Best Street Food in Indonesia: Must-Try Dishes for Every Traveller
Best Street Food in Indonesia: Must-Try Dishes for Every Traveller
Indonesia is known for its diverse and flavourful cuisine, and some of the most authentic dishes can be found on the streets of its capital. From savoury favourites like nasi goreng and satay to sweet treats like pisang goreng and es cendol, Jakarta's street food scene offers something for every palate. Whether you're craving a quick bite or a full meal, these iconic street foods capture the heart of Indonesian culinary culture.
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Here is a List of 14 Must-Try Indonesian Street Foods:
This guide covers 14 popular Indonesian street foods, including what makes each dish special, its typical cost, and the best places to try them in the city.
Nasi Goreng
A hearty plate of fried rice cooked with sweet soy sauce, garlic, and shallots, often topped with a fried egg or chicken.
Type: Non‑vegetarian
Cost: IDR 10,000–26,000
Where to Find: Menteng night stalls are especially the famous “nasi goreng gila” carts in Central Jakarta. Also, Warung Bu Manku in Seminyak is known for its simple, cheap, and very good nasi goreng.
Mie Goreng
Stir-fried noodles tossed in a flavorful sauce with garlic, shallots, and usually egg or meat.
Type: Non‑vegetarian
Cost: IDR 10,000–20,000
Where to Find: Corner noodle stalls are found throughout Jakarta, as well as local warungs (small eateries) and street food stalls, particularly in areas known for their culinary scene, like Bali and Java.
Satay (Sate Ayam / Kambing)
Tender skewers of chicken or goat grilled over charcoal and served with rich peanut sauce.
Type: Non‑vegetarian
Cost: IDR 25,000–104,000 per portion
Where to Find: Sate Khas Senayan is a popular satay chain in Jakarta with consistent quality. In Yogyakarta, Sate Klathak Pak Pong is famous for its charcoal-grilled goat satay served on skewers made of iron rods.
Bakso
Warm meatball soup with noodles or tofu in savoury broth is comfort food for any time of day.
Type: Non‑vegetarian
Cost: IDR 25,000–34,000
Where to Find: In Malang, Bakso President is a must-visit, set right beside an active train track. Bandung’s Bakso Cuankie Serayu is also widely loved for its flavour-packed soup and fried tofu add-ons.
Soto (e.g., Soto Ayam)
A fragrant bowl of turmeric‑spiced chicken (or beef) broth served with noodles, rice, and fresh herbs.
Type: Non‑vegetarian
Cost: IDR 12,000–30,000
Where to Find: Soto Ayam Lamongan Cak Har in Surabaya is legendary for its rich turmeric broth. Meanwhile, Soto Betawi H. Ma’ruf in Jakarta offers a creamy, coconut-milk-based version that’s distinctly local.
Gado-Gado
A colourful salad of lightly steamed vegetables, tofu, and egg, all coated in creamy peanut sauce.
Type: Vegetarian
Cost: IDR 20,000–25,000
Where to Find: Jakarta’s Gado-Gado Bonbin in Cikini has been serving rich, nutty versions since the 1960s. In Surabaya, gado-gado is commonly sold by street vendors near Tunjungan Plaza during lunch hours.
Martabak Telor
A thick pancake folded around seasoned egg, minced meat, and scallions—crispy on the outside, savoury inside.
Type: Non‑vegetarian
Cost: IDR 28,000–75,000
Where to Find: Try Martabak Pecenongan 65A in Jakarta for its crispy, meaty stuffed martabak. For a Medan variation, Martabak Mesir Bangka adds Middle Eastern spices and thinner crusts.
Martabak Manis
A sweet, fluffy pancake folded over fillings like chocolate, cheese, peanuts, or sweet corn.
Type: Vegetarian
Cost: IDR 40,000–60,000
Where to Find: In Bandung, Martabak Orins is known for its ultra-thick, soft texture and indulgent toppings. The Pecenongan stalls in Central Jakarta also offer wildly popular versions, often open late.
Siomay Bandung
Steamed fish dumplings served with potato, tofu, cabbage, and drizzled with peanut sauce.
Type: Non‑vegetarian
Cost: IDR 2,500–4,000 per piece
Where to Find: Bandung is home to Siomay Pak Asep and countless carts on Jalan Cihampelas selling traditional fish dumplings with peanut sauce. In Jakarta, Siomay Tulen is a trusted spot with consistent quality.
Batagor
The fried version of siomay. It's crispy fish dumplings that pair perfectly with spicy peanut sauce.
Type: Non‑vegetarian
Cost: IDR 3,000–4,000 per piece
Where to Find: Batagor Kingsley and Batagor Riri in Bandung are institutions known for crispy fried fish dumplings served with sweet-savory peanut sauce. Jakarta’s Batagor H. Isan delivers an authentic taste too.
Pisang Goreg
Sweet banana slices are deep-fried until golden and often dusted with sugar or drizzled with condensed milk.
Type: Vegetarian
Cost: IDR 5,000–10,000
Where to Find: In Denpasar, Pisang Goreng Madu Bu Nanik is loved for its honey-glazed crust and soft banana interior. In Medan, roadside stalls serve versions with cheese or chocolate toppings for extra indulgence.
Es Cendol
A refreshing iced dessert of coconut milk, palm sugar, and green rice-flour jelly.
Type: Vegetarian
Cost: IDR 5,000–15,000
Where to Find: Es Cendol Elizabeth in Bandung is a popular pick for thick coconut milk and palm sugar syrup. Around Malioboro Street in Yogyakarta, traditional vendors serve it chilled in bamboo cups.
Es Campur
A vibrant mix of fruits, jelly, beans, and syrup served over shaved ice—perfect for cooling down.
Type: Vegetarian
Cost: IDR 10,000–20,000
Where to Find: Surabaya’s Es Campur Pak Oyen stands out for its vibrant colors and mix of fruit, jelly, and shaved ice. In Semarang, stalls around Simpang Lima serve refreshing bowls on warm evenings.
Kerak Telor
A crunchy, savoury omelette made with glutinous rice, coconut, egg, and spices is a Betawi speciality.
Type: Vegetarian
Cost: IDR 15,000–25,000
Where to Find: This Betawi delicacy is best enjoyed near Jakarta’s Monas monument, where street vendors cook it traditionally over charcoal. It’s rarely found outside the capital, making it a must-try while in the city.
Exploring Indonesian street food is one of the best ways to experience the country’s rich culture. These 14 dishes highlight the variety and flavour found in Jakarta and across cities like Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya. From savoury bites to sweet treats, there’s something for every taste. With affordable prices and easy availability, each dish offers a true taste of Indonesia. Try as many as you can and discover new favourites along the way.
Is Jakarta street food safe to eat?
Yes, street food in Jakarta is generally safe, especially at busy stalls with a high turnover of customers. To be extra cautious, look for vendors who prepare food fresh in front of you and maintain clean surroundings.
What time is best for exploring street food in Jakarta?
Evenings are the most popular time, especially between 5 PM and 10 PM. Some stalls operate late into the night, particularly in areas like Sabang Street and Menteng.
Can vegetarians find enough options in Jakarta’s street food scene?
Absolutely! Vegetarian-friendly dishes include gado-gado, martabak manis, pisang goreng, kerak telor, es cendol, and es campur. Just double-check with the vendor about the use of egg or sauces.
How much should I budget for a street food experience in Jakarta?
You can have a full meal for as little as IDR 30,000–50,000 (~USD 2–3). Street food is one of the most affordable ways to experience local cuisine.
Are these dishes spicy?
Many Indonesian dishes include chili-based sauces or sambal. However, spice levels can usually be adjusted. If you prefer mild food, just say “tidak pedas” (not spicy).
What are the must-try dishes in Indonesia for first-timers?
Start with nasi goreng, satay, bakso, and gado-gado. For desserts, don’t miss es cendol and pisang goreng.
Where can I find the best street food in Jakarta?
Some of the best areas include:
Menteng: Great for nasi goreng gila
Pecenongan: Known for martabak stalls
Sabang Street: Famous for satay and other grilled delights
Senopati & South Jakarta: Popular during weekend fairs
Do I need to speak Bahasa Indonesia to order?
Not necessarily. Many vendors understand basic English or food-related terms. Pointing at what you want or using Google Translate also works well.