Exploring Indonesia is a journey for the taste buds! From Michelin-recognized establishments to legendary street vendors, these ten spots capture the essence of Indonesian culinary excellence, mixing tradition with modern flair.

Discover the top culinary destinations in Indonesia

Locavore (Ubud, Bali): (Fine Dining/Unique)

Often leading global lists, Locavore focuses exclusively on hyper-local, seasonal ingredients sourced only from Indonesia. It offers an unforgettable, multi-course tasting menu that elevates traditional flavors to haute cuisine.

Nasi Goreng Kambing Kebon Sirih (Jakarta): (Iconic Street Food)

This is not just fried rice; it’s legendary. Famous for its rich, smoky goat meat (kambing) fried rice cooked over charcoal, offering an authentic, powerful Jakarta street food experience.

Sunda Kelapa (Jalan Sudirman, Jakarta): (Traditional Indonesian Feast)

Set on traditional Phinisi boats, this restaurant specializes in Nusantara cuisine, providing a grand, immersive setting to sample signature dishes from across the islands.

Warung Mak Beng (Sanur, Bali): (Seafood/Authentic)

A legendary, no-frills beachfront spot famous for its Ikan Bakar (grilled fish) served with a fiery, addictive sambal (chili paste). It’s pure, unadulterated Balinese beach dining.

Gudeg Yu Djum (Yogyakarta): (Regional Specialty)

The essential stop for trying Gudeg, a rich Javanese stew made from young jackfruit stewed for hours with palm sugar and coconut milk. Yu Djum is one of the oldest and most famous purveyors.

Sate Padang Ajo (Various Locations, especially Padang/Jakarta): (Savory/Unique Flavor)

Focuses on Sate Padang—beef skewers served not with peanut sauce, but with a thick, savory, turmeric-infused curry sauce. A must-try from West Sumatra’s culinary tradition.

The Padi (Seminyak, Bali): (Atmosphere/Modern Indonesian)

Offers a sophisticated take on Indonesian comfort food set amidst beautiful, lush rice paddy views. Excellent for experiencing local flavors in a relaxing, high-end environment.

Lontong Balap Pak Hariyanto (Surabaya, East Java): (Local Gem)

A beloved spot for Lontong Balap, a refreshing East Javanese dish featuring compressed rice cakes served with bean sprouts, tofu, and a savory peanut broth.

Rumah Makan Kapau Uni Lis (Padang, West Sumatra): (Padang Style/Fast Service)

Known for its Nasi Padang served in the hidang style (where dozens of small dishes are presented to you). The curries and spicy vegetable sides here are exceptional and authentic.

Sunda Rasa Restaurant (Bandung, West Java): (Sundanese Cuisine)

Specializes in Sundanese food, known for its fresh herbs, raw vegetables (lalapan), and flavorful grilled meats, often eaten directly off banana leaves for a truly rustic, human touch.