1. What are some popular local dishes in Surabaya that visitors must try?
Some popular local dishes in Surabaya that visitors must try are Soto Ayam, Rujak Cingur, Rawon, Lontong Balap, Tahu Campur, and Nasi Pecel.
2. Are there any restaurants in Surabaya that specialize in seafood?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Surabaya that specialize in seafood, such as Bebek Sinjay in Jalan Kenjeran and Oceanic Seafood Restaurant in Pakuwon City.
3. Where can I find the best street food options in the city?
The best street food options in the city can be found at popular outdoor markets, food truck parks, and busy street corners with a high concentration of vendors. It is also worth checking out local recommendations and reviews online to discover hidden gems and popular spots among locals.
4. Are there any vegetarian or vegan dining options available in Surabaya?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan dining options available in Surabaya. Some popular choices include Warung Bu Kris Vegetarian, Loving Hut, and Veggie Life Café & Restaurant. Additionally, many traditional Indonesian restaurants also offer vegetarian or vegan options on their menu.
5. Is there a specific area or neighborhood known for its delicious food scene in Surabaya?
Yes, there are a few areas in Surabaya known for their delicious food scene. Some popular options include Tunjungan Street, Gubeng area, and Pakuwon City.
6. Can you recommend a local market where I can taste different Indonesian cuisine?
Yes, I can recommend visiting the Pasar Santa Traditional Market in Jakarta. This market offers a variety of traditional Indonesian dishes from different regions, allowing you to taste and experience the diversity of Indonesian cuisine.
7. Are there any fusion restaurants that combine traditional Indonesian flavors with international cuisine?
Yes, there are many fusion restaurants that feature a mix of traditional Indonesian flavors with international cuisine. Some popular examples include Balinese-Peruvian fusion restaurant Ayam Betutu and Sushi Tei, which offers a fusion of Japanese and Indonesian dishes. Other restaurants in Indonesia also incorporate elements of Chinese, Indian, and Western cuisine into their menus, resulting in unique fusion dishes.
8. Is it safe to eat from street vendors in Surabaya?
It is generally not recommended to eat from street vendors in Surabaya due to the potential risk of food safety and hygiene issues. It is advised to choose reputable restaurants or food establishments for meals.
9. What are some must-try desserts and sweets unique to Surabaya?
Some must-try desserts and sweets unique to Surabaya include Lapis Surabaya, a layered cake made with alternate layers of chocolate and vanilla sponge cake; Kue Leker, crispy sweet cookies made from rice flour and filled with shredded coconut and palm sugar; Klepon, green-colored rice balls filled with melted palm sugar and coated in grated coconut; Pisang Epe, a grilled banana topped with palm sugar syrup and grated cheese; Cendol Dawet, a refreshing drink made with green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and brown sugar syrup; Ongol-ongol, steamed cakes made from ground tapioca served with grated coconut and palm sugar syrup; and Nagasari, steamed banana cake wrapped in banana leaves.
10. What is the typical price range for meals at a medium-range restaurant in Surabaya?
The typical price range for meals at a medium-range restaurant in Surabaya is approximately $8 to $20 per person.
11. Are there any rooftop restaurants or cafes that offer a nice view of the city while dining?
Yes, there are many rooftop restaurants and cafes that offer spectacular views of the city while dining. Some popular examples include The Rooftop at Eataly in New York City, OUE Skyspace LA in Los Angeles, and SEVVA in Hong Kong.
12. How easy is it to find Halal food options in Surabaya?
It is relatively easy to find Halal food options in Surabaya, as the city has a large Muslim population and Halal restaurants are available in many different neighborhoods. There are also several online resources and restaurant directories specifically dedicated to listing Halal options in Surabaya. However, it is always important to double-check with the restaurant or ask for a Halal certification if you have any dietary restrictions.
13. Can you suggest some budget-friendly places to eat authentic Indonesian food?
Yes, some budget-friendly places to eat authentic Indonesian food are street vendors or small local restaurants in areas known for their traditional cuisine such as Yogyakarta, Bandung, and Bali. You can also find affordable options at local markets or food courts where you can try various dishes at a lower cost. Additionally, some popular chain restaurants like Warung Tekko and Bakmi GM offer affordable options for Indonesian dishes.
14. Do I need to make reservations at popular restaurants or can I walk-in without prior bookings?
It depends on the specific restaurant and their policies. Some popular restaurants may require reservations, especially during peak times or for larger groups, while others may allow walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant beforehand to see if they accept reservations or if it is recommended to make them in advance.
15. Is tipping expected at restaurants and cafes in Surabaya?
Yes, it is customary to leave a small tip of about 10% of the total bill at restaurants and cafes in Surabaya.
16. Are there any fine dining options available in Surabaya for special occasions?
Yes, there are several fine dining options available in Surabaya for special occasions. Some popular choices include The Tjanting at Hotel Majapahit, C’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant at Shangri-La Hotel, and De Soematra at The Dharmawangsa. These restaurants offer a luxurious atmosphere, exquisite cuisine, and top-notch service which make them perfect for celebrating special occasions.
17. Can you recommend a good spot for breakfast/brunch with a scenic view?
Yes, I would recommend going to the Garden Terrace Cafe at the Huntington Library. It offers a beautiful outdoor setting with views of the botanical gardens and serves delicious brunch options.
18. Is it possible to find Western-style cuisine, like burgers and pizza, in Surabaya?
Yes, it is possible to find Western-style cuisine such as burgers and pizza in Surabaya. Due to the city’s diverse population and international influences, there are many restaurants and cafes that serve these types of dishes. You can find them in popular shopping centers, food courts, and standalone eateries.
19. Where can I find the best coffee shops or cafes with cozy ambience for working or studying?
You can try searching for popular local coffee shops or cafes in your area through online review websites such as Yelp or TripAdvisor, or by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or coworkers. You can also visit your nearby library or university campus which may have designated study areas with a cozy atmosphere.
20. Are there any culinary tours or food walks available in Surabaya to experience the local food scene better?
Yes, there are culinary tours and food walks available in Surabaya. These tours take visitors to different parts of the city to experience the local food scene and try a variety of traditional dishes. Some popular options include walking tours in the old town area, night market food tours, and street food tours in various neighborhoods. These tours often include a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights into the history and culture behind the local cuisine. Visitors can also customize their own food tour by choosing specific types of dishes or restaurants they would like to visit.