Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Jakarta
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Jakarta. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Nasi Betawi
Nasi Betawi is a traditional Betawi dish made with steamed rice served with a variety of side dishes, including beef rendang, fried chicken, and tempeh. It's a flavorful representation of Jakarta's multicultural influences, showcasing spices and cooking techniques unique to the region.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch
Cultural Significance
Nasi Betawi reflects the local Betawi culture, representing the diverse culinary heritage of Jakarta.
Where to try it
Soto Betawi
Soto Betawi is a hearty soup made with beef, coconut milk, and a rich blend of spices. Often garnished with fried shallots and served with rice or lontong (rice cake), this dish embodies the warmth of Jakarta's culinary traditions.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Soto Betawi is a beloved dish in Jakarta, showcasing the fusion of indigenous and colonial influences in local cuisine.
Where to try it
Kerak Telor
Kerak Telor is a traditional Betawi omelet made from glutinous rice, eggs, and grated coconut, cooked over charcoal for a smoky flavor. This street food is often served with fried shallots and a sprinkle of serundeng (toasted coconut).
Ingredients
Best Time
snack
Cultural Significance
Kerak Telor is a heritage dish often found in Jakarta's festivals, symbolizing the city's culinary history.
Where to try it
Kue Cubir
Kue Cubir are small, colorful cakes made from rice flour and coconut milk, filled with a sweet mixture of palm sugar and grated coconut. These delightful treats are often enjoyed as snacks or desserts.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Kue Cubir represents the local love for sweet treats, commonly found in markets and during festive occasions in Jakarta.
Where to try it
Dadar Gulung
Dadar Gulung is a rolled pancake filled with sweet coconut and palm sugar, often colored green with pandan leaves. This traditional dessert is soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, making it a favorite among locals.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Dadar Gulung is a popular street snack that highlights the use of fresh ingredients in Indonesian desserts.
Where to try it
Teh Botol
Teh Botol is a sweetened iced tea that is beloved across Indonesia, especially in Jakarta. This refreshing beverage is often enjoyed by locals as a complement to meals or on hot days.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Teh Botol is a quintessential Indonesian drink, reflecting the local preference for sweet beverages.