Where to Find and Indulge in the Best ‘Pempek’ in Jakarta

“I am sometimes bewildered when somebody sells Indonesian fishcakes for $2.05 (Rp 30,000). You already earn a profit by selling at the price I offer. I focus more on large quantities so the price doesn’t have to be expensive.”

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What has kept Pempek Megaria going strong in the Jakarta culinary scene is Rudi’s insistence to use mackerel as the main ingredient of the Jakarta food dish.

Although it is more expensive than other types of fish, he is able to maintain the authentic flavor of the fishcakes.

Going the extra mile, he continues to use palm sugar from South Sumatera which elevates the vinegar-based sauce to another level.

No Branches or Franchise

Even with its achievement in becoming a Jakarta food eatery legend, there are no Pempek Megaria branches nor any franchises.

Rudi admits that he is not interested in opening any franchise for his Jakarta food business although you can find his business online.

Moreover, a franchise or restaurant branch would make complicate quality control of the central kitchen which he has set up for his business.

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