Menteng

Overview

Menteng is Jakarta's most elegant residential neighbourhood, laid out by the Dutch in the 1920s with tree-lined boulevards, Art Deco mansions, and quiet parks. It's also home to embassies and cultural institutions.

Highlights

• Colonial Villas: Grand 1920s and 1930s villas with sweeping verandas.
• Tree-Lined Avenues: Mature tamarind and mahogany trees shade the wide streets.
• Presidential Heritage: Barack Obama lived here briefly as a child; his statue stands in Taman Menteng.

History

Menteng was developed as an elite residential garden suburb by Dutch town planner P.A.J. Moojen in the 1920s and has remained Jakarta's most sought-after neighbourhood ever since.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Walk Jalan Diponegoro and Jalan Teuku Umar for the best architecture.
• Tip 2: Combine with Taman Suropati and the flea market on Jalan Surabaya.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.