Explore the uniqueness of traditional Dayak cuisine in Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, with a variety of signature dishes rich in spices and local flavors.
Central Kalimantan, especially the city of Palangkaraya, is a destination that not only amazes with its natural beauty but also with its variety of distinctive traditional cuisine.
The dishes offered in Palangkaraya showcase the unique flavors of the Dayak culture that is rich in spices and traditions.
Each dish tells a story about the richness of local nature and culture, and is prepared using recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Here are some restaurants that offer authentic Central Kalimantan cuisine that you must try.
1. Tjilik Riwut Restaurant
This restaurant is not only popular for its food, but also for its historical atmosphere. Tjilik Riwut Restaurant provides dining options in both indoor and outdoor areas. The outdoor atmosphere is very comfortable, especially for enjoying meals at night.
The menu offered includes kelakai vegetables, Juhu Rimbang (typical Dayak vegetables), and grilled river fish, which are among the Central Kalimantan Specialties.
The signature drink, Baram honey, a local traditional fermentation, can also be tried here.Located on Jl. Jend. Sudirman No.1, Palangkaraya, this restaurant is a favorite of Dayak culinary lovers.
2. Side Dish Village
With huts located on the river bank, Kampung Lauk offers a natural and relaxing dining atmosphere. You can enjoy dishes such as grilled patin fish, grilled tilapia, fried saluang (a crispy local fish), as well as kelakai vegetables and sour vegetables.
Fresh drinks such as coconut ice and various juices are also available. Kampung Lauk, located at Jl. Bukit Rawi Km 2, Pahandut Seberang, is the right choice to feel the natural atmosphere while enjoying traditional cuisine.
3. Samba Restaurant
Samba Restaurant is a favorite for those who want to taste various fish dishes and typical Dayak dishes. Here, you can find grilled patin fish, fried saluang fish, and kandas sarai (a dish with a distinctive lemongrass aroma).
There are also menus such as baung fish, giant prawns, and wadi catfish. Not to be missed, various local vegetable dishes such as tepe dawen jawau (mashed cassava leaves) and umbut rattan also complete the menu choices.
The location is at Jl. RTA Milono No.15, Palangkaraya.
4. Palangkaraya Restaurant
This restaurant is famous for its signature dishes based on river fish, especially fried jelawat, grilled jelawat, and variations such as sweet fish jelawat.
There are also other traditional Dayak dishes such as Juhu jelawat (sour fish jelawat vegetable), Juhu singkah, and Juhu rimbang. If you like stir-fries, try the stir-fried kalakai or stir-fried bamboo shoots.
Rumah Makan Palangkaraya is located at Jalan G. Obos No.20, Palangkaraya, and is a favorite place for those who want to try authentic Central Kalimantan cuisine.
5. Rasa Indah Restaurant and Catering Pool
For those of you who are looking for a relaxed atmosphere on the edge of the city, Pondok Makan and Pondok Boga Rasa Indah is the right choice. This place serves dishes such as fried shrimp, fried tilapia, fried catfish, and grilled chicken.
There is also a fishing pond for visitors who want to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Prices here vary, from mid-range to premium but remain affordable. This restaurant is located on Jl. G. Obos VII Gg. 6, Palangkaraya.
6. Serba Kandas Restaurant
If you are a spicy food lover, Serba Kandas Restaurant is a must-visit. The signature menu is the spicy and delicious sambal kandas, served with a choice of side dishes such as lais fish and saluang fish which can be fried or grilled.
This place is perfect for spicy food lovers who want to enjoy typical Dayak chili sauce. This restaurant is open every day from 9am to 9pm, except Sundays.
7. Cianjur Fish Hut
Although its name brings a nuance of another region, Pondok Ikan Cianjur is a long-standing restaurant in Palangkaraya and is famous for its fresh fish dishes. Its mainstay menu is delicious and fishy -free fish dishes.
The clean and comfortable atmosphere of the restaurant makes it ideal for dining with family. The location of this cottage is on Jl. Kahayan, Palangkaraya.
8. Warung Bama Raya
Warung Bama Raya serves typical breakfast menus that are loved by locals, such as lontong sayur, yellow rice, and fried rice. This stall is famous and has been around since the independence era, with a recipe that has been maintained until now.
Open from 6 am to 9 pm, this stall is located on Jl. Milono Km 3,9, Palangkaraya. The place is clean and well-maintained, although the building is quite old, giving a touch of nostalgia to visitors.
9. Palangka Restaurant
Palangka Restaurant offers a concept similar to Padang restaurants, with a variety of dishes such as grilled chicken, fried fish, and balado eggs.
Although similar, the taste has its own characteristics with the typical Central Kalimantan spices being stronger and having the aroma of local spices. Its strategic location and always busy visitors make it one of the easiest places to eat in Palangkaraya.
Central Kalimantan’s culinary specialties in Palangkaraya offer an experience that not only pampers the tongue, but also enriches knowledge of the traditions and culture of the Dayak people.
Each dish carries a uniqueness that is hard to find anywhere else, from fresh river fish to the distinctive spicy chili sauce.
If you are planning a visit to Palangkaraya, don’t miss the chance to try Palangkaraya Specialties and enjoy the richness of flavors and authentic Central Kalimantan culture.
