Published: 10 March 2017 (nowjakarta.co.id)
Since 2014, the revitalization of the historic district known as Kota Tua has become one of the Jakarta provincial government’s biggest projects. Thanks to this ambitious undertaking, today a number of buildings have been restored to their former glory. As more restoration projects unfold, we could only patiently look forward to rediscovering Jakarta’s old charms.
If you’re into all things historic, you’ll certainly appreciate Pantjoran Tea House, a teahouse located in an iconic building that used to house the famous Chung Hwa pharmacy. The pharmacy operated from 1928 to 1957 and was left abandoned after it went out of business. It was only recently that the building was restored and given a new life.
Since its opening in March 2016, Pantjoran Tea House has been a popular destination for those looking for a place to sit back and relax while absorbing the beauty of Jakarta’s colonial-meets-commercial district. The story behind this teahouse began with a generous Chinese captain named Gan Djie, who used to provide cups of fine tea for anyone passing by his porch, at no charge, up to eight pots per day. News of his kindness soon spread, leading people to flock to his house from all parts of the city, and it eventually inspired the establishment of Pantjoran Tea House.
Through its European colonial architecture and vintage furniture, Pantjoran Tea House aims to bring back romance of the past as reflected by the tea drinking culture in the yesteryears. As soon as you step into the restaurant, classy atmosphere radiates from its vintage pendant lamps, classic Thonet café chairs, as well as wooden partitions adorned with Chinese patterns. Every ornament here has a story – from the various posters to the classic Indonesian paintings adorning its walls – and each definitely worth perusing.
Pantjoran Tea House offers eleven types of high-quality, premium teas from the likes of Chinese, Japanese, English and Indonesian origins – each carefully selected and masterfully brewed for perfection. In honour of Captain Gan Djie’s legacy, complimentary tea is provided at the porch.
To accompany your tea ritual, the teahouse offers a wide array of Chinese-Indonesian dishes, such as Nasi Goreng Special, Ayam Saus Mandarin (stir-fry chicken with Mandarin sauce) and Kakap Tahu Saus Tauco (deep-fried snapper and tofu with fermented soy bean sauce).
Thanks to its historical significance, Pantjoran Tea House makes an obvious choice when it comes to hosting cultural events. So far, the institution has welcomed Japanese tea workshops, art and craft workshops, fashion shows and many more. In addition, because the teahouse is listed as part of the attractions of the Old Town Walking Tour, those interested in learning the fascinating history of Batavia would also find it to be a convenient meeting place. Pantjoran Tea House opens daily from 7 AM to 9 PM. For more updates on upcoming agendas and promotions, check out its Instagram account @pantjoran_tea.
Pantjoran Tea House
Jl. Pancoran Raya No. 4 – 6
Glodok, West Jakarta 11120
T: +62-21 6905904
Khamila Mulia
Foto:nowjakarta.co.id
Sumber Artikel: http://nowjakarta.co.id/reviving-old-town-charm-at-pantjoran-tea-house