Menu of LIUJI MALATANG刘记麻辣烫 in West Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta City, Jakarta, Indonesia

Menu Overview

LIUJI MALATANG刘记麻辣烫, nestled in the bustling heart of Kelapa Gading, Jakarta Utara, offers a flavorful dive into the world of Malatang and Malaxianguo, two staples of Sichuan street cuisine known for their bold, aromatic broths and fresh ingredients. This restaurant is a strong contender for those seeking a savory, spicy experience with a variety of customizable options.

The menu’s highlight is undoubtedly the Malatang Mushroom Soup. This soup stands out for its creamy texture paired with a balanced mala flavor that manages to charm both lovers and hesitant newcomers to Sichuan spices. Unlike typical mala soups that can overwhelm with intense heat, LIUJI’s rendition softens the pungency by blending a bone broth base, creating a rich, less aggressive palate. This makes the soup accessible to a wider audience, including children, as noted by customers who appreciate the original mala flavor alongside milder variants.

Another signature dish is the Malaxianguo, a stir-fried offering that brings forth a dynamic, layered flavor profile. It emphasizes fresh ingredients such as crisp vegetables, juicy cuts of meat, and a medley of noodles—choices famously diverse at this outlet. The pay-by-weight system (30,000 IDR per 100 grams with a 300-gram minimum) allows diners to tailor their meal precisely to their appetite and preferences. This flexibility is highly appreciated by patrons looking for variety and value.

Freshness is a recurring praise point. From the bright, plentiful side dishes to the condiments bar, the offerings are well-maintained, with some unique touches like boiled peanuts and fresh watermelon served alongside the savory broths. The meats, notably, show careful preparation—well cooked, tender, and juicy rather than dry, enhancing the overall quality of the meal.

Yet, the dining experience comes with some caveats. The interior tends to run warm, which contrasts with the expectation of a cooler environment to complement a piping hot soup. Additionally, while the restaurant maintains a reasonable level of cleanliness and efficient service, the ambiance, including a lively mix of Chinese cuisine with club music, might not suit everyone’s taste. The space can feel cramped, potentially detracting from the relaxed dining some seek when enjoying a slow-cooked broth.

In essence, LIUJI MALATANG excels through its flavorful offerings and fresh ingredients, bringing authentic mala soup and stir-fried Malaxianguo to a location convenient for many Jakarta residents. While certain elements like ambiance and heat management could improve, the core—delicious, customizable mala cuisine served with a thoughtful balance between spice and creaminess—makes it a worthy stop for Malatang enthusiasts exploring the city’s diverse culinary scene.