"The History of Keuken van Elsje"
Keuken van Elsje embodies a rich culinary heritage passed down through our family since 1920. Our journey began in the 1920s when our family established our first restaurant. According to stories from Opa Harry and Oma Elsje, this restaurant was a favorite among several Indonesian national heroes who frequently enjoyed our signature dishes. These beloved dishes, often served by Oma Elsje at her home, are now a part of our legacy.
The building that now houses Keuken van Elsje was originally the home of Oma Elsje's grandparents, a beautiful 19th-century residence. This historic house has been transformed into a warm and welcoming family restaurant, situated at the base of a well-preserved Indische-Architecture building. Since its opening in December 2016, Keuken van Elsje has been managed by Elsje's daughter, Esther, her sister-in-law, and her grandson, Kevin. Over the years, our restaurant has grown significantly, enhancing both our culinary offerings and the overall dining experience.
Our commitment to quality is unwavering. At Keuken van Elsje, we never use MSG, artificial colors, or preservatives in our dishes, ensuring you experience the true flavors of our fresh ingredients. We prepare and wash all our vegetables and cook our dishes using mineral water, upholding the highest standards of cleanliness and taste. We guarantee that all our food is fresh, with no reheated leftovers the next day; every meal is prepared daily using only the freshest ingredients.
Each dish we serve reflects our dedication to preserving our rich culinary heritage. As Kevin, the grandson of Oma Elsje, aptly puts it, "Food isn't just about thing; it's about feelings, memories, and emotions." We are honored to share these treasured recipes with you and delighted to offer a dining experience that celebrates our tradition of passion, authenticity, and excellence.