to mention, its ideal location.