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5 Traditional Dishes in Solo That Are Simply Irresistible

Solo, or sometimes known as Surakarta, is a city in Central Java that still strongly adheres to its Javanese roots. For example, in this small yet glorious city, you can still find various heritage buildings, including the majestic Surakarta Palace. Moreover, as the city is known as the center of batik, many shops selling handcrafted batik are available for you to check out too.

Read also: Bring Batik to Your Life with These 5 Creative DIY Home Decor Ideas

The charm of Solo doesn’t end there. The city is also known as a paradise for foodies, as there are a lot of eateries providing fantastic local dishes. Below is a list that will make your journey in Solo extra flavorful.

 

1 | Timlo

5 Traditional Dishes in Solo That Are Simply Irresistible

This warm bowl of savory soup is rich in vegetables and proteins, so it would fill you through the whole day! A bowl of Timlo soup usually contains a clear broth filled with shredded chicken, telur pindang (sweet hard-boiled egg), boiled mushrooms, various vegetables, chicken innards, and Solo ‘sausage’; an egg roll filled with grounded beef. All of these ingredients are then topped with a sprinkle of fried crispy Asian shallots, adding more flavor profile to the already packed dish.

The best place to try the dish:

Timlo Sastro

Address:

Jl. Abdul Muis No.32A, Kepatihan Kulon, Kec. Jebres, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57139

Jl. Dr. Wahidin No.30, Purwosari, Kec. Laweyan, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57148

Phone: +62 27 1654 820 (Jebres)

+62 27 1728 981 (Laweyan)

Opening hours: 5 AM -  10 PM

@timlosastro.id

 

2 | Cabuk Rambak

5 Traditional Dishes in Solo That Are Simply Irresistible

Cabuk Rambak is a traditional Solo cuisine that is extremely difficult to find elsewhere in Indonesia. It is usually considered a snack or food eaten between meals because of its small portion. A single plate of Cabuk Rambak consists of ketupat (rice packed inside of diamond-shaped woven palm leaves) drizzled in a pale brown sauce that contains roasted sesame seeds and grated coconut. To top it off, some crunchy rice crackers are added for a crispy sensation to the dish. Don't be fooled by the simple look, this dish is guaranteed to leave you wanting more.

The best place to try the dish:

Nasi Liwet & Cabuk Rambak Bu Parmi

Address: Jl. Yos Sudarso No.241, Kratonan, Gajahan, Kec. Ps. Kliwon, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57151

Phone: +62 856 4754 3058

Opening hours: 5 AM -  10 PM

 

3 | Nasi Liwet

5 Traditional Dishes in Solo That Are Simply Irresistible

Nasi Liwet is one of the most complete meals you can get in Solo. Many regions have their own version of this iconic dish. However, the one from Solo is still the best there is. Savory rice is cooked in coconut milk, chicken broth, bay leaves, and lemongrass. Then, you can choose the variation of the side dishes to your liking! The side dishes usually include scrambled egg, pindang egg (hard-boiled egg cooked in sweet soy sauce), shredded chicken cooked in coconut milk, spicy pumpkin stew, and areh (thick coconut sauce).

The best place to try the dish:

Nasi Liwet Bu Wongso Lemu

Address: Jl. Teuku Umar, Keprabon, Kec. Banjarsari, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57131

Opening hours: 4 PM - 1 AM (Monday - Saturday)

4 PM - 12 AM (Sunday)

 

4 | Selat Solo

5 Traditional Dishes in Solo That Are Simply Irresistible

Steaks are popular throughout the world, either cooked whole or sliced into tender pieces. Did you know that Solo has its rendition of 'steak' known as Selat Solo? Influenced by European culture, Selat Solo is an authentic Solo dish that contains beef braised in a broth consisting of garlic, vinegar, sweet soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, seasoned with salt and pepper. Many Javanese people consider this dish to be a combination of a steak, soup, and salad, hence the name 'Selat' (derived from the word 'salad'). It comes with a side of potatoes, and an array of vegetables, usually carrots, and string beans. All of these ingredients are combined into one hearty dish that will truly fulfill your appetite.

The best place to try the dish:

Selat Solo Mbak Lies

Address: Jl. Yudhistira No.9, Serengan, Kec. Serengan, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57155

Phone: +62 71 653 332

Opening hours: 8 AM - 5:30 PM

@selat.mbaklies

 

5 | Serabi Solo

5 Traditional Dishes in Solo That Are Simply Irresistible

For all of you who love desserts, don’t miss out on this scrumptious snack known as Serabi Solo. Don't confuse it with other types of Serabi offered in Java! This snack is made with rice flour mixed with coconut milk which is then fried similarly to the way pannekoek (Dutch pancakes) is fried. Some variations include toppings of bananas, chocolate sprinkles, cheese, or even jackfruit!

The best place to try the dish:

Serabi Notosuman Ny. Lidia

Address: Jl. Moh. Yamin No.28, Jayengan, Kec. Serengan, Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah 57152

Phone: +62 27 1651 852

Opening hours: 5 AM - 4 PM

 

What are you waiting for? Experience a sensational culinary trip in Solo right away! As you write down your bucket list, make sure you are already informed of Indonesia’s latest international travel regulations. Always comply with the CHSE (cleanliness, health, safety, and environmental sustainability) protocols while exploring the city. Wear your mask in public, keep your distance from others, and remember to wash your hands often. Before you go, don’t forget to follow our social media accounts on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok, to find out plenty of other awesome dishes to try all over the archipelago!