Discover authentic Palembang culinary spots serving delectable traditional dishes at pocket-friendly prices that will delight your taste buds.
Palembang, famously known as the “City of Pempek,” boasts a rich culinary heritage that goes beyond its legendary signature dish, Pempek. The city offers a wide variety of traditional to modern dishes that can enchant anyone.
From street food to fine dining with iconic views, a culinary tour in Palembang is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Here are 10 must-visit culinary destinations in Palembang to try during your visit:
1. Pempek Candy: A Paradise for Pempek Lovers
No trip to Palembang is complete without tasting Pempek. One of the best places to enjoy this iconic dish is Pempek Candy, renowned for its variety of Pempek such as lenjer, kapal selam, and the unique grilled Pempek.
In addition to Pempek, they also serve other local favorites like mie celor, tekwan, and model. With multiple outlets across Palembang, Pempek Candy is a favorite choice for both locals and tourists.
2. Martabak HAR: A Fusion of Indian Pancake and Local Flavors
Martabak HAR, an adaptation of an Indian dish introduced by Haji Abdul Razak in 1947, is served with a signature goat curry sauce mixed with potatoes.
The crispy martabak crust paired with the subtly aromatic curry, a highlight of Typical Palembang Food, sets it apart from traditional Indian martabak. With many branches in Palembang, it’s a culinary delight worth trying.
3. Mie Celor 26 Ilir: Authentic Noodle Dish Experience
Mie Celor, another iconic Palembang dish, is a must-try, and Mie Celor 26 Ilir is one of the best places to enjoy it.
This dish features noodles in a rich coconut milk and shrimp broth, served with bean sprouts, boiled eggs, and dried shrimp for an extra burst of flavor. Tasting Mie Celor in its hometown is an unforgettable experience.
4. Pasar Cinde: Traditional Culinary Hub with Diverse Options
If you want to sample a variety of Palembang’s local delicacies in one spot, Pasar Cinde is the place to go. From light snacks like godo-godo to refreshing beverages like red bean ice, everything is available here. It’s a perfect morning culinary destination, as vendors start selling their goods at dawn.
5. Riverside Restaurant: Evening Dining with Ampera Bridge Views
Enjoy a romantic dinner at Riverside Restaurant, located by the Musi River. With the iconic Ampera Bridge as a backdrop, this restaurant serves a mix of Indonesian and oriental dishes. The highlights of the menu include fresh seafood like crab, shrimp, and various fish.
6. Pindang Meranjat Ibu Ucha: Flavorful Soups That Delight
If you’re a fan of soupy dishes, Pindang Meranjat Ibu Ucha is a must-visit. Pindang, a traditional fish soup with Palembang spices, offers a fresh and savory taste here.
Menu options such as pindang patin (catfish soup), pindang tulang (bone soup), and pindang udang (shrimp soup) are available at affordable prices starting at IDR 25,000.
7. Bakso Granat Mas Azis: Giant Meatball Sensation
For meatball enthusiasts, Bakso Granat Mas Azis offers large and flavorful beef meatballs. Additionally, they serve chicken noodle soup with equally delightful flavors. Starting at just IDR 15,000, you can enjoy satisfying meals at this spot.
8. Sop Kimlo Simpang Sekip: Refreshing and Flavorful Soup
Sop Kimlo Simpang Sekip is a local favorite for its fresh and tasty kimlo soup. This soup includes glass noodles, chicken, fish balls, black ear mushrooms, and carrots in a savory broth. The restaurant also offers other dishes like fried rice and fried noodles at budget-friendly prices.
9. Pagi Sore Restaurant: Authentic Minang Cuisine
Established in 1973, Pagi Sore Restaurant is the perfect place to savor authentic Minang cuisine in Palembang.
Dishes like beef rendang, gulai kepala ikan (fish head curry), and ayam pop (steamed chicken) are highlights here. With a cozy ambiance and friendly service, it’s an excellent spot for family dining.
10. Pindang Musi Rawas Restaurant: Traditional Dishes with Local Flavors
Lastly, visit Pindang Musi Rawas Restaurant for a taste of traditional South Sumatra cuisine. Menu favorites include pindang patin, fried chicken, and grilled fish. The restaurant also serves a variety of fresh seafood dishes to tantalize your palate.
Palembang is not only famous for Pempek but also offers a variety of culinary delights that reflect the city’s rich culture and traditions.
From street food markets to upscale restaurants, every corner of Palembang holds unique and enticing flavors, including Typical Lampung Food. If you’re planning to visit this city, don’t miss the culinary recommendations above. Happy dining and enjoy the unique tastes of Palembang!