Best Places to Eat in Surabaya Indonesia

Foodie Paradise: The Best Eats in Surabaya

Surabaya, the bustling capital of East Java, is a haven for food lovers. From traditional Indonesian fare to international delights, the city offers a diverse culinary scene. But for a truly authentic and delicious “Surabaya-licious” experience, you can’t miss its legendary street food.

Here are some of the best places in Surabaya to enjoy its vibrant food culture:

Traditional Indonesian Street Food:

  • Rawon Setan (Jalan Embong Malang): Famous for its spicy rawon (beef soup) served late at night. A great place to experience the local love for this dish, with a unique twist on the classic recipe.
  • Jalan Tunjungan: This iconic street is home to numerous street food vendors offering a variety of Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice), sate ayam (chicken satay), and nasi rawon.

Modern Eateries:

  • Nyonya Meneer: Indulge in delicious “Indonesian-Western fusion” cuisine with a modern twist on traditional recipes.
  • The Majapahit Hotel: This historic hotel boasts several fine dining restaurants, including the renowned “Empress Restaurant” known for its Indonesian and international menu.

Street Food Hotspots:

  • Food stalls near Pasar Atom: Experience the vibrant energy of Surabaya’s local food scene at this bustling night market.
  • Jalan Genteng: This street is a must-visit for those seeking authentic “Surabaya Taste” with its numerous traditional eateries.

Fine Dining Restaurants:

  • The Dharmawangsa Hotel Restaurant: Enjoy luxurious dining with breathtaking views and a sophisticated menu.
  • Hotel Santika Premiere Surabaya: This upscale hotel offers diverse culinary experiences from Indonesian to Chinese and Western cuisine.

Street Food Specifics:

  • Rawon Pak Jangkung: Known for its rich, savory broth and melt-in-your-mouth beef, this popular spot in Surabaya serves up a variety of delicious local dishes.
  • Rawon Setan (Jalan Embong Malang): Don’t be fooled by the name! This restaurant is renowned for its “rawon” - a traditional Indonesian dish of beef soup in a dark and flavorful broth flavored with keluak nuts and cooked over slow fire.

Cafes & Coffee Shops:

  • Coffee Break: Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and delicious coffee.
  • Kopi Klotok: A local favorite for its “kopi klotok” (a traditional Javanese coffee brewing method) and tasty snacks.

Note: This is just a starting point! Surabaya has countless other hidden gems and local food stalls that are worth exploring.

Tips for Enjoying the Food Scene in Surabaya:

  • Be adventurous: Try some of the city’s unique and flavorful dishes like rawon, soto ayam, and rawon goreng.
  • Go local: Venture beyond the tourist areas to experience the authentic “Sunda” cuisine that Surabaya is known for.

Remember:

  • Always prioritize hygiene! Observe how clean the food stalls and vendors are before making a purchase.
  • Ask locals for recommendations. They know the best hidden gems and where to find the most authentic flavors of the city.
  • Try everything once: Explore different local dishes and street food options to get a taste of the diversity that Surabaya has to offer.

For the best “Rawon” experience in Surabaya, ask locals about these places:

  • The Warung Rawon Setan (Javanese for “Satan’s Rawon”): This popular restaurant is known for its spicy rawon and late-night hours.
  • Street Food Stalls in Pasar Genteng: This street food market is a great place to sample local favorites.

Don’t forget to ask about the spice level!