Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, brings with it not just spirituality but also numerous culinary experiences across Indonesia, as communities come together to enjoy the festive atmosphere and diverse dining options. Notably, Sundown Markette has emerged as a vibrant open food court located at Taman Softball Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) Senayan, Jakarta, dedicated to celebrating local food culture during this sacred month.
Launching on March 1, 2025, Sundown Markette is managed by 370 organizers who aim to provide both comfort and community connection for Jakarta residents. According to Dian Puspita Sari, the Managing Director, the event's purpose extends beyond simply offering delicious food. "Kegiatan ini bukan sekadar menawarkan tempat berkumpul yang nyaman, tetapi juga menjadi wadah bagi para pelaku UMKM lokal untuk mengembangkan usahanya," she stated. This initiative showcases the importance of supporting local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) during Ramadan, allowing them to thrive.
Every day from 2 PM to 10 PM, this food market invites visitors to 'ngabuburit,' or pass the time pleasantly before breaking fast, with over 40 culinary tenants featuring traditional Indonesian dishes. Some of the most popular offerings include traditional snacks and meals aimed at satisfying the palates of those observing Ramadan.
Adding to the allure, the organizers distribute 100 free takjil portions daily, sponsored by Semen Indonesia Group, fostering togetherness and sharing within the community. This exciting mix of flavors aligns perfectly with the spirit of Ramadan, creating not just opportunities for sustenance but also for social gathering.
With its prime location and family-friendly environment, Sundown Markette has quickly become the go-to destination for families and friends who want to relax after attending tarawih prayers.
The culinary highlights continue as the Premier Place Hotel Surabaya Airport presents its unique take on Ramadan through the Kampoeng Ramadhan Kampoeng Arab Nusantara event. This initiative showcases dishes from both Arab and Indonesian cuisines, allowing guests to explore diverse flavors during their iftar meals.
The hotel offers guests a culinary adventure, featuring items such as Arabic lamb, various live cooking stations, and delicious desserts. Executive Chef Andi Abidin encourages patrons to try special dishes like syahi adeni, which is flavored with spices such as ginger and cinnamon, and baklava, the Turkish dessert renowned for its flaky layers and sweet taste. “Baklava terkenal karena lapisan adonan filonya yang renyah dan rasanya yang manis cocok sebagai takjil ataupun dessert menu berbuka puasa,” he commented, emphasizing its popularity among guests.
Pricing is set at IDR 175,000 per person, providing good value for those wanting to enjoy unlimited access to the diverse menu curated for the month. Guests can also participate in exciting giveaways, including the chance to win Umrah packages, along with daily door prizes and live music.
For those pondering culinary gifts during Eid al-Fitr, the Premier Place Hotel presents appealing hampers, including Ken Dedes chicken and dates delight cake, available for order until March 28, 2025. This thoughtful offering allows customers to share the joy of the season with loved ones through delicious gifts.
These culinary experiences, themed around Ramadan, not only allow people to satiate their appetites but also forge connections through shared meals and joyful gatherings. This is the essence of Ramadan: coming together to reflect, to share, and to celebrate the blessings of food with family and friends. The vibrant culinary events throughout Indonesia during this month are not only about food but also about nurturing the community spirit and supporting local businesses.
With Sundown Markette and the celebrations at Premier Place Hotel, there’s no shortage of opportunities to indulge and enjoy the festive atmosphere. From savoring diverse traditional delicacies to breaking bread with loved ones, these experiences encapsulate the heartwarming essence of Ramadan.