This charming al fresco dining spot is run by a friendly family who serve homemade dishes paired with lots of love. Over here, it is all about getting comfy in camping chairs, tucking into wholesome food, and making new memories.
A great breakfast spot on weekends, this corner house is now a neighbourhood favourite thanks to 41-year-old Lynn Saub.
“It’s named ‘Picnic’ because of the concept. I like people to feel relaxed, to come eat, chill with their family, and enjoy nature at the same time.” she told FMT Lifestyle.
Operating since October 2023, the idea for Picnic sparked when Lynn, a resident of the neighbourhood, noticed a house with a spacious lawn that sadly, sat empty.
“I saw that this space was wasted, not being used. So, I approached the owner and I said I would like to use just the outside space. Then I painted the walls myself and planted greens to get that picnic vibe.”
But it’s not just the greenery; Lynn has earned several regulars thanks to the homey atmosphere she and her family have created.
Not only will you find her chatting animatedly with those who eat here, you’ll also see total strangers striking up conversations with each other, making new friends without a handphone in sight — something rather rare among city folk.
Lynn said her love for cooking started young, influenced by her father, a former chef. “After school, I would go to my father’s restaurant and help out at the front,” she said.
At Picnic, Lynn serves local favourites, with her signature dishes being nasi lemak with telur mata, and ayam goreng berempah, as well as soto ayam.
The fried chicken really hits the spot, marinated with local spices for perfect crunchiness, juiciness, and flavour. Their sambal, balanced between sweet and spicy, complements the rice perfectly.
Lynn adds new items to the menu every weekend. During FMT Lifestyle’s visit, Bakso, an Indonesian dish, was the special.
From creamy carbonara pasta to shepherd’s pie and wantan noodles, this talented cook loves experimenting in the kitchen.
“I adjust the menu depending on what is fresh at the grocery store. I also try to cook all types of local food, including Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisine,” Lynn shared.
And be warned: you’ll want to arrive early as her dishes sell out quick.
When it comes to drinks, Picnic partners with unique coffee vendors like Nightcap Slow Bar, who operates from their car! Regulars love sitting by the pavement with lattes or iced chocolate in hand, while enjoying Lynn’s nasi lemak.
FMT Lifestyle particularly enjoyed their iced chocolate—rich in cocoa flavour, thick, but not too sweet.
Just as customers come here to unwind, for Lynn, a working mother of two, running this eatery serves as a much-needed break from her Monday to Friday corporate life.
“I feel very happy while doing this, and I always feel re-energised when I go back to work on Monday.”
And, what makes this extra special for Lynn is her genuine connection with her customers.
Sharing a memorable interaction Lynn recalled: “There were these two uncles who were watching me serve customers like they were watching a movie, while smiling and laughing. When they wanted to leave, they told me: ‘Lynn keep it up because we can feel that everything comes from your heart.’ I felt very flattered.
“It’s these moments that I will never forget,” she said.
So, if you haven’t made any plans yet this weekend, head over to Picnic by Lynn Saub in Desa Sri Hartamas. You’ll be happy you did.
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