Surabaya Cuisines: Discover Local Flavors and Dishes

Surabaya cuisines reflect the vibrant culture and rich culinary traditions of Indonesia’s second largest city. Renowned for its fiery flavors and fresh ingredients, food lovers are sure to find a wide array of unique dishes that embody the essence of Surabaya. From spicy sambals to hearty local delicacies, each traditional dish tells a story of Surabaya’s diverse culinary heritage. This guide invites you on a journey to explore the city’s must-try local dishes, specific regional specialties, and the best dining spots for an unforgettable food experience.

Key Takeaways

• Surabaya cuisines offer a rich variety of bold and authentic flavors.
• Signature dishes like rawon and sate klopo showcase the city’s culinary heritage.
• street food culture thrives, providing options for every budget.
• Food tours and local markets are great ways to satisfy your culinary curiosity.

1. Rawon: The Iconic Surabaya Beef Soup

Rawon holds a special place in Surabaya cuisines, known for its deep, rich flavor and distinctive dark color. This traditional beef soup gets its striking hue from kluwak, a black nut that adds both bitterness and a unique taste. Typically served with tender pieces of beef, Rawon is often accompanied by rice, bean sprouts, and a sprinkling of green onions. Many locals enjoy it with sambal for an extra kick.

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that showcases the hearty side of Indonesian cooking. Many visitors recommend trying Rawon in the early morning, as it’s a dish meant to brighten your day. To truly savor the experience, be sure to enjoy it with some warm rice, which balances the strong flavors of the soup.

Did you know? The best Rawon can be found at local stalls, where the recipe has been passed down for generations.

Where to eat: Make sure to visit Rawon Setan or Rawon Kampung for an authentic taste of this iconic soup.

2. Sate Klopo: A Unique Twist on traditional Satay

Sate Klopo is a remarkable variation of traditional Indonesian satay that definitely deserves a spot in the spotlight of Surabaya cuisines. What sets Sate Klopo apart is its special marination process, which includes grated coconut meat that enhances both flavor and texture. This satay is typically made from either beef or chicken and is grilled to perfection, giving it a smoky aroma that tantalizes the senses.

Served with a peanut sauce and a side of rice cakes, this dish is often enjoyed at gatherings or as street food. Friendly vendors in Surabaya present Sate Klopo with fresh, spicy sambal that enhances its unique flavor profile even more.

Pro Tip: Pair Sate Klopo with a cold drink to wash down the savory flavors.

Where to eat: For a genuine experience, head to Sate Klopo Ondomohen, known for its exceptional taste and quality.

3. Lontong Balap: A Hearty Surabaya Street Dish

Lontong Balap is a beloved street food that captures the essence of Surabaya cuisines. This dish consists of compressed rice cakes called lontong, served with sautéed bean sprouts, fried tofu, and a rich, nutty sauce. What makes Lontong Balap truly unique is the way it is served; the items are typically tossed with a delicious, savory broth that adds a delightful twist to each bite.

The dish often comes with a side of sate (skewered meat) or krupuk (crispy crackers), providing extra texture and flavor. Lontong Balap is a popular choice for breakfast or lunch, loved for its filling nature and affordability. Many locals enjoy it while soaking in the bustling atmosphere of street vendors and food stalls.

Note: Don’t forget to add extra sambal for those who enjoy a spicy kick!

Where to eat: Visit Lontong Balap Jl. Dukuh Kupang for an authentic taste of this delightful dish.

4. Tahu Tek: The Local Tofu Salad Delight

Tahu Tek is a beloved dish in Surabaya that beautifully showcases local flavors. It is a delightful tofu salad that combines fried tofu with fresh vegetables, typically bean sprouts and cucumber. What makes Tahu Tek unique is the savory peanut sauce that generously coats the salad, adding a rich, creamy texture to each bite. Additionally, it’s often topped with crispy fried shallots for an extra crunch.

To enjoy this dish, it’s common to pair it with kerupuk, or crackers, which provide a satisfying contrast to the soft tofu. In many local eateries, Tahu Tek is served with a side of sambal, allowing diners to adjust the heat to their liking. This dish is not only a delicious meal but also a great way to experience the casual dining culture of Surabaya.

Pro Tip: Look for vendors who prepare Tahu Tek right in front of you for the freshest experience!

Where to eat: Some popular spots to try Tahu Tek include Tahu Tek 99 and Kedai Tahu Tek.

5. Rujak Cingur: An Exotic Fruit and Vegetable Salad

Rujak Cingur is an iconic salad from Surabaya, known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients. This dish features a mix of fresh fruits like mango, pineapple, and jicama, along with blanched vegetables such as long beans and cucumber. The star ingredient is the cingur, which refers to slices of boiled cow’s nose—an acquired taste that adds a distinctive twist.

The salad is tossed in a thick, sweet-spicy sauce made from fermented shrimp paste, chili, sugar, and tamarind. It offers a complex flavor profile that balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes. Rujak Cingur is not just a dish; it’s an experience that reflects Surabaya’s diverse culinary culture.

Did you know? Rujak Cingur is often enjoyed as a refreshing snack to cool off from the tropical heat!

Where to eat: You can find great Rujak Cingur at Rujak Cingur Taman Surya or Rujak Cingur Asem.

6. Nasi Goreng Kampung: Surabaya’s Comfort Fried Rice

Nasi Goreng Kampung is a comforting dish that captures the essence of home-cooked meals in Surabaya. This simple yet flavorful fried rice is cooked with a blend of spices, sweet soy sauce, and often includes vegetables, chicken, or shrimp. What sets Nasi Goreng Kampung apart is its smoky flavor, which comes from being stir-fried in a hot wok.

This dish is commonly topped with a fried egg, which adds richness to each serving. For added flavor, you can enhance your Nasi Goreng Kampung with a side of sambal, making it a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this fried rice dish is cherished for its taste and simplicity.

Pro Tip: Pair your Nasi Goreng Kampung with a refreshing drink like Es Teh Manis (sweet iced tea) for the perfect meal!

Where to eat: Don’t miss trying Nasi Goreng Kampung at Warung Nasi Goreng Kampung or Restoran Ayam Penyet Ria for an authentic experience.

7. Ayam Penyet: The Delicious Smashed Fried Chicken

Ayam Penyet is a beloved dish in Surabaya that combines the tantalizing flavors of fried chicken with a unique presentation. The name “penyet” means “smashed” in Indonesian, which refers to the way the chicken is served. This dish features a perfectly fried chicken piece that is smashed to tender perfection and slathered with spicy sambal. Typically, it comes with a side of steamed rice and fresh vegetables.

What makes Ayam Penyet truly special is the sambal, a spicy sauce made from chili peppers, garlic, and other ingredients that add depth to the dish. As a result, the combination of the crispy chicken and fiery sambal creates a taste sensation that is both satisfying and vibrant. Additionally, the dish is often accompanied by tofu and tempeh for those wanting to enjoy more protein options.

Pro Tip: Pair Ayam Penyet with a cold Indonesian beverage like Teh Botol (sweetened tea) to balance the heat of the sambal.

Where to eat: For an authentic Ayam Penyet experience in Surabaya, try Ayam Penyet Ria or Warung Penyet, both of which are famous for their flavorful versions of this dish.

8. Sambal Ulek: The Heart of Surabaya’s Spice Culture

No discussion of Surabaya cuisines would be complete without mentioning Sambal Ulek. This iconic spicy condiment is a staple in many Indonesian dishes and is often referred to as the heartbeat of Surabaya’s culinary style. Sambal Ulek is made with fresh chilies, garlic, and salt, all ground together to create a flavorful paste that adds a kick to any meal.

What sets Sambal Ulek apart is its simplicity and freshness. Unlike many other sambals that may be cooked or mixed with various ingredients, this version retains the raw nature of the ingredients, making it incredibly vibrant. Additionally, you’ll find variations that include lime juice, tomatoes, or even shrimp paste for added depth and flavor.

Did you know? In Surabaya, Sambal Ulek is regarded not just as a condiment but as a cultural symbol representing the love for spicy food!

Where to eat: You can find delightful Sambal Ulek served at any local warung or restaurants like Restoran Sederhana or Warung Betawi.

9. Kerupuk Udang: A Crunchy Shrimp Crackers Snack

Kerupuk Udang, or shrimp crackers, is a delicious snack that plays a significant role in Surabaya’s culinary scene. These crispy crackers are made from a mixture of ground shrimp and starch, resulting in a light, airy texture that is incredibly addictive. They serve as the perfect accompaniment to many Indonesian meals, adding a satisfying crunch to your dining experience.

Typically, these crackers are fried until golden brown, making them crunchy and flavorful. In addition to enjoying them as a standalone snack, you can pair Kerupuk Udang with a variety of dishes, including rice, salads, or as a topping on soups. They also come in different flavors, enhancing their versatility.

Pro Tip: To elevate your snacking experience, try dipping Kerupuk Udang in Sambal Ulek for that added burst of flavor!

Where to eat: For the best Kerupuk Udang in Surabaya, head to Kedai Kerupuk Udang, where they serve freshly made crackers that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

10. Kue Cubir: A Sweet Treat from Surabaya

Kue Cubir is a delightful dessert that encapsulates the essence of Surabaya’s sweet treats. This traditional cake is made with a base of rice flour, giving it a unique chewy texture that is unlike many other desserts. The cake is often infused with a hint of pandan flavor, which adds a subtle yet refreshing aroma to each bite.

One of the most appealing aspects of Kue Cubir is its vibrant appearance. Typically, these cakes come in various colors, making them not just tasty but also visually appealing. Furthermore, they are usually topped with a sprinkle of grated coconut, which adds a hint of saltiness and enhances the overall flavor.

Did you know? Kue Cubir is often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions, making it a beloved treat among locals.

If you’re in Surabaya, trying this sweet treat is a must. You can find Kue Cubir at local markets or dessert shops. For an authentic experience, head to PasarAtom or Jalan Kembang Jepun, where traditional snacks are a staple. Enjoying Kue Cubir with a cup of local coffee creates a perfect morning or afternoon delight!

Exploring Surabaya cuisines is an adventure through Indonesia’s rich culinary landscape. With its array of spicy and flavorful dishes, the city promises a delightful experience for food enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on these local gems during your visit. Share your favorite Surabaya dishes or start planning your food journey in this dynamic city today!

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