Indonesia is a paradise for food lovers. With over 17,000 islands, it’s no surprise that the country offers a huge variety of dishes. From street food to fine dining, there’s a meal for every palate. Eating in Indonesia is an adventure, and exploring its rich food scene is a must for any visitor.
Popular Street Foods in Indonesia
One of the best places to experience Indonesian food is on the street. Street food is cheap, quick, and incredibly flavorful. Here are some must-try snacks you can find at food stalls, or as the locals call them, “warungs”.
Nasi Goreng
You can’t visit Indonesia without trying its most famous dish: nasi goreng. This fried rice dish is served with egg, chicken, and prawns, often with a side of prawn crackers and pickles. It’s everywhere, from street vendors to high-end restaurants. The smoky flavor from being quickly cooked in a wok over high heat makes it unbeatable.
Sate
Sate, or satay, is grilled skewers of meat served with peanut sauce. The skewers are typically made with chicken, goat, beef, or lamb. You’ll find vendors grilling meat on almost every corner of the street. Pair it with a side of rice cakes or a small salad, and you’ve got a perfect meal.
Martabak
This is a stuffed pancake that can be sweet or savory. The savory version contains eggs, meat, and onions, while the sweet version is filled with chocolate, cheese, and sometimes peanuts. It’s a street food favorite at night markets. Be sure to try both versions!
Bakso
Bakso is Indonesian meatball soup and a go-to street food option. The meatballs are typically made from beef, but chicken, fish, or even pork variations can be found. It’s served in a broth with noodles, fried dumplings, and a boiled egg. If you’re craving something warm and comforting, bakso is what you’re looking for.
Gado-Gado
If you’re a fan of veggies, Gado-Gado is the street food you must try. This is a mix of boiled vegetables topped with peanut sauce, tofu, eggs, and crackers. It’s Indonesia’s take on a salad, but with the creamy peanut sauce, it’s much more flavorful and filling.
Regional Specialties
Indonesia’s many islands offer unique flavors by region. Each area has its own distinct culinary traditions, many of which are steeped in local ingredients and history.
Rendang (Sumatra)
Rendang is a slow-cooked beef curry that originates from Sumatra, specifically Minangkabau. It’s spicy, rich, and flavorful. The beef is simmered in coconut milk and spices for hours. The result is tender, fall-apart meat that’s usually served with rice. Many locals consider it one of the best Indonesian dishes, and it’s often featured during special occasions.
Rawon (East Java)
Rawon is a beef stew that boasts a unique black color due to the use of keluak nuts. The stew is savory and served with rice, sambal (spicy chili paste), and occasionally a boiled egg. Rawon is hearty and perfect for anyone seeking a complex, savory dish.
Papeda (Maluku and Papua)
Papeda is a traditional food from the Maluku Islands and Papua and is made out of sago starch. It has a sticky, gooey texture and is typically eaten with fish or spicy yellow sauce. It may be an acquired taste, but it’s a must-try if you want to taste something truly native to Indonesia.
Ayam Taliwang (Lombok)
This is an extremely spicy grilled chicken dish from Lombok. It’s marinated before grilling in a mixture of chili, garlic, shrimp paste, and other spices. If you love spicy food, ayam taliwang will hit the spot perfectly.
Pempek (Palembang)
If you visit Palembang, you must try Pempek, a type of fish cake made from ground fish and sago flour. It’s deep-fried and usually served with a sweet and sour sauce that has a little kick to it. You’ll find a lot of variety when it comes to toppings, from egg fillings to prawn bits.
Dining in Indonesia
Whether you’re dining at simple stalls, night markets, or upscale restaurants, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at various dining spots in Indonesia.
Warungs
Warungs are small, local restaurants or stalls where most Indonesians eat. You’ll find simple dishes here, like nasi campur (rice with sides), mie goreng (fried noodles), and other home-cooked meals. The food is inexpensive and usually served within minutes. Warungs are the best place to experience local life while enjoying a cheap, hearty meal.
Night Markets
If you want to sample a wide range of Indonesian street food in one place, head to a night market. Cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Yogyakarta have thriving night markets where vendors sell all sorts of dishes: from grilled corn and chicken satay to more adventurous snacks like fried duck heads or intestines. It’s a fantastic way to try small portions of many dishes.
High-End Restaurants
Indonesia is not just about street food. If you prefer a more upscale dining experience, cities like Jakarta, Seminyak (Bali), and Surabaya have plenty of fine dining options. At these restaurants, you’ll find fusion dishes that mix traditional Indonesian ingredients with modern cooking techniques. Prices are higher, but the quality and presentation are top-notch.
Western Chains
If you’re in need of a familiar meal, Western chains like McDonald’s, KFC, and Pizza Hut are available in major cities. But don’t expect the exact same menus as back home. These fast-food outlets often have local twists, such as fried chicken wrapped in pandan leaves or sambal mayo for dipping.
Where to Eat in Indonesia
Jakarta
As the capital, Jakarta is overflowing with great eating spots. Check out Jalan Sabang if you’re looking for street food. You can find traditional dishes like Nasi Uduk (steamed coconut rice) and Sate Madura here. For a high-end meal, visit establishments like Namaaz Dining in South Jakarta—one of Indonesia’s top molecular gastronomy restaurants.
Bali
Bali is world-famous for its beaches, but its food scene is equally as impressive. Head to Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka if you’re looking to try Babi Guling, a traditional Balinese roasted suckling pig dish. If you crave a finer experience, go to Locavore in Ubud, where you can enjoy modern takes on Indonesian classics.
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is famous for Gudeg, a sweet jackfruit stew cooked with coconut milk. Make sure to visit Gudeg Yu Djum, a long-established Warung for the best gudeg in the city. The Malioboro street also offers a range of more casual eats, from satay to fried bananas.
Surabaya
If you find yourself in Surabaya, try out local dishes like Rawon, a traditional beef stew. Rawon Setan is a popular place to grab a plate, famous for their large portions and extra spicy broth. For something a bit fancier, visit De Soematra, a restaurant housed in a historic building that offers both Indonesian and international menu options.
Key Tips for Dining in Indonesia
When eating in Indonesia, a few simple etiquette rules will help you fit right in:
- Use your right hand when eating, especially if eating with your hands. The left hand is considered impolite for eating.
- If dining at warungs or small family-owned restaurants, it’s common to seat yourself, but don’t forget to ask the owner before ordering.
- Street food is generally safe in Indonesia, but always go for vendors that have a crowd. A long line means the food is fresh and popular with locals.
- More upscale places may include a service charge, so tipping isn’t always necessary. But if not, a small tip (5-10%) is often appreciated.
Whether you’re getting a quick bite from a street vendor or having an elaborate dinner at a fine-dining restaurant, Indonesia’s food will leave a lasting impression. The variety is boundless, and the flavors are bold. Don’t hesitate to sample a bit of everything—there’s always something new to discover.
Leave a reply