Must-Try Foods In Manado (Indonesia) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Manado, Indonesia

The cuisine of Manado, also known as Minahasan cuisine, is characterized by its rich variety of seafood, bold flavors, and the generous use of spices, such as chili, lemongrass, and lime. Its geographic location by the sea means that fish and other seafood form the cornerstone of many dishes. Additionally, the influence of European colonizers, particularly the Portuguese and Dutch, brought a variety of spices and cooking methods that have intermixed with local traditions to create a distinctive culinary culture. Manadonese cuisine is also known for its exotic ingredients and is considered one of the spiciest in Indonesia.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Manado, Indonesia

1. Tinutuan (Bubur Manado) - Non-Veg
   Often referred to as Manado porridge, Tinutuan is a hearty and spicy porridge mixed with vegetables, rice, and sometimes smoked fish, making it a popular breakfast dish.
2. Ikan Woku Belanga - Non-Veg
   This is a fragrant fish dish cooked with a lot of herbs and spices in a clay pot, which gives a distinctive earthy flavor.
3. Cakalang Fufu - Non-Veg
   Cakalang Fufu is smoked skipjack tuna and is considered a staple in Manadonese households, often served with sambal and rice.
4. Ayam Rica-Rica - Non-Veg
   This fiery dish features chicken in a hot and spicy chili sauce. Despite being very hot, Ayam Rica-Rica is incredibly flavorful.
5. Gohu Ikan - Non-Veg
   Similar to ceviche, Gohu Ikan is a raw fish dish seasoned with lime juice, chili, and spices, typically made with fresh tuna.
6. Klappertaart - Veg
   Klappertaart is a Dutch-influenced dessert made from young coconut meat, milk, flour, sugar, and butter, often spiced with cinnamon and vanilla.
7. Pisang Goreng (Fried Banana) - Veg
   A popular snack or dessert, Pisang Goreng is banana coated in batter and deep-fried until golden brown, often enjoyed in the afternoon with coffee or tea.
8. Es Klapa Muda - Veg
   A refreshing beverage made from young coconut water, mixed with syrup and served cold, it's perfect for the tropical heat of Manado.
9. Perkedel Jagung (Corn Fritters) - Veg
   Perkedel Jagung is a snack made from corn kernels mixed with flour and spices, then fried until crisp and golden.
10. Sop Brenebon - Veg/Non-Veg
    A rich and hearty soup made from kidney beans and can include meat like pork or beef, though there are vegetarian versions available.

Top Famous Restaurants in Manado, Indonesia

Rumah Makan Green Garden

Address: Jl. R.W. Monginsidi No.45, Manado, Indonesia
Famous food: Tinutuan - Non-Veg

Rica Rica Wanea

Address: Jl. Sam Ratulangi No.518, Manado, Indonesia
Famous food: Ayam Rica-Rica - Non-Veg

City Extra

Address: Jl. Piere Tendean Boulevard, Manado, Indonesia
Famous food: Gohu Ikan - Non-Veg

D'Warkop

Address: Jl. Toar No.2, Manado, Indonesia
Famous food: Klappertaart - Veg

Boboho by the Sea

Address: Manado Boulevard, Kawasan Mega Mas B2 no. 8, Manado, Indonesia
Famous food: Cakalang Fufu - Non-Veg