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

City

Food History of Medan, Indonesia

Medan, the capital city of North Sumatra, Indonesia, is a melting pot of cultures that has created a diverse culinary tapestry. The history of food in Medan is influenced by various ethnic groups such as the Batak, Malay, Javanese, Indian, Chinese, and even European settlers. These influences have resulted in a unique fusion of flavors that is distinct to the region. The strategic trade route location of Medan has also contributed to its rich culinary history by allowing spices, cooking techniques, and food culture to traverse and integrate into the local cuisine.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Medan

Bika Ambon – A spongy, honeycomb-like textured cake made from tapioca flour, eggs, sugar, yeast, and coconut milk. It comes in various flavors such as pandan, banana, and vanilla. (Veg)
Bolu Gulung Meranti – A famous rolled cake from Medan that is soft, fluffy, and comes with a variety of fillings, including cheese and fruit jams. (Veg)
Mie Aceh – A spicy noodle dish with a distinct curry-like sauce made from a blend of local herbs and spices, served with seafood or chicken. (Non-Veg)
Soto Medan – A flavorful soup with a coconut milk base, usually served with chicken, bean sprouts, potatoes, and a zesty lime flavor. (Non-Veg)
Ayam Penyet – Chicken that is marinated, boiled, and then smashed before being deep-fried to perfection; served with spicy sambal and rice. (Non-Veg)
Martabak – A stuffed pancake or a thick fried bread with savory fillings like eggs and green onions or sweet fillings like chocolate and cheese. (Veg option available)
Durian Ucok – A local favorite, offering fresh durian from the nearby farms. Medan is known for its high-quality durians. (Veg)
Pempek – A popular Indonesian fishcake delicacy, often served with a tangy and sweet dark sauce called cuko. Typically made from fish and tapioca. (Non-Veg)
Lontong Sayur – Compressed rice cakes (lontong) served with a rich and spicy coconut vegetable curry. (Veg)
Es Campur Medan – A refreshing dessert made of mixed fruits, jelly, shaved ice, sweet syrups, and condensed milk. (Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants in Medan and Their Famous Foods

Meranti Cake Shop: Address: Jl. Kruing No.2C, Medan; Famous for: Bolu Gulung (Veg)
Titi Bobrok: Address: Jl. Setia Budi, Tanjung Sari, Medan; Famous for: Their signature Mie Aceh (Non-Veg)
Soto Kesawan: Address: Jl. Ahmad Yani No. 105-107, Medan Kota; Famous for: Soto Medan (Non-Veg)
Ayam Penyet Suharti: Address: Jl. Letjen S. Parman No. 68, Medan Baru; Famous for: Ayam Penyet (Non-Veg)
Martabak HAR: Address: Jl. K.H. Ahmad Dahlan No.6, Medan; Famous for: Various types of Martabak (Veg option available)
Durian Ucok: Address: Jl. Iskandar Muda No.20/147, Medan; Famous for: Fresh Durian (Veg)
Pempek 123: Address: Jl. Mangkubumi No. 123, Medan; Famous for: Pempek (Non-Veg)
Rumah Makan Tabona: Address: Jl. Mangkubumi No.17, Medan; Famous for: Lontong Sayur (Veg)
Zulaikha Es Campur & Es Teler: Address: Jl. Raden Saleh Dalam No.9, Medan; Famous for: Es Campur Medan (Veg)