Bandung, the capital of West Java, Indonesia, is known for its rich and diverse culinary landscape, which is influenced by Sundanese culture. The Sundanese people, native to the region, are known for their great emphasis on freshness and the use of herbs and greens. Traditional dishes from Bandung typically consist of fresh raw and cooked vegetables, a variety of fish, and other proteins prepared with rich spices and coconut milk. Many dishes are eaten with rice or rice cakes known as "lontong" or "ketupat." The city's highland climate contributes to the abundant produce that defines its culinary identity. Over time, Bandung has also incorporated flavors from Chinese, Indian, and Dutch cuisine, reflecting a history of trade and colonialism.
Nasi Timbel (Non-Veg) - A traditional Sundanese meal that includes steamed rice wrapped in banana leaves, served with fried chicken, salted fish, and various side dishes such as fresh vegetables and spicy sambal.
Batagor (Non-Veg) - Stands for "Bakso Tahu Goreng," which is fried bakso (meatballs) and tofu served with a savory peanut sauce.
Lumpia Basah (Non-Veg) - Bandung's wet spring roll filled with bamboo shoots, eggs, and chicken or shrimp, enjoyed with a sweet and savory sauce.
Soto Bandung (Non-Veg) - A beef soup that's light and refreshing, usually containing soybeans, radish, and leek, and seasoned with lemongrass and ginger.
Cireng (Veg) - An abbreviation for "aci digoreng" meaning fried tapioca starch, it's a chewy and crispy snack served with spicy sauce.
Surabi (Veg) - A traditional pancake made from rice flour and coconut milk, often topped with sweet or savory toppings, like chocolate or oncom (fermented soybean).
Laksa Bandung (Non-Veg) - A unique version of laksa with a coconut milk-based soup, often accompanied by chicken, eggs, and bean sprouts.
Lotek (Veg) - A salad made from steamed vegetables mixed with protein (tofu or tempeh) and dressed in a spicy peanut sauce.
Es Cendol/Dawet (Veg) - A refreshing dessert/drink made from rice flour jellies, served in a sweet coconut milk and palm sugar syrup, often with green pandan flavoring.
Colenak (Veg) - Roasted fermented cassava served with sweet palm sugar syrup and coconut; a savory and sweet snack.
