Recommended Restaurants in Surabaya

The most delicious street food restaurants in Surabaya by mr.hotsia

Surabaya, Indonesia's second largest city, which I, mr.hotsia, have had the chance to visit many times. Many people may know this city from Sete Klopo (coconut satay), a famous dish proudly presented by the locals. But for me, the street food experience at this restaurant during my latest trip was an unforgettable impression.

This restaurant is not located in the main tourist or upscale areas. It is a simple street food stall crowded with locals. The aroma of spices and grilled chicken wafts from afar. Once I smelled it, I almost ran inside immediately. My favorite dish is Indonesian-style grilled chicken with tender meat and perfectly crispy skin. The flavor is mild but full of fragrant spices and the restaurant’s special dipping sauce.

Additionally, there is a dish I consider the best in Surabaya: “Stink Bean Stir-fried with Shrimp Paste.” The strong aroma of shrimp paste mixed with fresh, not overly bitter stink beans creates an incredibly harmonious flavor. I liked it so much I ordered an extra plate. The oxtail soup I ordered to accompany it was rich and flavorful, with a sweet and mellow broth from slow-cooked tender oxtail, making me feel warm and extremely satisfied.

I deeply regret discovering this restaurant on my second trip to Surabaya. If I had found it on my first trip, I would have eaten to my heart’s content and never forgotten it. This restaurant is a perfect example of delicious street food done right, exactly the way I like it.

Why do I like this restaurant more than Sete Klopo?

As mentioned, Surabaya is famous for Sete Klopo (coconut satay), which many people, including myself, have tried. However, I found that this street food restaurant I recommend offers more variety and flavors. There are many dishes to choose from without being limited to just satay. Also, the flavors suit me better. I enjoy the balanced taste here and the freshness of ingredients that make every bite feel thoughtfully prepared.

If you are interested in a full experience of coconut satay, I have also written an article recommending the best coconut satay restaurants in Surabaya.Coconut Satay: Recommended Food in SurabayaThis will help you discover and choose the best coconut satay in the city without missing out. But if you want to try something new while still enjoying Surabaya’s traditional flavors, this restaurant is a choice I truly don’t want you to miss.

Atmosphere and How to Get to the Restaurant

This street food restaurant is located in an area popular with locals, not in the main tourist district, but it’s easy to reach. I took about 15-20 minutes by taxi from my hotel in Surabaya. I recommend using a taxi or ride-hailing services like Gojek for convenience and safety, as some parts of Surabaya may not be suitable for new tourists to walk around.

For those staying in safe zones likeHotel 88or the areas I recommended in the articleTraveling Surabaya on Your Ownit’s very easy and convenient to get to this restaurant.

The atmosphere around the restaurant is lively street-side, with locals eating comfortably. The scent of spices and the sound of food grilling mixed with chatter make you feel like you’re truly experiencing Surabaya’s real way of life.

Check the restaurant’s location and get ready for a delicious and satisfying experience.

For those interested, I have attached the location in the images accompanying this article, or if it’s more convenient, you can click to view the map on Google Maps.(See the location from the image above or click here to open the map)Good preparation will help you not miss this restaurant when you arrive in Surabaya.

Connecting Your Surabaya Travel Experience with Food

If you are planning a trip to Surabaya like me, don’t forget to stop by this restaurant before you leave. Not only will you taste authentic local food, but you will also experience the atmosphere and lifestyle of Surabaya’s people up close.

For more information about accommodation and transportation in Surabaya, you can read my articles recommending hotels and free tours in Surabaya, written by me, mr.hotsia.Hotels in SurabayaandFree Tours in Surabayato plan your trip thoroughly.

Summary of mr.hotsia’s Impressions of Street Food Restaurants in Surabaya

This small street food restaurant I found in Surabaya clearly shows that the deliciousness and authenticity of Indonesian food are not about big or fancy places, but about the dedication of the cooks and the freshness of the ingredients. I, mr.hotsia, guarantee that if you try it, you will feel like I do: delicious and satisfying enough to want to come back many times.

Whether it’s grilled satay chicken, stink bean stir-fried with shrimp paste, or oxtail soup, every dish is full of balanced flavors and unforgettable aromas. For those who love food and want to deeply experience authentic Indonesian local cuisine, this restaurant is an absolute must.

Mr.hotsia recommends adding this restaurant to your list for your next trip to Surabaya. You will realize that great street food can be just as delicious and satisfying as upscale restaurants!