Indonesian Street Food: 5 Places to Eat & Top Restaurants in Jakarta
Chow down on Indonesian street food specialties, or find an elegant view at one of the best rooftop restaurants in Jakarta. Home to more than 300 ethnic groups, this capital city’s menu selection is as diverse as its population. Jakarta street cooks in Jalan Jaksa deliver tradition, and upscale chefs in Kemang never shortchange your five-star experience. Hot and spicy, sweet and salty, food in Jakarta is rich in flavor and drenched in tradition.
AGODA EXTRA: Jakartans love to eat, and that’s why street food vendors are open around the clock. The favorite way to eat, however, is family-style. In traditional homes and even in restaurants in Jakarta, everyone shares different dishes placed around the table, and the meal is normally started by the oldest member of the family or male head of household.
Source (L-R): @racheldjuanda, @missgembil
- Enjoy traditional street food at GANG GLORIA in CHINATOWN (GLODOK)
Inside the largest Chinatown in Indonesia you won’t have any trouble locating some Indonesian street food in Gloria Alley (Gang Gloria). The quaint road is home to some famous favorites like Bakmi Amoy, which is loved for its fried meatballs, and Kopi Es Tak Kie, where you’ll find traditional iced coffee, as well as a tasty round of local dishes. Don’t stop at the obvious, though. Jakarta is the birthplace of soto betawi (beef in coconut milk), and Gloria Alley is where local cooks made it famous!
Also try at Gang Gloria:
- Ketoprak: a vegetarian dish containing tofu, vegetables, rice cake and rice vermicelli covered in peanut sauce.
- Ketupat sayur: typically a breakfast dish that contains slices of ketupat (rice cake) and vegetables in flavorful coconut milk.
- Sekba: a dish of pork offals stewed in a mild soy sauce-based broth fused with garlic and Chinese herbs.
Check In to Novotel Mangga Dua Hotel, Step Out to Gang Gloria
Discover more hostels and hotels in Chinatown (Glodok)
2. Treat yourself to Indonesian street food at GADING FOOD CITY at KELAPA GADING
Situated in the center of KG (Kelapa Gading), Gading Food City is where local flavors and international cuisine collide. Not only will you find a satisfactory assortment of Indonesian, Chinese, Korean and western menus (with pork!), but you’ll also find live music and a chilled-out atmosphere every, single night.
Where to eat in Gading Food City:
- Ibu Jum’s is famous for its nasi uduk, or mixed rice. The dish starts with steamed rice that’s been cooked in coconut milk fused with cloves, lemongrass, cinnamon and pandan leaf. What you add to it is up to you! Ibu Jum’s is famous for its nasi uduk because of the selection of side dishes that come with it. Load up on everything from stir-fried papaya flowers to grilled squid, and eat up in an open-air seat in front of a big screen!
More must-try restaurants in Kelapa Gading
- Angke, Jl. Boulevard Bar. Raya No.33, RT.18/RW.8, Klp. Gading Bar.
- IPPEKE KOMACHI, Mall Kelapa Gading 3 Lantai Dasar Unit 38A-B
- Wiro Sableng 212, Jl. Boulevard Raya No.12, RT.1/RW.6, Klp. Gading Bar.
- Bakmi Ernie, Jalan Boulevard Raya FY 1/15, Kelapa Gading, RT.8/RW.13, Klp. Gading Tim.
- Sushi Hiro Kelapa Gading, Komplek Graha Boulevard Blok KGC No. A01, Jl. Boulevard Raya, Kelapa Gading, RW.1, Klp. Gading Tim.
Check In to eL Royale Hotel Jakarta Kelapa Gading, Step Out to Gading Food City at La Piazza
Explore more hotels and apartments in Kelapa Kading
3. Satisfy your upscale food cravings in KEMANG DISTRICT
Jakarta’s elite business district serves as the gathering hub for stylish professionals and visiting internationals who love to eat. Enjoy brunch from the rooftop of FJ on 7, or share a feast of grilled meats at El Asador. Daytime in Kemang is fairly laid back, but at night and on weekends, the area lights up with live music and foodies ready to sample French, Italian, German and other international cuisines at the best restaurants in Jakarta!
Best restaurants in Kemang
- Mamma Rosy, Jl. Kemang Raya No.58, RT.8/RW.2, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- Koi Kemang, Jl. Kemang Raya No.72b, RT.7/RW.2, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- Queens Head, Jl.Kemang Raya No.18C, Bangka, Mampang Prapatan, RT.11/RW.5, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- Warung Turki, Jl. Kemang Raya No.18A, RT.11/RW.5, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- Fez-Kinara dining & Lounge, Jl. Kemang Raya No.78B, RT.4/RW.2, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- HAKATA IKKOUSHA, Gedung Kemang Arcade, Jalan Kemang Raya No.20A, RT.11/RW.5, Bangka, Mampang Prapatan, RT.11/RW.5, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- Gourmet Kemang, Jl. Kemang Raya No.68, RT.8/RW.2, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
Check In to Grandkemang Hotel, Step Out to Kemang Village
Explore more guest houses and apartments in Kemang
4. Tempt your taste buds with Indonesian satay and savory local dishes at JALAN JAKSA and JALAN SABANG
Street food doesn’t get any more authentic than the grub you’ll discover along Jalan Jaksa and Jalan Sabang. Located just south of Merdeka Square, the two parallel venues feature rows and rows of food stalls, manned by local chefs who know how to whip up some tasty originals. Grab breakfast or a middle-of-the-night snack because these streets never sleep and always have a hot-and-ready order of Indonesian satay (grilled meat skewers), fried lele (catfish) and all the gado-gado you can heap on one plate!
Best Indonesian street food at Jalan Jaksa and Jalan Sabang:
- Gado-gado: an Indonesian-style salad containing tofu, hard-boiled eggs and mixed vegetables – usually potatoes, string beans, spinach and baby corn – all doused in a hefty ladleful of peanut sauce and topped with crunchy rice crackers.
Best places to eat on Jalan Jaksa
- Sate Khas Senayan
- Ocha & Bella
- Plataran Menteng
Best places to eat on Jalan Sabang
- Kopi Oey
- Bangi Kopitiam Sabang
- Mercure Jakarta Sabang
Check In to HARRIS Vertu Hotel Harmoni, Step Out to Jalan Jaksa
Explore more hotels and guest houses near Jalan Sabang
5. Eat at a local warung at BENDUNGAN HILIR (BENHIL)
There may be no better place than Bendungan Hilir, popularly known as Benhil, to experience authentic Indonesian street food. Stuff your face with local favorites, all sold from a friendly warung (streetside restaurants in Jakarta) or from the back end of a kaki lima, or “five leg” vendor, parked on the street. The mobile food carts get their name from the three wheels on the cart itself and the two legs of the vendor who pushes it!
Best foods to try at Benhil
- Martabak (stuffed pancakes)
- Bubur ayam (chicken porridge)
- Bakso (meatball soup)
- Gorengan (deep-fried fritters)
Check In to The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Step Out to Bendungan Hilir (Benhil)
Discover more hostels and hotels near Jakarta Convention Center
You may also like
Embark on a unique shopping and cultural experience in Beppu, Japan's renowned hot spring paradise. Discover traditional crafts, modern retail, and the serene beauty of onsens with our comprehensive guide to the best of Beppu.
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day journey through Kumamoto, Japan. From historic castles to serene onsens and vibrant city life, discover the allure of Kumamoto's landscapes, culture, and hospitality.
Explore the hidden gem of Chiang Rai with our ultimate travel guide. Discover temples, cuisine, and undiscovered stories in Thailand's northern paradise.
Uncover the best day trips from Fort Lauderdale for sea lovers. From Bahamian escapades to diving adventures, embrace the ultimate seaside getaway.
Explore our curated guide to the finest seaside hotels in Taitung. Unveil luxury, eco-friendly retreats, and unparalleled ocean views for your perfect beachfront getaway.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Abu Dhabi with our exclusive 3-day itinerary. From majestic mosques to thrilling desert safaris and luxurious city marvels, uncover the vibrant heart of the UAE in a trip of a lifetime.
Embark on a journey to discover Koh Samui's best beach clubs for the ultimate sundowner experience. From Nikki Beach to Silver Beach, soak in breathtaking sunsets, indulge in gourmet dining, and dance away under the stars.
Dive into the ultimate guide to Phu Quoc's luxury retreats. Explore beachfront villas, gourmet dining, and exclusive experiences in Vietnam's paradise.
Embark on a captivating 3-day journey through Nantou, Taiwan's hidden gem. Explore traditional crafts, immerse in tea culture and pottery, and revel in eco-adventures amidst stunning landscapes.
Embark on a 5-day journey through Atlanta, discovering its rich history, vibrant culture, lush parks, and delicious Southern cuisine. Your unforgettable adventure in the heart of the South starts here.
Embark on a captivating journey through Kanazawa with our detailed 3-day itinerary. Discover the serene beauty of Kenrokuen Garden, the rich cultural heritage, and the exquisite culinary delights of this hidden gem of Japan.
Recently I’ve finally been able to visit one of the locations on my bucket list, so as to be able to experience …
Located in the Kinki region of mid-western Honshu, Japan’s main island, Mie Prefecture is a cultural heartland, home to the revered Ise-Jingu …
Mie Prefecture is located in the Kinki region in the central-western part of Japan’s main island, Honshu. The prefecture covers a significant …
Dive into Port Dickson's vibrant nightlife! From beachside bars to cultural shows and serene evenings, our guide uncovers the best after-dark adventures in Malaysia’s coastal gem.
Explore Hoi An, Vietnam's timeless charm with our comprehensive travel guide. From ancient streets to serene beaches, uncover the best of Hoi An’s culture, cuisine, and landscapes. Perfect for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Explore the heart of Cambodia with our guide to Phnom Penh's Riverfront Promenade. Experience historic sites, vibrant nightlife, and the beauty of the Mekong sunset.
Uncover the best of Beppu with our 3-day itinerary! From steamy hot springs to cultural riches, dive into Beppu's wonders.
Discover Surakarta, a vibrant heart of batik culture and traditional Javanese heritage. Our three-day guide unveils the best of batik shopping, local cuisine, and historical sites in Solo, inviting you on a journey through the city's royal past and artisanal present.
Discover the best of Kumamoto with our 3-Day Itinerary. From majestic castles and serene onsens to breathtaking natural landscapes, embark on a journey filled with cultural richness and unforgettable adventures.
Discover the enchanting city of Chiang Rai with our weekend itinerary. Explore majestic temples, serene tea fields, and rich Lanna culture.
Chow down on Indonesian street food specialties, or find an elegant view at one of the best rooftop restaurants in Jakarta. Home to more than 300 ethnic groups, this capital city’s menu selection is as diverse as its population. Jakarta street cooks in Jalan Jaksa deliver tradition, and upscale chefs in Kemang never shortchange your five-star experience. Hot and spicy, sweet and salty, food in Jakarta is rich in flavor and drenched in tradition.
AGODA EXTRA: Jakartans love to eat, and that’s why street food vendors are open around the clock. The favorite way to eat, however, is family-style. In traditional homes and even in restaurants in Jakarta, everyone shares different dishes placed around the table, and the meal is normally started by the oldest member of the family or male head of household.
Source (L-R): @racheldjuanda, @missgembil
- Enjoy traditional street food at GANG GLORIA in CHINATOWN (GLODOK)
Inside the largest Chinatown in Indonesia you won’t have any trouble locating some Indonesian street food in Gloria Alley (Gang Gloria). The quaint road is home to some famous favorites like Bakmi Amoy, which is loved for its fried meatballs, and Kopi Es Tak Kie, where you’ll find traditional iced coffee, as well as a tasty round of local dishes. Don’t stop at the obvious, though. Jakarta is the birthplace of soto betawi (beef in coconut milk), and Gloria Alley is where local cooks made it famous!
Also try at Gang Gloria:
- Ketoprak: a vegetarian dish containing tofu, vegetables, rice cake and rice vermicelli covered in peanut sauce.
- Ketupat sayur: typically a breakfast dish that contains slices of ketupat (rice cake) and vegetables in flavorful coconut milk.
- Sekba: a dish of pork offals stewed in a mild soy sauce-based broth fused with garlic and Chinese herbs.
Check In to Novotel Mangga Dua Hotel, Step Out to Gang Gloria
Discover more hostels and hotels in Chinatown (Glodok)
2. Treat yourself to Indonesian street food at GADING FOOD CITY at KELAPA GADING
Situated in the center of KG (Kelapa Gading), Gading Food City is where local flavors and international cuisine collide. Not only will you find a satisfactory assortment of Indonesian, Chinese, Korean and western menus (with pork!), but you’ll also find live music and a chilled-out atmosphere every, single night.
Where to eat in Gading Food City:
- Ibu Jum’s is famous for its nasi uduk, or mixed rice. The dish starts with steamed rice that’s been cooked in coconut milk fused with cloves, lemongrass, cinnamon and pandan leaf. What you add to it is up to you! Ibu Jum’s is famous for its nasi uduk because of the selection of side dishes that come with it. Load up on everything from stir-fried papaya flowers to grilled squid, and eat up in an open-air seat in front of a big screen!
More must-try restaurants in Kelapa Gading
- Angke, Jl. Boulevard Bar. Raya No.33, RT.18/RW.8, Klp. Gading Bar.
- IPPEKE KOMACHI, Mall Kelapa Gading 3 Lantai Dasar Unit 38A-B
- Wiro Sableng 212, Jl. Boulevard Raya No.12, RT.1/RW.6, Klp. Gading Bar.
- Bakmi Ernie, Jalan Boulevard Raya FY 1/15, Kelapa Gading, RT.8/RW.13, Klp. Gading Tim.
- Sushi Hiro Kelapa Gading, Komplek Graha Boulevard Blok KGC No. A01, Jl. Boulevard Raya, Kelapa Gading, RW.1, Klp. Gading Tim.
Check In to eL Royale Hotel Jakarta Kelapa Gading, Step Out to Gading Food City at La Piazza
Explore more hotels and apartments in Kelapa Kading
3. Satisfy your upscale food cravings in KEMANG DISTRICT
Jakarta’s elite business district serves as the gathering hub for stylish professionals and visiting internationals who love to eat. Enjoy brunch from the rooftop of FJ on 7, or share a feast of grilled meats at El Asador. Daytime in Kemang is fairly laid back, but at night and on weekends, the area lights up with live music and foodies ready to sample French, Italian, German and other international cuisines at the best restaurants in Jakarta!
Best restaurants in Kemang
- Mamma Rosy, Jl. Kemang Raya No.58, RT.8/RW.2, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- Koi Kemang, Jl. Kemang Raya No.72b, RT.7/RW.2, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- Queens Head, Jl.Kemang Raya No.18C, Bangka, Mampang Prapatan, RT.11/RW.5, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- Warung Turki, Jl. Kemang Raya No.18A, RT.11/RW.5, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- Fez-Kinara dining & Lounge, Jl. Kemang Raya No.78B, RT.4/RW.2, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- HAKATA IKKOUSHA, Gedung Kemang Arcade, Jalan Kemang Raya No.20A, RT.11/RW.5, Bangka, Mampang Prapatan, RT.11/RW.5, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
- Gourmet Kemang, Jl. Kemang Raya No.68, RT.8/RW.2, Bangka, Mampang Prpt., Kota Jakarta Selatan
Check In to Grandkemang Hotel, Step Out to Kemang Village
Explore more guest houses and apartments in Kemang
4. Tempt your taste buds with Indonesian satay and savory local dishes at JALAN JAKSA and JALAN SABANG
Street food doesn’t get any more authentic than the grub you’ll discover along Jalan Jaksa and Jalan Sabang. Located just south of Merdeka Square, the two parallel venues feature rows and rows of food stalls, manned by local chefs who know how to whip up some tasty originals. Grab breakfast or a middle-of-the-night snack because these streets never sleep and always have a hot-and-ready order of Indonesian satay (grilled meat skewers), fried lele (catfish) and all the gado-gado you can heap on one plate!
Best Indonesian street food at Jalan Jaksa and Jalan Sabang:
- Gado-gado: an Indonesian-style salad containing tofu, hard-boiled eggs and mixed vegetables – usually potatoes, string beans, spinach and baby corn – all doused in a hefty ladleful of peanut sauce and topped with crunchy rice crackers.
Best places to eat on Jalan Jaksa
- Sate Khas Senayan
- Ocha & Bella
- Plataran Menteng
Best places to eat on Jalan Sabang
- Kopi Oey
- Bangi Kopitiam Sabang
- Mercure Jakarta Sabang
Check In to HARRIS Vertu Hotel Harmoni, Step Out to Jalan Jaksa
Explore more hotels and guest houses near Jalan Sabang
5. Eat at a local warung at BENDUNGAN HILIR (BENHIL)
There may be no better place than Bendungan Hilir, popularly known as Benhil, to experience authentic Indonesian street food. Stuff your face with local favorites, all sold from a friendly warung (streetside restaurants in Jakarta) or from the back end of a kaki lima, or “five leg” vendor, parked on the street. The mobile food carts get their name from the three wheels on the cart itself and the two legs of the vendor who pushes it!
Best foods to try at Benhil
- Martabak (stuffed pancakes)
- Bubur ayam (chicken porridge)
- Bakso (meatball soup)
- Gorengan (deep-fried fritters)
Check In to The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Step Out to Bendungan Hilir (Benhil)
Discover more hostels and hotels near Jakarta Convention Center
You may also like