February 6th, 2017. I heard about this place a long time ago. I think everybody had already came. Actually it’s one of Ismaya’s group. And I’ve never been there. Until now. LOL. Finally yesssss. GIA.

GIA: A taste of the Italian soul with a modern twist. Ismaya is proud to introduce GIA, an Italian restaurant & lounge that blend modernity with a twist of retro. Located at Sampoerna Strategic Square Tower 2—one of Jakarta’s unique landmarks that is distinguishable by its classy, luxurious interiors—GIA is embedded with a combination of bright white, black Italian marble and dark wooden ceiling that gives you a fascinating dining experience.

From the facade, it was quite entertaining with many photos of Gia Carangi, the first supermodel during the late 1970s and early 1980s. When I walked inside, I found the place is a casual fine dining restaurant. I thought it will be a luxurious bar with intimidating people inside hahahaha.. The dining room divided into two area. There’s lounge also. Actually GIA isn’t very fancy. It’s more like family restaurant, actually.

The food creations at GIA are presented by the Executive Chef, Tuscany’s own Tommaso Gonfiantini. The foods are the perfect combination of Italian traditional cuisine with a modern vibe, which not only pleases the taste buds, but also the eyes of the beholder. The menu quintessentially focuses on fresh, seasonable ingredients—with some ingredients imported directly from Italy—and feature appetizer, entrée and dessert menu additions from the local scene.

For this Valentine, GIA had set menu created special by Chef Tommaso

VALENTINE’S SET MENU

4-course set menu 750k++ per pax
Free flow wine 350k++ per pax (a choice of red or white)

APPETIZER

Yellowfin Tuna with tomatoes, black caviar and strawberry vinaigrette

When I arrived, there’s a media gathering. I sat there because I knew some of them. Then I saw this menu, I asked them the ingredients. They said it was tuna with strawberry. I was like.. *shocked* So when it came to my table, I was very very careful when I tried this. And.. it was delicious!!! OMG! Love it. Hahaha.. It was a little bit weird at first, but on second thought, it’s not weird. It’s one-of-a-kind.

*OR*

Pan-seared Foie Gras with fragrant red onion broth

I didn’t really like the red onion broth hahaha.. So, I prefer go with it without the broth. The texture of the foie gras was overwhelming. Well, actually, just enjoyed it at the same time. Slurp the broth with the foie gras. Some people will loved it, for sure. 🙂

PASTA

Roasted Red Beetroot Spaghetti with ricotta goat cheese and hazelnuts

It’s Valentine. So, GIA tried to make it more romantic. Actually I prefer they used pink, since Valentine is pink in my opinion. But, red reminded me of red roses. Maybe that’s why they used red color. I didn’t like the ricotta goat cheese, but the spaghetti was well-seasoned. Delightful with marvelous texture. No weird taste from the beetroot. YES! Recommended!

MAIN

Poached Pollock Fish with vanilla, potatoes and capers

Love the vanilla and potatoes, but the poached pollock fish wasn’t suitable for my taste bud. I prefer a softer fish. But my friend, Cindy, loved it so very much.

*OR*

8+ Wagyu Fillet Mignon with Gorgonzola cheese, radicchio and walnuts

Laffff! Tender and juicy. The gorgonzola cheese mixed perfectly with the wagyu. It had a fine buttery texture and a wonderfully mild flavor. Match made in heaven. The walnuts enhanced the texture of the wagyu. Crispy and crunchy. Recommended!

DESSERT

Greek Yogurt Semifreddo with figs, honey and wild fennel

Sweet and sour at the same time. OMG! I love this one. The crumble under the yogurt semifreddo. Magnificent. I wanted to ask for another bowl of it. LOL. Next time, maybe.

Italians know how to woo their significant orther with great food and enticing wine. Join us to make your Valentine’s Day more than just kisses!

GIA Restaurant and Bar
Sampoerna Strategic Square
South Tower, GF Unit 7-8
Jl. Jend Sudirman Kav 45-46
Jakarta
Phone: +62 21 57953300
IG: @giajakarta