From the Embassy Kitchen to PLQ Mall: The Story Behind Pondok Jawa
A Taste of East Java in Paya Lebar
Pondok Jawa traces its roots back to 2006, when founder Madame Indah began serving home-style Javanese cooking out of the canteen at the Indonesian Embassy in Singapore. What started as a small, personal venture has since grown into Pondok Jawa Timur, a beloved halal-certified restaurant with outlets at Far East Plaza and, more recently, PLQ Mall — bringing genuine East Javanese flavours to a whole new neighbourhood of diners.
The PLQ Mall outlet sits on Level 2, just opposite UOB Bank, and is an easy stop for anyone craving hearty, spice-forward Indonesian comfort food after a day of shopping or a short walk from Paya Lebar MRT.
Current Deals & Catering Promotions
Beyond its regular à la carte menu, Pondok Jawa offers a Nasi Tumpeng catering package that’s perfect for office parties, birthdays, and family gatherings. The traditional Indonesian celebratory rice cone comes in three sizes — 15 pax at $350, 20 pax at $420, and 25 pax at $500 — with a minimum of 3 days’ advance notice required. Orders can be placed by calling +65 6884 5853 or via WhatsApp at +65 8929 7737.
Fans of the restaurant’s spicier offerings will also want to look out for Bakso Mercon, a fiery meatball dish that has been rolled out across both Pondok Jawa outlets after popular demand.
Pro Tip: Planning a celebration? Check Pondok Jawa’s official Promotion page and Facebook for the latest Tumpeng catering rates and seasonal menu drops before you place a large order.
What to Order
Pondok Jawa’s menu is built around the bold, well-balanced flavours of East Javanese home cooking. The Ayam Penyet — deep-fried marinated chicken thigh smashed and served with the restaurant’s signature sambal belacan — is a must-try for first-time visitors, while the Ikan Nila (fried red tilapia with sambal belacan and sweet sauce) is a favourite among seafood lovers. Noodle fans should go for the Mie Goreng Jawa, and those craving something warm and comforting can opt for the hearty Sop Buntut (oxtail soup).
To finish, the Es Teler — a refreshing Indonesian dessert loaded with jackfruit, coconut, and avocado in a homemade jackfruit syrup — is the perfect palate cleanser after a spice-heavy meal.
Outlet Details
| Mall | Unit | Address | Contact | Google Maps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLQ Mall | #02-09 | 10 Paya Lebar Road, PLQ Mall, Singapore 409057 | +65 8905 2722 | View on Google Maps |
Opening Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 11:30am – 9:30pm (9pm last order) |
| Tuesday | 11:30am – 9:30pm (9pm last order) |
| Wednesday | 11:30am – 9:30pm (9pm last order) |
| Thursday | 11:30am – 9:30pm (9pm last order) |
| Friday | 11:30am – 10:00pm (9:30pm last order) |
| Saturday | 11:30am – 10:00pm (9:30pm last order) |
| Sunday | 11:00am – 9:00pm (8:30pm last order) |
Hours may be adjusted during public holidays or mall-wide events, so it’s worth checking the outlet’s live status on Google Maps before you head down.
Follow & Order Online
Pondok Jawa keeps fans updated on new dishes, catering rates, and promotions across its official channels:
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| Official Website | pondokjawa.com |
| facebook.com/pondokjt | |
| instagram.com/pondokjawatimur | |
| TikTok | tiktok.com/@pondokjawatimur |
For delivery, Pondok Jawa’s dishes can be ordered through GrabFood, Foodpanda, and Deliveroo, in addition to the restaurant’s own online ordering page. As of this article, no official Shopee Mall, LazMall, or TikTok Shop storefront has been confirmed for the brand — for catering orders and reservations, calling the outlet directly or booking via Quandoo remains the most reliable route.
Getting to Pondok Jawa at PLQ Mall
Pondok Jawa is located on Level 2 of PLQ Mall, directly opposite UOB Bank, and just a short walk from Paya Lebar MRT Interchange (EW8/CC9) via the mall’s underground link. It’s a convenient spot for a hearty lunch, dinner, or a family celebration meal after a day out in the area. For exact directions and current opening status, tap the map link below.
Get directions to Pondok Jawa PLQ Mall on Google Maps
Pro Tip: If you’re planning a group celebration with Nasi Tumpeng, call or WhatsApp at least 3 days ahead — and consider reserving your table via Quandoo so your group is seated together when the food arrives.
