Banjarmasin, a city located on the island of Borneo in Indonesia, is known for its rich culinary heritage. Influenced by the indigenous Banjar culture as well as Malay, Javanese, Indian, and Chinese cultures, the food in Banjarmasin is a melting pot of flavors. The city’s location along the Barito River has also made river fish and seafood very popular in local cuisine. Banjarmasin's traditional dishes often involve freshwater fish and a variety of spices that reflect the city's position within the historic spice trade. The use of rich and aromatic spices like lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric is common in many dishes, showcasing the area's historical access to exotic flavors.
1. Soto Banjar (Non-Veg) - A fragrant chicken soup infused with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, served with rice noodles and boiled eggs.
2. Ketupat Kandangan (Non-Veg) - A savory dish made of rice packed inside a woven palm leaf pouch and usually served with a spicy chicken curry.
3. Lontong Orari (Non-Veg) - Compressed rice cakes served with fish or prawn curry, this dish is a flavorful Banjarmasin breakfast staple.
4. Nasi Kuning Banjar (Non-Veg) - Yellow rice seasoned with turmeric and coconut milk, often accompanied by a variety of side dishes like fried chicken or fish.
5. Patin Bakar (Non-Veg) - Grilled catfish with a marinade of traditional spices, it is a simple yet delectable dish that emphasizes the natural flavors of the fish.
6. Kue Apam Barabai (Veg) - A sweet treat made from rice flour, coconut milk, and palm sugar, similar to pancakes and often enjoyed as a snack.
7. Amparan Tatak (Veg) - A banana-flavored snack made from sticky rice and grated coconut, it is a popular tea time accompaniment.
8. Wajik (Veg) - Sticky rice cake sweetened with palm sugar and coconut milk, Wajik is a chewy and sweet diamond-shaped cake.
9. Urap-Urap Sayur (Veg) - A traditional salad made of steamed vegetables mixed with seasoned, grated coconut dressing.
10. Martabak Telur (Non-Veg) - A type of savory pancake filled with a mixture of eggs, spices, and sometimes minced meat (excluding cow meat), folded and fried until crispy.
Rumah Makan Padang H. Roma Sari
Address: Jl. Lambung Mangkurat No.16, Banjarmasin
Famous Food: Rendang Ayam (Non-Veg) - Spicy slow-cooked chicken in coconut milk and spice paste, though not originally from Banjarmasin, it's a popular dish in this restaurant.
Depot Bakso Pak Slamet
Address: Jalan Veteran No.5, Banjarmasin
Famous Food: Bakso (Non-Veg) - Indonesian meatball soup with noodles, typically served with a savory broth, excluding cow meat options.
RM Cahaya Bumi Selamat
Address: Jalan Pangeran Samudera No.75, Banjarmasin
Famous Food: Kari Kepala Kakap (Non-Veg) - A spicy curry dish focusing on the head of the snapper fish, rich in flavor and a local favorite.
Kedai Kopi Banjar Selera
Address: Jalan RE Martadinata No.2, Banjarmasin
Famous Food: Kopiat Banjar (Veg) - A local version of coffee often enjoyed with a variety of traditional pastries and snacks.
Warung Selera Kita
Address: Jalan Belitung Darat No.40, Banjarmasin
Famous Food: Sate Ayam (Non-Veg) - Skewered and grilled chicken accompanied by peanut sauce and pickled vegetables. It’s a popular Indonesian street food that is readily available here.
