Food History of Banjarmasin Zoo, Banjarmasin, Indonesia
The Banjarmasin Zoo, also known as Kebun Binatang Banjarmasin, is a popular destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts in South Kalimantan, Indonesia. While the zoo itself is primarily focused on animal conservation and education, the culinary experience around the zoo is enriched by the city of Banjarmasin's diverse food culture. Banjarmasin is known for its traditional South Kalimantan cuisine, which is influenced by the indigenous Dayak, Banjar, and Malay cultures, as well as Chinese and Indian culinary traditions due to historical trade connections.
Banjarmasin's culinary history is dominated by the use of local ingredients such as fresh river fish, spices, and tropical fruits, which are reflective in the dishes served in and around the zoo area. Although the zoo does not have a long-standing food history of its own, the surrounding neighborhood echoes the city's love for flavorful street foods and hearty traditional meals.
Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Banjarmasin Zoo for Tourists
- Soto Banjar (Non-Veg): A fragrant chicken soup with a rich broth, rice noodles, boiled eggs, and local herbs and spices.
- Ketupat Kandangan (Non-Veg): A flavorful dish with rice cakes served with a spicy fish curry, typical of the South Kalimantan region.
- Ayam Bakar (Non-Veg): Grilled chicken marinated with a variety of spices, often served with sambal and rice.
- Ikan Bakar (Non-Veg): Fresh grilled river fish, which is often marinated in a special sauce before being grilled to perfection.
- Nasi Kuning (Veg/Non-Veg options): Fragrant yellow rice often served with a variety of side dishes including eggs, vegetables, and meat.
- Lontong Orari (Non-Veg): A traditional dish made with pressed rice cakes, served in a banana leaf with a side of chicken curry or fish curry.
- Nasi Goreng (Veg/Non-Veg options): Indonesian-style fried rice that can be served with a choice of vegetables, chicken, or seafood toppings.
- Martabak (Veg/Non-Veg options): A type of stuffed pancake that can be sweet or savory, with fillings ranging from chocolate and peanuts to egg and meat.
- Kue Bingka (Veg): A sweet and soft baked cake made from tapioca flour and coconut milk, flavored with pandan leaves.
- Es Krim Durian (Veg): An ice cream dessert made from the pungent yet beloved durian fruit, a local favorite in Banjarmasin.
Top Famous Restaurants Around Banjarmasin Zoo
- Rumah Makan Haji Anang Soto Banjar
- Address: Jalan Jendral Ahmad Yani Km 5.5, Banjarmasin, Indonesia
- Famous Food: Soto Banjar (Non-Veg)
- Bakmi Kawa
- Address: Jalan Sultan Adam, Banjarmasin, Indonesia
- Famous Food: Various noodle dishes with chicken or seafood (Non-Veg)
- Depot Bakso Sapi Pal 6
- Address: Jalan Belitung Darat No.6, Banjarmasin, Indonesia
- Famous Food: Bakso (meatball soup) excluding cow meat, with chicken options (Non-Veg)
- RM Handayani
- Address: Jalan RE Martadinata No.11, Banjarmagin, Indonesia
- Famous Food: Traditional Banjarese dishes including seafood and chicken (Non-Veg)
- Warna Warni Cafe
- Address: Jalan A. Yani Km. 2, Banjarmasin
- Famous Food: Vegetarian-friendly options and local Indonesian cuisine (Veg/Non-Veg options)
When visiting Banjarmasin Zoo, you will find a variety of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food options to try, reflecting the rich culinary tradition of the area. It is important to inquire about the ingredients if you have dietary restrictions, as many traditional dishes may incorporate fish or other non-vegetarian elements.