Nasi goreng
This dish is regarded as the national dish of the country, so surely you can’t leave the city without trying out. It is basically fried rice with meat, which could be lamb, chicken or fish. I’ve tried this dish outside of the country and for some reason it is a lot more of a complex and fancy dish than it actually is in reality in its authentic form. In Jakarta the place to try it out is without a doubt the spot that has almost 20,000 Google reviews! It is none other than Nasi Goreng Kambing Kebon Sirih. Located in the famous street food market area of the city, you’ll see it is a lively spot with a lot of action going on. It is a humble eatery with rugged benches for you to sit on and enjoy this dish. Do not be afraid or overwhelmed, just go for it and you will not leave with any regrets.
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Martabak
I’m going straight to dessert because this is worthy of being mentioned this high up on this list. Martabak is a fluffy stuffed pancake that has a crumpet texture on the inside. Malaysia has a name for it (Apam Balik), Singapore has a name for it (Min Jiang Kueh), but Indonesians will argue strongly for it claiming it is their dish. There are slight differences between the three of them, but essentially it is the same thing. The Indonesian one is notoriously way more fattier and unhealthier than its counterparts. Once the pancake is cooked the inside absolutely lathered with butter and then your choice of toppings are added. The classic choice is chocolate and cheese (trust me it works) and condensed milk and peanuts are also commonly added to this classic combo. It is then closed and then another generous lathering of butter is smothered on the outside of the pancake. Yes, I know. It sounds like a heart attack and it probably is, but you have to try this here. It will be one of the best desserts you try; just don’t consume too many pieces of it. The best place to try it at is Martabak Pecenongan 65A.
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Nasi Padang
This dish is not a dish but an experience. Typically speaking, when you dine at such restaurants you are presented with a table full of small plates of dishes ranging from chicken, meat, fish to vegetables. And you pay for whatever you touch. It is truly a sight to behold and a great way to sample numerous authentic Indonesian dishes in one sitting. These days, probably due to Covid, a waiter will come round and show you the dishes to choose from and they’ll only serve you the ones you choose. Notable dishes to try at Nasi Padang restaurants are Beef Rendang, sautéed water morning glory, and if they have it, fish head curry. As you explore the streets of Jakarta, you’ll notice Nasi Padang restaurants are very popular. The one we visited was Rumah Makan Medan Baru because they were known for their fish head curry. You should be wary though, you’ll be paying a lot more for this experience than the average meal in Jakarta especially if you get the fish head curry.
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Konro Bakar
This is a very unique dish that ended up being one of my favourite eats of the trip. Konro Bakar is the modern variation of the classic traditional Sop Konro. Sop Konro is giant beef ribs in a salty and savoury soup. A very warm and comforting dish. Konro Bakar is the same giant ribs but in satay sauce. You know that delicious peanut sauce that commonly goes with meat skewers in this part of the world? Yup, that same sauce but on these succulent beef ribs. I’m salivating just thinking about it. The must visit place to try this treat at is Sop Konro Karebosi.
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Bubur Ayam
Breakfast is my favourite meal of the day. The authentic breakfast dishes of each nation is always so distinctive and interesting. Indonesia has a variety of breakfast dishes to show off, but one of Jakarta’s most popular one is Bubur Ayam. As you explore the streets of Jakarta, you’ll notice small food carts everywhere. Absolutely everywhere! One of the most popular breakfast food carts is the Bubur Ayam one, so you won’t struggle to find this wherever you may be in the city. I’ve linked you to the one we tried it at. What is it though? It is basically chicken porridge. Think Congee or Zaow (depending on where you’re from) with shredded chicken and an assortment of different toppings that give it a wonderful savoury, salty and spicy kick.
Google Maps location link: click here
