The 'Takjil War' Phenomenon in Benhil, But Vendors Report Slump in Turnover — How Could This Be?

The ‘takjil war’ stalls are eagerly awaited every Ramadan. Especially in Bendungan Hilir (Benhil), Central Jakarta, which has become one of Jakarta’s iconic takjil bazaars. However, despite the term being associated with crowds, the reality for takjil traders in Benhil is the opposite this year: several sellers are reporting a drop in takjil turnover.

Yusra, who sells nasi Padang and bubur kampiun during Ramadan, shared that his takjil sales have dropped mid-Ramadan compared with last year. “Last year we could sell a thousand portions a day, but now, because it’s often rainy, customers don’t come,” Yusra told detikcom at his stall in Benhil, Central Jakarta, on Saturday 7 February 2026.

He explained that takjil buyers usually flood in at the start of Ramadan. The crowds ease after mid-Ramadan and only pick up on weekends. But this year, that pattern isn’t evident. He said the frequent afternoon rain affects customers’ visits.

“For now we can’t reach big-sale volumes. The most is 20 to 35 portions. Because of the weather (rain). The early Ramadan is normally busy. In mid-Ramadan it’s usually busy on Saturdays and Sundays, but even then only if the weather is fine, not raining,” Yusra said.

In agreement with Yusra, Upi, who also sells asinan for breaking fast, has had the same experience. Upi said the narrative of Benhil being crowded for takjil does not always reflect reality. “There are ups and downs. If it’s rainy, who will come here? There’s no one. Don’t just look at crowds. There are fluctuations. (If it’s rainy) it’s quiet — of course that’s a problem,” he added.

Another takjil seller, Wahyu, also reported similar. Wahyu, who often sells at the culinary bazaar in several office buildings, said this year’s revenue is markedly different. In fact, he noted, revenue is higher when selling at office events. “It’s very different (turnover); it’s bigger in office settings,” he said.

He explained that on weekends he often prepares 50 kilograms of chicken meat to be formed into steak as takjil. Usually that amount of meat can make 200 portions. But this year, sales did not reach the target, with only about 150 portions sold. Fortunately, Wahyu does not only sell steak but also other snacks such as pentol and tahu bakso.

Another vendor, Sariyah, who sells moist cakes and fried snacks for takjil, also lamented a 40 percent drop in turnover, forcing her to reduce staff. “This year it’s down. I don’t know the reason — perhaps visitors are few. It fell by about 40 percent; we used to have three employees, now only one remains who handles the cooking,” she added.