Must Try Local Food in Java (Yogyakarta, Surabaya & Solo) 

Java is a paradise for food lovers! From rich, slow-cooked stews to spicy street food, Javanese cuisine is full of bold flavors and unique cooking techniques.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• Must-try traditional Javanese dishes
• Where to find the best local food
• Cultural significance & unique flavors

Must Try Local Java Food According to Trek Java

Local dishes in Yogyakarta and Solo tend to be sweeter, while Surabaya is know for its bolder and spicier flavors. For this reason, travelers are highly encouraged to try local food in every region they visit across Java to fully experience the island rich culinary diversity. Whether you’re visiting Yogyakarta, Solo, or Surabaya, here are the best Javanese foods you shouldn’t miss!

1. Gudeg – The Iconic Jackfruit Stew

 Best place to try: Yogyakarta

Gudeg is Java’s signature dish—a sweet and savory stew made from young jackfruit, coconut milk, palm sugar, and spices. It’s often served with rice, chicken, boiled eggs, and crispy beef skin (krecek).

 Flavor Profile: Sweet, rich, and slightly nutty

 Where to Try:

Gudeg Yu Djum (Yogyakarta) – Most famous traditional Gudeg restaurant

Gudeg Pawon (Yogyakarta) – Midnight street-food experience

2. Rawon – The Black Beef Soup

 Best place to try: Surabaya & Malang

Rawon is a beef soup with a deep black broth made from keluak nuts, which give it an earthy, slightly nutty flavor. It’s served with rice, salted egg, and sambal.

 Flavor Profile: Earthy, rich, and slightly nutty

 Where to Try:

Rawon Setan (Devil’s Rawon) – Famous for its rich and spicy broth (Surabaya)

Depot Bu Leman – A hidden gem in Malang

Read also: Best Time to Visit Java

3. Pecel – Java’s Peanut-Dressed Salad

 Best place to try: Madiun & Yogyakarta

Pecel is a vegetable salad topped with a delicious spicy peanut sauce, similar to gado-gado but with a more rustic, traditional taste. It’s often served with tempeh, rempeyek (crispy peanut crackers), and rice.

 Flavor Profile: Nutty, slightly spicy, fresh

 Where to Try:

Pecel Pincuk Bu Ida – Madiun city best-known pecel spot

Warung Pecel Bu Sri – Local favorite in Yogyakarta

4. Lontong Balap – Surabaya city Savory Street Food

 Best place to try: Surabaya

Lontong Balap is a savory dish with rice cakes (lontong), bean sprouts, fried tofu, and crispy lentho (fried mashed beans), all soaked in a light but flavorful broth.

 Flavor Profile: Savory, slightly sweet, and fresh

 Where to Try:

Lontong Balap Pak Gendut – A legendary street food vendor in Surabaya

5. Bakpia – Yogyakarta’s Famous Sweet Treat

 Best place to try: Yogyakarta

Bakpia are small, round pastries filled with mung bean paste, chocolate, or cheese. They are a must-buy souvenir from Yogyakarta.

 Flavor Profile: Sweet, flaky, buttery

 Where to Try: Bakpia Pathok 25 – The most famous bakpia brand in Yogyakarta

6. Es Dawet – The Ultimate Javanese Dessert

 Best place to try: Banjarnegara & Solo

Es Dawet is a refreshing traditional dessert made from coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and green rice-flour jelly (similar to cendol). It’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day!

 Flavor Profile: Sweet, creamy, refreshing

 Where to Try:

Dawet Ayu Banjarnegara – The original version from Central Java

Conclusion: Explore Java Through Its Food!

From the sweet flavors of Gudeg to the bold spices of Rawon, Javanese cuisine is a must-try for any food lover.

Which dish will you try first? Let Trekjava.com take you on an unforgettable culinary adventure!