Anastasia Smith
One of the best ways to remember your fun getaway in Menteng is to buy some locally-made trinkets. They are affordable and pretty and set the stage for a memorable shopping experience.
If you’re a collector of antiques, you must visit Jalan Surabaya. It’s a flea market selling a vast array of antique items from regions across Indonesia and other countries. Located in Central Jakarta, the market has small shops selling antique lamps, old coins, ceramics, statues, suitcases, CDs, and cameras. These items don’t have fixed prices, which can be a bit tricky. So, haggling is expected. Don’t hesitate to bargain for your expected price – start at half the initial quote, and with a bit of negotiation, you’ll arrive at a price that satisfies both you and the vendor.
With a history going back to 1820, Pasar Baru stands as the oldest shopping spot in Jakarta. Shopping isn’t the only thing you get to enjoy here; Pasar Baru also offers dining options. Plus, it’s located close to other major attractions like Istiqlal and Katedral. Apart from a department store, you’ll find shoe shops, bookstores, and clothing stores here. Batik shops are frequently visited by tourists hoping to find a token of Jakarta’s batik culture. Furthermore, Pasar Baru is an excellent spot to discover a blend of European and Chinese architectural styles. It’s located just 10 minutes from The Grand Mansion Menteng by The Crest Collection. If you’re looking for hotel deals in Jakarta, consider staying at a nearby hotel to enjoy easy access to Pasar Baru and other major tourist attractions.
The best place to buy batik, Thamrin City offers a vast range of batik textiles. If you want to visit, weekdays are the best time; the place is usually busy on weekends. Prices are surprisingly low or at least, they’re way lower than the prices you find at high-end shopping malls. Thamrin City features both retail and wholesale vendors.
Owned by the state, Sarinah was established to facilitate economic growth. It’s a department store established in 1966, which makes it the first department store in the country. There’s an impressive array of batik textiles to choose from. In addition to clothes, you can also find home décor and handicrafts here. Plus, the restaurants serve a wealth of dishes for hungry shoppers.
Opened in 2007, UKM Gallery SMESCO features arts and crafts from across the country. The gallery aims to support local craftsmen by offering them a platform to sell their products. This means that by visiting and purchasing items at UKM Gallery SMESCO, not only do you give yourself the best shopping experience, but you also support local artists. What’s more, the quality of the merchandise sold here is pretty exceptional.
Just a short drive from Menteng, you’ll find Pasaraya Blok M, offering a vast collection of local crafts under one roof. The mall prides itself on promoting local arts and culture across its multiple floors. Each floor is dedicated to a different type of goods, including textiles, fashion, and home décor. The mall is also known for its batik collection, which ranges from hand-painted cloths to more contemporary designs.
Another spot to buy souvenirs, Alun Alun Indonesia is a prestigious shopping mall. It’s known for its sophisticated presentation of local handicrafts. You can find a range of premium items here, including handmade jewellery, bespoke furniture, and artisanal home decorations. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, Alun Alun Indonesia is a must-visit for its spectacular display of items and its focus on high-quality, sustainable products.
Menteng is home to several art galleries that feature artworks done by local up-and-coming artists. If you visit these galleries, you’ll find an amazing collection of paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces that speak of Indonesia’s rich heritage. Visiting these places is a must for a complete travel experience in Menteng. Plus, purchasing artworks from these art galleries supports local artists.
