Glodok has lengthy been referred to as Jakarta’s enterprise heart. After being designated as a Chinatown space, it has turn out to be much more vigorous, with rows of outlets—from conventional to fashionable—combining harmoniously, making it one of the vital visited culinary facilities.
Lots of the culinary retailers in Glodok have been round for a very long time, handed down from era to era, serving distinctive flavors that stay related right this moment. The tempting aroma of cooking from varied retailers confused us about which one to strive. Each nook provides uniqueness, creating an attraction for guests.
Glodok additionally displays cultural variety. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the retailers, we heard conversations between merchants with Betawi, Madurese, and Javanese accents. It was so thrilling to take heed to their conversations at the moment. Breaking by the obstacles of distinction, the place everybody fortunately mingled whereas peddling their wares.
Exploring additional to Jalan Toko Tiga, we have been greeted by rows of outlets with roofs typical of Chinese language structure. That day was fairly quiet, maybe as a result of many retailers have been closed on Sundays. The buildings seemed uninteresting, some had been transformed into semi-permanent stalls. Though easy, each nook feels prefer it holds a protracted story about wealthy historical past and custom.
On the best way, we stopped in entrance of the Chinese language medication store “Seng Seng Tong,” which shares area with a Madura grocery retailer. Inside, we met the proprietor, a pleasant middle-aged man, the third era of this store. Seng Seng Tong not solely sells but additionally produces conventional medicines. Certainly one of its flagship merchandise is arak gosok, which is named ache reduction.
The proprietor defined how his household enterprise survives amidst the challenges of the instances. “We don’t simply promote medication, but additionally keep custom and high quality,” he stated. Every product is made with an historic recipe inherited from our mother and father.
Amid the ever-advancing modernity, we discovered that many companies in Glodok have closed on account of a scarcity of successors. Discovering a hereditary enterprise that also exists like Seng Seng Tong leaves a narrative. We’re certain that their wrestle to outlive is extraordinary.
Leaving the store, we took residence reminiscences of how Glodok is not only a spot, but additionally a witness to historical past and unity. Amidst the hustle and bustle of recent life, Glodok nonetheless maintains its soul, making it a spot wealthy in tales.
