Hunting Favorite Takjil at Benhil Market

Besides looking for takjil, this is also an exciting ngabuburit (waiting for iftar) location

For those of you who used to hunt takjil (light meals) during Ramadan, you must be familiar with the name Bendungan Hilir (Benhil) Market which is located in Tanah Abang area, Central Jakarta. Moreover, Ramadan is not only a month to enrich religious experiences, but also a gateway to extra income, as many culinary enthusiasts flock to the market right before fast-breaking time.

As experienced by Novenda (21), a private university student in Jakarta was amazed to see the many takjil snack menus being sold at Benhil Market.

10 Booths Enliven Tjemilan Tije Festival at Transjakarta Bundaran HI Bus Stop

"The menu is very diverse. I was confused about what to buy and finally bought risol (rissoles), bakwan (vegetable fritters), kolak (sugary snacks and drinks), grilled chicken, and sweet iced tea. The total cost was Rp 50,000," he expressed, Wednesday (3/29).

Muhammad Alfandi Nurrohman (29), a resident of RW 02, Benhil, who works as a bank employee, expressed a different opinion. He admitted, he always enjoyed the moment of hunting for takjil at Benhil Market during Ramadan. Besides being served a variety of takjil menus, the market was also deemed a fun place to hang out.

"I often come here. Besides looking for takjil, this is also an exciting ngabuburit (waiting for iftar) location. So, I always miss moments like this," he admitted.

Alif Rahman (39), a takjil seller at Benhil Market claimed to be able to earn up to Rp 3 million per day in Ramadan. Trade in fruit ice and compote sold at this market opens from 2 PM to 7 PM.

"Thank God, my sales turnover has increased drastically. On normal days, it is around Rp 1.5 million, but it can be up to Rp 3 million during Ramadan," he admitted.

He added snacks of fruit ice and compote at Benhil Market sell for Rp 10,000 to Rp 25,000, depending on the portion requests from consumers.

"There are buyers who ask for more, so the price is different. I'm grateful, my trade always sells well during Ramadan," he stated.