Semarang, the capital of Central Java, Indonesia, is not only famous for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant city life, but also for its delicious and legendary culinary scene that attracts culinary lovers from home and abroad.
From mouth-watering street food stalls to iconic restaurants serving traditional Javanese dishes, Semarang offers a culinary journey like no other.
In this complete guide, we will explore some of the most delicious and legendary Semarang Culinary Tourist spots which are must-visit destinations for culinary lovers.
1. Lumpia Gang Lombok
No culinary exploration of Semarang would be complete without indulging in Lumpia Semarang, a beloved local delicacy that has gained legendary status in the city.
Lumpia Gang Lombok, located on Jalan Gang Lombok, is renowned for serving some of the best lumpia in town. These crispy spring rolls are filled with a savory mixture of bamboo shoots, shrimp, chicken, and other ingredients, then fried to perfection.
Served with a side of sweet and tangy chili sauce, Lumpia Gang Lombok offers a delightful culinary experience that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
2. Warung Makan Soto Bangkong
For a taste of traditional Javanese comfort food, head to Warung Makan Soto Bangkong, a legendary eatery famous for its delicious Soto Ayam (chicken soup).
Located on Jalan Bangkong, this humble establishment has been serving hearty bowls of Soto Ayam for generations, earning a loyal following of locals and visitors alike.
Made with tender chicken, rice noodles, bean sprouts, and aromatic herbs and spices, Soto Bangkong’s signature dish is a comforting and satisfying meal that embodies the essence of Semarang’s culinary heritage.
3. Pecel Pincuk Pak Gendut
For a taste of authentic Javanese pecel, a traditional salad dish made with mixed vegetables and peanut sauce, look no further than Pecel Pincuk Pak Gendut.
This legendary culinary spot, located on Jalan Melayu, is renowned for its flavorful pecel, which is served with a generous portion of rice, assorted side dishes, and a rich, aromatic peanut sauce.
The secret to Pak Gendut’s delicious pecel lies in its homemade peanut sauce, which is made from scratch using a blend of roasted peanuts, spices, and palm sugar, resulting in a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
4. Nasi Gandul Mbah Priok
For a taste of Semarang’s iconic Nasi Gandul, a flavorful rice dish served with shredded beef and savory gravy, make your way to Nasi Gandul Mbah Priok. Located on Jalan Dr. Cipto, this legendary eatery has been serving up delicious Nasi Gandul for over five decades, delighting generations of food lovers with its rich and aromatic flavors.
Made with tender beef, fragrant rice, and a special blend of herbs and spices, Nasi Gandul Mbah Priok’s signature dish is a true culinary masterpiece that is not to be missed.
5. Es Cendol Dawet Ireng
No culinary tour of Semarang would be complete without sampling the city’s famous Es Cendol Dawet, a refreshing dessert drink made with coconut milk, palm sugar, and green rice flour jelly.
Es Cendol Dawet Ireng, located on Jalan MT Haryono, is renowned for its delicious and authentic cendol, which is served with shaved ice and sweetened coconut milk.
This legendary spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a refreshing and indulgent treat that provides the perfect respite from Semarang’s tropical heat.
6. Pempek Selamat
For lovers of savory snacks, Pempek Selamat is a must-visit destination in Semarang. Located on Jalan Kawi, this legendary eatery specializes in pempek, a traditional Indonesian fish cake dish that originated from Palembang, South Sumatra.
Pempek Selamat’s signature dish is served with a tangy vinegar sauce and spicy chili paste, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Whether you prefer the classic kapal selam (egg-filled pempek) or the spicy lenjer variant, Pempek Selamat promises a satisfying culinary experience that will leave you craving for more.
7. Waroeng SS
Waroeng SS is a legendary culinary spot in Semarang that offers a wide variety of traditional Javanese dishes in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Located on Jalan Pandanaran, this popular eatery is known for its extensive menu of authentic Indonesian cuisine, including Nasi Goreng, Gado-Gado, and Ayam Goreng Kremes.
Waroeng SS’s flavorful and affordable dishes, combined with its friendly service and relaxed ambiance, make it a favorite dining destination for locals and tourists alike.
Conclusion
Semarang’s culinary landscape is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, with a variety of delicious and legendary culinary spots waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re craving traditional Javanese dishes like spring rolls and soto, or enjoying refreshing desserts like ice cendol and pempek, Cafes in Semarang offers a culinary adventure like no other.
So, embark on a gastronomic journey through the streets of Semarang and enjoy the culinary flavors of this legendary city.