Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Six Indonesian cities have secured spots on the “100 Best Food Cities in the World” list, published by Taste Atlas Awards 2024-2025. The cities of Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, Padang, Solo, and Yogyakarta were recognized for their culinary diversity and iconic dishes.
The list was curated from a database of 17,073 cities, using 477,287 food ratings covering 15,478 dishes. According to Taste Atlas, the rankings reflect cities with the highest-rated regional and national cuisines.
Other prominent cities on the list include Milan in Italy, Paris in France, Osaka in Japan, Madrid in Spain, Istanbul in Turkey, Singapore, and Hue in Vietnam.
Jakarta claimed the highest rank among Indonesian cities at 16th place, followed by Bandung (32nd), Surabaya (34th), Padang (56th), Solo (82nd), and Yogyakarta (87th).
Taste Atlas, often referred to as an “encyclopedia of flavors,” also highlighted each city’s must-try dishes, local food producers, and iconic traditional restaurants.
Here’s a closer look at the standout culinary offerings of these six Indonesian cities:
- Jakarta
The Indonesian capital is famed for its rich street food and vibrant culinary scene. Must-try dishes include:
- Nasi uduk
- Gado-gado
- Bubur ayam
- Soto Betawi
- Bakso
Iconic eateries in Jakarta recommended by Taste Atlas include 1945 Restaurant, Lapo Marpadotbe, Bandar Djakarta, Asinan Betawi H. Mansyur, and Rumah Makan Marannu.
- Bandung
Known for its cool climate and innovative dishes, Bandung earned a score of 4.54 out of 5. Highlights include:
- Batagor
- Cireng
- Nasi kuning
- Mi kocok
- Serabi
Top traditional food spots include Warung Nasi Ibu Imas, Lemper Purnama, Baso Tahu Mang Ade, Serabi Kinca Suji – Eka Rasa, and Batagor Yunus.
- Surabaya
The second-largest city in Indonesia is renowned for its bold, savory dishes. Taste Atlas recommends:
- Rujak cingur
- Rawon
- Soto Lamongan
- Nasi pecel
- Lemper
Traditional eateries worth visiting include Soto Ayam Ambengan Pak Sadi, Soto Ayam Cak To, Bebek Goreng Papin, Rawon Pak Pangat, and Zangrandi Ice Cream.
- Padang
Padang, famous for its rich and spicy Minangkabau cuisine, is a haven for food lovers. Must-try dishes include:
- Rendang
- Nasi Padang
- Gulai
- Sate Padang
Top spots to savor these flavors include Lamun Ombak Rumah Makan, Kripik Balado Christine Hakim, Pagi Sore, Resto Selamat, and Restoran Simpang Raya.
- Solo
Solo, a city steeped in Javanese culture, offers dishes with unique flavors. Highlights include:
- Nasi liwet
- Bakso Solo
- Serabi
- Ayam penyet
- Tengkleng
Recommended food stops are Bakso Alex, Bakso Klewer Prawirorejo, Bakso Pak Ruk, Serabi Notosuman Nyonya Handayani, and Soto Gading.
- Yogyakarta
Known for its traditional Javanese cuisine, Yogyakarta’s must-try dishes include:
- Bakpia
- Gudeg
- Sate kere
- Sayur lodeh
Popular food destinations include Gudeg Sagan, Gudeg Yu Djum, Jejamuran, Gudeg Bu Hj Amad, and Warung Kopi Klotok.
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The recognition of these six Indonesian cities underscores the country’s diverse culinary heritage and its growing prominence on the global food scene. With their unique flavors and time-honored recipes, Indonesia continues to captivate food enthusiasts worldwide.
(Raidi/Agung)
