We seem to be drawn to Jakarta's central suburb of Menteng. Its leafy tree-lined streets evoke a sense of tranquility in this often manic city. A drive down many of Menteng's wide boulevards allows you to gaze in awe at the impressive residences and imposing buildings and wonder who inhabits all this grandeur. Moreover, you will notice a greater presence of well-designed green spaces and manicured gardens in Menteng, including the beautiful *Taman Suropati.

Each time Liz and I visit Menteng, we feel like we are stepping into another world and yet close by you will find a plethora of top quality eating options as well as the retail meccas of Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia (see bottom of this post for more information).

So whether you want to spend a day chilling in a green space in Jakarta or simply make it a part of your more grand plan (i.e, build it into a shopping/coffee/lunch expedition), here is another green space for you to explore in Jakarta. 

Today we present to you Taman Menteng.

Taman Menteng
Jalan HOS. Cokroaminoto, Menteng
Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta 10310, Indonesia
(located between the streets of Jl. HOS Cokroaminoto and Jl. Mohammad Yamin)

About Taman Menteng
According to local legend (alright I admit - I read this on a web site whilst researching this post!), Taman Menteng was originally a football stadium until it was acquired by the city of Jakarta and converted into a much needed green space and recreational space for the people of Jakarta.

Taman Menteng covers an area of approximately 2 hectares, some of which is manicured gardens and well-maintained lawns. There exists numerous glass-house structures that were once used to grow plants but  are now used for exhibitions. A large section of the park is dedicated to space for playing sports and adjacent to this is a playground equipped for younger children.

Taman Menteng has some continuous flat surfaces which are suitable for scooters, skateboarding and for toddlers riding bikes.

The park is open from 0500 - 2200 daily.

What will you find at Taman Menteng?
Unlike neighbouring Taman Suropati, Taman Menteng is a park that encourages more physical play.
Here you will find:
- asphalt basketball courts
- ashphalt soccer pitches
- soft-fall play area with playground equipment including slides, swings and climbing apparatus
- greenhouses exhibition buildings (you might be lucky to find an exhibition taking place)
- well-maintained garden areas with established trees and flower beds
- some expanses of grass
- small mosque
- free wifi
- public toilets
- easy parking (next to the park)

Who is Taman Menteng suitable for?
Definitely those of us who like to be active; in particular if you want to find a space that allows for ball activity including futsal, football (soccer), basketball, volleyball etc.

If you have little ones, then Taman Menteng is a great place to bring the children to enjoy the playground.
Be aware that the playground is not shaded so a sun hat, sunscreen and plenty of cold drinks is advisable.

If you like to jog, then Taman Menteng is also a good option. The path around the perimeter is mostly well-constructed and is suitable for jogging, cycling, pushing a pram and wheelchair access.

Verdict?
Less tranquil than its neighbour Taman Suropati, Taman Menteng is more of an 'action park'. Its urban location (it is less tucked away than Suropati), means that you don't feel totally removed from the hustle and bustle of Jakarta but at the same time, the sounds of children playing sport and enjoying the outdoors gives this place a fantastic 'local' feeling.

Why not visit both parks for yourself. As they are in such close proximity, frequenting both is highly achievable in a short amount of time.

And as always, please let us know what you think. Which is your preferred park and why? (We would love you to comment below)

Whilst in Menteng, why not make a day of it and add one or two of our suggestions below to your itinerary:

Looking for another green space to visit whilst in Menteng?
Check out our story on Taman Suropati
Jl. Teuku Umar
Menteng, Jakarta 10350

Looking for good coffee in Menteng or nearby?
You won't be disappointed with any of the following:

Giyanti Coffee Roastery (as previewed in our Best places to sip coffee in Jakarta post)
Jl Surabaya No. 20
Menteng Jakarta Pusat DKI 10310
Phone 021 319 23 698

Bakoel Koffie
Address: Jalan Cikini Raya No. 25
Jakarta Pusat
DKI Jakarta 10330
Phone 021 3193 6608

Kempi Deli
Grand Indonesia Shopping Town East Mall Lt. 2
Jalan MH.Thamrin No.1
Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10310
Phone 021 2358 3985

Located in the upmarket shopping destination, Grand Indonesia, The Kempi Deli serves a wonderful coffee in the most divine bespoke pottery cups. Their assortment of fresh sandwiches are seriously yum! especially when you need a nutritious, quality lunch that feels a bit like home.
Kempi Deli's friendly service makes you feel like you're a regular upon your first visit and their pantry stocks a good range of both local (Javara) and imported products at very reasonable prices. The bonus? They are open from 0700 daily.

Looking for a special meal or a refreshing drink in an elegant environment in the Menteng area?
These two suggestions have come recommended by some of our most knowledgeable friends:

Tugu Kunstkring Paleis
Jl. Teuku Umar No.1, Menteng
Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10350
Phone: 021 3900 899

Lara Djonggrang
Address: Jalan Teuku Cik Ditiro No.4, Menteng
Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta 10350
Phone: 021 3153 252

Looking for a cultural experience to add to your day?
A visit to MONAS is a must!

MONAS National Monument
Built to commemorate Indonesia’s independence, MONAS is considered the central point of Jakarta and it is said that you have not truly been to Jakarta until you have visited MONAS. Although you are able to turn up and buy a ticket to enter, it is advisable that you book a guide to get the most out of your visit.

Address: Jl. Silang Monas
Jakarta, Indonesia
Phone: 021 3822 255

If you enjoyed this story we invite you to check out the following Lifestyle posts that encourage you to 'explore local':

Green Spaces in Jakarta - #1 Taman Suropati

Market Feature #1 - Pasar Mayestik

Market Feature #2 - Pasar Santa

Market Feature #3 - Pasar Pagi

Market Feature #4 - Pasar Modern

10 Top Spots to Stop on Jl. Cipete Raya

10 Top Spots to Stop on Jl. Teragong Raya

*Taman - park

Stop Press!!! Next time we venture to a green space in Jakarta, we turn our attention to Jakarta Selatan (South Jakarta) for a more ‘local’ experience (and discover a nearby cafe that serves delicious organic produce).  Stay tuned!

 Words: Jo Stevens  Photography: a journey bespoke