10 Must-Try Eating Spots in Surabaya that Will Tempt Your Taste Buds and Are Favorites Among Local Food Lovers
Explore the eateries in Surabaya that will tantalize your taste buds and are favored by local food enthusiasts for their authentic flavors.
Surabaya, the largest city in East Java, is rich in culinary delights that not only excite your palate but also carry a deep connection to history and culture.
With flavors that result from the fusion of various cultures, Surabaya’s food scene includes everything from traditional dishes to unique offerings that reflect the city’s identity. Here’s a guide to 10 culinary spots in Surabaya that you should try!
1. Rawon Kalkulator
This legendary eatery gets its name from the vendor’s ability to calculate the total cost with the speed of a calculator. Serving rawon—a savory black beef soup rich in spices—Rawon Kalkulator has been delighting customers for over 35 years.
The menu includes various side dishes like fried tempeh, eggs, salted egg, and lung. Open until midnight, this place is perfect for those who tend to get hungry late at night.
2. Tauwa (Kembang Tahu)
Tauwa, also known as Kembang Tahu, is a sweet treat with a soft, pudding-like texture served with warm ginger syrup.
The combination of sweet palm sugar and the spicy kick from the ginger creates a unique flavor that showcases the blend of Chinese and Javanese cultures, making it a popular choice among Typical Surabaya Souvenirs.
This dish is especially popular among the Chinese-Javanese community in Surabaya, often enjoyed as a snack in the afternoon.
3. Sego Sambel Mak Yeye
Sego Sambel Mak Yeye has been legendary since 1982. This signature Surabaya-style penyetan (smashed rice with sambal) is famous for its spicy sambal that’s sure to excite your taste buds.
You can choose from various side dishes like tempeh, tofu, eggs, or fried stingray. With prices starting at IDR 15,000 per portion and long queues as proof of its popularity, this spot opens at 9:00 PM at Jalan Jagir Wonokromo Wetan No. 10.
4. Nasi Babat Pegirian
For offal lovers, Nasi Babat Pegirian offers tender fried tripe and lungs served with savory corn rice. With a price of IDR 15,000 per portion, this dish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Located at Jalan Nyamplungan, Ampel, this spot opens at 5:00 PM.
5. Bebek Goreng Purnama
Since 1992, Bebek Goreng Purnama has been delighting its visitors with crispy fried duck served with generous amounts of coconut serundeng (grated coconut). The spicy sambal further elevates the dish.
Located at Jalan Dinoyo No. 4, Keputran, prices start at IDR 12,000 per portion. You can also try fried chicken offal as an alternative.
6. Sate Kelopo Ondomohen Bu Asih
Sate Kelopo Ondomohen Bu Asih offers a unique version of satay with grated coconut topping. The satay comes in various options, including chicken, beef, intestines, shrimp, and bone marrow.
The savory coconut flavor combined with peanut sauce makes it stand out from other satay places.
7. Bubur Ayam Mang Dudung
This chicken porridge place stands out because it opens at 11:00 PM. Bubur Ayam Mang Dudung keeps the classic flavors intact, with shredded chicken, crackers, and its signature seasoning as toppings.
Long queues are common at this spot, a testament to its unbeatable flavor, even if it’s just a bowl of porridge.
8. Nasi Bali Pengampon
Nasi Bali Pengampon serves rice with side dishes like tempe, tofu, eggs, and meat, all seasoned with spicy red seasoning. Its distinct flavor makes it a must-try late-night food destination.
Open from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM at Jl. Pengampon Gang 1, this spot is perfect for filling up your stomach in the late hours.
9. Kampung Wisata Ketandan
Kampung Ketandan offers a culinary and cultural experience amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. This village retains colonial architecture and serves various local dishes, such as traditional cakes and Soto Tangkar at Rumah Makan Pusaka Bunda.
You can also shop for the famous Cak Markeso Shibori batik or simply enjoy the old-world atmosphere. There’s no entry fee to enjoy this historic village.
10. Tunjungan Romansa
As a new icon of Surabaya, Tunjungan Romansa blends modern concepts with heritage. This spot is popular in the late afternoon and evening, offering local snacks from small businesses, art performances, and a classic Jalan Tunjungan atmosphere.
Often compared to Malioboro in Yogyakarta, Tunjungan Romansa is a must-visit destination for tourists who want to experience the classic side of Surabaya.
Conclusion
Surabaya’s cuisine reflects the city’s cultural diversity and culinary creativity. From street food stalls to iconic culinary destinations, Surabaya offers unforgettable experiences for food lovers.
Don’t forget to schedule visits to the places above and indulge in the flavors and unique tastes of this Heroes’ City, while also picking up some Typical Malang Souvenirs to take home!